IN TODAY’S WORLD, where the rapid advancement of technology is reshaping industries and lives, it’s easy to forget the incredible minds who are already paving the way for the future.
One such mind is Isabelle “Isay” Bautista Garcia, whose recent accomplishments have not only captured our attention but also served as a powerful reminder of what relentless dedication, passion, and hard work can achieve.
Isay, a proud Catbaloganon, is the daughter of OFW parents working as engineers in Saudi Arabia. Growing up away from the Philippines, in a foreign country, Isay has not only had to navigate the challenges of a new culture but also excel in a system that could have easily overlooked her potential. Yet, she has continually risen above the challenges, proving that talent knows no boundaries.
Her latest triumph—the Top 1 position in the World Artificial Intelligence Competition for Youth (WAICY)—is nothing short of remarkable.
WAICY is a global competition designed to challenge students to apply artificial intelligence (AI) technology to real-world problems.
And Isay didn’t just compete; she dominated. Out of over 18,000 students from 129 countries, Isay emerged victorious, representing both Saudi Arabia and the Philippines with unmatched brilliance. Not only did she help her team claim First Place, but she also bagged gold in the individual category and silver in the group competition.
Her success in WAICY isn’t just an academic achievement; it’s a testament to the kind of future we should be excited to embrace—one shaped by young minds who use technology to create solutions.
But what sets Isay apart isn’t just her technical skills or her ability to win; it’s her determination to excel in every aspect of her life. We’ve all witnessed her success in Taekwondo, where she has consistently won gold medals in international competitions, proving that her competitive spirit extends well beyond the classroom. In fact, it seems that no challenge is too great for her to overcome.
Isay’s story is also one of academic excellence, a feat that should be celebrated in its own right. With a near-perfect 99% average this semester, Isay has proven that she can balance the demanding nature of her extracurricular activities with the rigor of her studies.
In a world where distractions are plentiful and motivation is often fleeting, Isay shows us the power of focus and discipline.
Her previous interview with ABS-CBN’s Bernadeth Sembrano and the personal congratulations from Catbalogan City Mayor Dexter Uy further highlight the pride her community takes in her achievements. But let’s not sugarcoat the truth—Isay’s success should be the rule, not the exception.
Young people like her should be the standard-bearers of excellence, not anomalies. Sadly, far too many talented young minds are left unnoticed or unsupported because of the barriers they face—whether those barriers are financial, cultural, or simply the result of not having the right platforms to shine.
Isay’s story stands as proof that when we provide young people with the right tools and opportunities, they can achieve extraordinary things. Her achievements in WAICY are a powerful reminder of what the next generation is capable of, and it is imperative that we continue to support and nurture such talent.
So, to Isay: congratulations. Your achievements aren’t just a reflection of your brilliance, but also of the immense potential within every young person who dares to dream big and work hard.
You’ve proven that excellence doesn’t depend on where you come from, but on the passion and dedication you put into everything you do. The world is waiting for you, and it’s clear that you are more than ready to take it on.
Keep shining!
