I looked in the mirror, tapped my chest, and said, “Rizal, how long do you want to keep working at a job that doesn't pay well or provide benefits? Then I heard myself say, “Rizal, it's time for a change, you can do it. You must strive to do better, and you have to do it now.”
Rizal began his career as a chef at a restaurant, working there for five years. Despite his passion for cooking, Rizal had to leave as it demanded too much of him.
“I had to take into account my health and the well-being of my family. I refused to do a 12 hour shift and was asked to leave.” Eventually, he transitioned to a position that provided him with greater flexibility. As a food delivery rider, he was able to work at his own pace and spend more time with his family.
Everything was going well until COVID-19 arrived. His weekly wage was sometimes as low as $50, and it was insufficient to feed a family of six. He felt powerless to rise up against the economic challenges as the pandemic swept through the country. He watched his wife struggle to support the family and it spurred Rizal’s determination to end the cycle of helplessness and make a difference. As a result of this, he enrolled in a security training programme.
Since then, Rizal has completed his security training and has been employed for more than a year. He aspires to be an Operations Executive by the time he reaches the age of 45 and someday own his own home. "This journey will not be easy," Rizal says of his goal, “It requires a lot of effort. However, I am certain that I will make it.""
Rizal is appreciative of the assistance he received throughout these trying times. "I would be more than happy to provide some words of encouragement and guidance based on my experience to assist others on their path," he said. “Nothing is impossible. You are capable of resolving any challenging problem. You must be proactive in your search for the solutions. Take the initiative. And don't be shy to ask for help.”
As the saying goes, life doesn't get easier; rather, we become stronger and more resilient. Rizal's story is incredibly inspiring, and we respect his strength and determination!
I looked in the mirror, tapped my chest, and said, “Rizal, how long do you want to keep working at a job that doesn't pay well or provide benefits? Then I heard myself say, “Rizal, it's time for a change, you can do it. You must strive to do better, and you have to do it now.”
