Kathleen "Kai" Espenido is a Filipino Australian beauty queen, actor, surfer, anda fashion model who has conquered life’s obstacles, faced her fears, and emerged stronger. 

Currently pursuing the opportunity to win a much-coveted crown, she is #18 representing the sun-kissed island of Siargao as an official candidate of Bb. Pilipinas 2025.

Kathleen suffered a heart-rending loss when her father Frank died, leavingher mom, Liezl, who manages their hostel on the island, to single-handedlytake care of the family. “Still reeling from my dad’s passing, Typhoon Odette-ravaged Siargao in 2021 and destroyed our livelihood, leaving us withnothing,” she says. 

As the eldest in the brood, she knew she had to do something, and there was no time to waste, so she explored opportunities in Manila. Although admittedly an introvert, Kathleen decided to join Pinoy Big Brother Kumunity Season 10, her first foray into show business, to help augment the family income.

“It was a good thing that I joined because I learned how to react to situations better, and the experience boosted my self-confidence,” the 21-year-old stunner recalls. Using the cash prize she received from the reality show, shebegan rebuilding her family’s life in Siargao, while inspiring others how—from zero and despite the struggles, she has helped herself and her family.

Now, their hostel is thriving again.Up until her personal ‘aha!” moment happened. She saw Catriona Gray compete and win the Miss Universe crown in 2018, and despite being only 14 years old, she was determined to chart the same course. 

Kathleen is currently the reigning Miss Fit Philippines after she won the crown in July 2024. “Winning the Miss Fit Philippines crown was an amazing personal milestone for me. I am thrilled that my efforts and hard work have paid off. With the title, I am championing the healthy lifestyle, both physically and mentally," she explains.

Next step, Bb. Pilipinas. The game plan is to prepare for the biggest stage in Philippine pageantry. Currently, she is undergoing training in all aspects of the competition—Q&A, styling, fitness, and pasarela — as well as all facets of personality development, thanks to Reign Project Management, headlined by the power couple Paul Izon Reyes and Jam Aquino. 

Kathleen is not just another pretty face, as she also exudes innate beauty,grace, and purpose. During her recent birthday, she launched her advocacy initiative, the KAI Project (short for Knowledge, Action, and Inspiration).

KAI aims to empower individuals to take positive steps in their lives, creating a supportive community that fosters growth and resilience. As part of her advocacy, she has visited Nayon ng Kabataan in Mandaluyong.

This 24-hour facility provides temporary shelter, psychosocial care, andprotection to children who have been abandoned, neglected, orphaned, orabused. Kathleen gave out personal hygiene supplies to around 100 childrenon her birthday, which marked the launch of the KAI project. 

The future is coming up roses for Kathleen, who plans to launch her ownswimwear brand (being the island girl that she is!), and she is committed tomaking waves in the fashion industry while empowering others along the way.A lot of young people look up to her, but who does she look up to?

Well, aside from Catriona Gray, her greatest hero is her mom. “She’s independent, and she’s the one who shaped me to be this person that I am today."

And for all those supporting her, she has this to say: “Thank you! It is a good feeling to have this support system as I vie for the Bb. Pilipinas title.” Watch Binibining Pilipinas 2025 on June 15 at Smart Araneta Coliseum.