When people think about success abroad, they often imagine a glamorous picture—steady pay, beautiful cities, and endless opportunities. But for many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), the road to success is paved with grit, sacrifice, and an unshakable drive to create a better life. For 29-year-old Jun Francis Paniza, that road began humbly, with a single goal: to make something meaningful out of the chance he was given.
Starting from scratch in a new country
Jun was just 20 when he left the Philippines to work in the United Arab Emirates. Like many first-time OFWs, his decision came with uncertainty and fear—but also hope. “I began my career abroad at the age of 20, driven by the goal of gaining experience and building a stable future,” he shared with TGFM.
Landing in Ajman, he wasted no time finding his footing. “I was determined to secure a job quickly so that my visa wouldn’t go to waste,” he recalled. Within two weeks, he got his first break—a barista position at a shisha café earning AED 1,800. Life wasn’t easy. He admitted struggling with food allowances and expenses, but that experience became his foundation.
After a year of learning the ropes in customer service, Jun took a bold leap. “I applied to multiple companies—more than five—and eventually landed positions that aligned more closely with my career goals.” The risk paid off. Through determination and an eagerness to learn, he steadily climbed the ranks in the competitive food and beverage industry.
Today, Jun serves as both Multi-Unit Manager and Area Beverage Manager at Belhasa Hospitality L.L.C, overseeing coffee shop operations across multiple branches. His responsibilities extend beyond daily management—he leads teams, refines beverage menus, and ensures that customers enjoy not just great coffee but a consistent experience. “My journey shows the value of persistence and self-belief,” he said.
Brewing passion and leadership
When asked what keeps him inspired after nine years abroad, Jun’s answer is simple—passion. “I’ve always had a strong passion for coffee culture, customer service, and team development,” he said. For him, leadership isn’t just about giving instructions; it’s about creating an environment where others can thrive.
“What I truly appreciate about my current role is the opportunity to lead, inspire, and contribute to the growth of the business,” he explained. “Being in the food and beverage industry allows me to combine creativity with leadership—whether it’s introducing new beverage concepts, improving store performance, or motivating staff to reach their potential.”
What brings him the most satisfaction, however, is not the title—it’s witnessing growth, both in the business and in people. “The most satisfying aspect of my work is seeing the positive impact of my efforts—whether it’s through increased customer satisfaction, improved sales, or watching team members grow and succeed in their own careers.”
Every day in Dubai’s F&B scene presents challenges, but Jun thrives in its fast-paced rhythm. “It’s fulfilling to be part of an environment where every day brings new challenges and opportunities to improve,” he said. For him, the industry is more than just work—it’s a craft that keeps evolving, and he’s determined to evolve with it.
Working overseas, Jun adds, has also broadened his worldview. “It has given me valuable exposure to different cultures, work environments, and customer expectations,” he said. Managing a multicultural team has honed his communication and adaptability skills, shaping him into a confident and compassionate leader.
Rising through hardship and honoring his mother’s memory
Behind Jun’s success is a story of deep personal loss that changed how he viewed life and work. “One of the most difficult challenges I faced while settling abroad was when my mother became ill,” he said. At the time, his salary was low, and he couldn’t provide the financial support she needed. “I reached out to several people for help—some were kind enough to assist, but most could not. It was one of the hardest times in my life, feeling helpless while being far from home.”
When his mother passed away, the pain was unbearable. “She was my biggest motivation for working abroad and building a better life,” he shared. “Even though I couldn’t help her as much as I wanted, I made a promise to myself—and to her—that I would continue working hard and become someone she would be proud of, even from heaven.”
It was that promise that gave Jun strength when life tested him most. “What kept me going during that time was the memory of her strength and sacrifices,” he said. He looked up to her not just as a parent but as a symbol of resilience. “Her love and the dream I carried for our future became my driving force. Despite the emotional pain, I used that struggle to fuel my determination, and it helped shape me into the person and professional I am today.”
Through this experience, Jun learned one of life’s hardest lessons: that even pain can be turned into purpose. His mother’s memory continues to guide him in every decision—both at work and in life.
Looking ahead: giving back and building dreams
After nearly a decade abroad, Jun is already thinking about the next chapter of his journey. “Once I complete my tenure abroad, my goal is to return home and use the knowledge, experience, and leadership skills I’ve gained to start my own business—ideally in the food and beverage industry,” he said.
But his plans go beyond personal success. He wants to open opportunities for others. “I want to create jobs and mentorship programs for young professionals who are just starting their careers, especially those who may not have access to many resources.”
Jun also hopes to promote financial literacy and family welfare among overseas workers. “I’ve experienced the struggles of being far from home and the challenges of supporting loved ones on a limited income, so I want to help others prepare better and build more stable futures.” For him, success is most meaningful when shared. “Ultimately, I want to build a life that honors my late mother’s memory—one rooted in hard work, service to others, and making a positive impact in my community.”
A message for every Filipino abroad
Having experienced both hardship and growth, Jun’s message to his fellow OFWs is heartfelt. “Life abroad is not always as easy as it seems. Many of us left home with big dreams but had to face tough challenges—whether in love, finances, work, or dealing with people we thought we could trust.”
He encourages others to stay grounded. “Stay focused on your goals and never lose sight of why you came abroad in the first place,” he said. “Learn to manage your finances wisely—save as much as you can, avoid unnecessary debts, and always think long-term.”
On relationships, he offers caution. “Be careful who you trust. Not everyone who smiles at you has good intentions. Surround yourself with people who genuinely support and uplift you.”
For Jun, resilience is key. “If you’re going through hard times, don’t be afraid to ask for help—but also be prepared to help yourself first. Grow your skills, take every opportunity to learn, and always stay humble.”
His final words capture the spirit that drives every OFW far from home: “Your sacrifices today will pay off in the future. Always remember your purpose and your loved ones back home. Let that be your motivation to keep going, no matter how hard the road gets. We are strong, and we are capable of overcoming anything with faith, patience, and determination.”
