My name is Rolyn, I am 39 years old, and I was born and raised in the Philippines. I grew up in a poor family and was separated from my parents when I was five years old and my late grandmother raised me. 

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From a young age, I learned the meaning of responsibility and hard work. After finishing primary school, I went to Manila to work as a housemaid and nanny. 

 

After several years, one of my employers gave me the opportunity to return to school. At 16, I started Grade 7 and eventually continued to college. I became a working student, balancing my studies with work and supporting myself without financial help from my family. I always reminded myself that nothing lasts forever and every difficult moment will eventually pass.

 

After graduating, I became a mother to a son, but my relationship ended and I was left heartbroken. Hoping to build a better future, I made the painful decision to leave my son and family behind and work abroad.

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However, working overseas brought another difficult chapter in my life. I experienced abuse, exploitation, discrimination, long working hours, low wages, and a lack of proper food and rest. There were moments when I felt that I had no voice and that my dignity did not matter simply because I was a domestic worker.

 

My life began to change when I came to the United Kingdom and found The Voice of Domestic Workers. They became my second family. They supported me, gave me hope, and helped me understand my rights and my value as a woman, a mother, and a worker.