Michelle Enriquez Ilaw is a 43-year-old Filipino woman who has been working abroad for 23 years. She is currently working as a secretary and receptionist in the administrative department of 4homes FZCo. Her job involves handling scheduling, meetings, travel planning, and preparing correspondence, LPOs, deliveries, arranging applicant interviews, and reports. She is known for being a detail-oriented, well-organized team player, never missing deadlines, and juggling multiple tasks at once. Michelle is passionate about improving the environment and hopes to take the next step in her career.
Michelle started working abroad when she was 20 years old in Brunei, where she worked as a service crew in a Chinese food chain before transferring to a 4-star hotel as a VIP Relation Officer. She handled VIP guests from various countries, delegates, businessmen, and others. She worked in Brunei for almost 7 years before moving to the UAE for a better career path.
One of the highlights of Michelle’s career is learning to come up with new ideas that improve things. She has worked on special projects, earned a new degree and certification while working full-time, been complimented by her superior’s supervisor or co-workers, contributed to good customer service, and was able to start her home-based baking business while working full-time.
Michelle opted to work abroad because she wanted to help her family, develop her professional skills, experience personal growth, gain insights into other cultures, and travel and explore outside her comfort zone.
Before working abroad, Michelle used to work as an operator in call centers like beepers/pagers and PLDT in the Philippines. However, she was not mature enough to handle responsibilities and took things lightly. When her cousin offered her a job in Brunei, she grabbed the opportunity and worked there for several years.
Michelle enjoys working at 4homes as she has learned that it is never too late to learn and be at her best. The courage and support she has received from everyone drive her to keep herself busy exploring new ideas and knowledge, especially when it comes to baking.
Working abroad allows Michelle and thousands of Filipinos to earn attractive salaries to help their families in the Philippines. It also gives her a great opportunity to learn about new cultures and gain work experience in different fields. She feels that her work experiences perfectly fit the scope of work required, making her the best candidate for her chosen career.
Michelle did not struggle much after moving abroad, but she encountered a few battles that broke her to pieces. However, she is a great believer in Allah and managed to pick herself up and continue her journey with the support of her family.
Michelle’s future plan is to open her bakery/coffee shop, where she can continue her passion for baking. She also plans to support her kids, nephews, and niece in following their dreams.
In conclusion, Michelle is an inspiring woman who has shown resilience, dedication, and passion for her work. Her experience working abroad has given her a broader perspective on life and a drive to continue learning and improving herself. Her story shows that with determination and hard work, anyone can achieve their goals and make a difference in their life and the lives of others.
