Singer-turned-nurse Carol Banawa receives Most Outstanding Migrant Award in the US

September 23 ------ Former Kapamilya singer Carol Banawa marked another milestone in her life in the United States after receiving the Most Outstanding Migrant Award. "I am deeply humbled and incredibly honored to receive the Most Outstanding Migrant Award. To be recognized among so many inspiring individuals is a blessing I will forever cherish," she wrote on her Instagram page.

Carol then looked back on her journey from the Philippines to the U.S. and the challenges of starting over in a new country. "When I left the Philippines, I also left behind a career that I loved. Starting over in a new country was not easy. There were moments of uncertainty, sacrifice, and countless long days, but I believed that every new beginning could lead to a greater purpose," she said.

The former singer also reflected on how she built a new career in healthcare abroad. "I started my journey in healthcare from the ground up — from Certified Nursing Assistant, to Licensed Practical Nurse, to Registered Nurse, and now, Family Nurse Practitioner. Looking back, every challenge, every sacrifice, every late night, and every moment I wanted to give up brought me one step closer to this moment," she highlighted.

Carol also expressed her gratitude to her family and loved ones in both the U.S. and the Philippines, whom she credited for supporting her throughout her journey. She also dedicated the recognition to fellow migrants who have also left their home countries in pursuit of new opportunities. "As a proud Filipino, I accept this award on behalf of every migrant who has left home in search of a better future," she remarked. "We Filipinos carry with us the values we learned from home — humility, perseverance, faith, compassion, resilience, and hard work. Wherever life takes us, we bring those values with us and continue to serve, love, and make a difference."

Carol also shared an encouraging message for those who may be hesitant to start over or pursue a different path in life. "So, to anyone who is afraid to begin again, who thinks it is too late to change, or who has been told that their dreams are impossible: Never let anyone define your limits," she stated. "I stand here today as a reminder that it is never too late to begin again. With God’s grace, the love of family, and the courage to keep moving forward, anything is possible," she added.

Source: news.abs-cbn.com