Honey Jane Asoy Cadungog

Filipina in UAE shares tale of triumph and resilience overseas

In a world where dreams often take a backseat to practicality, Honey Jane Cadungog stands out as a shining example of determination and resilience.

A Talent Acquisition Specialist working at ABAN Investment, a prestigious company under the Ghobash Group in the UAE, Honey Jane has spent the past 11 years building a successful career and supporting her family back home in the Philippines.

Her story is one of sacrifice, overcoming challenges, and the pursuit of personal and professional growth.

Honey Jane’s journey began with her fascination for working abroad.

Inspired by her late father, who was an Overseas Filipino Worker in Saudi Arabia, she witnessed firsthand the sacrifices he made to provide for their family of six, including a specially abled sibling.

Driven by a desire to be the family’s hero, she made the life-changing decision to work abroad and carry the torch of financial responsibility.

Arriving in Dubai in 2011, Honey Jane wasted no time in pursuing her career aspirations. Within a week, she secured her first job as a Recruitment Consultant at Nadia’s, a milestone she fondly remembers coinciding with her younger brother’s birthday.

As the years passed, she excelled in her role and gradually progressed to become a Senior HR Administrator with a Digital Transformation Company, Computer Network Systems, still under the Ghobash Group. Recognizing her talent and dedication, she was recently promoted to the position of Talent Acquisition Specialist at the Ghobash Group’s corporate office.

What sets Honey Jane apart in her field is her ability to understand people deeply, a skill she attributes to her major in Psychology.

Her passion for connecting with others, coupled with the excitement and challenges of sourcing top talent in diverse industries, fuels her drive in the HR field. Honey Jane’s mantra in life, “I can, and I will,” encapsulates her unwavering determination to succeed her personal life.

She cherishes the time spent with her loved ones, often embarking on road trips, watching movies, and indulging in their favorite junk foods. These moments of joy and relaxation rejuvenate her and keep her focused and energized at work.

However, Honey Jane’s journey has not been without its share of struggles. Like many overseas Filipino workers, she faced financial challenges and homesickness when she first arrived in Dubai.

With limited financial resources, she had to be resourceful and creative in making ends meet. The search for part-time jobs proved to be a difficult endeavor, but she refused to let adversity dampen her spirit.

Moreover, one of the most significant challenges she faced was the untimely loss of her father. As she planned to visit her family back home, tragedy struck, and she had to bear the pain of not being able to attend his funeral.

This heartbreaking experience tested her strength and resolve, but it also reinforced her commitment to providing for her family and carrying on her father’s legacy.

Through these trials, Honey Jane learned invaluable lessons in resilience, budgeting, prioritization, and perseverance. Her family and loved ones remain her unwavering source of inspiration.

Their unwavering support and belief in her abilities have propelled her forward, shaping her into the strong and compassionate person she is today.

Looking to the future, Honey Jane’s plans go beyond her successful career. She envisions settling down and getting married, embracing a new chapter in her life alongside her partner.

The love and stability she has built for herself will lay the foundation for a fulfilling personal life.

When asked about her advice for fellow kabayans who may be struggling abroad, Honey Jane emphasizes the importance of strength, dedication, and staying focused.

She encourages others to view every struggle as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Seeking support from friends and family, both abroad and back home, is crucial during challenging times.

Honey Jane reminds others to avoid complaining and instead approach challenges with a positive mindset, coupled with the power of prayer.