The UAE job market can be competitive to navigate, especially for those who are struggling to find opportunities. But amidst the challenges, one individual’s unwavering dedication and compassion are making a remarkable difference. Meet Strawberry Ann Villegas, a Filipina who has been working in Abu Dhabi for over a decade. Driven by her passion for helping others, Strawberry recently took a bold step to organize an event that offered hope, guidance, and encouragement to job seekers across the UAE. Here’s the heartwarming story of her mission to change lives.

A Vision Rooted in Compassion

Strawberry’s journey began with a simple yet profound desire: to help people find employment. She decided to organize an event that would bring together 50 job seekers from all over the UAE. Her goal? To provide these individuals not only with practical tips and connections but also with the motivation to keep going despite their struggles.

But organizing such an event wasn’t easy. Strawberry leaned on her faith and countless prayers, trusting that her efforts would make a difference. She reached out to her closest friends and professional connections, humbly asking them to share their expertise and inspire attendees. To her delight, many agreed to participate without expecting anything in return. These speakers brought with them a wealth of knowledge, practical advice, and heartfelt encouragement.

Overcoming Challenges with Faith

The road to the event was filled with challenges. As a non-profit initiative, there was no budget for extravagant arrangements or speaker fees. Strawberry funded the event out of her own pocket, with a little help from kind-hearted friends who believed in her cause. Despite her fears of falling short, she trusted that everything would fall into place. And it did.

In the eleventh hour, a friend stepped in with a generous donation, ensuring that the event could go forward. During the live event itself, one of the speakers made another unexpected contribution, which was distributed among five attendees who were in dire need. Another friend’s donation helped a participant with an overstayed visa, easing their burden.

A Day of Hope and Transformation

The event was more than just a gathering; it was a beacon of hope for those who were on the verge of giving up. Strawberry and her team worked tirelessly to ensure every attendee felt supported, both spiritually and professionally. Attendees received guidance on their job applications, tips for interviews, and connections that could help them land opportunities.

The emotional moments during the event were unforgettable. Gratitude filled the room as attendees shared their stories and found renewed strength to persevere. Some shed tears of joy when they realized they weren’t alone in their struggles. Strawberry’s dedication and the kindness of her speakers and supporters had created a safe space for healing and empowerment.

The Impact: Jobs Secured, Lives Changed

The results of the event have been nothing short of inspiring. Out of the 50 attendees, 11-12 individuals have already secured jobs, and three more were hired through the connections made during the event. These success stories are a testament to the power of genuine care and community support.

Strawberry often reflects on why her heart is so dedicated to this cause. She sees it as a blessing—an opportunity to walk by faith and make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Her journey is far from over, but her commitment to helping job seekers remains steadfast.

A Message of Gratitude and Inspiration

“Though I am far from perfect, I am committed to walking by faith and continuing this journey of helping others,” Strawberry shared in a heartfelt message. Her story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of challenges, one person’s passion and determination can change countless lives.

As we celebrate Strawberry Ann Villegas’ incredible efforts, let her story inspire us all to extend a helping hand to those in need. Whether it’s through guidance, encouragement, or simply believing in someone’s potential, we can all play a part in making the world a little brighter.