The Orienteering National Team is set to compete in the ISF U15 Gymnasiade, organized by the International School Sports Federation, in Zlatibor, Serbia, from April 4 to 14, 2025.

Representing the Philippines are three promising young athletes: Vianez Bončina, 12, from Slovenia; and Julia Allen Mendoza and Samuel Etan Jamero, both 13, from Manila. These young orienteers are determined to bring honor to the country as they take on the challenge of this prestigious international event.

Spotlight inevitably falls on Bončina. Born on December 29, 2012, in Taytay, Philippines, Bončina has a unique multicultural background. Just six months after her birth, her family moved to mainland China due to her father’s work.

Vianez Bončina during an orienteering event.

Her father is Slovenian, and her mother is Filipina—making Bončina a proud blend of two rich cultures. After a brief stay in China, the family relocated permanently to Slovenia, where she grew up.

From an early age, Bončina showed a natural curiosity and adaptability, thriving even as her family moved across borders.

She began kindergarten at just one year old and soon revealed her artistic flair. Her paintings were displayed at a cultural gallery in Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital, reflecting a precocious talent and creative spirit.

Her childhood has been filled with a rich variety of extracurricular pursuits. Bončina immersed herself in ballet, rhythmic gymnastics, athletics, music theory, violin, and orienteering—each one embraced with dedication.

She is currently in the fourth level of ballet and performs regularly in theater productions. As a rhythmic gymnast, she has earned two second-place finishes and a third-place award in national school competitions.

In music, Bončina plays the violin and participates in biannual performances, showcasing her versatility and discipline.

But it is orienteering—a sport that blends navigation and endurance—that holds a special place in her heart. Inspired by her father, a seasoned orienteer, VBončina has competed across 26 European countries, collecting 30 medals along the way. Her most notable triumph came in Estonia, where she secured first place in a public race.

Recognizing her outstanding achievements and potential, FESSAP Philippines selected Bončina to represent the nation in the upcoming ISF Gymnasiade. She will make history as the first Filipina to compete in the Women’s 12 Orienteering category at this esteemed international event.

Despite her many accomplishments, Bončina remains grounded. She is a sixth-grade student who continues to excel academically while maintaining her vibrant, cheerful spirit. Whether navigating challenging trails or gracing a stage with her ballet troupe, Bončina brings a joyful energy and unshakable determination to all she does.