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IAMRAFI: A Better Man Through Perseverance
The Story of Jomar Mandawe, Most Outstanding Trust Staff 2017, RMF Daanbantayan Branch
By Danielle Tan | December 5, 2018
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For a man who was not used to hard labor and difficult life, Jomar Mandawe rose up to the challenges life threw at him. From zero to hero, his courage and determination made him the RAFI Micro-finance, Inc. Most Outstanding Trust Staff of 2017.
Not the Usual Beginning
Jomar Mandawe was born and raised in the small city of Bogo, the youngest and only boy in a family of five. Being the youngest, Jomar was given all the things he wanted.
“I was quite spoiled when it comes to my mother. I admit that I came to a point where I tried every vice you could think of. I had no clear direction back then and I became too complacent because my mother gave me everything I wanted,” he admittedly said.
Mandawe was able to finish his degree of Bachelor of Science in Computer Science major in Programming at the Cebu Roosevelt Memorial Colleges.
“My parents were really happy that I graduated on time despite my vices, I overcame the challenges of finishing my college degree,”
His Perseverance and Life Motivation
He was able to land a job as an appraiser in a pawnshop but later on resigned and applied as a collector in a lending company.
“I could not find any purpose in those jobs, so I had to give them up and search for my purpose in life,”
When Mandawe had a family of his own, he had to find a job to support his wife, son, and newborn daughter. He decided to stop all his vices and focus on how to provide a bright future for his family.
Challenges and His Most Memorable Experience
In 2016, Mandawe applied as a Trust Staff in the RAFI Micro-finance, Inc. and was assigned in Daanbantayan.
His Branch Manager, Reynan Locaylocay, who Mandawe considers as his mentor, guided him from the very beginning.
“Perseverance is needed when you are a Trust Staff. I had to be persistent despite days of being exposed to the scorching heat of the sun and difficult clients we had to face when collecting past due or overdue accounts,” Mandawe said.
He even shared an experience he will never forget.
“I recall a time when I had to collect an overdue account late in the evening… I had to cross an eerie cemetery alone just to reach the client’s house. It was a frightening moment for me that I had to call Sir Reynan for backup so I could complete my task,”
From Zero to Hero
Mandawe maintained a 0% Portfolio at Risk (PAR) in his area and was able to deliver what was expected of him. And with the guidance of his branch manager, he continued serving the clients in Daanbantayan with fervor.
His family has always been his driving force.
“I realized the value of perseverance because I needed to provide for my family,”
“I could say that being here in RAFI Micro-finance, Inc. really brought changes for good in my life; far from my previous wayward life,”
“I can’t say that I’ve fully found my purpose but because of my family’s support and understanding, I am encouraged to do well in my work,”
“Moreover, I also find it encouraging every time I see changes and progress in the business lives of the clients I serve. It seemed close to finding the purpose I am looking for,” Mandawe said.
On Being the ‘Most Outstanding Trust Staff 2017’
Mandawe’s heart and determination in serving the Nanays made him the Most Outstanding Trust 2017, awarded last January 27, 2018.
“I never expected the award because there were also other deserving staff out there,”
“Even my family was surprised after they received the good news because they knew how hardheaded I was before. But now, because of RAFI-Micro-finance, Inc. and this new responsibility, I am now changed,” Mandawe said.
People That Matter to Him
Mandawe shared that he drew inspiration from his family when he needed the courage to face the unknown and perseverance during hard times, for they never gave up on him despite his past mistakes.
“I changed for the better and that was the biggest challenge I have overcome in my life. And now, I feel so blessed,”
“To God, who never left me despite all my bad decisions. Thank you very much,”
“To my family, my Daanbantayan RAFI-Micro-finance, Inc. team, and of course, to our Nanays, and to everyone who believed in me, I offer this award to all of you,” Mandawe said.
“I could never be thankful enough for the faith and the second chance you gave me. I love you all,”
“Let’s all Bugsai together to achieve bigger possibilities! I am happy.” #IAMRAFI
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