If you told 17-year-old me—sitting on the floor of my bedroom, packing orders while reviewing for a physics exam—that I’d one day study fashion under Vogue, I wouldn’t have believed you.

But one year, a few pop-ups, and a lot of late nights later, that’s exactly what happened. This is the story of how I started Isa the Label, saved up for a dream I thought was out of reach, and found myself in New York City, learning from people I once only read about in magazines.

Isa the Label began in April 2024, just as I turned 17. Like most teenage girls, I spent hours scrolling Pinterest, curating outfits, supporting local and thrifted brands, and dreaming of a wardrobe that felt like “me.” One day, I decided to stop just dreaming and start to try making them myself. After a lot of convincing, my mom let me borrow ₱10,000. Together, we went fabric sourcing, and soon after, I had my first samples—most of which were disasters at first.

I had no stocks, only samples I had made, but I was excited. My mom became my photographer, I made my logo on Canva, and hit “post.” That one click started something I didn’t expect. Orders came in slowly, then more consistently. Girls started messaging me about how Isa pieces made them feel—seen, beautiful, comfortable. It became more than just clothes. It became a space for creativity and connection.

Months later, I stumbled upon a TikTok about Vogue Summer School in New York. A program on fashion business, brand strategy, and creative direction. It felt like something I meant to do. But then I saw the tuition fees and living costs. For a moment, it felt too far. Still, I couldn’t shake the feeling that this could be something special. So I quietly promised myself: if I want this badly enough, I’ll find a way to make it happen. And I’ll do it on my own.

It wasn’t just about saving money; it was about growing Isa the Label with heart. I mapped out the costs—tuition, flights, accommodation — then threw myself into every opportunity. More pop-ups, new collections, late-night packing sessions, and showing up more consistently.

Pop-ups became my favorite, meeting our community face-to-face. Every time someone told me how confident they felt in Isa pieces, I felt the brand’s purpose felt more real. By June, through grit and God’s grace, I had saved enough. The best part? Every peso came from Isa the Label.

Vogue Summer School was surreal. I learned from industry professionals who had worked with the biggest fashion houses and collaborated with students from all over the world. The biggest thing I learned? Creativity and business go hand in hand. A design can be beautiful, but it needs strategy to survive. The best brands know how to evolve without losing their story. That’s what I hope to keep doing with Isa.

Looking back, I realize dreams aren’t built overnight. They’re built in sketches done after homework, in weekends spent at pop-ups, and in choices to keep moving even when it feels impossible. I’m still a student. I’m still learning. But every time I see Isa grow, I’m reminded that showing up with heart, with faith, and with consistency truly makes a difference.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: don’t wait for the “perfect time” because it will never come. You’ll never feel 100 percent ready—and that’s okay. Just start. Do it scared. You’ll figure it out along the way.

Start with what you have, where you are. Keep your “why” close. Stay grounded in gratitude. And always, always let God lead. You never know how far that first step can take you.