I seek empowerment to rise stronger, skills to stand taller, and confidence to speak boldly. Through this journey, I aspire to become a proud spokesperson for domestic workers — a voice that champions our rights and honors our dignity.
Biography
My name is Mary Queen, and I am a 33-year-old mother of six from Iloilo, Philippines. I grew up on a small, inherited farm where life was never easy. Financial hardships weighed heavily on us, especially after my parents separated. My siblings and I had to step up and work hard to support our mother, as our father refused to help. Despite these struggles, we held on to hope.
I married in my hometown and was blessed with six beautiful children. Though my husband and I both worked tirelessly, we struggled to make ends meet. The weight of providing for such a large family was heavy, and I knew I needed to find a way to give my children the future they deserved.
In 2019, I took a courageous step and moved to Dubai to work as a domestic worker. It was a decision born out of love and sacrifice — a mother’s hope for a better life for her children. My employers brought me to the UK several times, but instead of safety and respect, I faced captivity and cruelty. I was locked inside their home, denied my salary, and stripped of my freedom. The pain and fear were overwhelming, but I held onto my dreams of freedom and dignity.
By 2023, the abuse had become unbearable, and I knew I had to escape to survive. With the unwavering support of The Voice of Domestic Workers, I found the courage to flee and reclaim my life. They became my lifeline — offering safety, hope, and the strength to begin healing.
This journey has been filled with hardship, but I am determined to overcome every challenge. I carry the love for my children as my greatest motivation — a fierce desire to create a brighter, safer future for them and for myself.
Now, as I join the Future Voices Revolution 2025, I see a new path unfolding before me. This programme is more than an opportunity — it is a chance to grow, to learn, and to find my voice. I want to stand tall not only for my family but for all domestic workers who have faced injustice and silence.
My story is one of pain, resilience, and hope. I am ready to rise, to speak, and to be a beacon of strength for others on this journey. Together, we will fight for the dignity, respect, and rights that every domestic worker deserves.
