The actress rounds out a community of 25 determined individuals experiencing big changes as they move through various stages in life.
Despite societal pressures, a community of twenty-, thirty-, and forty-somethings are refusing to slow down. Here’s how they’re inspiring others to embrace their true, authentic selves.
Society often portrays life as a linear journey, with certain milestones neatly arranged at specific points. Twenty- and thirty-somethings, in particular, feel the pressure to conform to this preordained narrative. Careers should be flourishing, relationships settled, and life be generally “on track.”
The unspoken message? Moving through various stages of adulthood means big changes. Society doesn’t just expect you to be or act in a certain way, it expects you to look your age, too.
Breaking free from societal norms, embracing individuality, and taking charge of your life may be a daunting task, but it’s not an impossible one. Beauty brand POND’S, together with Preview.ph, spotlights 25 remarkable individuals who prove you can chase your dreams, stay radiant, and live life on your own terms.
And the one leading the charge? None other than actress, singer, host, and entrepreneur Gabbi Garcia.
A distinct kind of energy crackled through the air as a group of 25 inspiring individuals—actors, models, digital content creators, hosts, doctors, and entrepreneurs—gathered to celebrate their unique and uplifting journeys through a Preview.ph and POND’S photo shoot.
As if the atmosphere wasn't already buzzy and vibrant enough, the air in the studio shifted and became electric the moment Gabbi walked in. A vision in a chic, off-the-shoulder red dress and sparkly red heels, she exuded confidence as she glided in, ready to captivate the camera. Her luminous morena skin glowed under the studio lights, reflecting not just an inner radiance but an outer glow that drew everyone in.
Fresh from the shoot, Gabbi sat down with us for a conversation about dealing with societal expectations and refusing to slow down. Her calm demeanor and positive energy shone through during the interview. It was clear that she is more than a talented actress and singer; she’s a genuine and inspiring person who radiates inner strength.
Gabbi candidly discussed the pressures she has faced in her career, admitting that she once felt pressured to conform. “I feel like a lot of things are being created by social media, like expectations. What society feels what beautiful is or what sexy is,” she said.
However, as she approaches 11 years in the entertainment industry, Gabbi has learned to take good care of herself, to not slow down, and to embrace her individuality.
“Now, I'm more carefree. I'm more authentic. I'm more just myself,” she confessed. “It's also such a relief. But, it's not an overnight thing.”
Having the power to choose and finding the perfect time also come into play when you’re discovering yourself and embracing your personal journey. Gabbi noted that a huge part of her growth is thanks to her “core”—or her support system, which includes her team, family, and loved ones—her passion for performing, and her ambition to be an inspiration to other people.
“I believe everything is a choice. I [decided] to prioritize my well-being and myself,” she said.
“Everybody has their own timing… . The universe will not give you anything [you're incapable of doing]. Whatever is in line for you, it's meant to be for you. You just have to embrace it.”
Similar to Gabbi, digital content creators Iya Omaña and Francis Bagsic are also embracing their individuality and forging their unique paths.
Iya talked about her journey of choosing a creative career over a traditional corporate job, underscoring the importance of following your heart and believing in yourself. “It takes a lot of courage to face what you really want,” Iya said, adding that having to explain her decision to her parents was the “hardest part.” (Thankfully, their reaction was a positive one.)
What made Iya not slow down and pursue her passion was sitting through her feelings, acknowledging what makes her feel joy, and her parents' growing support. Her advice to people experiencing a similar struggle? “Believe in that gut feeling. God put that dream and that fire in you for a reason. It's like a sign to follow that fire.”
For his part, Francis talked about his determination to use his platform to break gender stereotypes in the beauty industry and promote inclusivity and self-expression. “I aim [not just to break but also to] normalize that everyone can [do it]—and that includes using skincare and makeup,” he said, explaining that these are just tools people use for self-care.
“I want to remind everyone to take care of [themselves] above all because that is the key to having a longer-lasting motivation, [which keeps] you going in the long run,” he added.
Their journeys are a reminder that it's okay to deviate from what society expects from you, no matter your age. What's important is to stay true to yourself, to believe in your abilities, and to keep moving forward.
Even with all the challenges adulthood can throw at you, self-care shouldn’t take a backseat. An essential part of that is having a good and effective skincare routine. Gabbi, Iya, and Francis believe it's all the more important to choose the right products that address your skin and lifestyle changes starting in your 20s.
Skin repair begins to slow down when you hit 25, but that shouldn’t stop you from your skincare journey. Now in their mid-20s, Gabbi and Iya turn to POND’S Age Miracle Ultimate Youth Day and Night Serums, which have a potent blend of hexyl-resorcinol, niacinamide, and retinol-C. With regular use, these serums help boost skin repair and keep the skin's plumpness and firmness—ultimately resulting in a youthful-looking and revitalized glow. Even at 21, Francis has already started incorporating these into his routine to help keep his skin radiant.
A fan of glass skin and moisturized looks, Gabbi said the key is to ensure you have glowing, youthful-looking skin. “I'm [using POND’S Age Miracle Ultimate Youth Day and Night Serums] because prevention is always better. I feel like my skin will be more supple throughout the years. That's why as early as now I use this line," she said.
Always on the lookout for quality and effective skincare products, Iya and Francis said POND’S Age Miracle Ultimate Youth Day and Night Serums have become an essential part of their skincare routines.
“As a beauty content creator, I get to flaunt my skin in a natural, confident way,” Iya said. “I can really tell that it helps keep my skin revitalized and maintain my youthful glow.”
Meanwhile, Francis, who had been dealing with dullness and breakouts, said: “I've noticed that my skin has become firm and strong. Ultimately, it [helps give] me that revitalized and beautiful glow."
Beyond choosing the right skincare products, Gabbi, Iya, and Francis also shared the various ways they commit to self-care. They veer away from stress, get enough sleep, stay hydrated, maintain a balanced diet, and prioritize an active lifestyle. This dedication is inspiring. It’s also a powerful reminder that self-care isn't just about aesthetics; it's about nurturing your overall well-being.
The stories of Gabbi, Iya, and Francis prove you don’t have to slow down—not in your pursuit of your dreams or your skincare journey. And with the help of POND’S Age Miracle Ultimate Youth Day and Night Serums, you can do so with ease and confidence.
Grab the POND’S Age Miracle Ultimate Youth Day and Night Serums and add them to your skincare routine. For more information and updates, follow POND’S on Facebook.
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This article was created by Summit X in partnership with POND'S.
