A Pinay, who used to be a fish vendor in the Philippines, former domestic helper in England, now owns a language college abroad.
The story of Pinay who used to sell fish in the Philippines and now owns a school in England is a true example of how hard work and determination can be a great factor in achieving success.
Nova Fossgard, who is a native of Tukuran, Zamboanga Del Sur was born to a fisherman father. Her mother was just a plain housewife.
At an early age of five, she had to sell fish just to earn money and provide for their daily needs.
She recalled that her tiny voice as a kid was competing along with other vendors in the market just to get the attention of buyers.
Fossgard even shared one unforgettable memory she had in the market, based on the article recently published in kami.com.ph.
“Nangawat ko isda sa auntie ko (I stole fish from my aunt). That’s a secret, but I will tell you. Because I was starving. I had this little girl, I gave it to her and passed it on to the market. This little girl gave me the money and I gave her commission.”
She went to England to work as a domestic despite the fact that she graduated in college with a degree in accounting at Southern Mindanao College in 1991.
Later on, the Pinay met her husband in Oxford.
It was said that Fossgard’s husband applied for a job in the college but instead he was offered to take over the business. This is for the reason that the owners wanted to retire that time.
They had to face new challenges in running a school to the extent that they had to work even 24 hours a day.
Now, the Pinay is the director of Purley Language College in Purley while her husband is the principal. Currently it caters to 3,000 students, based on the article.
Her early knowledge in business and determination in life helped paved the way towards her success.
Here is the advice of Fossgard for those who want to reach their dreams in life.
“Don’t be afraid. Follow your instinct. Gawin mo lahat ang gusto mo sa buhay. If you keep holding back with your fear, you think may mangyayari? You have to overcome (your fears). Takbo ka, don’t crawl. Always run.”
(photo courtesy of kami.com.ph)