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Profile of an Artist

I started dancing at the age of four but took formal classes in ballet and Hawaiian dancing when I was eight, moved on to study jazz, and since then would represent my schools in theatrical performances, oratorical and declamation contests, dances and choirs.

I had my very first starring role at six, as "Eve" in a play about the Creation. With this great passion for theatre, I landed my first major starring role on stage at the age of 14. At 16, I became a member of a very select government-sponsored theatrical group from the Philippines, which opportunity opened my doors to more challenging stage roles in front of and behind the spotlight. As a drama and theatre arts scholar at the University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City at the age of 16, I trained under some of the Philippines’ best film actors, actresses and directors. At 17, I first had a taste of competitive ballroom dancing and won third place in the Swing competition. My latest education in the field of performing arts is in musical theatre from the Caulfield School of Dance in BC, Canada which I completed in 2002.

I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce, Major in Business Management from the De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines but performing arts has always been my passion. Though I also play the piano and the guitar, sing a little, write songs and poetry, my teaching experience is in the field of dance, acting, and directing. I have taught children, teenagers, and adults and the approach is always different and the rewards, unbelievable!

In 2000, I earned a plaque of appreciation from the Veritas Parochial School in the Philippines for my contribution in the field of performing arts.

Some of my most memorable teaching assignments would be as the director for a school anniversary presentation, a choreographer for multiple cheering competitions, a scriptwriter and director for high school film projects, a ballet and special movements teacher for

Kinderdance International in BC, Canada (2001-2004), a jazz and creative drama teacher for Hyde Creek Montessori (Canada), and as the choreographer and program director for the Celebration of the Harvest cultural presentation for St. Luke’s Parish, Sept. 2008. In Canada, I have had the privilege to train under well-known actress and dancer/performer Angie Lundin and actress/dancer/choreographer and director Barbara Tomasic.

As the Directress for G.I.F.T.S. School of Theatre Arts for St. Luke’s Parish, I am able to fulfill my dream of training children in theatre arts and giving them the chance to develop their potentials. I have always believed that a child is naturally gifted with talent but unless he or she is given the opportunity to discover this, the child may never have the chance.

The child who knows what he or she can do gains enough confidence to succeed. Theatre arts is a very powerful means towards building confidence and making the children believe that they can achieve and can make a huge difference.

It is always a pleasure to share my knowledge and I am very blessed to be able to serve God in this manner. When I give away what I know, I earn wisdom. When I teach my secrets, I discover an even greater wealth: generosity. This is what God asks of us: That we give of ourselves so that others may benefit. This may not be seen by the world, but is seen by Him who knows every little thought we have, and sees what is in our hearts.

Jackie Diy, Owner, Markond International

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Maple Ridge, BC, Canada