As the adage goes, “Every day in every way I’m getting better and better”, Clarisse Anne Ignacio takes this to heart, turning it into a mantra that has paved her remarkable journey from the University of the Philippines to the hypermarkets of Dubai.
Hailing from a humble background, Clarisse graduated with a BS in Biology, majoring in Microbiology.
She recalls, “I have extensive experience in Quality, Food Safety and Microbiology as I have worked in reputable companies even when I was in the Philippines.”
Yet, like many ambitious Filipinos, Clarisse longed for international opportunities. When one finally came knocking, it put her in a dilemma.
“I was already working for a few months in one of my dream companies, with a good position. It was harder for me to decide – should I pursue or just stay?”
Choosing to embrace her inherent risk-taking nature, she explains, “I have bigger dreams and goals which I want to fulfill,” and so she embarked on her overseas journey with Emirates Flight Catering.
But challenges were imminent. The onset of COVID-19 brought unexpected turbulence in her career. She tells The Global Filipino Magazine, “Days and nights got worse not only because of the lockdowns but also because of the worry I have for my family.”
However, even in these uncertain times, her determination and positive outlook shone through.
“While most people lost jobs during COVID, I got an opportunity to get promoted. I was able to work with the management team of Hygiene and Food Safety and it opened a lot of new opportunities for me.”
Today, she plays a pivotal role at Majid Al Futtaim Hypermarkets LLC as a New Product Development Technologist, focusing on Carrefour Central Kitchen’s innovative offerings.
Delving deeper into her reasons for choosing this path, she credits her father’s influence.
“He was working in BIOTECH – University of the Philippines (Los Banos) and I used to come with him to his office. I was exposed to the environment and I was always amazed at how things are made and/or discovered.”
This early exposure stirred her innate curiosity, and she has since dedicated her career to ensuring food quality and safety across various sectors.
It’s not just about professional success for Clarisse, though. Working abroad has gifted her with priceless experiences.
“I was able to explore new places, meet a lot of people, and learn new cultures,” she beams.
Yet, the journey wasn’t without its challenges. From racial discrimination to the notorious ‘crab mentality’ within her community, she encountered numerous obstacles. But she maintained her composure and persevered, always keeping her goals in sight.
Gazing into the future and imparting wisdom
Speaking about her future, Clarisse shares, “I do not see myself coming back to the Philippines for good. I have enjoyed staying in Dubai and all the things it has to offer.”
Yet, she’s not settling. With aspirations of becoming a Food Safety/ISO standards auditor and harboring entrepreneurial dreams, her journey of growth continues.
Drawing from her wealth of experiences, Clarisse generously offers advice to fellow kabayans. On love, she believes it isn’t something one finds, but rather it finds you. Financially, she emphasizes the importance of strategic planning and saving. Employment-wise, she stresses continuous learning and embracing challenges.
And on trust? “Keep your circle small and value long term relationships/friendships.”
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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.