The Coffee Corner is a page dedicated to our "Tatak AB" alumni who have created a prominent and inspiring journey in their profession. With their stories, we hope to inspire and encourage our Artlets community to flourish in their skills and talents. Aside from alumni, the Coffee Corner also recognizes notable feats by those who make up the Faculty of Arts and Letters.
This month features (Beauty) Queens from the proud Faculty of Arts and Letters, the 2024 ABSC Elections Forum, AB Dean Prof. Turingan, and the 2023 St. Thomas More Excellence Awards.
Rousanne Marie “Ayn” Bernos graduated from the University of Santo Tomas with a Bachelor's degree in English Language Studies under the Faculty of Arts and Letters.
She is a content creator, podcaster, entrepreneur, and educator, known for her advocacy, “#StopColorism: Panawagan ng isang babaeng kayumanggi,” where she shares her story of growing up in the Philippines, challenging the notion that being 'kayumanggi' is not the acceptable beauty standard for Filipinas. The published story was featured on Rappler.
In 2021, Ayn represented San Juan City in the Miss Universe Philippines 2021 pageant, securing a spot in the Top 16 finalists. Filipinos worldwide were proud of her accomplishments. Despite not winning the crown, she still slayed the runway. She made every Filipina proud of her skin color and beauty.
In 2022, Rousanne Marie “Ayn” Bernos co-founded “Kayu Beauty” where they launched a cosmetic brand with an inclusive collection that suits different skin tones. Kayu is short for “kayumanggi” or in Filipino; “brown.”
By Chynna Angel Bagon
Mary Angelique Manto graduated from the University of Santo Tomas under the Faculty of Arts and Letters with a Bachelor's degree in Communication Arts.
In her undergraduate career, she was a courtside reporter of the University of Santo Tomas with her iconic line: “Ibalik ang korona sa Espanya!” It has been one of the phrases used within the university every UAAP season as they attempted to bring back the crown.
In 2023, Angelique represented Pampanga in the Miss Universe Philippines 2023, where she was crowned as second runner-up. Her advocacy, along with her journey within the Miss Universe Philippines is being an advocate for mental health. She has been working with MentalHealthPH as a voice for those who have been dealing with different kinds of psychological stress. As a victim of bullying while growing up, her platform supports the awareness of mental health issues that are existing in our nation.
By Chynna Angel Bagon
More from the Faculty of Arts and Letters
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