Picture this: a young man from the simplicity of Pampanga, suddenly thrust into the bustling streets of Doha, Qatar, armed with little more than a ticket and a visa, courtesy of a friend’s unexpected gesture. That’s how Adrian Galang Valencia’s adventure began nearly two decades ago. Now, as he sits amidst the vibrant ambiance of Dubai, his story unfolds, revealing the twists and turns that have shaped his remarkable journey.
Adrian’s narrative is one of serendipity and struggle. “I started working abroad in 2002, thanks to a friend who offered me a chance in Doha,” Adrian shares with The Global Filipino Magazine, his voice tinged with the nostalgia of that pivotal moment.
Yet, what initially seemed like a stroke of luck soon turned into a series of challenges.
“My friend’s intentions weren’t as noble as I thought,” Adrian admits, recalling the betrayal he faced, including demands for repayment of expenses incurred.
Undeterred, he ventured to Dubai, only to encounter further setbacks.
In the face of adversity, Adrian’s resilience shone through. Joining Azadea marked a turning point in his journey, providing him with stability and purpose. As a local coordinator, he navigates the bustling corridors of Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates with precision, managing his time effectively to ensure optimal performance across various stores.
“I cherish the freedom and independence my role offers,” Adrian reflects.
Navigating challenges with resolve
Adrian’s journey is not just about personal triumphs but also about overcoming the pervasive challenges that confront many expatriates.
“The prevalence of visa and employment scams is a stark reality,” Adrian acknowledges, emphasizing the importance of resilience in navigating such obstacles.
His mantra is simple yet profound: “Once you go abroad, you must have a strong resolve.”
Looking ahead, Adrian’s aspirations extend beyond professional success.
“I want to use my experiences to create vlogs that offer valuable insights and assistance to others,” he shares, a spark of passion igniting his gaze.
For Adrian, it’s about paying it forward and empowering others to navigate their own journeys with confidence and resilience.
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This article has been published in Volume 4, Issue 9 of The Global Filipino Magazine. If you have a unique life story or know someone who does, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us at eic@theglobalfilipinomagazine.com. If you’re interested in obtaining a print copy of the magazine, please contact Mr. JP Cosico at +971 54 482 0661.