Mum helps other Filipinos settle in region
GIVING up a successful career and her birthplace was one of the hardest decisions Leleth Sorono has ever made, but seeing her children blossom has made it worthwhile.
Since uprooting her life in the Philippines and migrating to Warwick in 2003, Mrs Sorono has embarked on a mission to help other Filipinos make the challenging transition.
Bouts of depression, communication breakdowns and the hopeless feeling of “starting from scratch” were among the hardships Mrs Sorono faced when she adjusted to her new life.
She said stepping out of a successful career was much harder than she expected.
In the Philippines, Mrs Sorono was able to employ people to cook, clean and take care of her children while she worked in administration.
“I thought ‘how come I can’t find work here in Warwick?’” she said.
“There is that feeling of not entirely regret but there comes a time where you get depressed.”
Sixteen years later, Mrs Sorono has a secure bookkeeping job and feels like a local in Warwick. Now she is turning her efforts to helping other Filipinos settle in the town she calls home.
Since establishing the Filipino Community in Warwick and Surrounds, Mrs Sorono has been amazed by the number of migrants who have carved out a new life on the Southern Downs.
It’s all about unity and the one goal of the group is to give back to Warwick.