Introductory post: Fearless Leap at 50

Hello everyone! My name is Agnes Buado, and I believe it's better late than never! I'm embracing this new chapter with excitement and eagerness to connect with a community where I can share my passions and learn from others.

I was born in a relatively secluded municipality in the province of Lanao del Sur, Philippines, where the diverse population, is a rich mix of indigenous groups and different religions, thrives. The warmth and richness of these communities fostered a sense of belonging and shaped my understanding of the world influencing my values and perspective from a young age. My childhood in Wao Lanao del Sur was a paradise. I was raised by my loving and protective grandparents on a farm where we cultivated coffee rice and corn, and had our own fishpond and well. The abundance of food like fresh fruit, fish, chicken, and more was a constant blessing.

I am a mother of five- four outstanding sons and one lovely daughter and I watch them grow up far too quickly. As four of them are already grown up, capturing perfect family photos becomes increasingly challenging. However, the love and harmony in our family remain constant. Their obedience, respect, and the unending pride they bring me are gifts I cherish. They've never given me a headache. I'm so grateful for what they've become.

I became a secondary school teacher at Mindanao State University in Marawi City. I loved sharing my knowledge and fostering a love of learning in my students. However, the challenges of finding reliable childcare led me to a significant life change.
Teaching remains deeply fulfilling, there's nothing quite like seeing students grasp new concepts. After leaving my position at Mindanao State University, I eagerly pursued online teaching opportunities, connecting with students from Ukraine, Korea, China, and many other countries, each with unique backgrounds and ages. This experience has broadened my perspective and enriched my understanding of diverse cultures and learning styles. The global classroom is truly inspiring.

This journey, from the simplicity of my childhood farm to the complexity of the global digital classroom, has been defined by resilience, adaptation, and a deep love for my family and my work. I'm profoundly grateful for @antonette's support and for every lesson learned along the way. I'm excited to see where this path leads. Want to hear more about the unexpected twists and turns?