By Scarlet Gadingan

Scarlet is a late bloomer who grew up feeling invisible—and at times, unwanted. Lean, dark-skinned, and queer, she was physically and emotionally bullied not only by her peers but by adults who should have known better. Told to “tone it down” to avoid ridicule, she grew up suppressing parts of herself just to survive. She was never the top student. She wasn’t the “favorite.” But deep down, she knew she was more than what people saw—or failed to see. Her transformation began not with a makeover, but with a mindset. In college, Scarlet poured herself into personal growth—honing her skills, joining and founding organizations, and refusing to settle for mediocrity. She graduated Magna Cum Laude, received the University Leadership Award, and passed the board exam to become a licensed professional English teacher. Her glow-up continued when she earned a master’s degree from De La Salle University, graduating with distinction and winning the Best Thesis Gold Medal in 2020. By the time she returned home to Negros Oriental, she had blossomed—not just as a woman, but as a force. Her confidence, elegance, and accomplishments turned heads.

Today, she is a permanent instructor at NORSU, a content creator on TikTok and Facebook, a motivational speaker, and a beauty queen crowned Gandang NegOrense Universe. Her voice—once silenced—is now celebrated as she speaks with poise, purpose, and authenticity both online and onstage.

This book is about reclaiming your identity, rewriting your narrative, and rising beyond every label, insult, and limitation. Scarlet advocates for a more inclusive school culture, where students, staff, and teachers can thrive regardless of their gender identity.

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