
In the last of our special Helper Appreciation Month features, we speak to Linda Sim, 6.5-year DB resident and director and executive coach at DB-based Strive Consulting.
How long have you lived in Discovery Bay and what brought you here?
Linda: We moved to Discovery Bay six and a half years ago, from Kennedy Town. The catalyst for choosing DB was that we were pregnant with baby number two, Chloe. Our son Luke was just over a year old, and we needed more space, both indoors and outdoors!
The resort-like feel and value for money in terms of property in DB fit the bill beautifully, and six and a half years on, we are even happier with our lives here. With the wonderful people, great F&B choices, gorgeous vistas from beach to mountains, and a plethora of hiking trails on our doorstep, what more could we want?!
How long has Jenny been with your family?
Linda: Jenny joined us nearly five years ago, when Luke was two years old and Chloe was only one year old, so she is an integral part of the family from their perspectives. They all bonded almost immediately and have a lot of fun together (provided the kids listen to her!).
What stood out in Jenny that made you decide to hire her?
Linda: The initial contact I had with Jenny was by phone. We chatted for quite some time and she gave an air of friendliness and fun. She shared that she had four children, and in talking about them, I sensed a ‘loving mother’s touch,’ which I found endearing.
We then had an opportunity to meet with her one afternoon at a restaurant in Causeway Bay – this is when we signed the contract. We watched the way she interacted with the kids and she seemed at ease and relaxed. As did Luke and Chloe.
Tell us something you appreciate about your Jenny.
Linda: Jenny is a cheerful person by nature and has a good sense of humour. It’s really important to us to have a light, happy and pleasant atmosphere at home – and this is exactly what Jenny helps to create.
I feel that any good relationship is about give and take. And the flexibility that Jenny demonstrates means that we all ‘win’ when it really matters to each of us – this makes for an amiable working and home environment.
Name a special moment that your helper has shared with your family.
Linda: On most weekends we have full days out with Luke and Chloe. Jenny likes to be at home on Saturdays, but on some occasions she has joined us on outings such as birthday parties. We enjoy it when she’s there as it gives her the opportunity to chat with other aunties and to socialise and enjoy herself when she’s not solely looking after the kids. This ‘work-life balance’ is an integral part of every person’s wellbeing, both emotional and physical, and it enhances feelings of happiness.
Jenny Garcillano has been with the Sim family since 2013. She shares what she loves about working with the Sim family.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and where you’re from.
Jenny: I am Jeanne Lyn M. Garcillano, Jenny for short. I am 45 years old, born on February 18, 1973. I have four kids – three boys and one girl. I used to be a teacher before working here in Hong Kong. I am fond of dancing, cooking and reading articles, and listening to music.
I come from the Philippines in the province of Laguna, city of Calamba. Our place is well known for its beautiful hot spring resort.
What’s one thing you like about Discovery Bay?
Jenny: Actually it’s not only one thing, it’s too many things that I like here in Discovery Bay.
I like to look at the beach because every time I look at it, it gives calmness of my soul. Transportation is very accessible. People here are very friendly, that’s why I make too many friends. Discovery Bay is such a nice place to live.
Tell us one thing you enjoy about your job.
Jenny: I enjoy working with the nice environment that surrounds me, the sincere appreciation I receive, not only from my employer but also the people I work with, a heartfelt ‘thanks’ goes a long way in improving my attitude and productivity.
Name one thing you wish the community knew about domestic workers.
Jenny: One thing I wish the community to know about domestic helpers is that we are also human, we are not perfect, we do mistakes, but above all of this we are open to improve our craft and be able to do the work 100%, because we love our work. We are open for improvement.
Tags: discovery bay, helper appreciation month, linda sim