June 6, 2023 - Pride Month takes center stage as the remarkable journey of Miss Cici, a talented Filipino transwoman living in Thailand, comes to light. With an unwavering spirit and a determination to overcome adversity, Miss Cici has caught the attention of Vision Express, Philippines’ top optical retailer, using her platform to advocate for inclusivity and inspire others to embrace their authentic selves.

The fashion industry can be both a canvas for self-expression and a challenging terrain for marginalized individuals. Miss Cici's experiences in both the Philippines and Bangkok have shaped her determination to pursue her career fearlessly. From being rejected during a casting for Philippine Fashion Week to being deceived by an agent in Bangkok, Miss Cici has faced discrimination because of her gender.

“Those experiences scarred me, I'm not going to lie. But scars fade. And sometimes you don't even notice them anymore. I guess, I've gotten used to being rejected that it doesn't bother me much anymore. And so, I'm not so scared to try and present myself, go to castings, auditions and online contests,” says Miss Cici.

Leveraging the power of social media, Miss Cici connects with her audience, shares her story, and inspires others through her creative content. While she faces challenges in building her online presence, she remains committed to creating a supportive community that shares her passion for fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and travel. Miss Cici's growth and engagement on social media serve as a testament to her resilience and determination to reach a broader audience with her empowering message.

Expressing her vision and fostering self-acceptance has been a transformative journey for Miss Cici. With self-love at the core of her being, she encourages individuals who may struggle with embracing their authentic selves to recognize their potential for growth and improvement. Living in the vibrant city of Bangkok has significantly influenced Miss Cici's personal style. Bangkok's fashion scene is characterized by fearlessness, where people embrace self-expression without judgment. This environment has empowered Miss Cici to experiment with her fashion choices, showcasing her unique and bold sense of style. She encourages others to break free from societal norms and fearlessly express their true selves.

As Pride Month unfolds, let us celebrate Miss Cici and the rest of the LGBTQ+ community, and continue to advocate for inclusivity so everyone freely expresses their vision. Watch out for Vision Express’ billboard featuring Miss Cici and Heart Evangelista in EDSA. You may also follow check out @visionexpressph and @sheismisscici on Instagram for updates.

Vision Express is one of the Philippines’ leading optical chains bringing the latest eyecare technology and over 60+ designer eyewear brands. Vision Express is owned by House of Branded Lifestyle Inc