“I know how it feels to be a fan. This means looking up to your idol as a source of motivation, hope, and inspiration, and I had always wanted to be that person for others,” says Amanda Zamora
The early days of figuring out what you want in life are not the easiest, yet out of all our collective human experience, it is one rewarding chapter that allows us to explore and discover who we really are. “Becoming a housemate has always been a dream of mine,” Amanda Zamora reminisced about her experience on Pinoy Big Brother. “This experience was definitely once in a lifetime, and I would say my biggest takeaway would be the friends I made, and of course, the lessons I’ve learned.”
It’s clear that her dreams are grounded with passion and good intentions. In fact, it appeals like an answered calling. “I was a big fangirl growing up, lining up for block screenings and premiere nights of local celebrities, and I have always wanted to be in their spot since I know how it feels to be a fan,” she recalled. “This means looking up to your idol as a source of motivation, hope, and inspiration, and I had always wanted to be that person for others.” Given the success of her season, Amanda is proud to say that her heart is at the right place for pursuing what she wants. And now, she is ready to make a name for herself.
Meet Amanda
Amanda Zamora is a kind soul that is hard to forget. In fact, it felt like reuniting with a lost friend. “I would describe myself as someone very spontaneous, who is always willing to try new things and visit new places with or without a plan,” she tells MEGA. It’s a given that the up-and-coming actress and model from Mercator Talent Agency made waves as a contestant in a reality show. However, if there is anything that is hard to miss, it’s her personality. “I see myself as someone who puts other people first since I feel happy when I am able to make other people feel better.”
As we delve deeper into the conversation, Amanda also reflected on how the industry shaped her to being the person that she is today. “Entering showbiz was something I’ve really wanted growing up, but the actual journey was quite the rollercoaster. Because of this, I learned from experiences and different people with different stories.”
Outside of work, the actress impressively manages her time as a full time student. “I am a 4th year Marketing Management student from DLSU who goes to school regularly.” Despite her busy schedule, Amanda assures that she makes time for activities that feed her soul. “I love to travel with my friends, both in the Philippines and abroad. This is because I think of it as a reward to myself every time I finish a project and it feels fulfilling. In line with this, I spend my money mostly on memories and experiences rather than on material items.”
On her experience as a part of a reality show
It was exactly two years ago when the actress captured the world’s attention with her heartfelt sentiment about making a name for herself. In an episode of Pinoy Big Brother, she shared, “Hindi po siya mahirap, kaso ayoko po maging defined sa term na ‘yun, na anak lang po [ako] ng mayor.” Many fans admired how determined she is to write her own story without taking advantage of her last name.
As we look back at her season in the reality show, she expressed how grateful she was to be a part of it. She also opened up how it changed her life. “It opened doors to things I’ve always wanted to do before, as well as boost my confidence. During my time inside the house, I learned that it is never too late to learn something you are unfamiliar with, to take risks, to cooperate in a team, to have accountability, and to not be afraid to try.”
“I am and always have been very grateful to have been a part of the show, and I always mention how I will bring all the life lessons I’ve learned with me until I am older.”
On her career
“Before entering the industry, I knew that that was just what I wanted,” she bravely shared. “I wasn’t interested in the office or any corporate job. I had been in the modeling industry, which some people might think is similar, but for me, it is not.” The actress also revealed that even though modeling is not an easy job, she receives less pressure from society and external factors. “As I said earlier, the jump from modeling to showbiz taught me how to adjust since I learned that there are times [that] things won’t go my way, but I have no choice but to go through it. This taught me the value of professionalism.”
Her attitude towards work also can’t be left unmentioned. “When I was starting and auditioning, I would be so happy just becoming an extra in various shows since I really enjoyed it so much. Landing a lead role in Connected really was a dream come true since it was my biggest role in a full length film, and I was lucky enough to be guided by Direk Ted Boborol, as well as be in the company of my close friends during the duration of the shooting.”
On overcoming her struggles
It’s no secret that the entertainment industry is tough, especially for newcomers, and Amanda shared that entering showbiz gave her struggles that she has never encountered before. “Since it was new to me, it came to the point wherein I felt like a robot and I did not like it very much. Because of this, I experienced heightened anxiety, which also was not very nice.”
Nonetheless, it did not hold her back from achieving her dreams. “I believe that things like these are a learning experience and only help you become stronger. Though not every moment was a happy one, I am still thankful to be given these opportunities since I had only hoped for them before. Honestly, there have been many changes which I have not been used to. This includes having to be active on social media, extreme working hours, and even getting to the point of thinking if this is what I really want. Thankfully, I would say I learn from other people.”
She continues to express her gratitude towards people who helped her develop a stronger mindset to survive the industry. “They show me that nothing comes easy, and I admire the passion they have for their work. In addition, my parents and friends are also great motivators, and [they] remind me that I am capable [of overcoming] the things I fear.”
“I would not say I have completely overcome all these struggles since I know I will be facing more, but growth is really important to me, and it makes me happy when I realize that I have grown.”
On her most empowered moment
Every empowering moment is worth celebrating, and in our conversation, Amanda shared one relatable entry: “I feel most confident and the most empowered whenever I am complimented for the things I do instead of looks or whatnot. As someone who doubts herself at times, I feel empowered when I prove to myself and to other people that I can achieve things on my own because of my own efforts.”
On what is next for Amanda Zamora
The rest might still be left unwritten for her path, but with her attitude, mindset, and personality, it’s certain that she is going to make it big. As we concluded the conversation, we took a good look into the future. “As an actress, I have always accepted what’s been given to me since I also like a challenge. But in terms of modeling, I would like to try doing it abroad since it is in line with my love for traveling. Hearing stories from my model friends working in other countries makes me want to try it for myself and see if it could be meant for me.”
Apart from that, that actress candidly shared her top priority. “As someone with goals and visions, but not really a concrete plan, I would say that I am someone who goes with the flow. This year, I am really focusing on academics since this is the year I am supposed to graduate.” In the realm of her career, she also hinted at what is yet to expect from her. “I had just finished PIE Channel’s The Chosen One, and will be doing their talk show called The Chosen One Barkadahan for all Saturdays of February. When it comes to modeling, I fortunately have a few shows lined up, and I am happy to do this since I also stopped for a while. On top of that, I have a few trips planned with family and friends this year, and it would be my first time traveling to Europe on my own.”
Photography DOOKIE DUCAY
Creative Direction NICOLE ALMERO
Art Direction BRIE VENTURA, assisted by MOIRA MANILAO
Fashion Direction RYUJI SHIOMITSU
Styling JOAQUIN RODRIGO, assisted by NAVEENA ABDURAJAK
Beauty Direction MARA GO
Makeup GERY PEÑASO
Hair PATTY CRISTOBAL
Sittings Editor PEACHES GARCIA
Producers MEGA DIGITAL (CARYLL CABUHAT, JEMIMA CRUZ, CHLARINE GIANAN, MARA GO, and MIKA REYES)
Video Production REGINA ACERON
Videography KIERAN PUNAY
Production Design JOSIAH HIPONIA, assisted by JOB CONSTANTINO
Shoot Coordination KZ FRANCISCO
All pieces by CHRIS NICK
