Building a career in the UAE as a Marketing Specialist, she has spent five years navigating the ups and downs of life as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW). Known as Zahra after reverting to Islam, Rossette C. Lamparas has demonstrated resilience and determination in overcoming challenges and achieving professional growth.
Rossette graduated in 2013 with a degree in Mass Communication, majoring in Broadcasting, from Centro Escolar University, Manila. Her early career highlights include working at Malacañang Palace, contributing news articles, and serving as a Sales Representative at an IT company in Cainta, Rizal. She later joined an advertising company in Mandaluyong as an Administrative Assistant, where she supported the Strategic Business Unit Head and wrote news articles for brands like NutriAsia and Silver Swan.
In 2019, Rossette took a leap of faith and moved to Abu Dhabi despite having no close relatives in the region. Her first job was as a Cashier cum Customer Service staff in a hypermarket. Reflecting on the experience, she shares with The Global Filipino Magazine, “First work, worst experience. Staff favoritism and unfair treatment were rampant.” After six months, she resigned, coinciding with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Career progression and challenges
The pandemic brought its own challenges, but Rossette’s determination remained steadfast. “My cousin in Abu Dhabi took me in temporarily while I was jobless,” she shares. By September 2020, she secured a position as an Admin Cashier in a newly opened supermarket. This role marked a turning point, offering stability and a supportive work environment. A year later, she transitioned to a better role at a prominent hypermarket, describing it as “the best employer I’ve had.”
Rossette’s aspirations in marketing motivated her to become a freelancer in 2022. She joined The Freelance Movement Tribe, a Philippine-based community that fosters mutual support among freelancers. “The motto, ‘Come from a place of help,’ resonates deeply with me,” she says. By 2023, she had become a team leader, managing a lean team of 13 members and outsourcing projects to clients worldwide.
In October 2023, Rossette achieved her dream role as a Marketing Specialist, focusing on brand enhancement and growth strategies. “I’ve always been passionate about storytelling and building connections. Marketing gives me the platform to creatively communicate a brand’s value and reach the right audience,” she explains. The role involves crafting innovative campaigns, leveraging social media, and aligning product strategies with audience needs.
Rossette finds immense fulfillment in her work. “Seeing how my efforts lead to measurable results—whether it’s growing online presence, increased engagement, or revenue growth—is truly satisfying,” she says. Her passion for collaboration and problem-solving shines through as she helps businesses and their customers succeed.
Struggles and triumphs in the UAE
Life abroad has not been without hardships. Rossette recounts a traumatic experience of being harmed by two fellow Filipinos due to envy. “I had them jailed for four days, but the fear and trauma lingered. It got to the point where I nearly attempted suicide,” she reveals. The experience left her unable to leave her house alone for a month.
A turning point came when Rossette connected with her freelancing community, which provided the emotional and spiritual support she needed. “I realized the importance of a genuine support system. My current circle lifts each other up—discussing business and faith over casual meetings.”
Despite the challenges, Rossette appreciates the peace and opportunities the UAE offers. “The environment here allows me to grow both professionally and personally,” she shares. Her experience has taught her resilience, adaptability, and the value of surrounding oneself with supportive people.
Looking ahead, Rossette dreams of returning to the Philippines with financial independence. “I want to register my digital marketing business, buy a house and lot, and travel with my mom,” she shares. Her ultimate goal is to achieve financial freedom. “I hope to reach a point where I can live comfortably for two to three years without working.”
For her fellow Filipinos facing difficulties abroad, Rossette emphasizes faith and perseverance. “Always pray, seek help from God, and follow His way—regardless of your religion. Everything will be okay because you’re aligning with His will.”
