The Voice of Domestic Workers: Rising Together Through Learning and Empowerment

Education is more than just gaining knowledge — it is a powerful force that fuels empowerment, solidarity, and the pursuit of justice. At The Voice of Domestic Workers (VODW), this belief is at the heart of every initiative, creating safe and supportive spaces for migrant domestic workers to rebuild their lives.

Breaking Barriers Through Education

For many migrant domestic workers who are victims of trafficking, the path to education in the United Kingdom is riddled with challenges: precarious immigration status, fear of deportation, trauma, isolation, and the hostile environment policy. These obstacles often prevent them from accessing the educational opportunities they need to recover and gain independence.

That is why spaces like VODW matter. They offer not just learning opportunities, but also healing, community, and empowerment.

Building Knowledge and Confidence

This September, after a summer break, the VODW community returned to Unite the Union on Moreland Street, filled with renewed energy and hope. Sixty members gathered, including newly rescued workers who had just escaped abusive employers — a powerful reminder of why community support is essential.

Members participated in an employment workshop facilitated by FLEX, exploring critical topics like workers’ rights, fair treatment, and how to recognise signs of exploitation. The workshop not only provided valuable information but also created a safe space to connect and support each other.

Wellness and Digital Empowerment

During the Body, Mind & Wellness session led by Roman Berry from Australia, what began as a simple check-in transformed into a heartfelt space for members to share their journeys and victories in their National Referral Mechanism (NRM) applications.

In IT sessions guided by volunteer tutor Elijah from Canada, members are writing to peers as part of the campaign to reinstate the Overseas Domestic Worker visa. Elijah shared, “It’s not just about learning how to use technology — it’s about using digital skills to demand justice. That’s real empowerment.”

Financial literacy classes with Miss Tanya also sparked meaningful discussions on passive income, cash flow, and compound interest. One member shared, “I used to think saving even a little was useless. Now I see how it can grow, and I want to start planning for my future.”

A Culture of Creativity and Growth

Even during the summer break, learning never stopped. Members joined a four-session mobile photography course with MWO-OWWA of the Philippine Embassy UK, proving that education and creativity thrive even during rest periods.

Our ESOL classes also continue to be a cornerstone of the programme — interactive, supportive, and empowering every step of the way.

Leadership and Hope

This season also marks a celebration: Mimi Jalmasco, formerly the Head of Education, has stepped into her new role as Deputy Director of VODW. After finally gaining her legal status in the UK, her journey shines as a beacon of hope. “I have been through the same struggles as many of our members,” Mimi shared. “Now, in this new role, I want to give back even more, to make sure no domestic worker is left behind.”

At The Voice of Domestic Workers, every lesson is more than knowledge — it is empowerment, solidarity, and a step toward justice. Together, we rise through learning.

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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.