MANILA, PHILIPPINES — KaladKaren, a celebrity impersonator and a host-actress, made history as the first transgender woman to be nominated and win the acting honor for Best Supporting Actress at the first-ever Summer Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF). 

She won the award for her performance in the film “Here Comes the Groom.” KaladKaren, whose real name is Jervi Li, was visibly emotional as she accepted the award during the Gabi ng Parangal, as seen in a clip that she shared on her Instagram page.

“Itong parangal na ito ay hindi lamang recognition ng aking trabaho kundi pati na rin po ng aking pagkatao,” she said during her speech. (This award is not just a recognition of my work but also of my identity.)

“When I entered show business, I never thought na makakakuha po ako ng award kasi (that I would receive an award because) as transgender woman, I thought I will never be enough,” she continued.

In her acceptance speech, KaladKaren expressed her gratitude to the LGBTQIA+ community, drag performers, and other transgender persons “whose lives and existence are being challenged in the world right now” and emphasized that they are “more than enough.” 

She then thanked the Summer MMFF board of jurors and also credited her co-stars and the production team in the film, as well as its director Chris Martinez for being a huge part of her win.

KaladKaren also encouraged LGBTQIA+ kids to be themselves and to dream while emphasizing the message of their film that what’s important is not one’s appearance or gender but their heart and soul. 

“Sa mga LGBTQIA+ na kids, ‘wag kayong matakot maging kayo at ‘wag kayong matakot mangarap because one day, hindi niyo alam, kayo rin ang nandirito,” she continued. “At sana ‘wag din nating kalimutan ang mensahe ng aming pelikula: Hindi po ang itsura at kasarian niyo ang mahalaga kundi ang inyong puso at kaluluwa.”

Her message to the LGBTQIA+ youth to embrace their true selves and never stop dreaming is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-love and acceptance. Overall, KaladKaren’s achievement and inspiring speech serve as a beacon of hope and encouragement for the LGBTQIA+ community and beyond. – WhatALife!/Jayve

Sources: (1)

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Also read: Summer MMFF 2023 Gabi ng Parangal Reveals Full List Winners