Madonna’s Story:

Thirteen years ago, I resigned from my job in the Philippines as a sales clerk in a landscaping company. When I arrived in Singapore, I thought I would be taking care of two children. Instead, I ended up caring for four, including a pair of three-month-old twins. It was overwhelming because I had no experience looking after newborn babies.

Finally having gathered the courage to talk to my first employer and sharing my worries, I told them that I wanted a transfer. Thankfully, I managed to find a new employer and began working with a smaller family of three in Toa Payoh. After four years with the second family, I decided not to renew my contract. I had hoped to get a new employer, but my then-employer refused to let me leave. She told me it was her practice to send her helpers home rather than allow a transfer. 

I felt this was unfair, and thus waited for the right moment to speak with her again. I explained my reasons and reminded her that when her family had problems, I stayed. I never abandoned them, even when I experienced anxiety and worried about my own safety. 

I had been her listening ear and someone she could cry to whenever she felt down. I told her that after all I had done, I deserved to find new employment elsewhere. She eventually agreed, but gave me only one week to find a new employer.

This experience made me realise that even when we work hard and give our best, our employers might not appreciate us or recognise our value. They often do not think about our rights, simply making decisions without considering the impact it has on us.

Domestic workers do not look for new employers because we want an easier job. We change employers because we also need to protect our mental well-being, safety, and dignity.

I chose to speak up, and I am proud of that. But this kind of courage can only exist when a worker feels safe enough to express the truth.