Freedom is like a muscle of the human spirit. It diminishes with neglect, but grows stronger with regular use. Meet Phyo Phyo Ei, a living embodiment of this adage. With her strong determination and ferocious perseverance, take a peek into Phyo Phyo’s journey of over 10 years in Singapore, and how she rose above occasions to get to where she is today.
1/5 Tell me about yourself
I am from Myanmar and I have been in Singapore for about 10 years. I have 5 family members, and I am the oldest sister. My younger brother and sister are both married. I am very close to my family and I often chat with them on video-call. I like music and I learn to play the guitar!
2/5 What are the things that matter most to you?
I think that I am a very simple person. Being able to do what I want at my own choice matters to me the most. I really enjoy eating as well, so being able to choose what to eat for every meal is very important.
3/5 How much of your time is spent on doing things that matter to you?
All the time! At my previous job as a domestic helper, I could not make choices at all. My eating times and my food were fixed by my employer and there was a rule that did not allow me to use my phone throughout the entire day, otherwise I will get a scolding. Now, I am able to make choices on my own, I am able to plan my day to fit in different activities such as guitar lessons and shopping.
4/5 What are you most proud of?
I am most proud that I was promoted to a Cleaning Supervisor in Helpling. I am responsible for 40 Cleaning Professionals and I make sure that they are feeling healthy and are taken care of. This role in my job is a great accomplishment to me and I worked hard to get to this position. Now, I have a sense of responsibility and I try to make sure that the Cleaning Professionals under my care are able to be happy and have their own freedom.
5/5 Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
I do not think that I will be going back to Myanmar, but I want to save enough money to build a new house in Myanmar for my family in the next 5 years. Also, I want to be a role-model to the cleaning professionals under my care, and be there to help them when they face problems.
