From Taking a Leap to Claiming the Crown: Mx. IIT Influencer 2024

By Kayrel Madlos and Jenna Marie Difuntorum

From the Arachnosphere, shout it out loud: KAMANG DAMANG! The crown is finally home, Mx. Hannah Valerie P. Acama from the College of Arts and Social Sciences is now the new Mx. IIT Influencer 2024.

In a sea of talent, advocacy, and empowerment, the Mx. IIT Influencer 2024 lit the stage, showcasing the transformative spirit of the university's community. Amidst the shining exhibit of Mx. Influencers, Mx. CASS ended the night triumphant as she bagged two corporate awards, two minor awards, and claimed the crown as the Mx. IIT Influencer 2024.

With an upsurge of enthusiasm, the competition began as the contestants sparkled in white, took the stage for a frantic yet entertaining production number. In the midst of the bustling motions, Mx. CASS stood out, embodying confidence and grace. Her stellar performance earned her the Best in Production Number award, setting the stage for her remarkable journey ahead.

With the spotlight on advocacy ensembles, Mx. CASS emerged draped in her cause—ABEL, her advocacy for senior rights and elderly care. Though she did not secure the title, her presence resonated with a sense of purpose that transcended the confines of the stage. "Every problem, every issue, should be given limelight," she once emphasized, her voice a clarion call for change.

In the poignant moments of the advocacy video, Mx. CASS shared her journey, from drawing inspiration from her grandparents to spearheading initiatives that echoed the essence of compassion and empathy. "Towards a vision where everyone is included, towards a vision where everyone is celebrated," she articulated, her words a testament to the power of collective action.

When the evening gown portion progressed, Mx. CASS was a vision of grace and elegance as she walked the runway in a luscious green dress. Despite not winning the Best in Evening Gown title, her fortitude was unwavering, delivering a ray of hope in the face of the competition.

Amid the keen scrutiny of the first Q&A portion, the words of Mx. CASS rang true with sincerity and intent. She embodied the ideal of inclusion and empathy that characterized her advocacy. When asked, "How would you ensure that your advocacy resonates with the widest spectrum of students, acknowledging differing priorities and perspectives while still driving forward progress?" she reiterated, "I do think that there's no such thing as a greater advocacy. Every problem, every issue, should be shed, should be given limelight. Because that's the way towards growth and development that we aim for. Including everyone into the conversation, giving everyone a seat on the table."

As the final moments of the pageant drew near, Mx. CASS stood among the top three finalists, her spirit undaunted by the challenges that lay ahead. The dreadful final question finally came: “Mx. IIT influencer is an innovative departure from the traditional Mr. and Ms. IIT. While some have warmly embraced this modern platform, others maintain that the legacy of Mr. and Ms. MSU-IIT holds greater prestige and anticipation. As a candidate, how do you plan to ignite enthusiasm and foster acceptance for this new pageant?”

Mx. CASS responded, "I've started my Mx. IIT journey, full of doubts, wondering if I could represent my... department, and the college as a whole... because I know for a fact that I am not the usual girl that you can see in pageants."She continued with fervor, "But take me right now as a testament, that if you dare to leap and take your spotlight, and at the same time, if you have the heart to help people, then you can be on the stage just like me."

Her winning answer emphasized the transformative power of the Mx. IIT Influencer platform, stating, "Because I do think that this Mx. IIT influencer stage has given me the freedom, has given me the chance to speak up, and at the same time, own my spotlight." Mx. CASS concluded with a call to action, urging others to embrace and understand their uniqueness and dare to claim their spotlight, embodying the spirit of empowerment and inclusion that defines the Mx. IIT Influencer pageant.

The night ended, but it was just the beginning of her time to influence. Overall, Mx. CASS Hannah Valerie P. Acama was awarded Best in Advocacy Video, Best in Production Number, MSU-IIT COOP Choice Award, DeoGlow Choice Award, and MSU-IIT’s very own Mx. Influencer 2024.

As Hannah Valerie Acama continues her journey as Mx. IIT Influencer, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for a fruitful tenure. With her blend of grace, intellect, and empathy, she is well-equipped to leave an indelible mark on the community and beyond. As she carries this prestigious title, may her advocacies flourish and her impact deepens. Until the day comes for her to pass the crown, we look forward to witnessing the ways she will innovate, inspire, influence, and lead. Here’s to a reign as transformative as it is memorable—cheers to you, Hannah!

As the curtains close on the Mx. IIT Influencer Pageant 2024, the doors are now open, welcoming a journey of empowerment and advocacy. Mx. CASS' triumph will stand as a radiant symbol of hope, inspiring IITians to come to dare, to leap, and to claim their own spotlight.