LOOK: Teen Artist Jelai Espino is All Set for Showbiz

Teen singer and actress Jelai Espino expressed readiness to conquer the entertainment industry in a bloggers’ conference-slash-media launch. The young showbiz hopeful was inspired and encouraged by her Tita Ai-Ai Delas Alas, a friend of her parents Bing and Butch Espino. Ai-Ai and the Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos are Jelai’s showbiz influences. At 15, she is a self-confessed Vilmanian and dreams of working with the veteran actress one day. In preparation for her showbiz career, Jelai underwent acting workshops by Star Magic and Ogie Diaz. For singing, she was under the tutelage of OPM icon Vehnee Saturno.

Aside from talent development, Jelai has also been working on emotional preparations for the industry she’s entering. She has been warned about possible criticisms from showbiz spectators. She shared that Ai-Ai has advised her about what to expect and that includes the naysayers. Jelai said that she knows having bashers is part of celebrity life and she’s ready to face the challenges that come with pursuing her dreams. One of the recurring challenges of a young celebrity is the juggling work and school. If showbiz gets in the way, Jelai is willing to give up regular schooling in case a good opportunity knocks on her door. Jelai is currently a Grade 8 student at San Beda College Taytay.