For her, success is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure. Catherine Binafif, an overseas Filipino worker in Dubai who rose through the corporate ladder, believed in this principle.
Being far from her family was the biggest struggle she had to work hard to overcome when she moved to UAE in 2011. Jumping from one job to another, seeking the best opportunities that would benefit her financially and professionally, and meeting new people contributed well to who she is now.
For almost six years, Catherine worked as an archive clerk for an art gallery in Abu Dhabi. When she moved to another company, she learned the ropes of accounting, human resources, reception, and executive assistant before embarking on a journey in the academe, particularly at the Filipino Institute, a leading educational institution for Filipinos in the Middle East.
From working as a dean, she was promoted to academic director for virtual courses. Catherine said that having been part of the Filipino Institute is both an honor and a privilege because they get to help OFWs who wish to advance in their personal and professional careers.
As time passed, the young Filipina worker realized the importance of working in an environment that gives her peace of mind while giving her the opportunity to accomplish her goals.
Catherine was also able to pursue her studies and finished a diploma course that had been set aside for a long time.
“It opened the door of opportunity for learning while at the same time learning,” she added.
For her, the best part about working overseas is the chance to meet different people and witness various cultures in one place, while understanding and bridging unique differences with respect.
“Being independent, appreciating myself more and the experience that mold me to become a wiser and better person are the best part of working overseas,” she added.
After her two-year stint in the company, she returned to her previous work, a 3D printer distributor where she had worked for over two years prior to joining Filipino Institute, to play the role of logistics manager. In the position she currently holds, she ensures that the right products are delivered to the right location on time and at a good cost. She is also involved in transportation, stock control, warehousing, and monitoring the flow of their products.
She advised her fellow OFWs to dream and achieve them one by one.
“A dream does not become reality overnight; it takes sweat, determination, and hard work,” she further added.