An artist known to many, Antoinette Taus is someone I’ve had the privilege of growing up with in the entertainment industry. From her early days, she captivated audiences as an actress, host, singer, and teen star. Her talent and charm lit up the screens, but as is often the case in showbiz, the reality behind the scenes was far more complex. The life Antoinette led off-screen was filled with challenges that many never saw, and one of the most profound challenges she faced was the heartbreaking loss of her mother. This tragedy not only changed her life but also became a catalyst for her transformation into the remarkable woman she is today.

Today, Antoinette joins us on Amazing Earth. She spent nearly 15 years living in the United States, a period marked by frequent trips back to the Philippines. Her mother’s illness kept her in the States longer, and during this time, Antoinette faced the depths of depression—a struggle that, at times, felt insurmountable. She describes those years as her “glory days,” not because they were easy, but because they were a time of intense learning and personal growth. It was in those moments of darkness that she found the strength to rise, realizing that pain, though difficult, could be transformed into something powerful.

The creation of CORA (Communities Organized for Resource Allocation) was a significant turning point in Antoinette’s life. Named in honor of her mother, Corazon, CORA reflects the love and compassion her mother embodied. While her mother wasn’t necessarily an environmentalist, she was someone who radiated love for everyone around her and had a strong desire to do good in the world. This legacy of love inspired Antoinette to start CORA, a non-profit organization focused on addressing some of the world’s most pressing issues, from environmental conservation to providing resources for those in need.

Antoinette’s journey with CORA began as she grappled with her own pain and suffering. She realized that while she was struggling, there were countless others around the world who were facing even greater hardships—people without homes, food, or basic rights. This realization pushed her to channel her pain into purpose. CORA was born out of this desire to make a difference, to create a community that could come together to help those who need it most.

The mission of CORA is multifaceted. At its core, the organization is dedicated to empowering communities through resource allocation. These resources come in many forms—recyclable materials, food waste, volunteer programs, and more. CORA focuses on making sure these resources are directed to where they can do the most good. The organization also places a strong emphasis on education, particularly for the youth. Antoinette believes that by educating the next generation, we can create a future where everyone is empowered to make a difference.

One of CORA’s early projects was a feeding program, which quickly expanded to include environmental initiatives. Despite not being scientists or environmental experts, Antoinette and her team were driven by their love for nature and a desire to protect it. They started with simple actions, like picking up trash during coastal clean-ups, and have since grown their efforts to include tree planting and reforestation projects. These initiatives are all part of CORA’s broader goal of addressing environmental issues while also helping people in need.

Antoinette’s work with CORA is a testament to her belief that everyone has the power to make a difference. She rejects the idea that change can only come from governments, big businesses, or experts. Instead, she believes that every individual has the potential to contribute to positive change. This philosophy is at the heart of CORA’s work, which aims to create sustainable programs that anyone can be a part of.

As we conclude our conversation, it’s clear that Antoinette Taus is much more than just a star. She’s a beacon of hope, a woman who has turned her pain into purpose and who continues to inspire others to do the same. Her journey from a beloved actress to a passionate humanitarian advocate is a powerful reminder that no matter what challenges we face, we can all find ways to make a positive impact in the world.

Here at Amazing Earth, we are honored to celebrate Antoinette as a true Earth Hero. Thank you, Toni, for sharing your incredible journey with us, and for inspiring so many others to make a difference.