Although she planned to join the training soon after discovering the programme, hesitation and scheduling conflicts kept her away for a while. Despite her eagerness to improve herself, a “friend” told her she was not capable or qualified to be a PathFinders Ambassador. At that time, Edina lacked confidence and took a step back.
Everything changed when she noticed many Migrant Domestic Workers (MDWs) online asking, “I am pregnant, what should I do?” At that time, Edina had been taking online classes on other topics with other organisations and thought that sharing what she learned could help fellow MDWs. She realized, “I think this is the best thing to do, not only for myself but also to raise awareness.” This newfound motivation to help others led her to overcome her hesitation and attend the “Train the Trainers Basics (TTTB)” and officially become our Ambassador.
Edina’s journey wasn’t just about overcoming her friend’s discouragement in Hong Kong. She was looked down upon in the beginning of her migration journey and had also faced judgment from those around her in the past. These experiences motivated her to set clear goals, make plans, and work hard toward success. She started focusing on financial goal setting and planning, which not only led to her financial success but also gave her a clear vision for a brighter future for herself and her family and now also for the MDW community with her role as a community leader.
Her kindness and passion for helping others helped her overcome her hesitation to join PathFinders. The discouraging words from people around her ignited her spirit to build a steady path toward her dreams.
Despite the darkness in the past, Edina is now surrounded by supportive people whose words of affirmation played a significant role in boosting her confidence. Before joining PathFinders, Edina was invited to participate in a Human Library event for the very first time in her life. Although she did not really know what to do, she just shared her story and feelings. She received heartwarming notes from participants, which planted a seed in her heart and for the first time, she had the idea that “Oh, my words can be an inspiration to others”. On a separate occasion later, she joined a public speaking workshop at PathFinders. Despite feeling nervous, she managed to deliver a practice speech in front of other participants and the encouragement received from the supporting staff after the workshop further boosted her confidence. Now, the hesitant and quiet Edina has transformed into a public speaker with a firm voice, not only to voice out for herself but also for supporting and empowering her peers.
This transformation has been noticed by her loved ones. Edina’s sister remarked, “I am proud of you because you know how to talk with other people now. You didn’t want to talk with anyone and always stayed alone before.” Edina didn’t have many friends back home but now doing public speaking, outreach, and got featured on social media posts, Edina has shared her experiences and achievements with her family and they said, “Just continue, we are happy, just keep doing.”
She is now also sharing the knowledge she learnt in Hong Kong with family and relatives, especially those newly grown up. Thrilled with Edina’s changes, the family also encouraged her, saying, “When you go back home, we can do a talk so you can share what you’ve learned.” Despite still feeling shy, Edina responded with determination, “I think I can.”
Last December, Edina participated in a public speaking competition and is set to deliver her speech at the next Pinoy Impact Big Stage in front of more than 100 people to share her inspiration. This journey of transformation is not only Edina’s Ambassador Journey but is also a vital part of her life transformation. As she continues to grow as an empowered woman and devoted community leader, she not only thrives and shines but also shares her brightness with others.
