From pouring coffee to inspiring thousands online, Jennalyn Flores Caisip’s journey is one of resilience, passion, and self-discovery. With almost 17 years of experience working abroad, Jennalyn has transformed her career from being a barista to a social media marketing professional, all while overcoming significant life challenges.
Jennalyn, originally from Concepcion, Tarlac, arrived in Dubai in 2008 as a barista at Costa Coffee, earning AED 1,200 a month. She quickly climbed the ranks, becoming a supervisor before shifting to sales promotion under a pharmaceutical company, where she spent 14 years. Today, she works as a Social Media Marketing professional at Al Raha HRC Dubai, helping aspiring applicants navigate their way abroad. “I enjoy what I do, especially knowing that I can help kabayans achieve their dream of working overseas without charging them a single dirham,” she shares.
Her decision to work abroad was fueled by a familiar aspiration among many Filipinos—the pursuit of a better life. Even before setting foot in Dubai, Jennalyn was already a hardworking individual. At 17, she worked as a sales clerk at SM Bacoor before becoming a crew member at Jollibee SM Molino. She later took a TESDA course in housekeeping before seizing the opportunity to work overseas. “Back then, I just tried my luck with an agency in Makati, passed the interview for Costa Coffee, and before I knew it, I was already in Dubai by July 13, 2008.”
Working overseas, however, has been far from easy. “It’s a rollercoaster ride,” she says. “It all depends on how you choose to handle it.” The biggest challenge she faced happened in 2022 when she suffered a mild stroke due to overworking. “I had been juggling multiple jobs, going to the gym, acting after work—I felt unstoppable until my body finally gave in.”
Her hospitalization became a turning point. “It was heartbreaking. I had to pause everything and relearn the simplest things—standing, walking, even taking a bath on my own after two weeks of being bedridden.” Her mother, her biggest supporter, urged her to return home to recover, but Jennalyn decided to push through in Dubai. “I told her I would be okay. I prayed hard, asking for another chance at life, and promised that I would focus on spreading joy instead.”
This realization led to the birth of ‘Pinay Indian Accent,’ her online persona that has since gained traction on social media. Through her content, she not only entertains but also uplifts fellow OFWs who face similar struggles. “It all started as a way to lighten up my days, but it turned into something bigger—something that brings happiness to others.”
Her resilience and passion also extend to acting. She was recently awarded Best Supporting Actress at the Emirates Film Festival 2025 for her role in Abnegasyon, a film by UBE Production directed by Markus Enginiero. “Out of 400+ movies, I was blessed to be part of this film. It’s one of my biggest achievements.”
Looking ahead, Jennalyn’s dreams are simple yet meaningful. “I just want to continue bringing joy to others, especially to our Aeta brothers and sisters in Capas, even in small ways.” She places her faith in God’s plans, believing that wherever He leads her, she will be guided. “I don’t ask for what I want anymore. I just follow what He has in store for me.”
For fellow OFWs struggling abroad, her advice is straightforward: “Be strong, trust in the Lord, and take care of yourself—especially your health. Save for your future and always be kind.” She also emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with genuine people. “Not everyone who acts kind has good intentions. Choose the ones who stay by your side, even when they have nothing to gain from you.”
As for love, Jennalyn humorously admits she has no advice to give. “I don’t have that,” she laughs. “But one thing’s for sure—when you leave the Philippines, do it with a dream. When you come back, make sure you have a family to return to and an even bigger dream to fulfill.”
Her parting words are a reflection of her journey: “Great things will come your way as long as you don’t let envy take over and you don’t compare yourself to others.”
