Fyang Smith is all about authenticity, and that's what makes her story worth hearing. In this interview, the "Pinoy Big Brother Gen 11" Big Winner talked about her childhood, heartbreak, and finding her inner strength. She shared how recent experiences shaped her into the unapologetically stronger and wiser woman she is today.
Fyang had a simple childhood. Growing up in Laguna, she describes herself as a true "probinsyana." She enjoyed playing outside and climbing trees. And while her early years were full of fun, they were not without challenges, as her family also experienced financial struggles. She witnessed her mother make a living by pawning jewelry, which taught her to rely on being street smart and resourceful to get by. There were times when they had to make do with rice and salt or soy sauce for their meals. Thankfully, living in the province meant they could pick fresh vegetables from their surroundings.
She was around seven years old at the time. From a young age, Fyang learned the value of being ‘madiskarte’ to survive, thus she was truly grateful for the financial blessing that came with her unexpected rise as a content creator, even though her online career only started out of boredom during the pandemic.
Well, none of the big things happening in Fyang's life right now were ever part of a grand plan. As how she became a social media star with a random video she made out of boredom, joining "PBB Gen 11" was, to her, another "trip lang." She only auditioned because her best friends invited her to tag along.
Her dad wasn’t exactly thrilled when he found out about her auditions. As someone who values privacy, her dad wasn't keen on the idea of her becoming a public figure. But Fyang stood her ground, knowing that joining "PBB Gen 11" would help her learn to stand on her own feet. Eventually, her dad showed support and even surprised her by coming to the Big Night when she was crowned the season's Big Winner.
Looking back at that memorable evening, Fyang vividly recalls the nervousness and excitement she felt, and how she surrendered everything to God when it was only her and Rain Celmar left isolated in a studio, waiting for the final announcement. One would be named the Big Winner, and the other, the 2nd Big Placer. In that moment, Fyang trusted that God knows what she deserves. And whatever the outcome, she'd be happy about her achievement.
The beloved 'eabab' didn’t expect to win, but she did. It felt like a culmination of a journey full of tough challenges, and the added weight of public judgment. Admittedly, she sensed that viewers might be forming opinions about her attitude and behavior even while she was still inside Bahay Ni Kuya. She knew her personality wasn’t exactly what people might have expected from a housemate.
But one of the biggest lessons Fyang learned is that the number of people who judge her is nothing compared to those who understand and love her. That's why she'd rather focus on her supporters. At the end of the day, authenticity is what matters most to her. She vows not to change just to fit in, because those who genuinely love her will embrace her for who she is.
However, she also acknowledges the importance of character development. Her time as a housemate taught her to be mindful of her words and actions. After all, everything she says and does can affect the people she holds dear.
"I feel stronger than ever. Siguro 'yung iba, kung nando'n sila posisyon ko, hindi nila kakayanin," Fyang shared when asked how she feels after overcoming the tests she faced inside the house. "I'm very proud of myself na nakaya ko, nagawa kong lagpasan 'yung journey na 'yun." Life now may be heavier and more demanding than her childhood days, but Fyang stands tall, proud of how much stronger she has become. She's ready whatever life brings next.
The public witnessed how Fyang navigated the pain of love when Big Brother revealed that the suitor she thought was waiting for her had given up on their 'relationship.' Fyang often finds herself heartbroken by men and can’t quite understand why some guys enter a woman’s life without any plans of staying committed. "I don't get why kailangan pang pumasok ng isang lalaki sa buhay ng isang payapang babae para lang mag-cheat," she pondered.
But don’t get her wrong. It wasn’t all heartbreak for Fyang inside Bahay Ni Kuya. There were colorful and unforgettable moments too, like the sweet 'date' she had with JM Ibarra, who has since become one of her best friends. She confessed that it was her very first official 'date,' even though she had an ex-boyfriend before entering the house. Interestingly, it was also JM's first-ever romantic date experience.
Another memorable moment for her was the 'Balsa' Task, where she had the chance to step up as a leader. And, of course, the day when the BIG 4 was announced.
If there’s one thing Fyang is most grateful for from her PBB experience, it’s how it transformed her as a woman. She admitted to being a bit insensitive before. But her PBB journey proved to be life-changing. Big Brother was the first to help her grow in meaningful ways, and now she feels she’s more matured and is better equipped to navigate life.
As for her heart, it’s healed and is in a much better place now. Her recent heartbreak didn’t change her belief that true love will eventually come her way. She’s in no rush though—love can wait. Right now, her focus is on her career. She’s currently taking acting workshops, and step by step, her goal is to become a versatile actress who can do anything from drama to rom-com, inspired by her idols, like Kathryn Bernardo, Vice Ganda, Anne Curtis, and Ivana Alawi.