Finding the right path in life isn’t always straightforward—sometimes, it takes unexpected turns and challenges to get there. For Kim Dayrren Andaya, what started as an unplanned trip to Dubai eventually led him to a thriving career in photography and videography. Now working with the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) in Abu Dhabi, his journey abroad has been anything but conventional, filled with trials, self-discovery, and a relentless drive to build a stable future for himself and his loved ones.
Kim’s story began in May 2019 when he first arrived in Dubai. Unlike many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who plan their move meticulously, Kim’s journey started by chance. “Wala naman talaga akong balak mag-abroad,” he shares with The Global Filipino Magazine. The initial trip was intended to be a vacation to visit his mother, who had been working in the UAE for years. It was his sister who found a seat sale to Dubai, and they decided to take the opportunity to reunite with their mother. However, that short visit turned into something more profound.
Growing up in the Philippines under the care of his grandmother, Kim was no stranger to the struggles of having parents who worked abroad. His mother had to leave to support the family, while his father had started a new family. This situation led Kim to believe that working abroad was not for him. “Ang isip ko noon, nasa ibang bansa naman sila, bakit pa ako magtatrabaho doon? Pwede naman akong humingi na lang,” he shares candidly. However, life had different plans for him.
Overcoming struggles and finding a purpose
Kim describes his younger years as reckless, admitting that he had made many mistakes. “Late na talaga ako natuto sa buhay. Laking kalye kasi talaga ako,” he confesses. But everything changed when he saw his mother’s health declining. It was then that he realized he needed to step up. During one of their family conversations, his mother encouraged him and his sister to try applying for jobs in Dubai. Kim recalls how difficult that period was. “Pinaka mahirap na nangyari sa buhay ko ang mag-apply dito,” he says, emphasizing how his lack of English skills and professional experience made job hunting incredibly challenging.
For four months, Kim struggled to find work. He applied to countless jobs with his sister always by his side, translating and helping him through interviews. “Dumating sa punto na napagod na ako, gusto ko na lang bumalik sa Pilipinas. Feeling ko, hindi talaga para sa akin ito,” he shares. At one point, he even worked for free just to gain experience and connections. But just as he was about to give up, his sister reminded him, “Kim, laban pa. Tandaan mo, walang magandang kwento kung walang pangit na pagdaraanan.” Those words reignited his determination.
Then, opportunities started coming his way. He received multiple job offers, allowing him to choose the one that best suited him. Looking back, he sees that challenging journey as something beautiful in hindsight. “Ang haba, ang bigat, at ang saklap nung journey ko dito, pero masasabi kong sobrang ganda nung kwento na nangyari sa buhay ko,” he reflects.
A diverse career path leading to passion
Kim has worn many hats throughout his career. Before working abroad, he had been a sales associate, waiter, construction worker, freelance videographer, and call center agent. Each job provided him with valuable lessons, but his passion always leaned towards photography and videography.
Now, working at DCT Abu Dhabi, he finds immense satisfaction in his role. “Sobrang saya ko sa trabaho ko, kahit minsan nakakapagod,” he says. His work allows him to be part of Abu Dhabi’s tourism scene, covering high-profile events and capturing moments with world-renowned artists, athletes, and celebrities. “Nakikita ko na yung mga sikat na dumadating—vloggers, artists, singers, bands—halos lahat, nakasama at na-cover ko na,” he says, listing some of the biggest names he’s worked with, including NBA, UFC, F1, Travis Scott, Maroon 5, Eminem, Coldplay, and Scorpions.
Beyond the exciting events, Kim appreciates the security and financial stability that working overseas provides. “Dito pa lang sa dalawang bagay na sasabihin ko, panalo na talaga—yung safety ng lugar at yung malaking sahod,” he shares.
Despite his success, Kim’s journey was not without struggles. Finding his first job was one of the toughest challenges he faced. He also encountered discrimination and bullying from fellow Filipinos. “May mga hindi maganda ang pakikitungo sa akin, kahit wala naman akong ginagawang masama,” he recalls. However, instead of letting negativity bring him down, he focused on the people who genuinely cared for him.
Marriage also gave Kim a new perspective on life. “Lagi kong iniisip kung anong future ang maibibigay ko sa asawa ko,” he shares. Coming from a broken family, he wants to ensure that his wife and future children never experience the hardships he went through. “Ginagawa ko ang best ko para magkaroon ng simple at maayos na buhay sila, pati na rin ang nanay at ate ko,” he adds.
Looking ahead: Dreams and aspirations
Kim’s goals for the future are simple yet meaningful. His biggest dream is to have a small business and a home in the Philippines where he and his wife can settle down. “Okay na ako dun,” he says. However, his passion for videography remains strong, and he hopes to create short films in the Philippines someday.
Having experienced the ups and downs of working abroad, Kim has a heartfelt message for his fellow Filipinos:
“To my fellow Filipinos working and living abroad, I know that the journey can be incredibly tough at times. You might feel homesick, overwhelmed, or even discouraged, but remember, you’re not alone. Even though you’re far away, try to maintain connections with your family and friends.”
One of the biggest lessons he learned is the value of trusting others. “Try nyo pa rin magtiwala sa mga taong nakapaligid sa inyo. Isa yan sa naging susi ko kung paano ko naabot ang kinalalagyan ko ngayon,” he says. For Kim, respect is essential, no matter who you encounter. “Minsan, yung hindi mo inaasahang tao, sila pala yung tutulong sa’yo,” he adds.
Kim also believes in helping others without expecting anything in return. “Lagi mong tingnan o balikan yung nakaraan kung nasaan ka dati. Don’t forget, all success has someone behind it—bad or good man yan,” he reflects. Even negative experiences have their purpose. “May mga gumamit sa akin para kumita sila, pero imbes na magalit, thankful ako kasi natuto ako,” he shares.
At the end of the day, Kim emphasizes the importance of family and faith. “Lagi mong isama sa goal mo ang pamilya mo at laging tumawag sa mahal na Panginoon,” he concludes.
