Life can’t beat up those people who won’t give up. Filipino couple and fighters Jayme and Miguel Valle lived a peaceful life together during the pre-pandemic era.
They both started working in one of the leading nightclubs and restaurants in the UAE. Jayme was food and drink runner at first before she was promoted to waitress a few months ago. There, she received some recognitions and awards from the company. Hard work really paid off—she was paid well and received a lot of commissions.
After being together for five years, Jayme and Migue finally decided to tie the knot in Dubai.
It was all harmonious until the pandemic distracted the world from greater threats–both in business and health. Both of their salaries were cut by 50 percent for almost a year, and they were out of work for seven months.
For them, it wasn’t an easy phase. They were left with two options: (1) apply for another company; (2) or go back home for good.
“We were very confused, yet we did not want to make impulsive decisions. While we waited, we focused on serving God,” Jayme said.
During those unprecedented times, they were actively serving in their church and leading life groups.
Believing in the omniscient’s perfect timing, their calling for their lives was finally revealed to them.
“Truly, true obedience brings blessings,” she said.
In April 2021, they opened their first food kiosk. When they announced it on their social media channels, they received inquiries from their families and friends, but some of the messages they received were discouraging.
The Filipino couple did not let the negativity overpower their aim.
They admitted that opening a business amid a pandemic was challenging as it requires quick, calculated steps, not to mention the new regulations imposed by the government from time to time.
“We all experience a lot of intense emotions in these ever-changing times, and we entrepreneurs are no exception. We are concerned and we try to do what’s best for our employees and customers. As the saying goes, “You can not pour from an empty cup.” That’s why it’s important that we take time to rest and take care of ourselves,” Jayme said.
The married couple is now happy and working full-time in their business that they call Potaters. They are planning to expand the business through franchising to other major cities in the UAE and soon outside the region.
Their goal is to have many stores so they can bring more people on board and provide business opportunities for their future franchisors.
Jayme, who is part of the usher ministry in their church, and Miguel, the ministry leader, aim to support their families, employees, and church by donating a portion of their profits to a charity.
“What I enjoy most about this business is the fact that every time you come to work, you make someone’s day a little better. This business is all about people. It’s about making people happy,” Miguel said.
“There are ups and downs, but that’s the beauty of it: there’s always room for innovation, and there will always be innovators,” he added.