At the age of 59, Antia Ann Verzola Odero has established a remarkable career that stretches across several sectors and continents, currently excelling as the Senior Human Resources Administrator at Dubai Golf. Her life’s mantra, “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication,” encapsulates her approach to both life and career, advocating for clarity and effectiveness in all endeavors.
Antia’s professional journey showcases a blend of tenacity and adaptability. Initially, she began her career in the hospitality industry before branching out into the banking sector and later, the infrastructure industry. These experiences provided her with a robust foundation in various business practices and cultural environments.
Her first international role was as an Executive Assistant at Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club from 1993 to 1995, a period when Dubai began its ambitious development projects.
“I had the opportunity to work alongside visionary colleagues and bosses which allowed me to learn how to work in multicultural environments and to be mentored,” Antia recalls with The Global Filipino Magazine, emphasizing the importance of those early lessons in shaping her approach to leadership and collaboration.
Broadening horizons in the Philippines and beyond
Following her initial stint in Dubai, Antia returned to the Philippines, where she significantly enhanced her leadership and interpersonal skills in the international banking sector. She dealt with high-profile personalities and sensitive information, which honed her abilities in strategic management and confidentiality. Her career then took her to a major conglomerate where she continued to expand her skills in budgeting and international business dealings.
In 2007, drawn by Dubai’s ongoing development and professional opportunities, Antia moved back and soon rejoined Dubai Golf. Her role had evolved significantly, now encompassing a strategic function in human resources, managing hiring, budgeting, employee benefits, and development across multiple golf clubs and associated facilities.
Antia’s decision to work abroad was driven by both personal and professional factors. Initially, her move was to utilize her education and to boost her career prospects while supporting her family.
“When I went back abroad in 2007, I wanted to support my husband for our children’s education,” she explains.
The financial rewards were significant, allowing her broader opportunities for travel and business ventures.
Embracing the challenges and rewards of HR
In her current role, Antia relishes the daily interactions with people from diverse backgrounds.
“Being an OFW (Overseas Filipino Worker) myself, it is both fulfilling and satisfying to be able to help and assist fellow associates,” she states.
This aspect of her job provides her with immense satisfaction, particularly when she sees the positive impact of her work on her colleagues’ professional lives.
However, working abroad came with its own set of challenges, particularly during her early years. The initial separation from family and adjustment to a new culture were difficult.
“I suffered from being homesick and lonely much more during my first stint in Dubai,” Antia admits.
Supportive colleagues and evolving communication technologies over the years helped her overcome these challenges.
As she looks toward the future, Antia plans to leverage her vast experience to help others. She intends to start a recruitment and manpower company to provide opportunities for fellow Filipinos interested in working abroad. She remains actively involved in the Filipino HR Community in Dubai, aiming to support and develop HR practitioners with current and relevant practices.
Her advice to other Filipinos working abroad is empowering: “Believe in yourself and keep moving forward. Hard work, integrity, and continuous learning are crucial. You are worth more than you think.”