Meet Erika
Who knew my pre-teen obsession with what I saw on screen would turn into a mission to tell validating stories?
I immigrated to Canada from the Philippines when I was a baby and grew up to become a historic winner of one of the world’s biggest TV franchises. Starting as a pop culture-obsessed kid, I become an award-winning public relations pro and now I’m a cross-platform storyteller.
I was a passionate kid …
For as long as I can remember, I was fascinated by the stories I saw on screen, but I was more intrigued by what I didn’t see. Seriously, I delivered a passionate speech about the dangers of subliminal messaging in advertising for my grade 7 speech competition (Note: I made it to the finals but I didn’t get the win because, surprisingly, it wasn’t a fitting topic to represent the school at the regional competition)
Like many Asian kids in the 90s, I felt weirdly out of place when the only TV character I could play at recess was the yellow power ranger. The 12-year-old me was overcome with emotion when Halle Berry accepted the Academy Award for Best Actress and at the time I wasn’t really sure why.
After a few more years of studying media literacy, I realized that what I saw on screen mattered. It influenced the way people see each other and the way I see myself. When I didn’t see myself on screen I couldn’t comprehend what was possible for me. A younger me nobly thought, “I want to change that!”
My desire to be a “real adult” who sat at a desk inadvertently grew into a decade-long career in corporate communications. The Filipino immigrant who was raised in an English as a second language household became an award-winning communicator who provided strategic counsel to corporate leaders. I excelled in that career while managing many instances of being underestimated (e.g. being mistaken for an intern a few too many times, a few too many years into my career).
There was always a nagging feeling that this career - while abundant and successful - was only meant to be temporary.
In 2020, I was cast for my all-time favourite TV show, SURVIVOR. Sadly, the pandemic hit, the show got postponed and I signed up for online comedy and writing classes to distract myself from crying. This combination of events that felt devastating in the moment ended up changing my life.
…who needed to go on some twists and turns…
… to learn the biggest lessons from a dream come true
In 2021, I won Survivor and my victory was historic. The petite, purple-haired castaway became the first Canadian and first Filipino winner in the franchise. I was the first woman to win the game in seven seasons.
This victory was incredibly liberating … and bittersweet. The 11-year-old me told herself that she would win Survivor one day and decades later she did it! The underestimated competitor, who took the uncomfortable lessons from her corporate career, came out on top!
On the flip side, for months I was inundated with messages from viewers who didn’t believe I was worthy of the win. (I can speak at length about my portrayal and the audience response, and I did here!)
Seeing myself on screen as a petite, underestimated Asian woman, ignited my passion for storytelling in a profound way.
Now, I tell stories that help people who have felt overlooked to finally seen.
My podcast, Happy to See Me, shares inspirational stories of impressive people who have been underestimated. As a keynote speaker, I tell relatable, inspirational and witty stories that show audiences that anyone can win. When I’m hosting, I strive to make the audience feel connected with what’s on screen. My scripted projects make the underdogs the heroes.
If you share the same passion, I’d love to collaborate!
Hobbies, obsessions and fun facts
Eclectic fashion
Growing up wearing mostly thrifted items has turned style into my favourite creative expression. You can spot me in mostly bright colours, patterns, vintage, local or sustainable garments.
Kpop
I’m a proud ARMY and BTS is one of my biggest influences.
Adventure travel
I’ve never met a multi-day hike I didn’t like. I’m always dreaming of my next outdoor adventure. Tell me your recommendations!
Strength training
My chin up record is always growing.
A queer late bloomer
I came into my queerness at the age of 34. If you come into queerness as an adult, you’re not alone!
A former licensed amateur boxer
I never played a sport growing up. So naturally, I decided that my first foray into competition would be training with an Olympic boxer and stepping into the ring!