Some things are so unexpected that no one is prepared for them. The case of Leslie Baptista, a Filipina professional based in Dubai, is much akin to this old adage.
While finishing her college degree in the Philippines, she was a working student. Leslie worked at fast-food chains, malls, and local government units before heading to Dubai in 2007 when she was only 22, married, and had a four-year-old son.
When Leslie settled in the emirate, she worked as a photo editor at a photo studio. In the same year, she moved to the hospitality industry and began working as a receptionist in a hotel apartment, where she honed her skills and became a talented multitasker, able to manage multiple ongoing situations without breaking a sweat.
A year later, she thought it was time to climb the corporate ladder and be part of a higher-standard hotel in Dubai, specifically a four-star deluxe hotel. Her role at the hotel varied from guest service agent to hotel apartment officer to executive secretary for more than six years.
Leslie witnessed her career grow year by year until, in 2014, she was offered the position of assistant manager for operations and human resources for a group of companies that operates a hotel and restaurant.
Her career flourished further when she became the head of the human resource department of a leading higher education institution in Dubai.
Because of her enthusiasm for her craft, she now works as the Group HR Manager and Head of Booster Group at Bayan Holding, a mother company with multiple subsidiaries in the UAE.
“I enjoy being with people from different backgrounds. They’re teaching me a lot, and I love it. Though I do it in a small way, I feel passionate about mentoring people. Kind people who are always willing to help others are my favorite,” she said.
“It was for this reason that I was motivated to choose to be in the Human Resources field. I am not claiming to be a kind person like them, but I am constantly striving to be kind to others. Mentoring people and fulfilling their dreams make me feel satisfied. Being one of the instruments that help them reach their goals is very rewarding for me,” she added.
Leslie never thought she would make it to where she is right now. Working overseas, for her, was like getting what she deserved.
“It is here where you can live a fair life, where if you strive hard, you will achieve what you deserve. I had a very simple dream. I just thought that I’d come work here and get a junior position until I return to the Philippines for good. It was just about providing for my family’s basic needs. Nothing else. But I think God has a better plan. He’ll give you what you deserve, sometimes even more,” the enthusiastic, seasoned HR professional said.
Enriching oneself
For Leslie, struggles are part of life. “That’s what everyone goes through before they achieve something,” she said.
Since she was a child, she has been interested in learning about things, how they work, and their purpose. Her curiosity led her to help others, even if it wasn’t her job.
Since studying and working are both parts of her life, she took all her free time to attend training programs, enroll in vocational courses, and learn anything she could.
She also revealed struggling with people around her because of the cutthroat competition in the industry.
“Competition was too fierce. There’s always misjudgment, racism, etc. Some people around me didn’t believe in me. Thanks to my husband and best friends (I’ve had three best friends in Dubai since 2008) who pushed me and supported me. They’re sent from above to keep me going. I got rejected many times, cried, and stopped dreaming,” she said.
“I have, however, always been motivated and encouraged by them. They always make me feel I am the best and hardest working person they know. Thus, I continued my journey by looking up to them and my family and believing God was always by my side. Up to this point, I have continued to fight and remain strong,” the grateful Leslie said.
Her only son is expected to finish university in two years. Having only one child, she plans to be start a company in Dubai or back home.
“It’s a dream come true to be in this position, but I also dream about owning a business, not just managing it,” she added.
When asked about her advice to her fellow Filipinos, Leslie said to keep going despite the obstacles and be resilient and ready to bounce back. Take risks despite adversity and initial setbacks, she added. “Keep a positive attitude throughout every struggle. It is tough to live abroad, especially at the beginning. However, I would advise you not to let those struggles discourage you. Do not doubt your abilities. It is okay to put yourself under pressure. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Put your faith in yourself. You need to work on your dreams, and I’m sure you’ll succeed. Do good always and keep God at the center