Growing up in a family of performers and talented teachers can be both a blessing and a burden. Eunice Sanchez, a passionate dancer and performer, experienced this dichotomy firsthand. Constant comparisons to her family’s talents impacted her confidence, but she remained proud of them and determined to pursue her love for dancing and performing. With the unwavering support of her family and friends, she learned to overcome doubts and push her boundaries in her artistic journey.
Eunice’s journey began with a Bachelor of Secondary Education majoring in MAPEH (Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Health). Despite her doubts and the weight of expectations, she successfully passed the Licensure Examination for Teachers. At just 20 years old, she took on the role of a P.E. professor and dance coordinator at STI College in Paranaque City.
“I was so young and inexperienced,” she shares with The Global Filipino Magazine, “but I knew I had to persevere.”
After two years, she applied to the Department of Education in Mabini, Batangas, where she was promoted to a Teacher II position in senior high school and continued to serve as a dance troupe coordinator.
Despite her dedication, Eunice faced numerous challenges and uncertainties.
“The demanding nature of being a DepEd teacher often made me question whether the sacrifices were worth the salary,” she admits.
An unexpected opportunity arose when her mother’s friend in Abu Dhabi offered her a job as a shadow teacher. Thrilled at the prospect of working abroad, Eunice eagerly accepted, only to find herself in an unexpected role—caring for a special needs child.
Initially disheartened, Eunice soon embraced her new role.
“I poured my heart into caring for the four-year-old with Down syndrome,” she shares.
This experience humbled her, teaching her the value of hard-earned money and giving her a newfound respect for nannies, especially Filipino nannies.
“It was a challenging yet rewarding experience,” she reflects.
Her dedication did not go unnoticed. Recognizing her true calling, her employer helped her transition to a school environment more suited to her talents. Eunice found her place at a school focused on music, dance, visual arts, and performing arts, catering to students of diverse nationalities.
“I cherished every moment,” she says.
“Dancing and playing with the children, watching their stage performances, and seeing them shine brought me immense joy.”
Through her students, Eunice learned invaluable lessons about her own skills and talents. She faced challenges such as discrimination from other nationalities, but she persevered.
“Talent transcends nationality,” she asserts.
“The cheers and applause from audiences affirmed my efforts.” After nearly six years at Jazzrockers Dubai, she felt immense gratitude for the support and trust of her colleagues and the parents.
Completing her contract with Jazzrockers, Eunice brought her experiences back to Abu Dhabi. At Mosaic Music and Dance Institute, she discovered new opportunities and challenges. Initially teaching ballet and gymnastics, she now also teaches hip-hop dance, a genre she had always dreamed of mastering.
“Through constant practice, I honed my skills and style,” she says, “and the welcoming environment here has been a refreshing change.”
The institute’s commitment to engaging kids and providing a supportive atmosphere fueled her passion even further.
“It’s a dynamic and inspiring place to teach and grow,” she remarks.
Her achievements are deeply meaningful to her, and she attributes much of her success to the unwavering support of her husband.
“His love and encouragement continually inspire me to exceed my own expectations,” she says. Her husband, a talented Harlem dancer and former champion turned chef, showcases his skills through live cooking shows.
“His performances, incorporating juggling and tricks with spatulas and knives, always impress me,” she adds.
Eunice feels immense gratitude to God for guiding her to the UAE, where she has flourished both personally and professionally.
“Meeting and connecting with people from diverse nationalities who share my passion for music has enriched my life beyond measure,” she says.
Reflecting on her upbringing, she cherishes the joyful memories of her family. “Music and dance were integral parts of our daily lives, creating a nurturing environment where creativity thrived,” she recalls.
Looking ahead, Eunice is surrendering everything to God’s plan, trusting in His guidance for the future. She dreams of returning to teaching at the college level with newfound confidence and establishing her own music and dance studio. Her husband also envisions owning a streetwear shop, inspired by their involvement in live selling and the vintage community.
Eunice’s advice to fellow Filipinos facing similar challenges is rooted in her own experiences. “Persevere and give your best efforts despite criticism,” she encourages. “Hard work, patience, and obedience are inherent traits among Filipinos. Prioritize your happiness and always find strength in prayer.”
To her fellow artists and performers who have faced comparisons and discouraging words, Eunice says, “Stay strong and keep moving forward. Believe in your God-given talents and abilities. Each of us excels in different ways, which is why we have such a rich diversity of genres and styles.”
This article has been published in Volume 5, Issue 2 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.