Joyce Buschur was recently interviewed by TheCelebrity.Online Magazine and below is the Q&A session we had with Joyce.
Joyce Buschur As Cover Story Interview – September 2025 Magazine Edition
How do you introduce yourself?
I grew up in an indigenous (tribe) in the northern Philippines and became a model in the USA… a barefoot-to-heels story of a dreamer who never gave up, even when the world said no. I’m Joyce Buschur, so grateful to be in the USA!
Struggle – What hardships have you gone through in life?
I was born into poverty in the Guilayon tribe (former headhunters) of Tabuk, Kalinga, Philippines, as the third of twelve children. Growing up, I remember holding my newborn brother in my arms while he was very sick, I thought he’ll never survive. My family really struggled then raising all my younger siblings. To make matters worse, there were occasional tribal wars. Once I witnessed one of our tribe members who was brutally killed and dismembered by other tribe…that memory remains with me to this day. Life was raw, unforgiving and oftentimes scary. I remember drinking muddy water in the road tire ruts on the hours long mountain trail walks to town. Life in the village meant surviving any way we could. But there were bright moments too. My grandpa took me in when I was a teenager and sent me to school.. I took good care of him and he spoiled me in his own way. He was strict but I loved him dearly. When he fell ill, I paused school for a year to care for him. Losing him in 2002 broke my heart. I pushed on and started college but money was a constant struggle. My parents sold some of what little ancestral land they had to cover tuition, yet I dropped out so my siblings could have their chance.. In the Philippines, even a degree is no guarantee- it’s like playing the lottery. Determined to support my family I asked my father for fund so I could go to Manila to find work. I lived with my cousin and started babysitting for others to make ends meet. I considered working abroad as a domestic helper but the loan for placement fees scared me…how would I pay it back? Still, I didn’t give up. I borrowed my cousin’s laptop and started learning about computers to learn out to use email. That knowledge led me to meet my husband who ended up being the love of my life. He was a light in the darkness of my struggles. Shortly thereafter I was in the USA. Fast forward to 2015, I lost the younger brother I held as a baby. That loss is the hardest thing I’ve ever faced…and the hurt lingers. My life has been a journey of tough moments, poverty, loss, and sacrificing my own dreams for others. Yet through it all, I’ve found love, strength, and hope. There’s more to the story over a glass of wine! Lol
What do people usually not know about you?
I carry the fierce spirit of my headhunter heritage in my veins, yet I have a tender heart and that love to sing once in a while like a bird.
What sets you apart from others?
Probably my blend of seriousness, goofy humor, and a big heart.
What are your upcoming major events?
We’re looking forward to our Viking European river cruise to celebrate our 13th anniversary in a few months.
What expert advice would you like to give?
I’m not an expert! My advice is, if you can survive the struggles, you come through them wiser and stronger!!!!
Your social media handles and website links?
I like to keep it simple… I share a little on Facebook for family and friends, but most of my updates are on Instagram: @joybuschur.
Tom Harrecks is an Author at TheCelebrity.Online Magazine who has a vast experience of covering interviews in various international media agencies.
