By Karren Jay G. Asgar
Centralian Mr. Jonjie Baniel (CPU High School ’86, College of Nursing ’90) proudly showcases his photography at Chicago’s Epiphany Center of the Arts, celebrating Filipino creativity and culture.
Centralian Jonjie Baniel has earned international recognition as his photography is featured at the Lumpia Fusion exhibit at the Epiphany Center of the Arts in Chicago, Illinois. It is an annual Filipino-American showcase highlighting the works of Filipino artists in the United States. Since September, his images have stood proudly among the creations of 25 talented Filipino and Filipino-American artists, marking a meaningful milestone in his creative journey.
A graduate of CPU High School Class of 1986 and the CPU College of Nursing Class of 1990, Mr. Baniel never imagined that photography would one day become his calling. “To be honest, I never thought I would pursue a dream as a photographer,” he shared. Yet, life opened an unexpected door in 2013 when he began taking event photos for a Chicago fashion magazine. What began as a small opportunity soon sparked a passion that would send him across borders and into the world of fashion photography.
Within two years, his interest deepened, and he started collaborating with modeling agencies worldwide to build a portfolio strong enough for New York. His dedication brought him to major fashion hubs such is in Milan, Paris, Zurich, Norway, Sweden, New York, and the Philippines, where he worked with rising models and esteemed agencies.
Some of Centralian Mr. Jonjie Baniel’s photographs from the Dinagyang Festival are featured at Chicago’s Epiphany Center of the Arts.
His dream fully materialized from 2017 to 2023, during which he became part of New York’s high-energy fashion world. He worked with top modeling agencies such as The Society, Wilhelmina, Soul Management, Heroes, and State Management. His photography even made its way to the front covers of Hermoso and Period magazines, cementing his reputation in the industry.
Today, he celebrates another achievement with his participation in Lumpia Fusion. “I have always dreamt of seeing my work in an exhibit, and I am truly honored to be a part of this year’s exhibition with 25 Filipino talented artists,” Mr. Baniel said. Five of his featured photographs were taken from the vibrant Dinagyang Festival, an ode to his roots and a celebration of Iloilo’s culture on an international stage.
He reflected on the deeper meaning of this milestone, sharing: “Being a part of this year’s exhibition is a product of my hard work for over 10 years. And I have always wanted to promote my Ilonggo/Filipino roots in Chicago and the whole world.”
Looking back on his journey, he emphasized the importance of following one’s passion: “Pursuing what you love in life no matter what it is. Find your purpose. There were times that I almost gave up chasing my passion, but I fought for it to not have regrets. New York was a big challenge, but I did it. That city will always have a big part as an artist and will always have a special place in my heart. I may not have achieved my goals as a fashion photographer to be New York’s finest, but it was the journey that mattered. I am grateful for my mentors, family, friends, and people that believed in me. I still am proud of what I’ve accomplished and proud to be a Centralian. With my story and journey, I want fellow Centralians with dreams in the arts to never give up on what you love in life. Salamat!”
Mr. Jonjie Baniel’s journey from CPU to the different countries in the world stands as a powerful inspiration to aspiring creatives and the entire Centralian community. Follow his work on Instagram: @jonjiebaniel.