“Every successful person travels a painful journey. Suffering is an integral and essential part of any real pursuit of success. Nothing about success comes easy, but every painful story has the potential to have a successful ending.”
In a world where success stories often overshadow the struggles that accompany them, there’s one individual whose remarkable journey serves as an inspiring testament to resilience and determination. The life of Brand Chris Daymon is a true embodiment of the belief that hardships and setbacks can pave the way to remarkable achievements.
Humble Beginnings and Unthinkable Hardships
Brand Chris Daymon’s journey began in Dubai in the summer of 2015, where he landed a job in Customer Service/Sales. Little did he know that this was the first step in a journey that would take him through unexpected twists and turns, leading to unforeseen successes.
One of the turning points in his life was meeting Michael Cinco, a celebrated Filipino designer known for his exquisite couture gowns. Michael Cinco recognized Chris’s innate writing talent and offered him the opportunity to collaborate. This partnership led to the publication of Chris’s articles in renowned magazines and publications around the world, including Dolce Magazine in Canada, Deamina Magazine in Milan, Italy, and The Talent Man Exclusive in Germany. His work reached audiences in far-reaching corners of the globe through publications like Cosmopolitan Philippines, Preview Magazine Philippines, and Vogue Arabia.
Not content with just writing, Chris ventured into the world of fashion photography, collaborating with Filipino supermodels like Ria Bolivar and Wilma Doesnt. His creative explorations reached new heights as he wrote about and contributed to Miss Europe 2020 for L’Officiel Arabia.
The Darkest Hour: Overcoming Job Loss and Depression
In March 2020, Chris experienced a significant setback when he lost his job as a researcher for a semi-government company that tracked updates and news on construction projects in the GCC and MENA region. Jobless and in a foreign country, he grappled with pain, anguish, and despair. The weight of unemployment, combined with the uncertainty of the global pandemic, led to a bout of depression that he describes as his “smiling depression.”
Depression, as he explains, is an indomitable force that cannot be easily battled. It is an experience that one must endure day after day, hoping for the fog to eventually lift. The struggle against depression is one that many individuals face silently, fearing the stigma associated with mental health issues. Chris is a firm advocate for open conversations about depression and emotions, emphasizing that there is nothing to be ashamed of when seeking help and support.
A Lifeline: Alegre de Pilipinas and a Historic Appointment
Amid the darkness, a glimmer of hope emerged when Janice De Lima Tentler, the CEO of Alegre de Pilipinas, recognized Chris’s potential and talent. She recommended him to Katniss Griffiths, the owner of IHollywood Lifestyle and Fashion Magazine. This recommendation resulted in a historic appointment: Chris became the first Filipino writer in the Middle East to hold the position of Editor in Chief for a US-based magazine.
Chris’s life experiences have driven home the importance of helping and caring for others. His time as a Covid-19 Head Nurse during the pandemic allowed him to serve humanity and be inspired by healthcare professionals who demonstrated unwavering skill, diligence, and passion. His journey, from a Swab Nurse to a Head Nurse of a quarantine facility, and then to a Covid-19 Vaccination Nurse, showcases his courage in confronting personal and societal challenges.
Never Settle for Less: A Lesson in Resilience
One crucial lesson that Chris’s journey imparts is the idea of never settling for less. Life is too short to accept mediocrity when one can aspire to greatness. His own career revisions, from healthcare to fashion writing and editorship, underscore the importance of pushing one’s limits and seeking self-improvement. As he puts it, “To be a great fashion writer, you need to be interested in the ‘why’ rather than the ‘what’. Remember, big or small, all our dreams are valid.”
His role as an Editor in Chief has brought its own set of challenges, but Chris continues to embrace them with enthusiasm and determination. His commitment to the goals and principles of his work at Alegre de Pilipinas aligns with the mission of “Making the Filipino World Class.”
A New Purpose: Giving Back to the Community
After winning the Fashion Influencer of the Year for the second consecutive year, Chris discovered a new purpose in life. Beyond his role as a Covid-19 Head Nurse and Editor in Chief, he is committed to giving back to the community. One of his most profound causes is the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Chris’s journey in advocating for kids with HIV/AIDS, under Project Red Ribbon’s Duyan, is a testament to his unwavering commitment. He believes this cause is not just a temporary commitment but a lifelong mission. His conviction to raise awareness, support, and advance medical research for this cause grows stronger with each passing year.
In the remarkable journey of Brand Chris Daymon, we find the embodiment of the human spirit’s ability to rise above adversity and achieve greatness. Through resilience, determination, and an unwavering belief in oneself, he has turned every setback into a stepping stone toward success. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, and a reminder that no dream is too big, and no obstacle is insurmountable when one’s spirit remains unbroken.
