I want to turn my struggles into strength and my voice into a light — to inspire and speak up for my fellow migrant workers who feel unheard. By sharing my story, I hope they’ll see that they are not alone, and that their voices matter too.
Biography
My name is Ritchel. I’m 41 years old, a wife, and a mother of two beautiful children who are my heart and soul. I was born into a humble family in the Philippines, and it was through the kindness and hard work of my aunties — who were working abroad — that I was able to pursue and complete my education. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Psychology, carrying with me the dreams not just of myself, but of my entire family.
Before I left the Philippines, I worked as a sales clerk, an HR data entry staff member, and eventually as a school teacher. I poured myself into every role, hoping each step would bring me closer to stability for my family. But even with education and effort, opportunities were still limited, and so I made the difficult decision to leave home and work overseas. I spent 11 long years working in Singapore as a domestic worker — sacrificing time, presence, and even pieces of myself to ensure my children had what they needed.
Eventually, my employer brought me to London. I hoped for something better, but instead, I was met with cruelty. I endured verbal and physical abuse, stripped not only of my rights but of my dignity. It was one of the darkest chapters of my life. But in that darkness, I found a light — The Voice of Domestic Workers.
They rescued me — not just physically, but emotionally. They gave me tools to start over, the strength to believe in myself again, and the support to rebuild a life I thought I had lost. Through their advocacy and education programmes, I slowly began to heal, learn, and stand tall again.
I believe with all my heart that every human being — no matter their background, job, or status — deserves at the very least the dignity of basic human rights. We are not invisible. We are not disposable. We are people with dreams, with families, and with hearts full of hope.
Now, as I join Future Voices Revolution 2025, I am stepping into a new purpose. I want to grow, to learn, and to become the face and voice of this powerful movement. I want to represent those who are still trapped in silence and fear. I want to inspire, to educate, and to raise my voice not only for myself — but for all of us who have been pushed aside.
This is more than a programme to me. This is my second chance to turn pain into power and to walk forward not just as Ritchel the survivor, but as Ritchel the changemaker.
