In a world where building a career by following one’s passion is often not the obvious choice, many people feel compelled to pursue traditional professions as dictated by cultural and societal expectations–mainly because these career paths are perceived to offer more stability and financial security. Due to a lack of awareness or understanding of the potential opportunities and growth within the creative industry, pursuing non-traditional career paths is seen by most as risky compared to more common options. However, some individuals dare to follow unconventional paths, pursuing their passion and becoming true game changers.
Forging Unconventional Career Paths
Living in a society where passion and profession often seem like two disparate paths, Joshua Villena proves that the two can coexist. Joshua, now a New York-based artist and designer, graduated from iAcademy with a degree in Animation. He initially worked with various animation studios but eventually followed an unconventional career path adhering to his passion, showcasing his art in exhibitions across the Philippines, Italy, Paris, and New York.
Joshua’s journey to becoming an artist was not easy. His parents initially opposed to his decision to pursue Fine Arts, especially given their financial struggles. As a result, Joshua started college studying Information Technology. However, his passion for art remained strong. In his third year of college, Joshua took a bolder step by sending his application and portfolio to iAcademy. Recognizing his exceptional talent, iAcademy offered him a scholarship, which became the launchpad for his creative career.
Joshua debuted his first solo exhibition in April, “The Arrival of Yeshua,” featuring ten original artworks and a new streetwear line called Yeshua. This milestone not only showcased his success but also set the stage for Filipino creatives on the global scene. As Joshua reflected, “Being a game changer is about not limiting yourself to what you know but always evolving and making space to learn. I want to be that representation in the creative industry.”
Sabrina Maybituin also took a non-traditional career path on her way to success. Starting as a Bachelor of Science in Animation major, she quickly rose through the ranks and became the Head of Client Relations at Top Draw Animation Inc. “My interest was really illustration, but being exposed to the production and opportunities to work with global creators such as Nickelodeon, it really sparked my love and passion for animation,” Sabrina shared. Her career spanned critically acclaimed projects like Jimmy’s Got Tentacles and progressed to iconic projects like The Tom & Jerry Show and Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles on Netflix.
Ruka Azuma’s career is a perfect blend of artistic vision and strategic thinking. As a former student leader, Ruka’s leadership skills and creativity were evident early on. As a multidisciplinary artist and filmmaker operating his studio, he creates compelling short films while serving as a Senior Creative Strategy Officer at Eventscape Manila. His diverse career portfolio boasts various roles and industries one can take when pursuing a non-traditional career path.
Nuke Dumayas, now a Technical Director at Puppeteer Animation Studios, found his calling through the mentorship and rigorous training provided to him as an iAcademy student. His dedication and expert training equipped him with the expertise needed to become a leading figure in animation. Nuke’s journey from a passionate student to a technical director underscored the significance of quality education and mentorship in transforming a passion into professional expertise.
Reinventing Education for the Future
The success stories of Joshua, Sabrina, Ruka, and Nuke demonstrate that forging a career path out of passion is not only possible but can lead to exceptional career success that transcends worlds. These stories remind us that following one’s true passion, with the right environment and resources, can become a viable and rewarding professional trajectory. Institutions like iAcademy, which is committed to redefining education to cater to the dynamic needs of industries, produce game changers in the design, technology, and business domains. By embracing non-traditional career paths, iAcademy defines how a forward-thinking education fosters creativity, innovation, and leadership, empowering students to thrive in their respective fields.
Start your journey to becoming a part of the next generation of game-changers who will shape the future. For more information, visit www.iacademy.edu.ph.
