Jurris Manibo – Customer Service

Hi, I am Jurris Manibo. I am currently living in the UAE, working as a customer staff and foreign currency cashier in a remittance and exchange company. My story may seem typical to others, but let me tell you about my life.

I graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration, majoring in Banking and Finance. After graduation, my first job was as an accounting assistant, followed by roles as a logistic staff member and a service repair assistant. I worked in those positions for nearly two years, during which time I also became a single mother to a beautiful daughter. Balancing work and motherhood was challenging, but I resigned to find new opportunities that would better support us both.

I soon found a job as an HR assistant and training officer, where I worked for four months. However, I felt the need for more stability and growth, which led me to apply as a bank teller in Banco De Oro Universal Bank. Starting as a teller, I eventually took more responsibilities as a marketing assistant and general services officer over the course of four years.

Working at the bank was satisfying in many ways, it allowed me to provide for my daughter and manage our financial needs as a single parent. However, I realised I needed to pursue something more for our long-term financial security. I decided to take a risk and sought help from a friend to explore opportunities abroad.

I arrived in the UAE, hopeful but uncertain about how to find a job. I spent weeks waking up early, sending my CV to various job websites, and going out to search for work. It wasn’t easy, and I met many others who were in similar situations. Just before my visa was about to expire, I got a call for an interview from a company I had applied to. Travelling from Abu Dhabi to Dubai for interviews was tough, but I remained determined because I wanted to secure a better future for my daughter and me.

After four interviews and an exam, I was hired as a customer service representative. My duties were similar to what I had done in the bank, which made the transition smooth. I’ve now been with the company for nine years, a period during which I’ve grown both personally and professionally. During my time in the UAE, I also found the love of my life, which made me even happier and more content. Despite the challenges, I’ve built a stable and fulfilling life here, both financially and emotionally.

However, as time has passed, I’ve begun to long for a different kind of balance—one that would allow me to spend more time at home while continuing to work. The idea of becoming a virtual assistant started to appeal to me, especially after my sister encouraged me to explore online jobs. Even though I don’t have direct experience as a VA, my background in customer service, banking and administration gives me confidence that I can thrive in this new field. I’m ready to embark on this journey and create a better work-life balance for myself and my family.

For a copy of Jurris’ resume please click here.