How My Fellow Domestic Workers Inspire Me to Keep Going

I come from a poor family in the Philippines. Growing up, education was a luxury we couldn't always afford. I had dreams, but life pushed me toward survival. When I decided to work overseas, I told myself it was for my family, to give them a better life, to break the cycle of poverty. But when I arrived in another country, I thought my life would finally get better. But instead, I faced abuse and loneliness. I worked long hours with little rest. I felt invisible, like I didn't exist. I lost confidence and almost forgot who I was. Then I found The Voice of Domestic Workers.

Through this community, I found not just support, but hope. I joined classes. | started learning English, IT and even about my rights. I began to live again. I realised that education is not just for the young or for those in school. It is for everyone who still wants to grow and fight for a better life. The people ! admire the most are my fellow migrant domestic workers, it amazes me how they never let age, work, or life circumstances stop them from continuing their education.

Every Sunday, after spending the whole week taking care of other people's homes, children or elderly parents, they show up in our classes, sometimes sleepy, sometimes late, but always eager to learn. When I see my co- domestic workers determination despite their busy schedules and tired bodies, I feel a renewed sense of hope. Their persistence tells me: IF THEY CAN DO IT, SO CAN I.

WE RISE TOGETHER

by VODW Education Working Group

We came from a home where dreams were small,

But hope still whispered through it all.

We left our land, our heart, our name,

To chase a life, though never the same.

We worked in silence, day by day,

Invisible in every way.

But deep inside, a voice would burn,

There's more to life; it's time to learn.

Then we found each other, brave and true,

With hearts that beat the same way too.

We studied hard, we laughed, we cried,

We found our strength, our voice, our pride.

Education lit our way,

It gave us courage to speak and stay.

We are not shadows, not just hands,

We are the women who still stand.

Now we rise together, side by side,

With dreams no longer pushed aside.

We are the light, the voice, the flame,

Together we rise, we learn, we claim!

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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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