Filipina Aspires to Be Waitress in Dubai, Becomes Hotel Director
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – Michelle Vista David, who moved to Dubai 19 years ago, originally dreamed of working as a waitress. Now 41, she is the sales and marketing director at a four-star hotel, overseeing various money-making aspects and contributing to nearly 60% of the hotel’s income.
David, from Panay, Capiz, described her daily routine, which starts with morning meetings with the management team and discussions with revenue staff about current and future forecasts. Although she finds her job challenging, she enjoys building relationships with industry partners like travel agencies and corporate clients to meet the hotel’s budget. She also ensures high customer satisfaction and quality food offerings, stating, “We are always fully booked during the high season,” with guests from over eight countries in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.
Arriving in Dubai at 22 on a visit visa in 2005, David had one goal: to be a waitress. Before her journey, she worked as a cashier in a Roxas City fast-food restaurant but got a job as a hotel phone operator instead. This role sparked her passion for the hospitality industry, which she realized when a visiting Kenyan ambassador praised her service over the phone.
After two months, she was promoted to receptionist and advanced through various positions, including supervisor, reservations officer, office manager, sales executive, and assistant sales director, eventually becoming director in December 2015.
As a single mother to 13-year-old Maria Tamirez, David draws inspiration from her daughter. She emphasizes the importance of hard work and perseverance in overcoming challenges, stating, “I want to give her a better future, the best life she deserves.” Reflecting on her journey, David expressed as per GMA Network that while she initially wanted to be a waitress, she has achieved much more, noting her daughter as her greatest accomplishment. In October 2023, she was recognized as Asia’s Most Prolific Director of Sales and Marketing at the Asia’s Pinnacle Awards in Okada Manila.
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