It all started with a dream. A dream to provide her family with a better life, free from the financial struggles that plagued their existence in the Philippines. Marifel Comia Manimtim, a fearless 42-year-old woman with a heart full of love and determination, embarked on a journey to the UAE in 2015. Leaving behind her two daughters, Madeliene Sopha and Kyla Mae Anica, Marifel took on her first job in the UAE as a temporary HR assistant.
Little did she know that her unyielding spirit and dedication would lead her to the world of travel, a field she was already passionate about in the Philippines. With every step she took, Marifel learned and grew, absorbing knowledge and experience from her workplaces and mentors. Fast forward a few years, and she now manages not one, but two flourishing companies: STOP International Travel and STOP International Facilities & Project Management.
Navigating through stormy seas: Overcoming life’s challenges
Despite the shimmering success that now surrounds Marifel, her journey has been filled with adversity and countless setbacks. The year 2020, for instance, brought a whirlwind of misfortune. A person she knew opened a travel agency under Marifel’s name, defrauded clients, and vanished without a trace. Distraught but determined, Marifel spent nearly two years tirelessly working to clear her name, supported by her loving husband, family, and friends.
“I always try to move forward,” Marifel says, reflecting on the importance of resilience in the face of hardship.
As if the universe hadn’t tested her enough, she fell prey to a scammer posing as a business partner who ran away with her investment of AED25,000. Devastated but undeterred, Marifel drew on her inner strength and the support of her loved ones to forge ahead.
Marifel’s passion for her work stems from her love of helping others. She finds immense satisfaction in reuniting families through travel arrangements, knowing firsthand the pain of being separated from loved ones.
“I love seeing their smiles whenever they unite,” she shares, emphasizing the joy her work brings to her clients.
Abu Dhabi has become a sanctuary for Marifel, providing her with a calm environment, easy transportation, and a close-knit community of friends. She considers the city a new home, a place where she can continue to flourish both personally and professionally.
Reaching for the stars: Future plans and advocacy
Looking ahead, Marifel has big dreams for her businesses. She envisions expanding her companies and ensuring they provide exceptional, trustworthy service to the market. Furthermore, Marifel hopes to bring her family to Abu Dhabi, where they can be reunited and enjoy the life they’ve always dreamed of together.
Her advocacy of helping others has remained a constant throughout her journey.
“I want to stay in Abu Dhabi and bring my family here with us. And since before I started this business, my advocacy has been to help people no matter what,” Marifel proudly states.
For fellow Filipinos and others struggling abroad, Marifel’s sage advice is a beacon of hope: “Don’t give up, keep dreaming, always do good, and believe in yourself. I think everything that happens to us has a reason and purpose.”
The ripple effect: Inspiring others through action
Marifel’s incredible story has already begun to make waves, inspiring others to face their fears and pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles that may stand in their way. Through her advocacy work and her personal journey, Marifel has shown that even the most difficult circumstances can be overcome with persistence, self-belief, and the support of a loving community.
As her businesses continue to grow and prosper, Marifel remains grounded in her core values of compassion, integrity, and determination. Through her actions, she demonstrates that success is attainable for anyone willing to fight for their dreams and work tirelessly to achieve them.
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This article has been published in Volume 4, Issue 7 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.