Gala of Talents: A Celebration of Faith and Giftedness

On July 18, 2025, Niña Maria Learning Center held a special celebration beginning with a Holy Spirit Mass to consecrate the new school year to God. It started at approximately 9:00 AM and was officiated by the Nazareth’s San Antonio de Padua Parish priest, Father Roberto “Jun” Balsamo, SSJV. Students from Kinder 1 to Grade 6 gathered in their respective seats. Grades 4,5, & 6 were seated at the front since they had already received their First Communion. Members of Lestonnac Flame Circle (LFC) also sat at the front, as they led the singing during the Mass.

The readers of the Mass were students from Grade 6 Maisonneuve, while the offertory was led by students from Grade 5 -Richelet. The Mass concluded around 9:45 AM, followed by a 20-minute break.

After the short break, the program resumed as announced by Teacher Kaye Chavez Villarico, adviser of Grade 5- Richelet, and Teacher Sheraldene Chavez Eleccion, adviser of Grade 6- Maisonneuve. All students returned to their seats for the much-awaited “Gala of Talents.” This event showcased the diverse talents of the students, who practiced diligently for their performances. The program began with a body prayer by Kinder 2, who presented the corresponding movements. Their performance was truly commendable.

       The first individual performer was a student from Kinder 1 who sang “Pretty Little Baby” beautifully, showing her singing talent at such a young age. Next were the students from Grade 5, who showcased both singing and visual arts. The singers performed “A Million Dreams” while the others simultaneously did their impressive artwork. A Grade 3 student also did a solo singing of “A Million Dreams”. Then, Grade 3 pupils performed a simple dance. 

Next, a Grade 6 brown-belter student exhibited her martial arts skills in Taekwondo. This was followed by a duet guitar performance by two male Grade 6 students.

Another highlight was the performance of “Blue” by Yung Kai, with a female student playing the keyboard and a male student accompanying her with vocals.

Grade 2 students then presented a dance performance, followed by Grade 1 pupils, who also showcased their dancing skills. Grade 4 students performed another dance number, and then Grade 3 students closed the dance segment with a lively routine.

Finally, the participants of the Niña Maria Arts Hub Music Summer Workshop were awarded with certificates after their heartfelt performance. The event concluded with a closing prayer and a flag retreat ceremony led by the Grade 5 pupils. The celebration was filled with joy and pride as students confidently displayed their God-given talents. Everyone left the event with smiles, proud hearts, and lasting memories of an inspiring day. 

Text by: Awyne Skye G. Balaba, Grade 6 – Maissonneuve

Photos: Kaye C. Villarico, Grade 5 – Richelet Adviser