The journey of Esperanza Deangkinay, crowned as the “Nanny of the Year” in Dubai, is a testament to the resilience, dedication, and love that define the lives of many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Her story, spanning over two decades of hard work abroad, sheds light on the sacrifices OFWs make for their families and the unexpected fulfillment they find in their careers away from home, as shared in a report by GMA News Online.
Early Struggles and Aspirations
Born and raised in the province of Quezon, Philippines, Esperanza faced life’s harsh realities early on. Losing her father at the tender age of 12 forced her and her siblings into a life of collective struggle and determination. With her elder siblings pursuing higher education and the family’s financial burdens mounting, Esperanza pleaded with her mother to let her contribute to their household expenses. This early sense of responsibility laid the foundation for her resilient character.
The Journey to Dubai
Esperanza’s path to Dubai was not driven by a long-standing dream to work abroad but rather by a pragmatic approach to improving her family’s economic situation. Her decision to leave in 1997 marked the beginning of a transformative journey. Initially exploring various job opportunities in Dubai, from administrative roles to factory work, Esperanza eventually found her calling as a nanny — a role that, despite her initial lack of experience, she came to love and excel in.
Love as the Foundation of Success
The turning point in Esperanza’s career came when her dedication and love for her job were recognized with the “Nanny of the Year” award by Gawad Kasambahay in 2019. This accolade was a testament not just to her 25 years of service but to the profound impact that love and genuine care can have in one’s profession. Esperanza’s approach to her work, viewing herself not merely as an employee but as a motherly figure to the children she cared for, exemplifies the deep emotional connections that can develop in such roles.
More than a Nanny
The respect and affection Esperanza has received from the families she has worked for underscore the significant role she has played in their lives. Being referred to as a big sister or a mother by those she has cared for highlights the familial bond that transcends the employer-employee relationship. This emotional reward, coupled with her ability to financially uplift her own family back in the Philippines, underscores the multifaceted success Esperanza has achieved.
Legacy of Love and Hard Work
Today, Esperanza is not only a celebrated nanny but also a successful entrepreneur who has built her own house and runs a house rental business. Her journey from the financial constraints of her early life in the Philippines to her current success in Dubai is a powerful narrative of empowerment, love, and resilience. Yet, despite her accomplishments, Esperanza chooses to stay abroad, seeking to enjoy the life she has worked hard to build.
Esperanza Deangkinay’s journey stands as a testament to hope and inspiration, offering a valuable lesson for individuals facing adversity. It showcases the transformative impact of love, perseverance, and diligence in creating opportunities for growth and accomplishment.
Video: Nanny of the Year UAE – Filipina Esperanza Deankinay
Check out Esperanza’s shining moment in the video below: