There’s something uniquely fulfilling about discovering your true calling far from home—especially when that calling involves giving love, care, and healing to creatures who can’t speak for themselves. For Marjie Mirabel Gawaran, better known to friends and colleagues as Apple, what started as a leap of faith eleven years ago has blossomed into a deeply rooted career and life in the UAE.
Now working as a Veterinary Receptionist at the German Veterinary Clinic in Abu Dhabi, Apple has built a life filled with purpose, compassion, and unshakeable dedication—not just to animals but to her family, community, and self-growth.
The journey of a dutiful daughter
In 2014, at the young age of 23, Apple made the life-altering decision to leave her promising career in the Philippines to work abroad. It wasn’t because she was chasing luxury or status. It was because of love and duty.
“I chose to work abroad primarily due to my family’s circumstances,” she shares with TGFM. “While I had already established a promising career in the Philippines, my mother needed financial support after my father passed away. She was the only provider for our family, and being the eldest, I felt a deep sense of responsibility.”
Back then, her siblings were still in school, and she understood what her decision meant. Leaving behind her home, her career, and her comfort zone was a gamble. But it was a gamble made with faith and love.
Her first job in the UAE was, surprisingly, her current one too—a Veterinary Receptionist in Abu Dhabi. From the moment she stepped into the role, she found something beyond the job description. “From the very start, I discovered a deep passion for working with animals, and it has since become an integral part of my life,” she says.
Though she later took a brief detour to explore the corporate world, the bond she felt with the veterinary field pulled her back. “The bond I share with animals and the fulfillment I feel in helping them recover is unmatched.”
Reinvention and rediscovery
Apple’s story didn’t begin in a veterinary clinic. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology from Sorsogon State University. Her professional journey kicked off in the buzzing city of Manila, where she first worked in customer service for a major mall. She then moved through various roles: a Marketing Associate in a Makati-based bank, a Business Development Assistant for a manpower company, and eventually, a Quality Control Officer in a BPO firm in Ortigas.
These varied roles helped her refine her skills in customer relations, problem-solving, communication, and strategic thinking—traits that would later become essential in her job at the vet clinic. “Looking back on my career journey, I strongly believe that the skills and knowledge I gained from these diverse roles have allowed me to excel, particularly in marketing strategies and customer service.”
In 2019, she joined the German Veterinary Clinic for the first time. After a break to explore other opportunities, she returned in 2023, a move she describes as both humbling and empowering. “I’m incredibly grateful to have had the full support of the clinic during my time away. Fortunately, I was able to return last year, bringing with me a wealth of new skills and experiences.”
Her daily work involves more than just booking appointments. It’s a blend of healthcare, customer service, and administrative tasks. What keeps her grounded is the emotional impact of her work. “The most satisfying aspect of my job is seeing the pets we care for recover from illness or injury. The joy and relief that comes from knowing we’ve helped an animal feel better is truly fulfilling.”
A life built abroad, a heart that never forgot home
Adapting to life in the UAE came with its fair share of challenges. Apple arrived in 2014 with hope in her heart and a job offer in hand, but settling in emotionally was another matter.
“I struggled with feeling out of place, far from the comfort and familiarity of home,” she shares. “Learning to adapt to a new culture, dealing with homesickness, and finding my footing in an unfamiliar environment—it wasn’t easy.”
Thankfully, Apple didn’t have to walk this journey alone. Her mother, who worked as a nanny, remained a consistent source of strength. “My mother’s unwavering belief in me, even when things seemed impossible, kept me going.” Later on, she found another pillar of support in the UAE—her husband.
“I met my husband here in the UAE, someone who has become my rock and biggest supporter,” she beams. The couple married in 2021 at St. Mary’s Church in Dubai, a moment she describes as one of the most unforgettable in her life. In 2022, they welcomed their daughter into the world, deepening their bond and their purpose as a family.
Motherhood, though beautiful, added new layers of responsibility. Apple now balances her time between being a full-time employee and a licensed content creator, while also making sure she’s present for her growing daughter. “There are days when exhaustion sets in, and it feels like there aren’t enough hours in the day. But the passion for what I do keeps me going.”
“I believe that being a mother doesn’t mean having to give up on your dreams,” she continues. “Even on my most tiring days, I remind myself that my efforts today are shaping a bright future for my daughter.”
A bigger vision for the Filipino community
While Apple has found personal success and happiness abroad, her eyes are set on something bigger than herself. Beyond her work and family, she’s determined to use her voice and platform to inspire and support others—especially her fellow Filipinos.
“My goal is to inspire others by sharing stories of resilience, success, and the unique experiences that come with being Filipino,” she explains. As a licensed content creator, she’s committed to creating programs and initiatives focused on education, mental health awareness, and career development.
“Ultimately, my vision is to help create a more empowered, informed, and connected Filipino community. I believe that through collaboration, advocacy, and empowerment, we can overcome challenges and celebrate our culture, values, and potential on a global scale.”
For Apple, working abroad has not only offered her financial stability—it has shaped her into a leader, a voice for others, and a role model. She highlights the opportunities available in places like the UAE: “The salary I earn here is significantly higher compared to what I was making back home… Beyond the financial perks, the opportunities for career growth are abundant, as long as you have the right skills and a strong belief in your abilities.”
Her story is also a reminder of what’s possible when you remain true to your values. “Opportunities are everywhere, but the key to truly succeeding is to keep a kind heart and a helpful spirit.”
To kababayans overseas, Apple offers heartfelt advice: “Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Pursue your passions and trust that your hard work and determination will pay off.”
She also emphasizes the importance of staying grounded. “When it comes to love, finances, and building trustworthy relationships, always remain true to yourself. Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you.”
As she continues to grow both professionally and personally, Apple’s dream is clear: to be a source of inspiration and support—not only to her daughter and her family—but to Filipinos everywhere who are brave enough to chase their dreams beyond borders.
“I am proud to be a strong, dedicated, and hardworking mother—always striving to set an example of perseverance, love, and balance for my little one.”
