In a world that often glorifies the grind, the student-led advocacy “Passion Paused” stands as a gentle reminder that rest is essential, especially for young creatives.
Founded by Gionthe Benares, a 4th year AB Communication student of the University of St. La Salle-Bacolod, Passion Paused has been creating intentional spaces for student-artists to pause, breathe, and reconnect with their purpose.
Through a series of talks and a culminating retreat recently, Passion Paused offered both comfort and clarity to creatives facing burnout.
The campaign began with Burnout Talks, a set of intimate, interactive sessions that explored the realities of creative exhaustion. Among the sessions held were “Mise en Scene: Finding Balance Amidst Chaos”, “How to Recharge”, and “Making Art Work,” which tackled the struggles of staying passionate while navigating academic and artistic demands. These safe spaces allowed participants to reflect on their personal journeys, supported by guest speakers who shared their own experiences in the creative field.
Capping off the series was “Rekindle: A Passion Paused Retreat”, held April 26 at Bantug Lake Ranch in Bacolod. The half-day gathering featured a talk by Charley Sta. Maria, a shooter, editor, and producer of human interest stories, who shared stories and insights on pursuing purpose while honoring rest.
“Never lose sight of your purpose or your ‘why.’ Don’t be afraid to take breaks or to rest,” Sta. Maria said.
The retreat also offered participants grounding activities, intention journaling, and moments of stillness. From boating to quiet reflection in nature, each moment was designed to help student creatives recharge, not just their energy, but their passion.
“What we envisioned was a calm, intentional space where creatives could breathe and be heard,” Benares said. “We wanted this retreat to feel like a break, but also a gentle reminder that rest is part of the process, too.”
Passion Paused continues to advocate for mental wellness and sustainability in the creative process.
With plans for more community conversations, podcasts, and a short documentary in the works, the advocacy aims to keep nurturing spaces where passion can flourish without burning out. | NWI
