At just 17 years old, Kiersten Candice D. Sy, a Grade 10 student from Cebu City National Science High School, has carved her name into international acclaim by clinching four prestigious awards at the Philippine International Math and Science Olympiad (PIMSO) 2025 held at The Manila Hotel from April 4 to 7.
Representing the Philippines against contenders from13 countries—including Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Hong Kong, Macau, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmae, Vietnam and India—Kiersten emerged as a Champion in Science, 1st Runner-up in Math, Gold Awardee in the Pimsolver Cup for both subjects, and earned the distinguished World Star Award as a top scorer.
What started as a childhood curiosity has blossomed into a shining academic journey. Kiersten began joining contests in Grade 1, stepping onto the international stage by Grade 4. Since then, her pursuit of excellence in Math and Science has been consistent and unwavering.
Despite the pressure that often comes with competition, Kiersten offers words of grace and encouragement to aspiring achievers:
“Whatever challenge you go through, don’t expect, and don’t pressure yourself into doing something you don’t want to do. Be proud of your achievements—even if you just got a participation award or merit—because at the end of the day, what matters is that YOU reached the stage, YOU got the experience, and no one has the right to compare.”
Her words are a powerful reminder that success isn’t just about medals and rankings, but the growth, courage, and resilience behind every step taken.
From a little girl in Cebu with big dreams to an internationally recognized academic powerhouse, Kiersten Sy stands as a beacon of inspiration for young learners everywhere.
And she’s only just getting started.
