A Labour Day Special – My “WORK-Life” Journey

Happy Labour’s Day!!!

Hats off to all the hard-working people in the world!

I have been thinking of what to post for this very special day. Then came the idea of sharing my own career journey. It’s easy to just simply enjoy the holiday and greet each other a Happy Labour’s Day… But going deeper to its meaning and actually appreciate every individual who dedicates their 8 AM – 5 PM everyday (others are even up to 12, 15, 20 or 24 hours a day) at work is bigger than the picture that we see with our eyes.

What I am trying to say, is that, more than just the greetings and the “rest day” or the holiday – take time to sit down with that “worker” in your family. Embrace him/her and say your gratitude. Life has become easier because of his/her efforts.

On the other hand, allow me to share my own career journey. This is my way of expressing gratitude to the companies I have worked with. Remembering the place, the ambiance, the scent, the people, the emotions and the lessons learned!

But most of all, this is somehow a gratitude list to God – for the opportunities He gave me.

A Teacher.

UC-ESL & GEOS Philippines, Cebu Philippines. First and foremost, it was my childhood dream to become an educator. It’s so vivid in the depth of my memories that I used to gather younger kiddos around and pretend to be one. In fact, at – 20 years old later I have become a licensed teacher.

Money Changer Assistant.

VHEZ Exchange, Colon Cebu PH. My Aunt has a Money Changing business and on Sundays during my college years, I would assist my mom. This opened my to the various currency around the world. An exciting day there was, every time you get to receive fake notes! :) That was really fun!

Telemarketer.

Emirates Technical & Safety Development Centre (ETSDC), Abu Dhabi, UAE. Right after graduating at the normal school, I tend to try out any other work. I have applied to different positions including Sales and the most popular back then – a call center agent. Company after company, I was labelled as “not yet ready”, thus being turned down. But when the opportunity knocks in 2008, when my cousin asked me if I am interested, I never mind what that position was. On my head was “ticking off a bucket-list” to get my passport stamped before it expires! lol And yes, it was a Telemarketer position for a Safety Training Centre in Abu Dhabi. Closely CSR or Call Centre Agent somehow!

Sea Survival & HUET Instructor

Emirates Technical & Safety Development Centre (ETSDC), Abu Dhabi, UAE. After 2 years of marketing/telemarketing the courses and with my manager’s knowledge of my teaching background – he then assigned me a special class exclusive for ladies. This was to teach Sea Survival and HUET (Helicopter Underwater Landing Training). To my excitement, I nailed it like the very first time I started teaching! I love sharing knowledge and information. It is still my number one passion to this day.

Training Admin Assistant

National Drilling Company (now ADNOC Drilling), Abu Dhabi, UAE. After gaining a hundreds++ companies under my belt, comes an opportunity of a lifetime. One of Abu Dhabi’s government companies (in Oil Drilling) have given me this chance to be a part of their team. I grabbed it of course! I have worked for them for 4+ years.

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As of March 2018, I am still in the quest to my next position. What could it be? I am excited to know what God has in store for me. Curious about my CV? Check it out on my LinkedIn Profile.

I’ve written this career journey as a special LABOUR DAY salute to all labours, most especially to all OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers). You are indeed heroes in your own right.

How about you, what jobs have you taken? How was your experience?

God bless,