My name is Arlene, thirty-two years old I was born on December 22, 1987, I am from the Philippines. I rendered service to the government for more than seven years at Tesda-Isat (Technical Education and Skills Development Authority-Isabela School of Arts and Trade) as a trainer in Beauty Care, hairdressing and massage therapy.

My parents are a farmer, I am the oldest and my youngest brother is twenty-four years old. I grew up in a poor family that’s why I need to strive and hardworking and I didn’t complain to my parents. After my elementary school and at the age of eleven I left my parent’s house and there I dwelt in my aunt’s house to do household work. I woke up early to cooked, clean indoors and outside the house, washing their clothes and watered the plants. I also help my aunt to take care of her son while she was working and I didn’t expect anything to replace. I love her son, and I treated him like my younger brother. I took several responsibilities like: changing his diaper, helping him to scroll and accompanying him to sleep and when he cried I feed him, I sang, dance and played with him just to stop him crying. Love is not just for a true brother, but can also express the love that is considered a young brother.

Patience Is Virtue. After a year they told me to continue my study. I was so happy and I am forever grateful to my aunt and to my family. They taught me to become a decent person, obedient and God fearing while waiting for the right time to pursue my dream. Even a dedication of perseverance and hardship sometimes I felt tired, but I go back to my inspiration which is my family so that my heart can grow stronger and I prayed so I could overcome my weakness. I continued my studies, I took education course major in cosmetology. While I was studying I was earning money for myself I have been doing a part time work when break time like manicure & pedicure, foot spa service, hair coloring and perming to my professors and classmates who rendered my service. On weekend I am happy to clean up the church before and after Sunday service.

I am forever grateful to the Lord despite the difficulties I grew stronger and prayerful. I am happy and I felt the love of my family. Unexpected circumstances, my grandfather was stroke and my mother needed me to helped her taking care of grandpa because he was bedridden. I accompanied my dear mother to take care of grandparents (by taking a baths, feed and change diaper) as my parent worked in the field so we could eat and buy grandfather’s treatment. A year ago my grandfather belonged to life too.

After my Graduation in college I worked as part time beautician in parlor and Beauty care & hairdressing trainer. I worked hard for my family and I supported my brother with his studies so he couldn’t experience the difficulties I’ve been through. With God’s help I gradually help my parents and lift them out of poverty. Until my brother was finished and had a job.

When I reached the right age, I got married at the age of twenty-nine to Rilio Paga and had my first born daughter Rhiane (1 year and 9 moths.) Having a family and being a mother is a tremendous responsibility. I always prayed for my daughter’s good health. I played the major role in raising and taking care of my daughter. I am hands on mother. Early in the morning I washed my daughter’s clothes, I cooked our breakfast and assisted my daughter to eat and take her vitamins. I also prepare her milk and clothes before going to work. My greatest challenge being a mother is when my child sick. I put my shoes to her feelings and I wanted that her suffering should be mine. I have to be alert at all times checking her situation from time to time. I enjoy and love bonding with my child taking care of her because children is a Precious gem gift from God that must be cared and loved.

My favorite color is red, it is the universal color for love, you should be filled with love not just for yourself but for God, family, and everyone. I love eating vegetables and grilled meat but I am not choosy when it comes to food. I love animals too specially dog, cat, chicken and ducks. I like playing with kids, watching movies, playing indoor and outdoor games.

I can speak English and willing to learn different languages. My native language is Filipino. I would also love to know the Canadian way of life. My desire to know more about your country and its culture. My friends told me that I am a family oriented, responsible, honest and loving daughter. As a mother my goal is to give my child’s basic needs and give better education to prepare her good future. My family and my husband allowed me and supported me to my decision, if given me the opportunity to work in your beautiful country.

I am happy and willing to improve my English if given me the opportunity. I am looking forward hearing a message from you soon.