Unconventional learning, dynamic instructors, and multi-faceted approaches. These are the three things you could expect when you sign up for The Silver Linings Academy. Throwing handouts right out the window, the classes are filled with exercises that would perfect your skills for day to day application.
 
The courses are designed based on the very foundation that each individual is has their own unique identity and skill set, deviating from the usual tendency for conventional strategies to fit their students in a template. The syllabus covers the following: Performance Skills Enhancement, Culture and Art Appreciation, Runway, Personal Branding, Impromptu Speech, Debate and Public Speaking.

 
Get to know the instructors
 
Carlos Buendia Jr. and Nicole Cordoves are the ‘dynamic duo’ that Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray personally refers to as her dream team. Working in a multinational architectural firm in the day, Carlos, more often called ‘Kuya Caloy’, is the mind behind the now-iconic and internationally-recognized ‘Lava Walk’ and slow-mo turn that caught the attention of supermodel and TV host Tyra Banks. With his wide knowledge in Philippine history and the arts that comes with the territory of serving as President/Artistic Director of Teatro Tomasino (university-wide theater guild of UST), Head Production Designer of the Cultural Center of the Philippines Production Design Center-Summer Arts Workshop and President of the UST Arki Dance Troupe, he has given substantial inputs into telling a story through the details of the national costume as well as the symbolic dances coupled with it.
 
Nicole Cordoves was crowned Binibining Pilipinas-Grand International back in 2016.  Since then, she has continued to fulfill her position at The Manila Bulletin as a Digital Strategist and a writer. She has also furthered her career on television as a judge on the noontime show ‘It’s Showtime’ for the Miss Q&A segment that has already made a two-year run. With her critical and constructive comments to the candidates, netizens have named her ‘Miss On-Point’. Unbeknownst to all, Nicole used to write the speeches of the country’s former Finance Secretary, which gave her an edge in besting candidates from all over the world. Her speech for the Miss Grand International pageant has close to a million views today. Nicole played a role in helping our current Miss Universe prepare for the question and answer portion as well as training on how to prepare for speeches.

 
How the academy was brought to life
 
After Catriona’s win, people flocked to urge Caloy and Nicole to train more girls by setting up a camp. With Catriona herself giving Caloy the extra push to train more people, Caloy teamed up with Nicole to plan a workshop that goes beyond pageantry. Seeing how pageant training could boost self-confidence and greatly improve interpersonal skills, the workshop is set to accommodate anyone, whether you’re an aspiring performer, a corporate individual who wants to improve their presence and presentation skills, or an aspiring beauty queen. As for everything else, the perfect partnership was found with Cornerstone Entertainment, where all workshops will be held from April 22-30, May 2, 6, 7, from 3-9pm. Students are highly encouraged to attend all sessions.
 
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For inquiries, send a message to SJ Ducut via email at sjcd@cornerstoneent.ph or call/text +63 9175504345.