My name is Ritchel Limbang Leonida, a proud wife, mother and a preschool teacher whose journey is built with faith, sacrifice, love and perseverance. I am blessed with three wonderful children – Nyl Justyn the eldest, Myl Joshua, and our youngest Yrine Eunice. I also come from a loving family with my siblings Renan and Janice and my amazing parents Jose Roger Limbang and Ma Luz Limbang.
My husband Larry works as a motorcycle mechanic in Honda Country Ashburton, and together we made one of the biggest decisions of our lives when we left the Philippines in November 2023 on a visitor visa through the help of my sister Janice and brother-in-law Owein. Being away from our children for six months was one of the hardest chapters of our lives, but through strong faith, prayers and love for our family, we stayed hopeful and strong.
One beautiful opportunity changed my life, when my brother-in-law saw a facebook post shared by my nephews previous teacher Alicia Smith, saying that Phoenix Preschool was hiring a teacher. The next day, I submitted my application and had an amazing kÅrero with the wonderful Centre Manager Angela Ross. Before the year ended, I received a job offer. There were many challenges along the way, but one thing I always held onto was the saying from a very inspiring person – “Good things happen to those who know how to wait”.
After five months, our lives changed forever. My visa was approved, and I began my beautiful journey at Phoenix Preschool. Today, I am beyond thankful for the love, care, kindness and support that my co-teachers, Centre Manager and the people around me have given.
This journey taught me that with patience, courage, faith and the support of people who believe in you, dreams really do come true.
“The goodness you plant today will one day bloom into blessings beyond your imagination”
