Lily realised the privilege she had when she saw other migrant domestic workers being forced to work long working hours, even on their compulsory days off. The pandemic only accentuated the problem, she realised.

Lily had been fortunate. Her employers treated her with kindness and respect, prompting her to use that advantage for the betterment of the community.

While researching the issue, Lily learnt about the C-LeaPS group (Community Leadership and Peer-support Programme) and reached out to HELP. After initial discussions, we onboarded her at a formal induction ceremony.

In the few months that she has been part of the programme, Lily stepped out of her comfort zone to try and learn as much as she could about domestic worker rights, resources available for victims of abuse and the correct course of action.

Lily takes every opportunity to meet with fellow domestic workers, discuss their issues and work together with them to solve problems and improve their lives. All the while, she has encouraged dialogue among migrant domestic workers and their employers, equally empathising with both.

Community leaders such as Lily help uplift their communities in several ways. They create educational opportunities, share experiences, provide practical help and raise awareness about issues concerning rights and mental health.