JODI STA. MARIA, MAY PLANONG MAG-MENTOR

Aminado ang aktres na si Jodi Sta. Maria na nais rin niyang maging mentor matapos siyang tanghalin bilang Best Actress sa Asian Academy Awards na nangyari sa Singapore noong Disyembre.

“When I was offered to do ‘Labyu with an Accent’ with Coco [Martin], I immediately asked for the script. I’m always excited when I’m given the chance to create a character and a proper backstory. I find joy in making a character sketch and profile, and eventually sharing this with my director and the creatives,” sabi ni Jodi.

Naikuwento pa niya na dati pa siyang inalukan na maglunsad ng sariling workshop, ngunit noon ay hindi pa raw siya handa na magturo.

“When we [Kriz Gazmen, head of ABS-CBN Films] were chatting about my process in creating characters, he told me, ‘Why don’t you facilitate a workshop on this?’ During the time he asked, I still felt I didn’t have the authority to do a workshop,” sabi ng aktres.

“Even I seek help from acting coaches before doing a project. I learn other acting techniques from them so that when I join the war, so to speak, I’m ready,” dagdag niya.

May mensahe pa siya para sa mga baguhang artista. “No. 1 is to always strive for excellence. Part of this is hard work and patience. Second is to always show respect. You give this not only to the senior stars, but to everybody on the set,” sabi ni Jodi.

“I’ve learned through the years that this industry exists on pakikisama—this is important. It’s always better that people feel happy when you’re on the set, rather than make them feel uncomfortable. Huwag kang pabigat,” dagdag niya.

“Lastly, never stop dreaming and aiming for your goals. Goal-setting is beautiful, because it gives you direction. It helps that you know where you want to steer your career to.”