From Cebu to the World: Lelandra Walters’ Empowering CVAP Journey
The digital age has bridged the gap between local talent and global opportunities, and for Lelandra Walters, an aspiring voice artist from Cebu City, the Certified Voice Artist Program (CVAP) was the bridge she needed. In a heartfelt testimonial, Lelandra recounts how a single social media post transformed her curiosity into a professional calling.
Lelandra’s journey began on a high note when she saw a post by DJ Claire Cordelia. This discovery led her to apply for and eventually earn a spot as a CVAP scholar under the mentorship of the renowned Voice Master Pocholo "The VoiceMaster" Gonzales. For Lelandra, being a scholar wasn't just a financial opportunity; it was a badge of excitement and commitment to the craft.
The program was structured into four consecutive Saturday virtual sessions. Despite the remote nature of the training, Lelandra described the experience as:
Comprehensive & Enriching: Covering the vast landscape of the voice industry.
Engaging & Motivating: Keeping students energized through virtual screens.
Inspiring: Fueled by "competent trainers" who provided "invaluable insights" into the professional world.
Lelandra was candid about the rigor of the program. The assignments were challenging, designed to push students beyond their existing limits. However, she noted that these projects served a dual purpose:
Creative Expansion: Forcing her to find new ways to use her voice and interpret scripts.
A Sense of Significance: Completing these tasks made her feel like a vital part of the creative industry, proving that her voice had the power to carry weight and meaning.
Beyond the Mic: Time Management and Character
Perhaps the most surprising takeaways for Lelandra were the "soft skills" the program instilled. CVAP didn't just teach her how to speak; it taught her how to live as a professional:
Prioritization: Learning to manage a busy schedule to meet tight deadlines.
Supportive Culture: The program emphasized the importance of being giving and supportive toward others—a value she saw reflected in the initiative shown by her "voice mates."
Collaborative Effort: Lelandra highlighted the power of her group, noting that the collective support of her peers made the individual journey much easier to navigate.
As she concludes her CVAP experience, Lelandra offers a wide-reaching thank you to everyone who supported her—from her family in Cebu to the CVAP secretariat, hosts, and mentors. Special gratitude was reserved for Voice Master Pocholo, whose vision provided her with what she describes as a "fulfilling and meaningful" experience.
For Lelandra Walters, graduation isn't the end—it’s the official launch of a voice artist who is now prepared to represent Cebu City on the national stage.