Starting from humble beginnings is a reality many Filipinos know well. Whether selling snacks on the street or working long hours in a retail store, perseverance and grit are often the stepping stones to success. Eloisa Carpio Oximina embodies this journey, proving that resilience, faith, and hard work can pave the way to extraordinary achievements.
Eloisa began her career abroad when she left the Philippines on February 2, 2006, landing in Dubai two days later. She started as a multi-task office staff handling administration, secretarial duties, cashiering, and storekeeping. “Working in a diverse environment with colleagues from India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and a Pakistani employer allowed me to develop strong interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills,” she shared with The Global Filipino Magazine. This experience became invaluable in her career, eventually leading to a promotion as Store & Admin Manager in 2009. In this role, she thrived in a fast-paced men’s fashion business, serving Emirati customers and working with a multinational team, building her confidence and adaptability.
Over the years, she honed her skills in marketing, corporate management, business development, consultancy, and recruitment. These experiences positioned her to lead multiple businesses, helping them expand in the UAE and beyond. Today, Eloisa is the Founder and CEO of Shelberg Technical Services LLC and IMC Employment Agency & Business Management Consultancy LLC, companies that offer services in construction, facilities management, recruitment, and business solutions. Leading with passion, she manages daily operations, strategic planning, and expansion into new markets across the GCC and Europe. “Every challenge is a chance to grow, and every milestone is a step toward making a meaningful impact,” she emphasized.
Eloisa’s decision to work abroad was driven by the desire to build a better future for her family. “At 20, I saw it as a chance to provide financial stability and improved opportunities for my loved ones. Leaving home was a sacrifice, but I embraced it with determination,” she explained. Like many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), her journey was fueled by the hope of creating a more secure future.
Her career path began long before she set foot in Dubai. She started as a street vendor, selling balut, itlog pugo, espasol, and buko pie, a childhood experience that taught her resilience and the ability to connect with people. At 13, she worked as a sales lady at Mahogany Market in Tagaytay, later joining Burger Machine as a service crew, a retail store in Olivarez, Tagaytay, and Robinsons Dasmariñas as a sales merchandiser. These jobs honed her customer service and communication skills. Taking a bold step, she launched her own mobile and accessories shop, marking her first entrepreneurial venture. She then shifted into administrative roles, working as an Admin Staff and Cashier at Reyes Haircutters, first in Tagaytay and later in Guadalupe.
Her professional journey in Dubai led her to various leadership and managerial positions across different industries, including business consultancy, recruitment, marketing, and corporate operations. Beyond business success, she has remained committed to helping fellow OFWs secure employment and mentorship opportunities. “From humble beginnings to achieving leadership roles in the international business landscape, my journey has been driven by hard work, determination, and an unwavering belief that success is built on perseverance,” she said.
For Eloisa, the most fulfilling aspect of her work is the ability to create a positive impact. “I chose this field because I love business development, recruitment, and management. It is incredibly fulfilling to guide businesses, streamline processes, and witness the success of individuals I have mentored,” she shared. One of the most rewarding aspects of her work is distributing food to construction workers and ensuring they receive their salaries on time. “Seeing their faces light up with appreciation reminds me that leadership is not just about management; it’s about taking care of people,” she emphasized.
In recruitment, helping job seekers land jobs that change their lives is equally rewarding. “Guiding candidates through the hiring process and witnessing their joy when they secure employment is an indescribable feeling,” she said. For Eloisa, her work is not just about financial success; it’s about building a legacy of leadership, innovation, and empowerment.
Working abroad has been a journey of continuous growth. “Earning in dirhams is a great advantage,” she joked, “but the true reward lies in the endless opportunities to learn, adapt, and overcome challenges every single day.” Living in a foreign country has strengthened her resilience and problem-solving skills, allowing her to navigate diverse work environments. Most importantly, she cherishes the ability to provide a better life for her family while uplifting others. “Every experience adds purpose to my journey,” she said.
Her path was not without struggles. “Starting my first trade license in 2014 was an uphill battle. I had the vision and drive, but I struggled to find the right team,” she recalled. The economic downturn in 2017 forced her third business to close, leading to a painful decision to send her children back to the Philippines. “I had to start from zero,” she admitted. Swallowing her pride, she returned to employment in 2018, working in business development for a flower shop and events company. “During this time, I focused on rebuilding my confidence and learning from past mistakes. I refused to let failure define me,” she stated.
Her faith was a guiding force. “In my darkest moments, I turned to God. I learned that in darkness, there’s always light. Through faith and prayer, I found the courage to keep moving forward,” she said. In 2021, she founded Shelberg Technical Services LLC, followed by IMC Employment Agency in 2022. “I learned that success takes time. You cannot rebuild overnight—you have to trust the process and have patience,” she advised.
Looking ahead, Eloisa aims to achieve financial stability for her family while continuing to grow her businesses globally. “I don’t see myself settling permanently in the Philippines, but I want to make a meaningful impact back home while expanding my career internationally,” she explained. One of her dreams is to help OFWs reintegrate after working abroad by providing career guidance, training, and business opportunities. “Many return home uncertain about what’s next. I want to be part of the solution,” she said.
To fellow OFWs facing struggles, Eloisa offers heartfelt advice: “You are not alone. Every challenge—whether financial, employment-related, or emotional—is part of the journey. Hold on to your faith and believe that every hardship is preparing you for something greater.” She encourages financial wisdom, choosing the right people to trust, and staying focused on goals. “Success is not just about working hard; it’s about growing smarter and preparing for bigger opportunities,” she added.
Her faith remains a cornerstone. “Believe, have faith, and always pray. Never let greed take over—share what you have and be a blessing to others. True success is measured by kindness, love, and impact,” she shared. Life abroad is tough, but Eloisa believes in the strength of every OFW. “Keep moving forward. One day, you will look back and see that every sacrifice, every struggle, and every challenge was worth it,” she said.
