Embracing diverse cultures and experiences, Filipino-Ivorian fencer remains connected to her roots while pursuing excellence in fencing. Photographed by Karlo Torio
A passionate pursuit leads the Filipino-Ivorian fencer to the Olympics
A phrase that aptly describes Filipino-Ivorian fencer Maxine Esteban is “a citizen of the world.” Raised in the Philippines and exposed to diverse cultures through athletics, Maxine has interacted with international athletes and trained in Europe, broadening her cultural horizons.
Training under coach Andrea Magro in Europe has been transformative for Esteban. Living in a foreign land fostered her independence and maturity, enhancing her fencing abilities. “Just like on the piste, life requires planning and quick decisions,” she says.
For the 23-year-old, moving from the Philippines to the Côte d’Ivoire wasn’t as daunting as one might expect. Her experiences training in Italy, Germany, and France eased her transition to the French-speaking West African country. “I resonate with [their] good sense of humor. Just like Filipinos, they inject humor in any situation, even in misfortune, and are very happy people,” she shares, adding that Ivorians are also family-oriented, hospitable, and warm.
The decision to represent the Ivory Coast came after Esteban was removed from the Philippine national team without notice, a move she describes as a significant betrayal. “I didn’t leave; I was removed,” she clarifies. Despite this setback, her aspiration to qualify for the Olympics remained intact. With her father’s diplomatic ties to the West African nation, she continued her quest for Olympic success in the recent summer games. Ranked 27th in the world, she became the first homegrown Filipina to directly qualify in the Olympics.
The pressures of fencing and living in diverse cultures are balanced by Esteban’s mental fortitude. She says, “More than the physical strength, I believe that the mental stability and toughness of our athletes must be well taken care of.” She also advises focusing on each moment, whether in competition or daily life and enjoying what initially sparked her love for the sport.
Esteban also muses that sports transcend boundaries of race, language, and geography, serving as a unifying force. “Wealth does not assure success either. Achieving the Olympian dream demands a tireless work ethic and an unbreakable spirit,” she asserts. She emphasizes that true victory consists of continuous self-improvement and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Yet, despite representing a new flag, Esteban’s Filipino roots remain intrinsic to her identity. Through her sports foundation, supporting student-athletes and advocating for the ratification of athlete protection laws, Esteban stays a relevant fixture in Philippine sports, sharing stories of resilience that empower youth across the globe.
Esteban’s enduring Olympic dream persists towards the next summer games, fueled by her unwavering faith in God’s plan. “Through my story, I want people to remember that when times are tough, you just need to be tougher. I will continue to train and compete, hoping to qualify and attain a podium finish for LA 2028.”
Art direction by Niel Jhed Ibay and Myc Melindo, styling by Jerald Ignacio, hair and makeup by Rosemay Samson of Nix Institute of Beauty, produced by Ian Urmaza and Bradly Hao, photographer’s team: JF Calimag, Shermae Gaupo, Jeff Ocfemia, and Gyro Kier, stylist’s assistant: Rain Jordan Ferrer, written by Christina Zabat
