"Throughout my life I have learned that dreams are achieved through dedication, patience, and perseverance."
Dayana Botina, receptionist
My name is Dayana Botina. I am 32 years old and originally from Puerto El Carmen, in the Putumayo canton. I am the mother of two wonderful children, aged 15 and 8, who are my greatest motivation to keep moving forward every day and build a better future.
I spent my childhood and teenage years in Puerto El Carmen, where I attended primary and secondary school at Unidad Educativa San Miguel de Putumayo. Despite difficulties, my parents ensured that we never gave up on our education. I became a mother at the age of seventeen. After graduating from high school, I moved to Quito, where at eighteen I began working in customer service for a year and a half. At the end of 2013, I returned to Puerto El Carmen.
In early 2014, I started working at a CIBV daycare center. Because it was a politically appointed position, I worked there for one year. In February 2015, I had the opportunity to work at the Puerto El Carmen health center, where I remained employed for five years. Then the COVID-19 pandemic struck, affecting the economy and forcing staff reductions. Unfortunately, I lost my job.
When Hospital San Miguel opened and vacancies for a receptionist became available, I applied but was not selected. Nevertheless, I never lost hope or motivation to try again.
I began selling chicken to local shops and from a small personal sales stand to support my family. A second application also did not lead to employment. These experiences taught me resilience, perseverance, and trust that everything happens at the right time.
Currently, I am studying Administration and Commercial Management, allowing me to grow both professionally and personally.
Today, I can gratefully say that I am part of this organization as a receptionist. This job represents not only employment but also the result of perseverance. I am proud to work here and motivated to give my best every day.
My goal within the foundation is to continue learning, grow professionally, and provide excellent service — friendly, responsible, and committed. I hope to keep developing my skills and take on greater responsibilities in the future.
I want to be an example for my children and show them that with dedication and perseverance, goals can be achieved regardless of obstacles.
Finally, I would like to thank Dr. Jacob and Dr. Carolien for their trust and for giving me this opportunity. I will continue to carry out my work with responsibility, respect, and enthusiasm.
Dayana
