"Mind over heart." Throughout her journey in "Pinoy Big Brother Gen 11," this phrase became Kai Montinola's life mantra, keeping her grounded and focused. Kai is a firm believer in the power of thoughts shaping her reality, the "law of attraction," as we call it. From a young age, she’s practiced the art of visualizing her goals, setting her mind on what she wants to achieve, and then working tirelessly toward it. This focus and positivity led her not only to the famous yellow house but all the way to the finish line as the 4th Big Placer.

Kai was drawn to the spotlight from an early age. She'd been dreaming about a life in the entertainment industry long before her "PBB Gen 11" stint. Her mom was her first and fiercest cheerleader, signing her up for voice lessons the moment she saw Kai’s passion for singing. The 17-year-old Cebuana also dipped her toes into modeling and took it more seriously just this year, just before "PBB Gen 11" started airing.

But if you ask her about the spark that truly ignited her love for performing, she’ll tell you it was theater, thanks to "Mulan" and Lea Salonga’s inspiring journey from the Philippines to Broadway. The idea that a Filipina could make it on the world’s biggest stages inspires her to take on the same path. When Kapamilya Chat asked her which theater piece she wouldn't get tired of singing, Kai picked "Sun and Moon" from Lea’s “Miss Saigon.” Of course, we couldn't let pass the chance to ask her for a sample!

Unlike some of her co-housemates who struggled with self-doubt, Kai has always been naturally confident. As a kid, she would step forward to dance in front of a crowd even without knowing the steps. “All you have to do is enjoy,” she says. “Even if you’re not so good at doing it, just enjoy it, and you’ll feel confident.” It’s this simple philosophy that has carried her through so many of her dreams—love what you’re doing and let that love fuel your bravery.

Unlike some of her “PBB Gen 11” housemates, who needed a little push from friends to even consider auditioning, Kai never wavered. She knew from the start that she wanted to be a housemate. In her mind, it wasn’t a matter of 'if,' but 'when.' She used to watch previous seasons of PBB and tell herself, “Hindi ko alam kung paano ako mapupunta diyan, but I swear I’m gonna go there.” Law of attraction at its finest!

Kai's journey to “PBB Gen 11” started in a crowded audition line in Cebu. She remembers patiently going through the process and even taking a nap while waiting in line as a way to recharge and give her best when it was her turn to be called in front. It was exhausting, yet she enjoyed each moment as it came. After all, bubbly Kai loves meeting strangers and making friends with them.

And as she waited, she felt a growing belief that she would make it. But what’s admirable about Kai is that her confidence has always been balanced by humility. She believes in herself, and at the same time, she's open to all possibilities.

In this episode of Kapamilya Chat, Kai also shared a fun anecdote about her first night in the PBB house, saying she wanted to just look for the girls' room and collapse into bed after waiting for hours. Still, she greeted her new housemates with the warm, approachable energy she’s known for.

Kolette Madelo and Kanata Tapia were the first people she talked to since they entered the house together. But her real surprise friendship came later with Rain Celmar. Ironically, the two didn’t speak much at first; but as days turned into weeks, they discovered a natural bond. Kai felt at ease with Rain’s open-mindedness and sense of humor. No words needed, just a knowing look or a smile, and they'd just get each other, like they’re soul sisters.

Now that she’s out of the house, Kai is surprised to learn that her friendship with Rain has blossomed into its own fandom called “KaiRain.” She finds it heartwarming, though a bit surreal, that viewers connected with their sisterly bond and want to celebrate it.

But, of course, having a fanbase often means fan wars aren’t far behind. Kai has a level-headed approach to it all, though. She and her fellow housemates constantly remind each other to focus on the friendships they built in the house and ignore the online noise. "As long as we know and understand each other, we keep talking and communicating, and as long as we keep understanding each other's perspectives, nothing can go wrong," she shares.

When asked about the best advice she received from Big Brother during her time as a housemate, Kai shares, "Being strong doesn't mean being cold." This phrase resonated with her deeply after stepping out of the confession room, as Kuya made her realize that showing emotions, like crying, is not a sign of weakness.

As for the soundtrack of her life right now? It’s none other than “Journey” by Lea Salonga, a fitting choice for a young woman whose ambitions know no bounds. When prompted for a quick sample, of course, Kai was game to deliver a heartfelt rendition.

With her sights set high, the "Singing Gwapa ng Cebu" is eager to explore every facet of performing—from dancing to singing and acting. Among her dreams is a rom-com project with her co-housemates Rain, Jarren Garcia, and Jas Dudley-Scales. Also on her bucket list is to share the screen with Francine Diaz, whom she admires for her subtle yet impactful acting.

With Kai's talent and determination, plus a gift for 'manifestation,' the sky's the limit for her journey in the world of entertainment. So, when you see her take on the stage, you’ll know it was written in the stars long ago, by a girl who believed in her dreams and worked tirelessly for them.