How would your PANGYAO’s describe you?

Many of friends say I am patient and hardworking :)

What motivates you at work?

Definitely my students! I love my students so much and any progress they make is a great milestone for me as a teacher. No matter how challenging and, at times, tiring this profession may be, everything feels worthwhile as long as I know "my kids" in school learnt beyond books and that they feel proud of whatever they have accomplished.

When you’re feeling homesick, what do you do to occupy yourself?

I rarely feel homesick because I have the most amazing and supportive husband in the world! He is always there to make sure everything is okay. Also, I met some great friends here in Hong Kong that is why I consider this place as my second home! :)

Who is your biggest role model in life?

The biggest role models I have are my mum and my husband. My mum raised us by herself when my father passed away. She never backed down from any challenge and remained strong all these years. She didn't just raise me as her daughter, she's also my best friends. Whatever sacrifices she's been through paved the way for me to reach where I am now.

My husband has been my constant source of inspiration when it comes to kindness and hard work. He is career-oriented and very much driven by passion. Seeing how much heart he gives at work reminds me to always work hard and stay focused. He is also a very kind soul who would go extra miles to help other people. I admire how kindhearted he is and the amount of love he can give.

What is your favourite thing about living in Hong Kong?

1. Accessibility particularly in education. In the Philippines, I have experienced crossing mountains and going to dangerous places just to teach out-of-school students. Children back home do not have the same learning access as the kids here in HK. Here in HK, irrespective of the family's financial status, students are given the utmost opportunities to study. In the Philippines, many children are choosing to let go of their dreams in order to work at an early age.

2. Opportunities for people with disabilities. As a Special Education teacher, the biggest challenge for us is to see our students in the workforce. No matter how much we try to educate them, some places and institutions are still not ready to accept them as part of their organizations - but not here in Hong Kong. I like how HK gives privileges to individuals with specific needs. Be it in transportation, services or employment, people with diverse challenges are included. I just hope that these opportunities will be extended in the school setting. I have met several parents who are still struggling to find the appropriate centre/professionals to help them with their special kids.

Which is your favourite HK restaurant/go-to place?

Hing Noodles and Mou Mou Club! I just love noodles and soup dumplings (xiao long bao) like crazy! :D

What advice would you give to those who are planning to live/work in Hong Kong?

As in any place or country, life in Hong Kong is no walk in the park. I think one important thing that migrants should keep in mind is respect. If you are planning to move here or in any country, please do not forget to be mindful of their culture and way of living. We need to adjust to them in the same way that they are adjusting to foreigners like us.

What advice would you give to your fellow PANGYAOs?

Persevere and pray. Persevere and always remember why you are here in Hong Kong; and pray that God will give you the strength to conquer all challenges that will come your way.