A CHANCE GRANTED, A CHANCE SHARED
| CHARLICE VILLADOLID
Editor-In-Chief, Ignite Student Publication
A.Y 2024-2025
When I was offered the role of Associate Editor back in Grade 11, I accepted it without hesitation, despite carrying more doubt than confidence, I stepped into the role unsure of myself, uncertain of what I could contribute, and scared of making a mistake. However, this isn’t a story of struggle, but of becoming—of showing up, holding on, and doing it because I loved it. Taking on that role remains one of the most defining decisions I’ve ever made, one that I would do over and over again.
Eventually, the day came when I stepped into the role of Editor-in-Chief, and to say it was challenging would be an understatement. This year has been far from easy; at times, the weight became too heavy to carry. From coverages and press conferences to confronting voices that never seemed to quiet down, there were moments when the passion dimmed. But somehow, I always found my way back—to the purpose, the people, and the journalism I’ve come to love the most.
I will always carry the deepest gratitude for our School Paper Adviser, Mr. Fredinel Arellano. Thank you for granting me the ultimate chance, for believing in me, and for igniting that small fire in my heart to keep doing what I love the most. Your guidance and wisdom during the short amount of time that I was your EIC are something I will keep forever in my heart. To the JCA community, your stories are what fills our pages, thank you for allowing this batch the privilege of sharing them. To our School President, Bishop Victoria Sebastian and our School Principal, Mrs. Cynthia Genon—your unwavering trust and continuous belief in the publication gave us the strength and courage to give it our all and strive for more.
To the teachers and mentors I’ve made, to my family and friends, most especially to my sister, who once shared this journey with me as Ignite’s former Feature Editor. I am incredibly grateful to all of you for putting your confidence in what I could become.
And to all of what makes Ignite what it is now, I am truly honored and proud with all the Lamplighters who dedicated themselves to serve the school and God. To the Editorial Board of A.Y 2024–2025 — Prince Elmar, Yana, Samuelle, Yuri, Janelle, Troy, Leila, Prince Edward, Ameilie, Gabriel and Rodge, it has been nothing short of a pleasure to work alongside all of you. Despite the rough patches along the way, thank you for letting me pass on the chance I was once given.
Above all else, I thank the Lord—for without His guidance and grace, none of this would have been possible.
In the end, I was given a chance and I chose to take it. That one choice opened doors for me and others—and to me, that’s what passion is: it grows when shared. To every aspiring writer or student chasing the unknown, live a life that keeps on telling a story. Ignite the fire in your heart and never be afraid to let it guide others along the way.