A Mother’s Journey of Resilience and Hope

By Joe Larano Jr.

Zenaida, a soft-spoken but strong-willed woman from San Fernando, Pampanga, has a story that connects deeply within Winnipeg’s Filipino community. She had already faced more than her share of heartbreak when her husband—once a jeepney driver—was killed in a tragic road accident. Left alone to raise two daughters, then aged fourteen and twelve, she leaned on her experience as a caregiver in a local hospital, where she had worked quietly for years caring for the sick and elderly.

With life in the Philippines growing more uncertain, Zenaida saw an opportunity for a better future through Canada’s Home Child Care Provider Pilot. Encouraged by a cousin living in Winnipeg, she gathered the necessary documents, passed the language requirements, and was approved under an occupation-restricted open work permit. With heavy heart, she made the difficult decision to leave her daughters under the care of her aging mother. The pain of separation was unbearable, but her dream of a stable life for her children gave her the strength to press on.

Upon arrival in Winnipeg, Zenaida was welcomed into a household where she looked after two young children. The job demanded much, and the unfamiliar winter cold added to the strain. Yet each day, she carried herself with quiet dignity, earning the trust of her employers and community. In the evenings, she joined church gatherings or community events where she found comfort among fellow Filipinos. Her goal was clear: to complete the two-year requirement and bring her daughters to Canada.

Time passed, and with perseverance, Zenaida fulfilled the hours required under her work permit. Gaining permanent residency was more than a legal status—it was a turning point in her life. Free to choose her own employment, she accepted a position as a caregiver in a local community senior housing facility. The work was demanding but deeply meaningful, allowing her to return to her first passion: caring for the elderly with empathy and compassion.

Now earning more and with stronger footing in her new country, Zenaida started the family reunification process. It was a lengthy and emotional wait, but finally, after months of anticipation, her daughters arrived in Winnipeg. Their reunion at the airport was filled with tears, laughter, and the kind of joy only a mother and child could understand after years apart. Life slowly settled into a new rhythm, with her daughters adjusting well to school and the Canadian way of life.

It was during these calmer days that Zenaida met Renato, a Filipino Canadian auto mechanic introduced by her cousin. They shared similar values—humility, hard work, and deep family ties. Their bond grew steadily, grounded in mutual respect and shared experiences. Together, they built a blended home where love, support, and laughter became the foundation of everyday life.

Today, Zenaida’s sacrifices have borne fruit. Her eldest daughter is now completing an accountancy degree while the younger works in guest relations at a downtown hotel. What began as a mother’s painful separation from her children has blossomed into a powerful story of reunion, resilience, and success. Zenaida continues to inspire those around her—not with grand declarations, but with the quiet strength of a woman who chose hope over despair and turned hardship into triumph.