The Global Filipino Magazine | Vol 3 Issue 11

TABLE OF CONTENTs

‘Doing something that scares you is a step to achieving bigger things’ - Alzes Tuesday G. Banzon

OFW director of HR in Dubai shares her 30-year journey of overcoming challenges and achieving success - Araceli Montalla

Beauty therapist overcomes challenges and pursues passion to inspire others - Bernadette Fares

A woman of perseverance and patience in the world of overseas Filipino workers - Holy Rosary Agustin Lacanlale

From deck crew to business owner, overcoming challenges and making dreams a reality in Dubai - Rizza Mae Napuli Alinsoot

Trusting the process of working abroad and building a successful career in Qatar - Jana Zarene Pascual

Journey of a single mom: From overseas worker to business owner and influencer - Jinky “Kai” Torreflores

The Filipino business development manager and yoga teacher advocating for mental health awareness abroad - Nerry Toledo

A journey to success in Dubai: A story of perseverance and determination - Tadd Farrugia

From Burnout to Bliss: Wandalyn Tan-Calupig’s Journey to Success - Wandalyn Tan-Calupig

GENERAL

THE GLOBAL FILIPINOS THE STORY OF OUR SUCCESS Alzes Tuesday

B. Reyes

‘Doing something that scares you is a step to achieving bigger things’

For Alzes Tuesday B. Reyes, a 26-year-old Marketing Specialist at Al Salam Community School, Dubai has become more than just a destination; it has become a platform for self-discovery and personal growth.

Banzon arrived in Dubai in 2019 and started her first job as a marketing specialist at a medical equipment distributor. After two years of experience, she transferred to Al Salam Community School to further enhance her career. Despite the challenges of working in the education industry, Banzon finds her job fulfilling and worth the effort.

The decision to work abroad was fuelled by her desire to achieve greater things with her fiancé, Vj. Banzon’s previous job back in the Philippines was as a concept writer and all-around creative in an events management company under Viva Entertainment Corporation. One of her proudest accomplishments

was when she was inducted as coordinator and creative head of a non-profit organization, JCI San Juan Pinaglabanan, in 2019. During her time there, she worked on large community projects that benefited the residents of San Juan City. She found that her creative side and multi-tasking abilities paved the way for these opportunities.

She has worked side by side with the chapter president, who is also the niece of former Philippine president Joseph Ejercito ‘Erap’ Estrada. Some of the most notable projects they did were the StreetSmart Youth, which aimed to provide practical skills for out-ofschool-youths; and Project Aklat, a book donation drive for all the nursery schools in the area.

“I can’t say I excel in one specific skill, but I believe the creative side of my work and its multitasking nature landed me those opportunities,” she said.

Working as a marketing specialist

provides various tasks related to arts and design, which Banzon loves. She finds satisfaction in making something known and the opportunity to interact with people. Banzon believes that working in Dubai has taught her to be grateful and has shown her how capable she truly is.

“Moreover, it gives you the opportunity to make something known,” she added.

Of course, working abroad also has its struggles. Banzon had to leave everything behind in the Philippines, which was a risk. However, her life partner provided her with peace of mind and made sure she could still pursue her passion in Dubai.

“It is not the greatest battle I am to overcome because I still have a lot ahead of me, but that experience taught me that you have to do things that scare you to discover more about yourself and become better,” she expressed.

When asked about her future plans, Banzon shared that one day, she wants to help children who are hungry for food, education, and love. Her advice to fellow kabayans who are struggling abroad is to appreciate what they have and to focus on the good things that they possess, even during tough times.

“Whenever I am at my worst feeling, I always tell myself that I am still lucky. I have heard and seen people who were facing the toughest time in their lives, which makes me always come to compare myself and appreciate how blessed I am. We can always find something good we possess that others don’t. Just look for that,” she further added.

Banzon’s life mantra, “Doing something that scares you is a step to achieving bigger things,” is evident in her journey to Dubai. Her bravery to take risks has led her to a fulfilling career, personal growth, and a deeper appreciation for life’s blessings.

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THE GLOBAL FILIPINOS THE STORY OF OUR SUCCESS

Araceli Montalla

OFW director of HR in Dubai shares her 30year journey of overcoming challenges and achieving success

Every year, thousands of Filipinos leave their home country to work abroad, hoping to provide a better future for their families. They are known as Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), and their contributions to the Philippine economy are significant. In 2020, OFWs sent a total of $29.9 billion in remittances, which is equivalent to around 9.5% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). But behind these numbers are the stories of Filipinos who have endured the challenges of working overseas, including homesickness, discrimination, and cultural differences.

One OFW who has made a mark in her field is Araceli Montalla, the Director of Human Resources at a five-star hotel in Dubai. Araceli has been working abroad for 30 years and has held various positions in the hospitality industry, including Quality Manager responsible for ISO 9000 certification, Assistant Human Resources Manager, and

HR Shared Services Manager. In this feature article, she shares her experiences as an OFW and how she has overcome the challenges she encountered.

“I know that working in human resources is not easy, as it involves dealing with people’s emotions. As a leader in the HR department, I believe in being trustworthy, transparent, tactful, welcoming, patient, flexible, and a good listener. I strive to earn the respect of my colleagues so that they trust me with their career aspirations,” she said.

Araceli’s journey began in 1995 when she arrived in the UAE and started working as a Personnel and Training Secretary at Al Ain Hilton. Two years later, she discovered her passion for human resources and has been working in that field ever since. Her current role as Director of Human Resources at a five-star hotel in Dubai is a testament to her hard work and dedication.

Araceli’s mantra in life is to “always do your best in everything you do, so you won’t regret it.” This philosophy has served her well in her career, as she has always strived to provide excellent service to people. As Director of Human Resources, she develops and implements human resources strategies that support directors and managers in meeting their departmental business objectives. She prioritizes the needs of her staff and provides professional support and guidance as needed.

One of the reasons Araceli chose to work abroad is the opportunities it provides. Working overseas allows her to develop her soft skills and professional network, as well as experience new life experiences. She also enjoys interacting with people from different cultures, races, and ethnicities, which has helped her develop a broader perspective and a deeper appreciation of diversity.

However, working abroad also has its struggles. For Araceli, one of the biggest challenges was adapting to the fast-paced environment and cultural diversity. She had to make behavioural changes and give herself time to adjust to her new surroundings. But with the love and prayers of her family, and her faith in God’s divine protection and guidance, she was able to overcome these challenges and thrive in her career.

The most satisfying thing about Araceli’s work is seeing her team members grow and develop both personally and professionally. She takes pride in seeing her former colleagues now occupying the same position as HR Manager, knowing that she played a part in their success.

Araceli’s plan after working abroad is to return home to be with her family and spend more time with them. She also hopes to share her knowledge and experience with aspiring HR professionals and help them achieve their career goals.

THE GLOBAL FILIPINOS THE STORY OF OUR SUCCESS

Bernadette Fares

Beauty therapist overcomes challenges and pursues passion to inspire others

Bernadette Fares, a 41-year-old certified and licensed Beauty Therapist/Aesthetician, is an epitome of an empowered woman who pursued her passion and succeeded despite the challenges she faced. With a mantra in life of being “Healthy, Wealthy, Happy, and Confident,” Bernadette has been living her life to the fullest, inspiring others to do the same.

Her journey started in 2005 when she was hired from the Philippines to work as a waitress in a hotel restaurant in Dubai. Bernadette’s passion for serving people led her to pursue a career in the hospitality industry. She then shifted to the aviation industry, working as a ground handling agent and Inflight Service in Emirates airlines for five years. During this time, she gained valuable experience in handling multinational customers and delivering exceptional customer service with utmost professionalism.

However, Bernadette’s dedication to raising her three beautiful children made her stop working in the aviation industry. She took a break for almost a decade and faced the pandemic period, which became a turning point in her life.

She decided to come back and follow her passion by pursuing her educational journey in beauty and aesthetics. With the support of her family, friends, and God’s blessing, she accomplished graduating and passing the government examination, obtaining her DHA license as a beauty therapist.

Bernadette’s ambition always drove her to seek the best standards in the world, and she believed that it could only be achieved by exposure to different cultures overseas. Her first job in the Philippines was in customer service and marketing for a year, followed by multiple job offers in Dubai, which gave her the opportunity to travel around the world and discover different cultures that had a significant impact on who she is today.

As a beauty therapist and aesthetician, Bernadette enjoys her work as it gives her the possibility to see the happiness and satisfaction on her customer’s face after each treatment. She is passionate about her chosen field and enjoys sharing her knowledge in beauty tips, advice, skincare, and creating personalized treatments for each client to achieve the ultimate result.

Working overseas transformed Bernadette’s personality and pushed her to the maximum to be more responsible, openminded, resilient, and persevering. However, it was not always an easy journey for her. During her first year abroad, she struggled to trust people and felt homesick. Being alone in a strange country far from supportive family and in a different environment and culture built a lot of stress and pressure, especially after a long working hour. However, her husband and children provided the support she needed and encouraged her to overcome all the challenges and battles, especially during the pandemic. Her mother was always her biggest influencer in life, where her moral values of being honest, trustable, and respectful toward others are also her ideology.

For Bernadette, settling abroad is just a stepping stone towards achieving her dream of creating her own brand in the beauty sector, producing her own skincare products, and delivering the best treatment to the aesthetic industry. She also aims to expand her services and products in the future in the Philippines, providing more job opportunities and aligning beauty services with the best international practices and safety standards.

Bernadette’s advice to her fellow kababayans struggling abroad is to work on their dreams and be ambitious. They should set realistic and achievable targets on their goals and not give up easily. Instead, they should look at challenges as a measurement of their capability. Education should also be limitless, and they should be in an uplifting environment that respects their worth.

Bernadette’s journey is a testament that following one’s passion and pursuing education can lead to success, despite the challenges faced. Her dedication and commitment to serving others are an inspiration to those who are struggling to find their path.

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Holy Rosary Agustin Lacanlale

A woman of perseverance and patience in the world of overseas Filipino workers

Working abroad is a challenging experience for many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). It takes courage, determination, and grit to succeed in a foreign land, especially for those who are starting from scratch. But for Holy Rosary Agustin Lacanlale, her journey as an OFW is a testament to her perseverance and patience in building a successful career and a stable life away from home.

Born and raised in the Philippines, Holy Rosary Agustin Lacanlale, or “Holy” as she prefers to be called, left her home country in 2002 to seek employment opportunities abroad. At 23 years old, she started looking for work the very next day after arriving in the UAE, where she currently resides. Her first few months were not easy, as she faced indecent proposals and struggled to find a decent job without any work experience in the Philippines. But she persevered and eventually landed a job in a construction company that marked the beginning of her career as an OFW.

Over the years, Holy worked her way up the ladder, starting as a receptionist and later on becoming

an Office Administrator for Miella General Trading L.L.C. Her job description includes managing an office without the need for supervision, and she takes pride in being a multitasker who can handle various responsibilities efficiently.

Apart from her dedication to her work, Holy also has a passion for helping others. She often does HR jobs, interviewing people in her own way, and recommending qualified candidates for promotions to her management. Many of the people she has helped in the past still thank her when they see her, and it gives her a sense of fulfillment to see them succeed.

When asked about what she likes about working overseas, Holy simply said, “Salary and incentives.” She worked hard to earn her money and used it to buy her own property and travel to places she has never been to before.

However, her journey as an OFW was not without struggles. She faced financial challenges during the economic downturn in 2008, where her salary was deducted, making it difficult for her to manage her finances. But she overcame this by cutting down on her expenses

and relying on her mother’s help. Looking ahead, Holy has two plans after working overseas. She plans to either start her own business using her savings or move to the western world to start a new life. Whatever opportunity comes her way, she knows she can face it with her perseverance and patience.

For her fellow OFWs who are struggling abroad, Holy’s advice is simple: “Never give up.” She encourages everyone to save their earnings, invest them when they get a chance, and buy property. And most importantly, to keep learning and never stop improving themselves.

Holy’s story is a reminder that success in the world of OFWs is not achieved overnight. It takes hard work, determination, and a positive attitude to overcome the challenges that come with working abroad. She is a woman of perseverance and patience, and her story is an inspiration to many who are on the same journey.

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Rizza Mae Napuli Alinsoot

From deck crew to business owner, overcoming challenges and making dreams a reality in Dubai

Rizza Mae Napuli Alinsoot is a 32-year-old mother of two who has been living and working in the UAE for the past decade. She is the manager of Sunrise Yacht Rentals and co-founder of the boat manufacturing company, Dylan Marine, based in Dubai. Rizza graduated from Our Lady of Fatima University with a degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management. Her

mantra in life is to stay positive and happy, work hard and not give up hope, be open to criticism, and keep learning. She believes in surrounding herself with happy, warm, and genuine people.

Rizza’s career journey started as a crew deck member on a yacht, and she worked her way up to become a boat captain and eventually owning a small fleet. She co-founded

Sunrise Yacht Rentals with her business partners, Mr. Noufal M.K and Mr. Salim Sainudeen. Together, they operate the famed Dubai yacht experience for tourists and residents. They specialize in organizing and hosting corporate events, birthdays, debuts, weddings, and all holiday celebrations.

In addition to her responsibilities at Sunrise Yacht Rentals, Rizza is also hands-on in the operations of the business, including bookings. On the other hand, Mr. Noufal M.K handles their boat manufacturing company, Dylan Marine, while she and Mr. Salim focus on yacht rentals.

For Rizza, settling into life in Dubai was a challenging experience.

However, once she settled in, she felt a huge sense of achievement. As a business owner, she believes that there is no template on how to be successful, and everyday challenges will undoubtedly open your eyes to alternative ways of doing things, especially in a competitive market like Dubai. She learned to adjust to everything around her, like trying new things, developing new marketing ideas, and getting a better understanding of different cultural tenets.

For her, working overseas can be both daunting and exciting.

“It goes without saying that moving to another country means being unable to see much of your family back at home. True, you do miss them, moments like these are the

TGFM

ones that make expatriates like us feel the most homesick and the reason for us to strive even harder to be successful - because we are here to provide for them,” she said.

Rizza started in Dubai by working for other companies. She first worked as a barista where she climbed the ladder and became the manager of the cafe in the long run.

Her ambition to run her own business pushed her to start Sunrise Yacht Rentals. Running her own business is not easy, but it gave her a sense of purpose. She likes to offer competitive prices for her fellow countrymen and Filipinos working in Dubai, who deserve to experience what tourists come to Dubai for. Rizza understands the need for self-love and the importance of enjoying life outside of work.

Dubai is a city for dreamers, and Rizza likes the fact that it’s a city that embraces the hard lessons that come with opportunities. Dubai molds people to be better, or if not, breaks them. Everyone has equal footing on where to start, and it doesn’t matter who you were before you came to Dubai. Only those who aspire to follow their dreams, work hard, and keep dreaming despite heartaches win. Rizza believes that Dubai is a rollercoaster ride, and there will be low moments, but there will also be joy.

Riding the ocean waves

Before settling into her current job, Rizza endured struggles that came with trying to find her path in life. She came to Dubai to apply as an airline crew, following in the footsteps of her sisters who are already airline crew in the UAE. However, she experienced rejection, which made her question her self-worth. She cried and looked for answers that were not even there, but in the end, she realized that God has a better plan for her.

“Deep inside I know I wanted a career that will not confine me to a four-wall environment. I wanted to go out, explore the outdoors and

see sights as much as I can. If flying or being a flight crew member was not an option, I veered into yachts. My dad was a seaman and I gravitated in that direction. The sea was calling,” she said.

“If you have a dream fight for it, there’s a discipline for passion and it’s not about how many times you get rejected or you fall it’s about how many times you stand up and brave and you keep on going,” she added.

When she applied as a yacht crew, she experienced unfortunate events, including harassment, bullying, and derogatory treatment.

“But the viable lesson here is how you keep your calm. I stayed because I know I can be more than just a mere crew; I wanted a captain’s license. This is a job that only men are seen doing. It rolled eyes and there will be a lot of people who want to see you fail,” Rizza said.

“When I got my license, I knew what I wanted next. I want to run my own yacht rental experience,” she recalled.

Embracing the calm sea

In parallel to growing their business, Rizza wants to help fellow Filipinos in Dubai to see the beauty of Dubai through a yachting experience.

“Yes, it is considered a luxurious experience but at a very reasonable cost. They just have to reach out to me, and I will make sure that they get their money’s worth or even more. We have a fun-loving culture, and we should not forget that. They can reminisce about those days when we Filipinos go out on Sundays to the beach, or on special occasions. This time though they will enjoy that day on a yacht. Have fun and enjoy your life in Dubai,” she said.

She advised those in need of help to reach out and take of their wellbeing.

Photograper:

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Dress: Michael Cinco

Rozen Antonio

Mau Piodena

THE GLOBAL FILIPINOS THE STORY OF OUR SUCCESS

Jana Zarene Pascual

Trusting the process of working abroad and building a successful career in Qatar

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Jana Zarene Pascual is a 36-year-old Executive Secretary to the Chairman and Board of Directors of Al Rabban Holding Group, one of the leading conglomerates in Qatar. She has been living and working in Qatar for 12 years now and has excelled in her job, earning the trust and confidence of her bosses.

Jana’s job as an executive secretary requires her to manage the dayto-day agendas of her bosses, including scheduling meetings, preparing minutes of meetings, organizing travel documents, and handling their house employees. She also assists other departments and private businesses of her bosses, such as composing letters, preparing presentations, filing, and encoding.

Jana’s journey as an OFW began when she graduated with a Hotel and Restaurant Management degree. She worked in some of the best hotels in the Philippines, where she excelled in her customer and marketing skills. Jana’s father was also an OFW in Saudi Arabia, and she saw first-hand the sacrifices her father had to make to provide for their family.

Her dream of becoming an international worker did not happen immediately after graduation, but after she met her husband and agreed to move to Doha, Qatar, she grabbed the opportunity to work there. Jana’s passion for her job and her willingness to trust the process has led her to excel in her work and earn the trust of her bosses.

Jana enjoys her job, not just because of the high salary, but also because of the professional and supportive bosses she has. She finds it satisfying that her bosses rely on her and trust her to make business decisions. Her colleagues are also helpful and accommodating, making it easier for her to manage her work and contribute to the team’s success.

“I really enjoy working in hotels as I see and encounter different nationalities, characters and personalities from co-employee to customers. I can say that I excelled in my customer and marketing skills as I tend to talk and accommodate customers’ needs as well as their complaints. It totally boosts my confidence as I need to think and solve problems on my own in a positive way,” she said.

“I think the most enjoyable part of my work is that my bosses are relying on me and the trust that they’ve given the fact that they are allowing me to decide with regard to business solution,” she added.

“Also, my colleagues are very accommodating and helpful to other officemates in order to have great team management and a peaceful environment. Of course, the fair treatment of the company to the employees that I feel more satisfied and motivated to work hard.”

In addition, Jana’s stay in Doha for almost a decade is not just because of the high income, but also because of the sustainable lifestyle she and her family enjoy. Qatar is one of the safest countries in the world, and they have the opportunity to explore different restaurants and places. Her two sons are also schooling in Doha, making it more convenient for the family to stay.

Jana admits that there were struggles she had to endure before settling in Qatar, such as familiarizing herself with her surroundings, coping with the traditional way of living, and adjusting to the weather. However, her determination to succeed and her willingness to trust the process has helped her overcome these challenges.

As for her plans after Doha, Jana admits that she is content with her job and her life in Qatar. However, she also acknowledges that being an OFW is not a lifetime guarantee, and she may have to go back to the Philippines someday. For now, she is focused on her job and providing for her family.

Jana’s story is a testament to the sacrifices and determination of OFWs. Her willingness to trust the process and her passion for her job has led her to excel in her career and provide for her family. Her story is an inspiration to other OFWs who are also working hard to provide for their loved ones back home.

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THE GLOBAL FILIPINOS THE STORY OF OUR SUCCESS

Jinky “Kai”

Torreflores

Journey of a single mom: From overseas worker to business owner and influencer

Jinky “Kai” Torreflores is a 36-year-old business owner currently residing in Dubai, UAE. She has been working abroad for 12 years and has experienced various job positions before finally settling into her current role. Her mantra in life is “Your Future is defined by what you do Today”, which she

lives by as she manages her time as a full-time influencer and content creator and business owner at the same time.

As a single mother and breadwinner, Kai’s compensation in the Philippines was not enough to support her family’s needs. This is why she opted to work abroad to provide a better life for her children and support her father’s medication. Her first job abroad was as a receptionist/secretary in a manpower agency in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi. She then worked as a beauty consultant in Dubai before becoming a full-time influencer and content creator. Her success in social media allowed her to start her own business and promote several brands and companies.

Kai’s experience working in a manpower agency both in the Philippines and in Al Ain has made her job easier in giving out travel and visa updates and information to her fellow Filipinos through online. Her passion for her work and the opportunity to manage her own time allows her to excel in both her full-time role as an influencer and content creator and as a business owner.

Although working overseas is not easy, Kai believes that the opportunities in Dubai are beyond what they have in the Philippines. She also had to overcome struggles, including being jobless for almost a year without a visa in 2015. However, her strong faith and trust in God helped her overcome these obstacles.

Kai’s future plan is to expand her business in the Philippines and use the fruits of her investments for leisure, such as traveling to other places in the Philippines and other countries with her family. Her advice to her fellow kabayans who are struggling abroad is to remain positive, have faith, and remember what God has promised them. She also encourages taking risks that will lead to success, as long as it is the right thing and does not affect others.

“Struggles in life are normal, I think none of us has been exempted of these. We just need to be positive in finding ways or solution to our struggles. Remember to always have a strong faith within you,” she said.

Kai’s story is an inspiration to many overseas Filipino workers who are also struggling to make ends meet. Her dedication to providing for her family and her perseverance in overcoming struggles show that with faith and hard work, success is achievable.

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GLOBAL FILIPINO MAGAZINE

Lamesa Restaurant

Dubai’s best-kept secret for all-you-caneat Asian cuisine

Dubai’s diverse culinary scene never ceases to amaze foodies from around the world. Among the city’s must-try dining destinations is Lamesa Restaurant, located on the 5th floor of Deira’s Asiana Hotel. This vibrant and spacious eatery has been a favourite among residents and tourists alike for its all-you-can-eat concept that features an array of Filipino, Chinese, and Korean dishes.

Upon entering Lamesa Restaurant, guests are greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The interiors are modern and chic, with vibrant colours and contemporary furnishings that create a casual and laid-back vibe. The restaurant’s large dining area is perfect for groups of friends and families, while couples can enjoy a more intimate setting. Moreover, Lamesa also has a private dining room that can accommodate up to 50 people, making it an ideal venue for special occasions.

The highlight of Lamesa’s dining experience is their extensive buffet spread and live cooking stations. The restaurant’s allyou-can-eat concept is a favourite among foodies, as it allows them to sample as many dishes as they want. Among the Filipino classics that guests can indulge in are kare-kare, high-quality meats, and the restaurant’s signature pork counter that includes crispy pata and lechon belly. The Chinese and Korean theme nights also offer a delectable selection of dishes that are sure to please every palate.

But it’s not just the wide array of dishes that make Lamesa stand

out, as the restaurant’s commitment to quality and affordability is also remarkable. The prices at Lamesa are beyond reasonable, and guests will surely get more than their money’s worth with the food quality that exceeds expectations.

No meal is complete without desserts, and Lamesa does not disappoint. The restaurant’s freshly-made desserts are the perfect way to cap off a satisfying meal. From cakes and pastries to ice cream and fruits, guests will surely find something to satisfy their sweet tooth.

Overall, Lamesa Restaurant is a must-visit dining destination in Dubai. With its vibrant atmosphere, delicious dishes, and affordable prices, it’s no wonder why it’s a favourite among the community. Whether you’re in the mood for Filipino, Chinese, or Korean cuisine, Lamesa has got you covered. So, head on over to Deira’s Asiana Hotel and discover Dubai’s best-kept secret for all-you-can-eat Asian cuisine.

THE GLOBAL FILIPINOS THE STORY OF OUR SUCCESS

Nerry Toledo

The Filipino business development manager and yoga teacher advocating for mental health awareness abroad

As the world continues to become more interconnected, the number of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) continues to grow. Many Filipinos choose to work abroad to provide a better life for themselves and their families. However, the journey is not always easy, and many OFWs face significant challenges, both personal and professional. In this magazine feature article, we will get to know Nerry Toledo, a successful business development manager, a writer, a yoga instructor, and a mental health advocate, who has been working abroad for 17 years.

Nerry Toledo’s life story is a testament to the resilience of the Filipino spirit. She was born and raised in the Philippines and lost her father at a young age, which forced her to grow up quickly and take on adult responsibilities. Despite the challenges, Nerry excelled academically and graduated from college with honors.

After working for several years in the Philippines, Nerry took a risk and decided to move abroad to provide financial support to her siblings who were still in college.

“While I had a promising career in the Philippines, managing finances with siblings in college were challenging, so I took a risk and moved abroad,” she said.

Her first job overseas was in Doha, Qatar, where she worked for a prominent brand. In 2008, she moved to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where she joined a Public Relations agency.

Nerry’s professional journey was not without its share of struggles. Moving to a new country can be challenging, and adjusting to a new culture, language, and lifestyle can be overwhelming.

Nerry had to face the economic downturn during her transition to Dubai, which made it even more challenging. However, her strong will and determination kept her from giving up. Nerry shares, “It is easy to lose your way and feel despair, especially when you are faced with trials. It is knowing my value and recognizing my worth that keeps me from falling into a deep, dark abyss of misery.”

Nerry’s resilience and determination eventually paid off, and she was able to build an impressive career in Public Relations, planning and implementing effective communication strategies for various high-profile clients.

During her professional journey, she discovered who she was and what she wanted her life to be. She realized that her passion was helping others and serving the community. This led her to step

down from the corporate world for two years and focus on her inner work. Her inner guidance led her to establish NerryFit Yoga, where she could use her passion for yoga to help others achieve their highest level of self-realization for true wellbeing and inner transformation.

“My life has been reshaped in a very interesting way by this transition, in which I no longer aim to be on the top of the corporate ladder, but instead ask myself how I can be a better human and serve others,” she said.

Nerry’s current career path combines her corporate experience and her passion for mental health advocacy and yoga. She is now a mental health advocate, communication strategist, writer, and yoga instructor. She regularly writes and speaks about mental health and well-being and offers complimentary yoga classes to the community through collaborations with brands. Her ultimate dream is to establish a yoga retreat house on an island in the Philippines, work with farmers to cultivate land that will benefit the community, and educate women and children on the importance of mental health and well-being.

Working overseas has broadened Nerry’s horizons and provided her with the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. She believes that working abroad allows you to gain an understanding of different cultures and learn much about yourself, which can help you become the person you want to be.

Nerry’s mantra in life is, “Nothing is impossible if you put your heart and mind into it.” Her success story is a testament to this.

Nerry’s journey as an OFW is an inspiration to many. Her resilience, determination, and passion for helping others have led her to build an impressive career while making a meaningful contribution to society. Her story is a reminder that success is not just about achieving professional goals but also about living a meaningful life that serves others.

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THE GLOBAL FILIPINOS THE STORY OF OUR SUCCESS

Tadd

Farrugia

A journey to success in Dubai: A story of perseverance and determination

Tadd Farrugia, a Filipina commercial manager at Dubai Airports, is a true testament to perseverance and determination. With a mantra that says, “Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall - Confucius,” Tadd has never let any challenge stop her from achieving her goals.

Originally from Manila, Tadd moved to Dubai in 2007 in search of international work experience. She started as a Medical Rep and worked her way up the ladder to become a Commercial Manager in the Aviation & Travel Retail industry, in a government entity. She specializes in commercial strategy, sales, and relationship management in private & public sectors.

One thing that Tadd loves about her job is the result it brings to the business and passengers. She believes that the challenges they face and the planning it takes to deliver a great retail experience in the airport is what makes her job exciting. Tadd has also set up her own companies, Perlas Human Resources, an HR consultancy firm specializing in overseas employment, and Perlas Trading, a garment trading entity for B2B market.

“I wanted to get an international work experience then go back to Manila. I’ve noticed those who had

wider exposure gets a good break. But then time passed here, started enjoying Dubai. It is a safe place, and I believe a land of opportunity as long as you work smart,” she said.

Tadd is a licensed pharmacist, but she never practiced it. Instead, she pursued a career in sales and key account management. She was also active in organizations like Red Cross & Jaycees when she was younger, and now with the Rotary Club, Dubai Business Women Council, and French Business Group. These clubs are not only for business opportunity but also helps a lot in the community catalyzing positive change.

She focused her career in the commercial sector. She started as sales then evolved in understanding full business complexities— business development, revenue generation, negotiation, and relationship management.

Tadd equipped herself by learning more and taking on challenging roles in the company. She finished an MBA course, Project Management, Airport and Concession management, and is currently studying for a Lean Six Sigma certification.

Working overseas is not easy, and Tadd has faced her own struggles, especially as a woman in a leadership position. However, she never let that stop her from pursuing her dreams. She has always maintained a good relationship with all the people she has worked with and consults with a mentor to guide her in her professional development.

“I like to work in Dubai only, not anywhere. I think the leaders here made it a comfortable place where economy is always steady, and they always try to do better. See, no matter what’s happening around the world or in our country ---the food supply did not stop, we still have electricity, petrol, cheap “onion”, we have work —we have a job that supports us here and our family back home,” she expressed.

Tadd believes that life has to happen now, and any plans you want to do in the future, start them today while you can and still young. While she loves working in Dubai, she has no definite plans after her overseas stint. For Tadd, what is important is to live life to the fullest and to keep pushing herself to be better.

“I think having a good support system helps you a lot in your personal or career life. I’m talking about finding strong friendships, people who will wisely guide you to move up and advise when you’re down. More importantly, you really have to know yourself & appreciate what you have,” she said.

“Find someone whom you respect and ask to be guided. Just don’t give up dreaming until you get what you want,” he advise to her fellow OFWs.

Tadd’s story is an inspiration to all OFWs who aspire to succeed in their careers. With her perseverance, determination, and passion for what she does, Tadd has shown that anything is possible if you put your heart and mind to it.

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THE GLOBAL FILIPINOS THE STORY OF OUR SUCCESS

Wandalyn

Tan-Calupig

From Burnout to Bliss: Wandalyn

Tan-Calupig’s Journey to Success

Wandalyn Tan-Calupig is a woman of passion and determination. She left her life in the Philippines to pursue her dreams of providing a better life for her family and becoming financially free. Her journey was not without struggles, but she persevered and found her true calling in coaching and training.

After completing her degree in Accountancy, Wandalyn started her career as a Customer Service Crew at KFC and Jollibee. She then moved on to become a Tax Auditor at Punongbayan & Araullo, formerly Ernst & Young Manila. Her career took her to Intel Philippines, where she worked as a Tax Analyst, and eventually to Emirates Airlines, where she worked as an Audit Manager and Consultant.

Wandalyn’s international career started in 2006 when she joined Emirates Airlines (EK). Her work was demanding, and she often found

herself feeling tired and stressed. However, she was determined to pay off her debts, and she knew that working overseas was the best way to achieve this goal. She worked hard and paid off all her debts in just one year.

Despite her success, Wandalyn found herself feeling unfulfilled and burnt out. In 2014, she experienced a breakthrough in her career and personal life, which led her to transition from Audit Manager to Career Coach, Trainer, and Speaker. She founded Caltan Training and Consultancy in the Philippines, and later in the UAE. Through her work, Wandalyn helps others find joy and meaning in their lives and experience their own breakthroughs.

Wandalyn’s mantra in life is “God will make all things possible for me.” Her faith has been a source of strength and guidance throughout her life. She has faced many struggles, including financial, physical, emotional, and mental

challenges. However, she always turns to God for guidance and direction.

Wandalyn’s work has brought her many joys, including the freedom to work when she wants and with the people she wants to work with, wherever she wants. She finds great satisfaction in helping others achieve their goals and create positive shifts in their lives through coaching and training.

Working overseas has helped Wandalyn become more resilient and fulfill her dreams of providing a better life for her family. She has also been able to give back to others by sharing her time, treasure, and talent. She also fulfilled her dreams of taking her family out of poverty and giving them the life they dreamed of.

As for her future plans, Wandalyn is focused on continuing her work as a coach and trainer. She wants to help more people experience breakthroughs and create positive changes in their lives. She is also passionate about her advocacies, such as mentoring and training small business owners through the Department of Trade and Industry and teaching mindset to individuals and organizations through Ohsec and Working Moms Academy.

Her advice to her fellow OFWs is to believe in themselves.

“Believe in the goodness of others because you can always feel in your heart and gut whether the decision or a person is right for you. Believe that when God says no that means next opportunity because God always has the best plans for your life,” she said.

Wandalyn’s story is an inspiration to many. She has faced many challenges, but she never gave up. Through her faith and determination, she has achieved success and found true happiness. Her journey from burnout to bliss is a reminder that anything is possible with hard work, perseverance, and faith.

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