臺北市新住民專區網站英文版

Radio Station Host for Chinese and Filipino Programs

Name: He Weiwei

Nationality: Philippines

I have reached the age of forty, and at the beginning of this decade, a new chapter in my life has begun. I purchased my second home and am working hard toward this goal. In my professional life, I am also gradually gaining recognition in the broadcasting industry. I am thrilled to reach this new milestone after years of dedicated effort.

During my school years, I never expected to use my second language to make my way in the world. Back then, there weren't many new immigrant children at school, and the term “new immigrant” was introduced later on. From kindergarten, I felt like an outsider. The teachers would immediately notice me with my deep-set features and dark skin. Even in group photos, I would unconsciously lower my head, feeling very self-conscious. Fortunately, I had a supportive family. Despite the 20-year age gap between my parents and my father's military background, I was raised to be independent and courageous as their only child.

My mother decided to marry my father after getting to know him well in the Philippines, so I spoke Filipino with my mother and Chinese with my father from a young age. For me, being bilingual was a natural and effortless part of life.

In the past, I was very concerned about falling behind in my studies because there was no one at home to help me review my homework. As a result, I had to work harder than my classmates to keep up with my coursework. Eventually, I was fortunate enough to be accepted into a medical technology program.

After graduating, I worked as a laboratory technician in a hospital for a year. However, since my personality wasn’t well-suited to the routine of working alone in a lab, I decided to explore other opportunities. A friend introduced me to a chance to audition for a broadcasting position, and since the station was in urgent need of staff, I accepted the role. Later on, when a friend needed someone to host a Filipino language radio program, I was also invited to take on that role.

Through these serendipitous events, I now host two radio programs, manage their social media pages, occasionally take on legal translation work, and currently work as a call center operator for labor consultation and complaints under the Ministry of Labor. While these may not be extraordinary accomplishments, they serve as a motivational example for second-generation new immigrants. I believe our society needs each of our individual contributions, so trust in your abilities and keep pushing forward!