From Challenges to Blessings: A Story of Faith, Resilience, and Unexpected Miracles
Jaeybee is a multi-hyphenate entrepreneur. She currently wears several hats, including being a wife, a restaurant owner and manager of Wilson's Haus of Lechon, and has a hosting and events business here in Toronto, Canada.
As a second-generation Filipino immigrant, my life has been a tapestry of cultural transitions, faith, and unexpected blessings. My story begins in the Philippines, where I grew up between Mindanao and then in Cebu, surrounded by my family's business ventures. My childhood wasn't without its dark moments. I witnessed my aunt's homicide, a traumatic experience that left an indelible mark on my young mind. In 2005, my life took a dramatic turn when my family moved to Canada. At 10 years old, I found myself navigating a new country, culture, and the challenges that come with being a preteen immigrant.
Adjusting to life in Canada wasn't easy. I faced bullying and struggled with cultural differences, but I was determined to maintain my Filipino identity. I found solace in a Filipino church and managed to build friendships with both English-speaking and Filipino-speaking peers. Today, I wear multiple hats - a wife, a restaurant owner, and an entrepreneur in the events industry.
My faith has been the cornerstone of my journey. Though I grew up in a Christian home, it was at 12 that I developed a personal relationship with God. My involvement in youth ministry deepened my faith, but it was at a youth conference in Buffalo, New York, where I truly reconnected with God. Balancing faith with social life was challenging, but now that I am married, it has since become a significant part of my spiritual growth.
One of the most trying periods of my life was our struggle with infertility. The emotional toll on my husband and myself was immense, compounded by hormone issues and other health challenges. We decided to seek medical help, and through medication and unwavering faith, we experienced the joy of a miraculous pregnancy, although it was for a season, this experience taught me that everything has a reason and the importance of trusting God's timing.
God's provision in our lives has often come in unexpected ways. Our restaurant business has been blessed, partly due to our involvement in a movie called "Maple Leaf Dreams." This opportunity not only brought new customers but also allowed us to share our story with a wider audience. I'm grateful for these blessings and constantly seek God's protection for our hard working parents and in-laws who are integral to our business.
To those facing similar challenges, I encourage you to seek God and surrender to His will. Don't hesitate to ask for help, and try not to worry excessively about the future. Each day is a gift, and it's important to use the opportunities God provides to be a blessing to others. Enjoy the present and trust in Him.
These moments of vulnerability and the opportunity to express myself allowed me to reflect on my journey and share these experiences. I'm thankful for the platform to tell my story, hoping it might inspire and encourage others facing their own challenges. Life's path may be unpredictable, but with faith and perseverance, we can navigate it with grace and gratitude.
Throwback photo: Jaeybee with her parents as new immigrants in Toronto, Canada