Maria Gill, a 36-year-old business owner based in the United Kingdom, exemplifies the spirit of resilience and ambition. A mother of three, Maria’s journey from managing a resort in Puerto Galera to becoming a notable figure in the UK horse racing scene is a story of determination and triumph.
“Karma is real. It comes in different forms, so what goes around comes around. Always choose kindness, and you’ll be blessed,” she shares as her life mantra, reflecting her philosophy of kindness and hard work.
Maria’s initial steps in the UK were humble. She took on various roles, including working in a nursing home, cleaning houses, and managing rental properties in Pampanga. Despite the challenges, Maria never lost sight of her dreams.
“Life in the Philippines was difficult. I was the breadwinner, so I decided to work abroad. Even with two jobs in the Philippines, earning 50,000 pesos a month wasn’t enough to cover all the bills and school fees,” Maria shares with The Global Filipino Magazine.
Her passion for horses, sparked by childhood memories of watching Mikee Cojuangco on jump shows, found a new avenue when she moved to the UK in 2015.
“When I first came to the UK, I was surprised by how popular horse racing was here. It’s one of the most popular sports, and even the Royal Family is active in it,” Maria explains.
Attending major horse racing events like Royal Ascot and Qatar Glorious Goodwood, Maria initially enjoyed the social aspect.
“I prayed to God that I could have my own horses racing here. I started by buying small shares in horses from different syndicates until 2021, when I set up my own as a sole proprietor,” she adds.
Her breakthrough came with Thunder Moor, a horse that not only competed but also won in the prestigious Bahrain Turf Series.
“One of my horses, Thunder Moor, was invited to the Bahrain Turf Series. The Bahrain government covered the expenses and treated me like a VIP. My horse won first place, earning $48,000,” Maria shares proudly.
Her experiences in Bahrain were marked by the hospitality and kindness of the locals, including dining with His Highness Sheikh Salman Bin Rashed Al Khalifa.
Maria’s journey in the horse racing industry is not without its challenges, particularly as an Asian woman in a predominantly white, male-dominated field.
“It’s a struggle being an Asian. People are often shocked when they find out I’m the owner of the horse. In Bahrain, even fellow Filipinos couldn’t believe I was the only Asian owner there competing,” Maria says.
Despite the occasional discrimination, she remains undeterred.
“There was a time when someone assumed I was milking the government for being in the UK. It was a sad experience, but it taught me to stand up for myself,” she reflects.
Balancing her professional life with family responsibilities, Maria has made significant strides.
“I manage my businesses, care for my three children, and even attend college twice a week. I enjoy what I do because I love horses, and the corporate side of buying and selling shares helps boost my confidence,” she explains.
Her husband and children share her passion for horses, often accompanying her to races.
Looking ahead, Maria has plans to retire in Asia with her husband once their youngest child turns 18. She also aspires to help more people, especially children in her hometown, pursue their studies.
“I am helping a lot of relatives in the Philippines to finish their education. In the future, I want to help more people, especially children in my neighborhood, to pursue their studies,” she says.
Maria’s philanthropic efforts extend beyond her immediate family, as she has also funded small businesses and provided capital for sari-sari stores and pig farms.
“My advice to fellow Filipinos abroad is never to give up on your dreams. If you succeed, don’t forget where you came from. Keep the Filipino culture alive. We are known for being kind, humble, hardworking, and loving towards others,” she advises.
Her journey from the Philippines to the UK, overcoming numerous obstacles, and achieving remarkable success in the horse racing industry is a testament to her unwavering spirit and determination.
“Because of the horses, I have been able to help many people, treating four families to holidays in Turkey and friends to trips to Thailand and Macau. I have also brought my parents and siblings to the UK and other countries like Japan, Hong Kong, and Bali, letting them experience an extravagant lifestyle,” Maria concludes.
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This article has been published in Volume 4, Issue 12 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.