Finding My Voice with The Voice of Domestic Workers

By Muhdina

I came to the UK because my boss brought me here to help their family. Their son was sick, and they trusted me to care for him. That is how my journey as a domestic worker in this country began.

When I first arrived, everything felt strange and heavy. I didn’t know the language, I couldn’t read English, and I had no way to express what was inside me. I felt like a shadow moving in a world I didn’t understand. It was lonely and frightening.

Then I met Ate Marisa. She welcomed me and told me about The Voice of Domestic Workers (VODW). That moment was the beginning of a new chapter in my life.

Before VODW, I often said with a laugh, “I have no brain.” Deep inside, though, it wasn’t really a joke. I felt useless because I couldn’t speak English or understand people. I felt invisible. But step by step, through classes, support, and encouragement, I began to change. Today, I can read, I can understand, and I can speak English—even if not perfectly. And for me, that is already a victory.

The classes at VODW opened doors I never imagined for myself. ESOL gave me the courage to try speaking, even when I was afraid of making mistakes. IT classes became my favorite—I discovered so much, especially about technology and social media privacy. These lessons are more than skills. They are a lifeline. They give me confidence to live in this modern world, where technology touches everything we do.

But the biggest change has been inside me. Before, I had no confidence. I was shy and always doubting myself. I thought I wasn’t good enough. At VODW, surrounded by people who understand and support me, I started to feel stronger. I learned that I am not alone. I am part of a family who sees me, values me, and believes in me.

Even though I still struggle with public speaking, I have joined campaigns and events. Standing there, my heart beats so fast, and I still can’t say everything I want to. But I know this is just the beginning. One day, I will stand tall and speak freely. Until then, every small step is progress, and I am proud of that.

VODW has also stood beside me in practical ways—supporting me with my visa, legal case, and work situation. When I felt lost, they guided me. When I was scared, they gave me courage. That is why my message to other domestic workers is simple: Don’t be scared to fight for your rights. You are not alone. You are worth more than you think.

To me, VODW means everything. It has shaped me into who I am now. I may laugh and say, “I have no brain,” but I know in my heart that I am growing. I am learning. And I am worthy. One day, I hope to help new members the same way others have helped me—because I know how powerful even the smallest support can be.

My dream for the future is simple: to live a comfortable life, with dignity, peace, and happiness. I believe VODW is helping me get closer to that dream by giving me knowledge, confidence, and the strength to keep going.

For all domestic workers everywhere, my hope is that we will be respected, treated fairly, and recognized as human beings with rights and dignity. We may come from different countries, but our struggles are connected—and together, our voices can create change.

Thank you, The Voice of Domestic Workers, for giving me hope, courage, and a family I never expected to find.

---

Join Us in Supporting Migrant Domestic Workers Escaping Abuse

DONATE HERE 

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.

 "With your donation, we can provide immediate relief and a pathway to rebuilding lives in dignity and safety."

Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us provide essentials, temporary housing, job training, and emotional support. Together, we can offer a lifeline to those starting over.