“Kalokalike Face 4,” the fourth edition of the iconic look-alike/impersonation  segment of “It’s Showtime,” is only getting more exciting, with the new batch of participants bring their A game to the stage!

In this contest, everyday people get to step into the spotlight dressed as their favorite stars or the celebrities they’ve always been told they look like.

But how do you really slay as a ‘kalokalike’? Sure, it’s all about having fun, but there’s no harm in putting your best foot forward and going all out! Maybe future contestants can learn from Jennifer Catayong, now known as Nicki Morena, and her spot-on impersonation of  “Queen of Rap” Nicki Minaj, which earned her the title of “Ultimate Kalokalike” in the competition’s second season in 2013 

The moment she stepped onto the stage for “Kalokalike Face 2 Level Up,” Jennifer instantly won over the audience and the hosts with how perfectly she embodied that eclectic ‘Minaj’ style from head to toe—rocking a form-fitting ensemble, a pop of pink on her lips, thick voluminous lashes, and a blonde wig. And, gasp! She even brought Nicki’s iconic curves to life!

And when she started speaking, the swag and unmistakable ‘Minaj’ attitude were spot-on. The madlang people were absolutely blown away when she delivered a concert-like performance of “Pound the Alarm,” serving major vibe and energy that convinced everyone it was the real Nicki singing and dancing on stage. 

Another thing that showed off her inner Nicki was the pure professionalism—how she quickly bounced back and stayed in character despite slipping on the stage during her performance. . 

The judges couldn’t stop praising her for not only mirroring Nicki’s look and style but also for her exceptional dedication. As ‘hurado’ Jhong Hilario commented, “Napakaswerte mo na kamukha mo, kasinkatawan mo, kasinkulay mo. Tapos ‘yung talent, talagang pinag-aralan mo, kinuha mo. Ibig sabihin, gusto mo talagang manalo ngayong araw na ‘to. Nakita ko ‘yung effort.”

It’s also worth noting that her impersonation wasn’t just about the physical look, rather, it truly came from within. When she stepped into the competition, she transformed her own low self-esteem into the bold confidence Nicki is known for.

Before joining “Kalokalike Face 2,” she struggled with self-esteem issues, as she felt unattractive with no love life in sight. But she didn’t let that stop her. She practiced her ‘Minaj’ moves in front of a big mirror at her office. And her flawless accent? She honed it while working at a call center.

Winning the competition was a total game-changer for Jennifer, or Nicki. “Nakakatuwa kasi akala ko parang sa panaginip na lang. Kaya ko panindigan na ako si Nicki Minaj, walang halong duda.” Plus, her win finally got her crush’s attention! 

As the “Ultimate Kalokalike,” she took home 300,000 pesos and a special artista package. Her win became a trending topic on Twitter (now X) in the country and worldwide at the time. 

“Kalokalike” opened the door to bigger opportunities for Jennifer. Now known as Nicki Morena, she’s become a radio jock, TV host, and actress, and a mainstay on “Showtime Online U.”