M1ss Jade So isn't just a name – it's a force. That is what everyone should keep in mind. Beyond the gorgeous face (let's be real, it's stunning) lies a powerful voice for change. We all fell in love with M1ss Jade's electrifying personality and out-of-this-world creativity during her unforgettable run on Drag Race Philippines Season 2. But beyond the breathtaking performances, M1ss Jade has also become a powerful voice for inclusivity and representation.
In the face of those who shatter norms and redefine what it means to shine, M1ss Jade So stands out. Fierce in fashion and sharp in wit, she's a force of change to be reckoned with. Her unforgettable exit line, "I am you, you are me, and we are all one within," continues to ring true. Now, M1ss Jade So champions the power of "Esoteric Goddess" – a movement all about doll domination, dollification, and doll domination.
As we sit at the table with our Esoteric Goddessa, we get a peek behind the aura; a journey into the heart of M1ss Jade So, the artist, and the person.
The Goddessa in Drag
For Jade, drag is more than performance; it's a mission. “I found myself through drag,” she said, as if this was her calling. “M1ss Jade So represents people with high confidence that leads to having self-worth,” she said. And true enough, her visual artistry and performances live up to this. "Through my art form of drag, I get to show it in different ways that I visualize. I also represent the trans community, who have the same experiences and struggles I face in everyday life. By sharing my life stories, I bring out the courage in myself, and knowing that people are inspired by it is very much appreciated and makes me want to continue and fight," Jade added.
Jade has found a creative, inclusive, and safe space to be herself, to be the Goddessa that has been in her heart ever since. She is now using her platform to inspire and empower others to embrace their inner goddess, celebrating the beauty of self-expression in all its forms.
"I use my platform to advocate through my performances, posts that can raise awareness, and conversations. I conceptualize performances that have meaning behind them and can impact the community and the people who are watching. Through posts, because nowadays this is the easiest way to connect with people, and conversations that can leave a lasting memory. Even random people I talk to can create awareness and educate those who are not yet educated."
The Goddessa as a Visionary Deep Within
To M1ss Jade So, self-expression should not be the only goal. It should also inform and spark necessary conversations. Pushing forward advocacies and creating an impact while expressing creativity to slay is M1ss Jade So’s mission.
“Through posts, because nowadays this is the easiest way to connect with people, and conversations can leave a lasting memory. Even random people I talk to can create awareness and educate those who are not yet educated,” she added.
It is undeniable that the LGBTQIA+ community still struggles with self-expression, and certain toxic prejudices are still held by some towards the community. When asked about THE Goddessa’s message to those who still hold negative notions about the community, she responded, “Lahat tayo, tama sa sarili nating paniniwala pero lagi nating tandaan ‘yung pagta-try ng shoes ng ibang tao sa kahit ano mang sitwasyon.”
Her message is one of empathy and understanding. "Try walking in someone else's shoes," she urges those who may harbor prejudices. For M1ss Jade So, compassion is essential in battling negativity towards the community. Being understanding and not succumbing to hate is crucial in advocating for equal rights for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Drag is Political
M1ss Jade So also asserts that "drag is political," emphasizing the art form's significance beyond mere entertainment. “As we all can see, drag evolution is now a phenomenon. Na dati sa bar or nightclubs lang makikita yung mga drag queen. Now, it’s everywhere. May mga drag branches na, viewing parties, and even on a regular day basis, kasabay niyo na kami mag-commute, sa grab, sa train, kung saan mang mga tricycle, mga jeepney, and also I’m very happy to where we are right now. Sa mga achievements natin, celebrations. Malayo pa pero malayo na, and at the same time, patuloy pa rin tayong lumalaban sa ating mga human rights bilang isang tao sa Pilipinas. Drag culture made its way to be one of the leaders of our movement. Isa kami sa mga tinitingala ng mga LGBTQIA+ Community dahil sa malawak na plataporma na maaaring gamitin sa pag-protesta kasi laging tandaan, drag is political.”
Drag is M1ss Jade So’s opportunity to “seat” at the table. This is HER seat and HERS alone. "Taking a seat at the table," for M1ss Jade So, means having the power to make a change, to be heard not just as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, but as a Filipino citizen with a voice.
Drag for M1ss Jade isn't just entertainment, not only a performance, but a thriving platform for the community to advocate for inclusivity and justice. Her seat at the table signifies a great sense of empowerment. It reveals what it takes to truly make a difference not only on stage but also within the LGBTQIA+ community. Again, M1ss Jade So isn't just a name – it's a force.
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Produced by Mark Elwyn Baccay (@markelwyn)
Cover Images Photographed by Miggy Broño (@miggybrono_)
Creative Direction: Mark Elwyn Baccay (@markelwyn)
Editor-in-Chief: Mark Elwyn Baccay (@markelwyn)
Makeup: Artist: Jia Cruz (@jiaachacruz)
Hairstyling: Gab Villegas (@grandpagabo)
Fashion Styling: Bryan Laroza (@iambryanlaroza)
Designers: Yves Camingue (@ycmng_), East of Eden (@exploreeastofeden)
Kurt Abonal (@kurtabonal), and Thian Rodriguez (@thianrodriguezmnl)
Fashion Styling: Bryan Laroza (@iambryanlaroza)
Designers: Yves Camingue (@ycmng_), East of Eden (@exploreeastofeden)
Kurt Abonal (@kurtabonal), and Thian Rodriguez (@thianrodriguezmnl)
Set and Production Design: Studio Tatin (@studio.tatin) by Migs Alcacid (@migsalcid)
Assisted by Vienna Bleza (@viennableza), Neil John Remolin (@neiljohnremolin), Mariz Fetalvero (@mariz.fetalvero)
Videographers: Gimo Natanawan (@gimomigo)
Shot at Studio LAJ (@studiolajph)
Story: Mark Elwyn Baccay, Athena May Ompaling and James Angelo Parilla
Special thanks to Chicken Chingu (@chickenchinguph)
