By Mikee Natinga Norico

Breaking barriers and inspiring fellow Centralians, Elisha Anne Bueno begins her journey as a Galaxy Campus Student Ambassador.

Elisha Anne E. Bueno, a third-year Bachelor of Science in Digital Media and Interactive Arts student at Central Philippine University (CPU), makes history as the first Centralian to be selected as one of the 50 student ambassadors nationwide for Samsung Philippines’ prestigious Galaxy Campus Batch 3, officially announced on July 24, 2025.

Samsung Philippines’ Galaxy Campus is a year-long nationwide program designed to equip outstanding students aged 18 to 23 with the tools and experiences needed to become future tech leaders. With exclusive access to mentorship, leadership workshops, immersive tech experiences, and cutting-edge Galaxy devices, the initiative champions creativity, innovation, and meaningful impact among college students across the country.

Among over 150 applicants from various universities, Elisha stood out with her compelling application video submitted last June 13. The video chronicled her journey as a multimedia creative, student leader, and storyteller—reflecting not only her creative achievements but her personal values and aspirations. “I wanted it to reflect not just my achievements, but my energy, my process, and my why,” she shared. “It was simple in setup, but I poured a lot of thought and creativity into it. In the end, it truly felt like me.”

She recalled the emotional moment she received her acceptance, describing it as both “overwhelming” and “surreal.” “I felt incredibly grateful and affirmed in my creative journey. I felt deeply grateful to God for He has guided and sustained me to be part of something so meaningful,” Elisha expressed.

Representing CPU on a national platform, Elisha sees this opportunity as a way to uplift not just herself but her fellow Centralians. “It feels like a door opening not just for me, but for other CPU students who dream of being seen on a national platform,” she said. “It’s an opportunity to represent the university that has shaped my creative growth and to advocate for the values CPU stands for.”

Elisha believes her application stood out because of her interdisciplinary approach to creativity. Balancing her roles as a student journalist for The Central Echo, scholar, artist, and leader, she said, “I think that range & credentials helped reflect my adaptability, my work ethic, and the way I approach creativity as something interdisciplinary and community-rooted.”

She also highlighted the significance of being a voice for creatives in Western Visayas, where representation in national tech and innovation spaces remains limited. “I focused on being sincere, showing my creative process, and how I believe innovation can grow from local communities,” she added.

Reflecting on her academic foundation, Elisha credits CPU and her program, BS Digital Media and Interactive Arts, for giving her a strong support system and a meaningful perspective on digital creativity. “CPU gave me a supportive community and a strong foundation in both education and values,” she said. “My course taught me to see art as a form of storytelling that carries meaning and purpose.”

As a student ambassador, Elisha aims to share what she learns with the CPU community through collaborations, creative content, and campus engagement. “If my journey can inspire someone to try, or feel seen, then that’s already something meaningful,” she said.

When asked how she plans to balance her new role with her academics, Elisha emphasized the value of intentional time management and a strong support system. “I’ve always believed that efficient planning and support systems make a big difference,” she shared.

Elisha also left a message for fellow students aspiring to reach new heights: “You don’t have to be the most confident or the most established to try. Just shoot your shot! Be clear about your purpose, stay grounded to your values, invest on your talents, stay curious, and be willing to learn along the way.”

As she embarks on this new chapter, Elisha Bueno not only elevates CPU’s presence on the national tech and creative stage but also embodies the spirit of a Centralian—grounded in purpose, driven by passion, and always striving to inspire others.

Included below are the future plans of Samsung and opportunities awaiting the Galaxy Campus Student Ambassador program:

The official journey begins at the Galaxy Campus Kick-off Event, scheduled for:

📅 August 16–17, 2025

📍 Conrad Manila

🎉 All expenses covered by Samsung Philippines

This two-day event marks the beginning of a year-long adventure filled with missions, mentorships, and transformative learning experiences. Through this program, ambassadors will be empowered to lead, create, and inspire with purpose—both online and in real life.

Opportunities Await:

As a Galaxy Campus Student Ambassador, chosen participants will:

• Enhance their leadership skills through exclusive workshops
• Create engaging content that resonates, inspires, and leads #withGalaxy
• Access global opportunities and grow your network Be the voice of your campus on a global stage
• Get VIP access to exclusive events
• Discover new and exciting Galaxy products before anyone else