By Janelle Banalo, Account Executive II

I never imagined that one webinar would change the course of my career.

What started as a curious click on a talk about content marketing turned into a defining journey filled with firsts, challenges, and growth.

Starting as a marketing student at PUP Taguig to becoming an Account Executive II at Vitalstrats Creative Solutions (VCS), every step along the way helped shape my sense of purpose as a creative professional.

Just like everyone else, I didn’t have it all figured out when I started. It’s been a journey shaped by firsts, failures, and quiet breakthroughs, the kind of growth you only get as long as you keep going.

Learning by Doing: A Crash Course in Creative Growth

When I stepped into my role as an Account Executive at VCS, I was immediately immersed in a diverse mix of projects across different industries. I handled projects in social media such as content calendars, analytics, and ad boosting.

At the same time, I was involved in design projects: brand manuals, newsletters, product packaging, and even exhibit collaterals, which all tested my ability to spot errors, think creatively to support the team, and coordinate deadlines.

Janelle (center) with the Blue Team during the Team Building 2023; one of many bonding moments where fun, trust, and teamwork came together

I also ventured into video production. I coordinated both virtual and on-site shoots, handled logistics, and supported hybrid and online events. I got to work closely with suppliers, hosts, and tech teams, learning how all the moving parts come together behind the scenes.

One standout project was for a leading construction company’s anniversary celebration. I helped manage the full execution of their onsite exhibit and AVP production. It was a high-stakes event that required tight coordination between creatives, suppliers, and tech teams, all within a compressed timeline. Seeing the final output presented live, with everything running smoothly, was a proud moment that showed me what great collaboration can achieve.

Another memorable win came from a social media content project I led for a client. I managed the posting and boosting of content. The boosted content helped increase page engagement significantly and contributed to a noticeable lift in the client’s sales. That experience taught me the real-world impact of digital campaigns when strategy, timing, and execution align.

I had many “firsts.” My first video project, first social media campaign, first website, first live shoot. Some were exciting, others a little intimidating, but all of them were valuable. I took on rush jobs with tight deadlines, managed bulk projects that demanded endurance, and even helped revive stalled ones.

Each project pushed me outside my comfort zone. But real growth doesn’t just come from doing what you already know. It comes from the uncomfortable, the new, the slightly terrifying.

Fail Better: Learning the Hard Way and the Right Way

With every “first” came a learning curve. Some projects were familiar, others completely new, but each one taught me something valuable.

I learned to take ownership. I became more detail-oriented, spotting potential issues before they reached the client. I built the habit of asking, “How can we make this better?”

Presenting for the Accounts Department Townhall Report 2025; Janelle stepping up in her role with confidence

I also sharpened my problem-solving skills, rerouting blockers, navigating shifting scopes, and ensuring to keep the team aligned.

Regular huddles, feedback loops, and brainstorms made my thinking sharper and more creative. VCS’ early adoption of AI tools helped a lot too; I learned how to boost efficiency, troubleshoot smarter, and improve our output using various AI tools.

Janelle poses with the Accounts Department; where her firsts started and learned the value of collaboration, communication, and shared wins

Throughout my learning journey, there were two mentors who made an impact on me. Ms. Sarah, my supervisor from day one, modeled patient and thoughtful leadership. Her steady guidance taught me the value of staying calm, communicating clearly, and leading with intention.

And of course, Ms. Amrei, who I fondly call “the real pugita” for juggling multiple roles across VCS, Introspeck, and other organizations, was a constant source of inspiration. Her push for AI adoption and her ability to multitask and innovate showed me what it means to stay agile and future-ready.

Notes to Aspiring Creatives: What I Wish I Knew When I Started

Janelle Banalo during VCS’ 20th Anniversary; a moment to celebrate milestones with the people who made them meaningful

Looking back at where I started, here’s what I would tell the version of me who was just starting out, and maybe, someone like you.

Ask questions. Always. Regardless if you’re unsure or just curious, asking opens doors and deepens your understanding. There’s no such thing as a stupid question when you’re learning.

Overcommunicate. When in doubt, clarify. A quick message or update can save hours of confusion and keep everyone aligned.

Own your projects. Know the details, the goals, and the timelines. Don’t wait for someone else to lead, step up and move things forward.

And most importantly, stay curious. The unfamiliar may feel overwhelming at first, but it’s often where the most growth happens.

Every project, deadline, and pivot helped me sharpen my instincts and grow into a more intentional creative professional. You will get there too, as long as you keep showing up with curiosity and heart.

From Firsts to Strong Foundations: How VCS Helped Me Grow Into My Role

Janelle with #TeamVCS at Team Building 2024; showcasing that great work starts with great connections

Beyond growing my skills, VCS helped me define the kind of professional I want to be. I really appreciated the culture of open communication, where every idea mattered, regardless of your title or experience.

Being part of the Accounts team gave me a full-circle view of agency life: from client briefings to final delivery. It helped me understand how strategy and execution come together, and how every task fits into a bigger picture.

Janelle celebrates with #TeamVCS at the Year-End Party 2024; closing the year with gratitude, laughter, and big plans for what’s next

The work could get intense, but it was always balanced by the sense of team spirit. I always felt supported and seen in whatever we were doing, whether we were negotiating over deadlines or enjoying team gatherings.

Looking back, I see how VCS taught me to zoom out: to connect day-to-day tasks to a bigger purpose, and challenges to long-term growth. VCS gave me space to learn, fail, try again, and ultimately rise. It showed me what’s possible when people believe in you, and when you start believing in yourself too.

If you’re just starting out, I hope this reminds you that every creative path begins with a leap. Wherever your path takes you, I hope you find a place that pushes you to become not just a better creative, but a more grounded version of yourself.

Ready to grow your own creative career? Check out opportunities at VCS on our Careers Page or send us a message on our social media platforms.

Built from Firsts: Janelle’s Full-Circle Journey at VCS

Learning by Doing: A Crash Course in Creative Growth

Fail Better: Learning the Hard Way and the Right Way

Notes to Aspiring Creatives: What I Wish I Knew When I Started

From Firsts to Strong Foundations: How VCS Helped Me Grow Into My Role