Growing Stronger Every Sunday with VODW

By ElynJean

I first heard about The Voice of Domestic Workers (VODW) from a Filipina friend. She encouraged me to join this community charity group, telling me it could be a place where I could learn, grow, and feel supported. I didn’t know exactly what to expect, but I trusted her words. Looking back now, I can say that joining VODW has been one of the greatest blessings in my life.

Since then, every Sunday has become more than just another day—it has been a time for learning, connection, and empowerment. The knowledge and activities I take part in each week are not just lessons; they are tools I use in my daily life here in the UK.

Through VODW, I have gained so many new skills. The ESOL classes have helped me improve my English, build my self-confidence, and express myself without fear. In IT workshops, I learned things I never thought I could—how to design in Canva, use Google Maps to find my way, organize files in Google Drive, send formal letters, complete assignments, and join meetings via Zoom. I also learned about publications, public speaking, and presenting ideas clearly. These may sound like simple skills to some, but for me, they opened doors I never thought I could walk through.

The classes I enjoy most are IT, Media and Communications, and Financial Literacy. Technology used to feel like a world far away from mine. I didn’t have the opportunity to go to college, and for a long time, I believed I was “too far behind” to catch up. In the beginning, it was not easy—I struggled to keep up, and there were moments I doubted myself. But I decided to keep trying, to cooperate in class, to do my assignments, and to give my best. Slowly, I started to understand, and little by little, I began to feel proud of myself. I thank God for guiding me and leading me to VODW, because this journey has made me stronger and more capable than I imagined.

These skills are not just for the classroom—they have changed the way I live and work. At my job, I can now speak up about my rights and working conditions with confidence. I feel more in control of my life. I can face challenges with courage and use my voice to protect my dignity.

What I love most about VODW is that it’s not just about learning—it’s about empowerment. The workshops help us understand our rights as domestic workers, and knowing these rights means we can protect ourselves from abuse, stand tall with dignity, and demand fair treatment.

Looking ahead, I hope VODW will continue to add more training and new topics so we can keep growing together. Every new lesson we learn is another step towards empowerment, independence, and self-respect.

Thank you, The Voice of Domestic Workers, for giving me a space to grow, for making me believe that I am capable, and for showing me that I have worth. You have taught me that my voice matters—and now I am not afraid to use it.

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