Empowered to Speak. How The Voice of Domestic Workers Changed My Life

There was a time when I felt invisible. Each day began before sunrise and ended long after dark. I poured my energy into caring for others, cooking, cleaning, and looking after homes that were not my own. Yet no matter how much effort I gave, it often felt like I didn’t matter. My work was unseen, my voice unheard. I faced long hours, little rest, and unfair treatment

things that slowly wore down my confidence and made me question my worth and dignity as a person.

Sometimes, I would lie awake at night wondering if this was all my life was meant to be endless work with no recognition, no security, no chance to dream. But deep down, I knew I deserved better. We all do. It’s very important to us, as domestic workers, to prevent exploitation. Fair treatment isn’t just a privilege it’s a right. It’s the foundation of equality, respect, and justice in every workplace. When we speak up and advocate for fair labour laws, we’re not only fighting for ourselves, we’re uplifting an entire community of workers who have been silenced for too long. Through those dark and uncertain moments, I found The Voice of Domestic Workers (VODW) and that’s when my life began to change.

At first, I was shy and unsure. I didn’t know if anyone would truly listen or understand my story. But when I stepped into the VODW community, I was welcomed with open arms. There was warmth, kindness, and a sense of belonging that I hadn’t felt in a long time.

The Voice of Domestic Workers helped me rebuild my confidence after the many trials I had faced with past employers. They reminded me that I deserve respect, that my work has value, and that I am not alone in this journey.

VODW supported me by educating me about my rights as a migrant domestic worker, something that so many of us never get the chance to learn. For the first time, I began to understand that I have the power to stand up for myself, and that there are laws and people willing to fight beside me. They opened doors that I never imagined possible. I was given the chance to join free ESOL classes that helped me improve my English and communicate with confidence. I learned new computer and media skills that gave me a sense of independence and pride. I was taught how to manage my hard-earned money through financial education sessions that opened my eyes to stability and planning for the future.

I also discovered how important it is to take care of my mind and body through their wellness programs, and I found healing through free counselling, a safe space where I could finally share my pain and begin to recover from years of struggle.

Each class, each conversation, and each act of kindness from VODW gave me strength. Slowly, I began to see myself in a new light. Not as someone powerless, but as someone with dignity, courage, and purpose. The Voice of Domestic Workers didn’t just teach me skills, they gave me hope. They taught me that I have a voice that deserves to be heard. They helped me believe that change is possible, not just for me, but for every domestic worker who dreams of a better life.

I learned that we are not “just” workers, we are women and men of resilience, love, and strength. We carry stories that matter. We keep households running, families cared for, and communities alive. Our work may be behind the scenes, but it is the foundation that keeps everything standing.

Today, I stand proud. No longer silent, no longer afraid. Because I found my voice and now, I use it to speak for others who are still searching for theirs. To anyone who feels unseen or unheard, please know this, you matter. Your work matters. Your dreams matter. And with the right support and community, like The Voice of Domestic Workers, you can rise again stronger, braver, and full of hope.

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Migrant domestic workers who have fled abusive employment urgently need your help. They’ve left behind exploitation and are taking brave steps toward safety but they need support for basic needs like shelter, food, clothing, and counseling.

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