Marcus Bolande – Blazing trails in two different countries

I had the opportunity to interview yet another Spellebrity who I didn’t realize had ties to my Canadian heritage! Marcus and his dad joined me to chat so that we could learn more about what makes this Spellebrity tick!

~Dana

Marcus, thank you so much for joining me today! I really appreciate you taking a bit of time out of your day and getting up a bit early to join me! 

Happy to meet you. 

You were nominated and selected as a spellebrity in the category of ambassador.  What makes YOU think this category is fitting for you? 

I am probably the first speller in the Philippines. When people see me spell, it is the first time they have seen or heard of it, so I must show the best example.

I can completely understand why you were nominated for this category. Thank you for being that ambassador for other nonspeakers. Marcus, what is something you want someone to know about you? 

I started spelling at age eight and I am enjoying expressing my every thought and idea a lot. I am a spiritual person who likes science also. 

What would you say are the top three ways spelling has affected your life?

It had a big impact on the way I relate to my family.I am able to obtain a world-class education. Wonderful opportunities to converse with many people exist now. I’m satisfied that I can participate in the social adventure

If you had a superpower, what would you choose to have and why? 

I would love to have a power that allowed me to talk and communicate telepathically at high speed. I would like this because spelling is good, but too slow. 

What is your wish for the nonspeaking community? 

I wish for us to get together more often. We need each other. 

I completely agree and understand, Marcus. When COVID hit, I realized this even more. Thankfully we could still connect via Zoom, but it’s still not the same. Do you have opportunities to join Zoom groups? 

Only with the GKTC people and William. William and I are pen pals and write more than with Zoom. 

Marcus, who inspires you?  How would you want to inspire others?

I am inspired by all the spellers who came before me. I would have never got this far without having them to look up to. I want to prove that spellers can be productive in work, using their mental powers. I hope to be a mathematician, computer programmer or scientist.

If your life was a book, what would the title be? 

I Am Undeterred

Wow! No more words needed here! Thank you Marcus!

A wise and observant young music lover, who always tries to overcome things. I am athletic and artistic, although my hands are unreliable.