How a Scam Led Me Back to My Power — 

The Story Behind Jillian Maharlika

In August 2024, I had no idea that a seemingly too-good-to-be-true opportunity would become 

the turning point of something far greater — the birth of Jillian Maharlika.

Back then, I was in the middle of deep healing. I was still recovering from a heartbreak and was slowly doing the inner work — forgiveness, growth, self-awareness, and self-mastery. Creativity felt distant. I was unsure if I could ever return to making art again.

Then one quiet afternoon, I received a message from someone who discovered my digital artworks on ArtStation. They expressed interest in purchasing six of my pieces — for 2 Ethereum each. 

That’s more than ₱336,000 per artwork.

I was stunned.

It felt flattering and hopeful. After months of feeling stuck and unsure, this offer felt like a sign — 

maybe a new beginning for my art journey.

With the help of my sister, we did everything we could to handle the opportunity professionally 

and legally. We: Researched the buyer’s profile for legitimacy

Prepared a Deed of Sale and Certificate of Authenticity

Created a Mintology account — a secure platform to upload artworks as NFTs

But soon, the red flags appeared.

The buyer refused to use Mintology. Instead, they asked me to upload the artworks on their own NFT website, and insisted it would be “faster and easier.” When we tried verifying the account, the confirmation email went straight to my spam folder. That’s when my gut told me something wasn’t right.

My sister and I decided to dig deeper. After researching the site on Reddit and other forums, 

the truth became painfully clear: it was a scam.

Artists who fell for it had their artworks stolen and resold illegally. Some never recovered their work. Some had their art used to make money on shady platforms without permission. This was one of many tactics used by scammers who prey on creators’ hopes and dreams.

And yet — I felt grateful.

I felt incredibly blessed to have trusted my intuition. The experience shook me, yes. 

But it also woke me up.

It reminded me that I am not desperate. I am worthy. 

That my art is sacred.

That the value of my work goes far beyond what someone is willing to pay.

It was through this experience that the seed of Jillian Maharlika was planted.

A brand born from discernment, healing, and soul purpose.

A space where I offer not just art, but energy — of warmth, light, and abundance.

Where every painting becomes a vessel of transformation, a reminder that you are worthy of healing 

and beauty in your own journey, too.

Today, I continue to create — not for validation, but for alignment.

Not for profit alone, but for purpose.

This journey reminded me that what we create becomes powerful when it’s fueled by love, not fear.

By truth, not pressure.

By our becoming, not our past.

And now, through Jillian Maharlika, I’m here to share that power with you.

If you’ve ever been hurt, doubted yourself, or questioned your path — I see you.

And I hope my art reminds you of your wholeness.

Of your softness.

Of the abundance that’s already within you. 🌸

With love and grace,

Jillian