#UoBWomen: A tribute to my mum
Written by Cheryl Wong
Hi everyone! I’m Cheryl. March is a time of reflection and celebration to/for all the great women around us. It is Women’s History Month, with heightened emphasis on International Women’s Day on the 8 March.
For me, this is a chance to recognise all the sacrifices and strength of the woman who has influenced my life the most – my mum. She is the reason I am here today, studying abroad as a first-generation student. I want to honour her this month because of all her struggles, resilience and unconditional support which provided me with the opportunities she never had growing up.
My mum
My mum’s story is one of tenacity. When she was young, her family was unable to afford her education hence she left school at a young age and started working to provide for the family as the eldest daughter/sister. Despite the difficulties, she never gave up or complained. The situation never restrained her ability to shine, and she made her way up the ladder. Today, she is the primary provider for our entire family, having built her career all by herself with sheer determination.
Her story is a continuation of my grandmother’s journey, not just her own. Back in the day, sending my grandmother to be married young was seen as the only way for her family to survive their financial burden. Sending her away would mean allowing the two other siblings education and a better life. However, my mum ended the pattern of past generations. She empowered herself to create something, and now empowered me to become who I am today.
With all the responsibilities, my mum has never complained about anything. She always smiles and make everything sound easy. She gives selflessly and never expects anything in return. She always encouraged me to follow my dreams, even if it means her sacrificing a lot. She created the best childhood me and my brother could ever ask for.
Moving to the UK
Coming to Birmingham has been one of the biggest milestones of my life. Even though it has been exciting and what I wanted, I know it has not been easy for my mum. It was a big change for me to move across the globe and allow me to pursue my dreams. Despite all the new memories I am grateful for, it can get lonely at times. No matter how much we call each other, having meals on FaceTime is never the same. I can only imagine that it is more difficult for my mum, yet she never lets it show. I never understood the weight she carried all this time, and still never will know how she managed everything. She sets the greatest example for me to live up to. For this I remind myself everyday how much she is sacrificing to make this happen for me, to put in the best I can and not leave with any regrets.
Celebrating women in your life
This March, I urge everyone to take a moment to appreciate our biggest female supporters in our lives. Whether that is your mother, sister or friend, all the women that have stood by us through our journey, sacrificed for us and believed in us even when we doubted ourselves. I wouldn’t be here if not for my mother. She is my biggest ally, inspiration and my everything. To everyone reading, especially those far from home, don’t forget to express your love and gratitude to your personal heroes. A phone call, a letter or simply a text go a long way.
Finally, I love you mum.
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