Passion Project
Growing up in a Third World country, making ends meet and having the basics was a real struggle. When I visit the Philippines, I collect clothes, books, and toys from my friends in Ottawa who want to help out. It’s not just for my family but for my whole village. The generosity of my friends in Ottawa is amazing—I even have to mail boxes ahead of time to make sure they get there before I do. Seeing people’s eyes light up when they receive gifts from Ottawa is pure joy! The feeling is indescribable.
The Philippines is quite a journey from here, so when I visit, I stay for about three weeks to a month. My schedule is jam-packed trying to catch up with all my friends and family. While gifts are nice, what I really want to give is my time and attention. In Canada, we can treat ourselves to spa days—it’s something we deserve. But in the Philippines, that’s a luxury. I love giving facials and mani-pedis because it’s something many there can’t afford or experience otherwise.
Going home allows me to mix two of my passions Aesthetics and helping people in any little way I can. I’ve also tried bringing that spirit here by offering free treatments to the elderly and those who can’t afford it. Giving back brings me immense joy, and this is my way of doing it in the best way I know.