Lia Ocampo, 51, a flight attendant from Florida and formerly with the US Embassy in Manila used to work in Human Resources of the State Department, Trade and Development Agency, Public Affairs and Department of Veterans Affairs.

Small wonder that, in a span of six years, she put together the book, What We Know for Sure, featuring 26 stories of former embassy employees and their hard work to come to America.

Despite the current restrictions on immigrants, Ocampo says, “My book and our stories are still relevant. This book was not just written for immigrants and potential immigrants. It is also for anybody who needs inspiration and for anyone who can benefit from Filipino resilience, skills and talents.”

“The journey is hard and the road gets bumpy. There is no easy roadmap to success. Always remember people who helped you along the way, especially those with you through the rough times. When you help someone succeed, you will become successful.”

“I encourage Filipinos not to waste the opportunity to immigrate. It is an opportunity not everybody receives.”

What We Know for Sure is available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Lulu, Kobo, e-Bookit, Apple books and IndieBound. (HB)