I want to raise my voice loud and clear — to campaign not just for myself, but for the rights that every domestic worker deserves. I want to live and work with dignity, fairness, and respect, just like any other worker. I believe deeply that when we stand together — united in courage and purpose — our strength multiplies. Together, we can overcome injustice, break down barriers, and achieve the change we have long dreamed of. Our collective fight is our power, and our victory will be the hope we bring to generations to come.
Biography
My name is Mercy, and I am from the Philippines. I have lived in the UK for 14 years, far from the warm embrace of home and the loving faces of my large family. I am married and blessed with two wonderful sons, who are my greatest joy and my driving force. Growing up, I was one of ten siblings — four boys and six girls. Despite our numbers, I always felt the deep love and unwavering determination of our parents to give us the best possible life. That same love and hope now fuel my desire to give the very best to my own children.
Seeking a better future for my family, I made the difficult choice to work abroad. I first worked in Oman for five years as a nanny and housekeeper. It was a challenging time — filled with both sacrifice and perseverance. Then, in 2010, I came to the UK, full of hope but unaware of the rights I had or how to protect myself in a foreign land.
For many years, confusion and fear shadowed my days. I didn’t know where to turn, and sometimes the loneliness and uncertainty felt overwhelming. But everything changed when I found The Voice of Domestic Workers in 2022. Finding this organisation was like finding a new family — a place where I could belong, learn, and grow. I was filled with happiness because I met so many friends who shared my struggles and dreams.
I became an active member, attending classes every Sunday, soaking up knowledge and gaining confidence. I joined the MediaCom Working Group at VODW, where we create newsletters, design campaigns, graphics, and videos that tell our stories and raise awareness about our rights. This work has helped me find my voice — and the courage to use it.
Now, as I step into the Future Voices Revolution 2025, I feel a new sense of purpose and hope. This programme is a chance for me to expand my knowledge, sharpen my skills, and become an even stronger advocate for domestic workers everywhere. I want to stand proudly as a voice for those who are still silent, to share our stories, and to fight for justice and dignity.
My journey has been long and often difficult, but I am ready to rise, to learn, and to lead. I carry my family’s dreams in my heart, and through Future Voices, I will work to create a future where every domestic worker can live and work with respect and freedom.
