Biography

My name is Floribelle, and I was born in 1988 in the Philippines. I am the eldest of five siblings and was raised by my mother after my father left our family when I was 12 years old. Growing up in poverty and a broken family, I witnessed my mother’s struggles to provide for us.

I dreamed of finishing my degree in Home Economics Extension Education, but financial difficulties forced me to stop my studies. At 19, in 2008, I left the Philippines to work as a domestic worker in the Middle East. I hoped to improve my family’s life and support my mother and siblings.

My journey as a domestic worker was not easy. I experienced difficult and painful circumstances that eventually led me to escape and seek help. My employer brought me to London, where I later found support through The Voice of Domestic Workers (VODW).

VODW gave me support, knowledge, and hope. Through the organisation, I became involved in different activities and learned more about the rights and experiences of domestic workers. I am now part of Future Voices Revolution 2, where I continue to develop my knowledge, confidence, and voice.

I am also a mother to a daughter, who, together with my mother and siblings, remains my greatest inspiration.

After many years of hardship and challenges, I have learned the importance of courage, perseverance, and hope. My dream is to live a life of freedom and to help other domestic workers who have experienced struggles like mine. I believe that one day, I can use my own experiences to help others find their voice, dignity, and freedom.