A 37-year-old business owner has crafted a narrative that mirrors resilience, faith, and entrepreneurial vigor in the bustling cityscape of Sharjah. Liberty Cano Samonte-Galang’s journey, marked by personal trials and triumphs, is encapsulated within the walls of NaDerang Restaurant – a tribute to the enduring spirit of a woman whose life has been a series of overcoming obstacles and embracing opportunities.
Liberty’s story is deeply rooted in her Christian upbringing in the Philippines, under the guidance of her parents—a pastor and a Sunday school teacher mother. Despite the challenges of witnessing her family’s dynamics change at 16, Liberty’s faith remained unshaken.
“Galing sa isang Christian Family – Pastor ang papa ko… Pero naging broken family at the age of 16 yrs old…” she reflects, highlighting the complex interplay of faith and familial challenges from an early age.
Her journey to the UAE at 18 was not just a geographic move but a mission to support her mother and siblings. Liberty’s career path took her from secretary roles to a pivotal position as a training coordinator, showcasing her adaptability and commitment.
However, her life took an unexpected turn with a severe health diagnosis that led to major brain surgery in 2011, challenging her physically and emotionally. Yet, through this, her unwavering faith and determination shone brightly.
“It is putting your 100% trust in His love,” she states, reflecting on her life’s mantra, Jeremiah 29:11, which has guided her through her darkest hours.
The birth of NaDerang Restaurant
The inception of NaDerang Restaurant in October 2019 marked a significant milestone in Liberty’s life. Faced with the global pandemic shortly after its opening, the restaurant’s survival and success became a beacon of hope and a proof of divine grace.
“Because of God’s grace… the business survived. I don’t know why and how… all I can say that God is good all the time,” Liberty recounts, attributing her success to a higher power.
NaDerang is not just a business; it’s a passion project that allows Liberty to touch the lives of her customers daily.
“We don’t just cook… we also care,” she says.
A legacy of resilience and inspiration
Liberty’s journey is peppered with challenges, from health scares to the daunting task of starting a business in a foreign land. Yet, her resilience is evident in how she has navigated these obstacles, drawing strength from her family, her faith, and her community.
“Greatest battles are given to the bravest warrior… we have the same God… a God that is true to His promises,” she advises, offering words of encouragement to fellow Filipinos facing their struggles abroad.
Her future aspirations include expanding NaDerang Restaurant, aspiring to share her culinary delights with a wider audience in the UAE. This vision is not just about business growth but also about spreading joy, care, and community through her food.
Liberty’s advice to her fellow overseas Filipinos is a blend of wisdom and encouragement: to embrace challenges, to trust in God’s plan, and to never underestimate the power of hard work and faith. “If I can do it… Mas kaya nila… Just like F.I.’s Tagline – if kaya ko, kaya mo, kaya natin to,” she asserts, urging others to pursue their dreams with courage and conviction.
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This article has been published in Volume 4, Issue 9 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.
