In an era where the narrative of the global Filipino continues to evolve, stories of audacity, resilience, and faith emerge. Liezle Lorraile Demis Alicda, affectionately known as Queen Ziara, epitomizes the modern OFW’s journey. At 28, her roles are as diverse as they are impressive: a realtor, entrepreneur, fitness instructor, facialist, and vlogger, affiliated with renowned names like Century Properties and KNQ Kitchen Resto, among others.
Reflecting on her journey, Queen Ziara shares with The Global Filipino Magazine, “I’m a young woman who has a strong faith in God while working hard to get what I am dreaming of.”
Her narrative is a tapestry of bold decisions, anchored in her mantra, “Work hard, pray harder. Faith it until you make it.”
After completing her Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management, Queen Ziara quickly realized that her aspirations surpassed the opportunities available in the Philippines.
“Although I was happy that I started working in a beauty clinic, I didn’t want to waste my time in the Philippines having a low salary compared to working abroad,” she recalls.
This stark realization propelled her move to the UAE, marking the onset of her international journey.
Navigating through initial setbacks due to her non-internationally accredited aesthetic documents, she persevered, eventually diversifying her skills.
“I didn’t lose hope,” she states, reflecting on her transition from a sales-cum-cashier role to exploring the fitness industry, and eventually joining Century Properties as a realtor.
Not one to settle, she further amplified her portfolio by investing in KNQ Kitchen Resto and vlogging for KNQ Events Management.
But every success story is fraught with challenges. Queen Ziara’s experience abroad was no exception. From enduring betrayals and bullying to confronting professional hurdles, her journey was anything but smooth. Yet, her strategy for such adversities was rooted in her faith.
“Strong faith in God is all I have in me that kept me being positive-minded every day,” she confides, acknowledging the role of her supportive family and true friends.
Her resolve has been equally evident in her professional life. As a realtor, she finds joy in assisting fellow Filipinos in securing investments back home. Her roles as a facialist and a personal trainer are driven by a passion for enhancing others’ well-being, an ethos she extends to her vlogging endeavors by promoting start-ups and sharing positivity.
For Queen Ziara, working overseas is more than a financial decision.
“It’s not just about the financial growth but also for my spiritual growth. Being alone will really challenge your faith in God,” she reflects.
And despite the struggles, she appreciates the personal evolution her journey has necessitated.
“In working here in UAE for 5 years, I can say that I became stronger, bolder, smarter, and wiser.”
Looking ahead, Queen Ziara’s aspirations are a blend of entrepreneurial ambition and social advocacy. She dreams of opening a ‘Home for the Aged’ in Baguio City, Philippines, a plan inspired by her profound love for her grandparents and empathy for the elderly.
To those grappling with challenges abroad, Queen Ziara offers heartfelt advice: uphold strong faith, prioritize health, nurture genuine relationships, practice financial wisdom, and above all, cultivate self-love.
Her narrative underscores the importance of inner resilience, a message she hopes to imprint on the hearts of many: “No matter what is happening in our lives, always know that there is God who’s watching over us. We are always blessed by our Almighty God!”
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This article has been published in Volume 4, Issue 6 of The Global Filipino Magazine. If you have a unique life story or know someone who does, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us at eic@theglobalfilipinomagazine.com. If you’re interested in obtaining a print copy of the magazine, please contact Mr. JP Cosico at +971 54 482 0661.