Kaye Gabunada draws strength from family, dreams big after making 'The Clash Teens' Top 12

At just 18 years old, Kaye Gabunada is proving that hard work, perseverance, and family support can take aspiring artists one step closer to their dreams.

The "The Clash Teens" hopeful recently secured a coveted spot in the competition's Top 12 finalists, describing the achievement as both overwhelming and rewarding after what she called a series of unexpected "plot twists" throughout the competition.

"Overwhelmed pa rin ako sa mga nararamdaman ko, sa emotions, kasi ang daming plot twists na nangyari. That was also very nerve-wracking, not just for me but for everyone. Pero siyempre, since andito na ako, I claimed my spot in [the] Top 12. Very blessed, excited, at may kaunting kaba sa kung ano ang susunod na mangyayari," Kaye said.

Should she emerge as the winner, Kaye said the first thing she wants to do is thank God and everyone who believed in her throughout her journey.

"Una po sa lahat, I want to say thank you to the Lord and to everyone. I will still continue my singing career. Kakanta pa rin po ako sa mga local at international stages, sa TV po, hopefully if may chance."

Beyond the competition, Kaye also plans to continue her education. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts at the De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde and hopes to complete her degree while building her music career.

Behind her growing success is the unwavering support of her parents, whom she considers her greatest inspiration.

"Sila po 'yung naka-discover sa talent ko sa pagkanta ever since bata pa ako. Sila rin po 'yung constantly na nandiyan for me, mula sa mga mall competitions, barangay competitions, hanggang sa school programs. They made their own sacrifices just to support my singing dreams, and I will always be grateful to them," she shared.

Looking back on her journey, Kaye said learning to overcome self-doubt has been one of her greatest victories.

"The biggest lesson that I learned is to never give up and always believe in what you can do. There are times na dina-doubt ko 'yung sarili ko kung kaya ko ba itong lagpasan. Pero ang biggest enemy ko talaga is my negative thoughts," she admitted.

She added that she always reminds herself to focus on the people who continue to believe in her.

"I always try my best to remember the people who support me and believe in my talent. They are my core motivation to believe in myself na kaya kong gawin at kaya kong lagpasan ang mga pagsubok."

As for the artist who inspires her the most, Kaye named Lea Salonga.

"Laking Disney po ako. Lumaki rin akong nakikinig kina Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, at Mariah Carey. Pero noong mas nakilala ko ang theater, si Miss Lea Salonga na po ang naging idol ko, not only because of her amazing musicality and talent, pero inspiring din po talaga ang story ng buhay niya," she said.

With a place in the Top 12 secured, Kaye hopes to continue making her parents proud while pursuing both her education and her lifelong dream of becoming a successful performer. —CDC, GMA News