Meet MADELINE ARENAS | Founder of a 501c3 nonprofit org JollyBox Philippines and a portrait photographer for Cubrix Photography

We had the good fortune of connecting with MADELINE ARENAS and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi MADELINE, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The lack of education in remote villages in Philippines drives me to collect more educational materials such as children books, learning toys and school supplies.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My portrait photography is rooted in capturing each person’s soul and uniqueness. I stand out by creating a calm shoot setting that lets my subjects express themselves.

I’m most proud of my client relationships and photography tales. My goal is to beautifully and meaningfully capture the tale of each individual I photograph.

I faced several hardships to reach my professional position. I persevered by being true to my vision, studying and developing my trade, and never giving up on my enthusiasm.

One of my biggest lessons is patience and endurance. Building a successful photography business takes time and effort, and setbacks are inevitable. However, keeping focused and tough has helped me overcome these hurdles and evolve as an artist.

I want the world to know that I love making beautiful and meaningful photos that capture my clients’ true selves. My photography lets me tell everyone’s narrative, which I believe is important.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting for a week, I would show them the best of the place. A brief itinerary:

Welcome & ArrivalDay 1
Try regional dishes at a local favourite restaurant for welcome supper.
– Relaxing evening walk in a park or seashore to catch up.

On Day 2, explore the city by visiting local historical sites and landmarks to learn about the local culture and history.
A popular cafe or bistro serving local food for lunch.
Spend the afternoon shopping or visiting local markets for interesting items.
Evening cocktails at a rooftop bar with a city skyline view.

Day 3: Nature and Adventure
Hike and explore a nearby natural reserve or national park for a day.
– Outdoor picnic lunch in nature.
– Natural hot spring or spa afternoon relaxation.
Dine in a rustic farm-to-table restaurant.

Day 4: Cultural Immersion
Explore the region’s art and culture at local galleries and museums.
Lunch at a neighbourhood eatery delivering real food.
Visit an artisan’s workshop or craft market in the afternoon.
Evening cultural show with local music and dancing.

Day 5: Beach Day
Day at the beach for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
Lunch at a beachside seafood restaurant with fresh catch.
Afternoon nap or beach time.
Live music and sunset cocktails at a beach bar.

Adventure and Adrenaline, Day 6
Adventure tours including zip-lining, bungee jumping, and ATVing.
Lunch at an outdoor cafe or food truck.
Taste local beer or wine in the afternoon.
Stargazing BBQ or campfire meal.

Day 7: Farewell and Reflection
– Reminisce over the week over brunch at a hip cafe.
Visit a local market in the morning for last-minute items.
– Final walk in a beautiful park or garden, reflecting on the trip and planning the next one.

This schedule only scratches the surface of the area’s numerous thrilling and unforgettable experiences. Each day would bring new experiences, amazing meals, and unforgettable memories with my dearest friend.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are so many adults that mentored and inspired me along my journey, and continue to do so, but especially the strong women I grew up surrounded by. My grandmother, my mom and my auntie. They taught me how to be compassion, humble and to be strong despite of challenges.

I truly believe your network is your net worth so I feel truly very blessed to have a great friends circle of like-minded, driven, successful, philanthropic visionaries who I most certainly would not have gotten this far without them. We need true mentors at every single stage of our life and success. You really can’t be the expert in anything without being a beginner yourself and my true friends pour into me on a weekly basis.

Community – You have to find a community who not only supports you but believes on your advocacy. Volunteers who will be there for you throughout the years no matter what.

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/cubrixphotography