Jessica Sanchez shared words of wisdom and encouragement for young aspiring singers, drawing from her own journey in the music industry.
In an interview with MJ Felipe for ANC, the Filipino-American singer reflected on facing early disappointment and learning how perseverance shaped her career.
"I was that little girl at 11 years old when I tried out for [America's Got Talent]. I came in to the semi-finals and I really thought I had a shot, I'm gonna win this. And I didn't and I just felt so much despair. I was like, 'This is the end of my career. This is it for me.' But you know that little bit of faith that I had and that little bit of strength that I had to keep going every single time I felt like a failure, every single time I didn't come out on the top, really got me to this point 20 years later," she said.
Jessica added that enduring challenges makes success even more meaningful, encouraging young artists not to give up on their dreams.
"I feel like when you pursue something for so long and you feel like so much burden, I feel like it is even more accomplishment when you get that win so it is well worth it that long journey, I think it makes it even more special so just keep on dreaming big, it is worth the wait, and your breakthrough is coming," she remarked.
As she welcomed the new year, Jessica recently reflected on a life-changing year that was 2025, both in her personal and professional life.
In an Instagram post, the singer remarked that she is filled with gratitude for all the blessings she received in the past year.
"2025 has been the most incredible year of my life.. from the moment I found out we were expecting our little miracle, to stepping onto the America's Got Talent stage… and then winning it… and welcoming a healthy, beautiful baby into our world. My heart is overflowing with gratitude," she stated.
Jessica expressed her gratitude to those who became instrumental in helping her make her dreams come true. "None of this would have been possible without God's grace, my family, my amazing team, and every single one of you who has supported, prayed for, and believed in me through every season," she stated.
She concluded her post, saying: "This year changed me forever, as an artist, as a woman, and as a mother. I am so excited for everything the new year holds. Thank you for walking this journey with me. I love you all so much.” ❤️🙏✨."
Jessica won America's Got Talent season 20 in September 2025.
The Filipino-American singer revealed to ANC that she will be releasing an album this year. She is also set to stage a concert at the Big Dome. "I plan on collaborating on some Filipino artists and maybe doing a Tagalog song and I'm also doing a big solo concert here in May!" she shared.
She will also perform at the ASEAN Summit in Cebu. "I think I need some time to really plan out what I'm gonna be singing because I’ll be representing the Filipinos so I wanna take my time figuring out my song choices," she stated.