From Fear to Leadership: Arlene’s Journey with The Voice of Domestic Workers

By Arlene

For nearly six years, I lived in constant fear. As a migrant domestic worker without proper status, every day felt like walking on eggshells. I carried the weight of silence, uncertainty, and past abuse. But everything began to change the day I found The Voice of Domestic Workers (VODW).

VODW didn’t just welcome me—they transformed me.

Finding Strength Through Learning

Through proper training, workshops, and shared experiences, I slowly began to heal. I regained something I thought I had lost forever: my self-confidence. That alone is a victory. From the shadows of abuse, I now proudly stand among those who speak for the voiceless. Knowledge became my power—the key to facing my fears and reclaiming my dignity.

Empowerment in Action

I didn’t stop at learning—I took action. Every year, I march in the May Day Rally. I show up, not just for myself, but for our community. Presence matters. I’ve also raised our concerns in Parliament, standing alongside fellow workers to demand change. I’ve proudly participated in Ms. The Voice, Future Voices 2, and other platforms that allow us to speak, perform, and be heard. These aren’t just events—they’re milestones of courage.

Community: A Lifeline of Support

At VODW, I didn’t just find a group—I found a family. I’ve been supported through difficult times, and now, as a MediaCom Leader, I pay it forward. I make sure every member of my team knows I’m just a message away. I listen. I guide. I stand with them, just as others once stood with me.

The Power of Knowing Our Rights

Understanding our legal rights is not optional—it’s life-saving. It’s the difference between continued abuse and freedom. VODW educates us to recognize injustice and equips us to protect ourselves. We must continue to raise awareness and make sure every domestic worker knows: you have rights, and you matter.

Creative Expression as Resistance

I’ve expressed my story in many forms—through Future Voices 2, Moi Tran’s art project, Zine Workshop, and more. These creative platforms amplify our struggles and turn them into messages of strength, healing, and advocacy. Art gives voice to what we sometimes cannot say aloud.

Giving Back, Leading Forward

Helping new members is my way of giving back to the community that molded me into the leader I am today. VODW gave me a chance—not just to survive, but to thrive. Now, I’m committed to guiding others, sharing knowledge, and lifting voices that are still finding their strength.

A Vision for the Future

My dream is simple but powerful: I want equality, dignity, and respect for all domestic workers—not just in the UK, but around the world. We deserve the same freedom and fair treatment as any other worker. We are not second-class. We are workers, and we matter.

My voice was once silenced by fear. Now, it speaks loudly—for myself, for others, and for the future we all deserve.

Thank you, VODW, for turning fear into freedom—and silence into strength.

---

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.

Donate today to make an impact and be a part of their journey to freedom, recovery, and empowerment.