Every journey begins with a single step, but for Filipino hospitality professional Leilee Dela Torre, the road to Europe was built through faith, perseverance, and the courage to embrace a new beginning.
After spending four meaningful years in Dubai following the COVID-19 pandemic, Lei has officially started a new chapter in Albania, bringing with her valuable international experience and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Dubai became more than just a workplace—it became a place of growth. Living in one of the world’s most diverse and safest cities allowed her to experience many life-changing milestones, made even more special by sharing them with her twin sister. Surrounded by people from different cultures, nationalities, and religions, she found a community that embraced diversity and made her feel genuinely welcomed.
However, as one chapter came to an end, life presented unexpected challenges.
Earlier this year, her mother was hospitalized, she lost her job due to company redundancy brought about by regional business impacts, and before her residency visa was even cancelled, her father passed away. It became one of the most difficult seasons of her life.
Just when everything seemed uncertain, an opportunity in Albania appeared.
Believing it was God’s way of providing a fresh start, Lei accepted the offer. In just 35 days, her European work visa was approved through a smooth and efficient process, allowing her to begin a new career without unnecessary delays.
She credits Phil Pro Consultancies for making that transition possible, especially acknowledging Sir Jover Dela Cruz for his dedication to helping Filipinos secure meaningful employment opportunities abroad.
“I truly admire how he continues to raise the Filipino flag by connecting the right talent with the right companies,” Lei shared.
Today, Lei works in a unique agri-resort in Albania, where her daily environment is a complete contrast to the fast-paced lifestyle she experienced in Dubai.
Instead of towering skyscrapers and busy city streets, she now enjoys peaceful surroundings, fresh air, nature, and meaningful interactions with guests. What she values most about her work is the opportunity to connect with people face-to-face, hear their stories, and create memorable experiences through genuine hospitality.
Although the resort has yet to officially open, it recently welcomed nearly 2,900 guests and approximately 750 vehicles during a successful two-night car camping event. The overwhelming positive feedback from visitors reinforced her belief that the destination has enormous tourism potential and offers an experience unlike any other in Albania.
Looking ahead, Lei is excited to welcome travelers from around the world, build lasting connections, and contribute to making every guest’s stay unforgettable.
Beyond her career, she continues to pursue another passion—travel.
She believes every destination reflects God’s beautiful creation and considers the opportunity to explore the world one of life’s greatest blessings. Having already visited several countries while living in Dubai, she now looks forward to discovering more of Europe from her new home in Albania, embracing its rich history, diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and the people she will meet along the way.
Lei Dela Torre journey is a testament to resilience, faith, and the courage to embrace change. Her story reminds aspiring Overseas Filipino Workers that setbacks do not define the future. Sometimes, life’s greatest opportunities arrive when we least expect them.
Through determination, trust in God, and the support of the right people, one closed door in Dubai became the gateway to a promising new beginning in Europe.
