Growing up in Cebu, life was simple yet filled with the vibrant spirit of Filipino culture. As the eldest of four siblings, Gelyn Roble was always at the center of family celebrations—birthday parties, school events, and countless memories with close friends.
Her education at the University of San Carlos, coupled with the international exposure it offered, helped spark a broader vision for her future. From a young age, she was inspired by the spontaneous energy of Taylor Swift’s music and her belief in a beautiful, adventurous love story that would unfold in her life. Little did she know that her own story would soon take her across the world to a place she had only imagined.
At just a young age, she made the bold decision to move to the United States. With a heart full of hope and a strong desire to explore new horizons, she left the Philippines in search of something greater—though she didn’t quite know exactly what that would be. Her journey to the U.S. was fueled by young love, and although she arrived without a concrete plan, she was ready for whatever came next.
The Challenges of Starting Over
Adjusting to life in the U.S. presented immediate challenges. For Gelyn, the most significant was social integration. Without an established social network, she felt isolated in a new land, missing the warmth of family and the familiarity of Filipino traditions. The customs, social norms, and even the way holidays like Christmas were celebrated, were all vastly different. It took time to adjust and find her place in this new world. Yet, rather than seeing these challenges as setbacks, she chose to approach them with optimism and hope.
A key to her success in overcoming these hurdles was developing a growth mindset.
“I relied on self-talk, reminding myself that I could do this,” she says.
Though she didn’t have a clear roadmap for the future, she embraced each day as an opportunity for growth. The kindness and generosity of Filipino family friends who took her in became an important support system, giving her the foundation to move forward.
Staying Connected to Her Filipino Roots
Despite spending over 25 years in the U.S., she has remained deeply connected to her Filipino heritage. Through friendships, family, and regular communication with loved ones back home, she keeps her roots strong. Her connection to the Philippines has always been a source of strength and grounding, reminding her of where she came from and how far she’s come.
Making a Difference in Education
Today, she is not only thriving but also giving back to the community. As the Elementary and Intermediate Science Coordinator in one of Houston’s public schools, Gelyn leads a group of science specialists and instructional coaches focused on enhancing teaching and learning.
Her work extends beyond the classroom—she collaborates with public, private, and non-profit organizations to create opportunities for marginalized students, ensuring that those who are economically disadvantaged can access quality science education.
Her tireless commitment to improving education has earned her recognition, including the Outstanding Professional Award from the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce Texas, highlighting her exceptional contributions to both education and the community.
Her passion for education started long before her current role. She was once a college instructor in psychology in the Philippines, and today, her impact is even more profound.
“When I see instructional specialists gaining confidence in teaching science, and students actively engaged in lessons, I know I’m making a difference,” she shares. For Gelyn, the growth of the science program and the increased engagement of students have been incredibly rewarding.
Staying Motivated Amidst Setbacks
For someone who has faced many challenges, staying motivated requires a deep sense of purpose. She reflects on the Japanese concept of ikigai, which refers to one’s reason for being.
“I’ve found my purpose,” she says, “as a mom, it’s a natural instinct to do what’s best for my child. I make sure that everything I do aligns with my core values, and when setbacks arise, I remind myself that it’s all for a greater cause.”
This mindset allows her to stay grounded and motivated, even in the face of adversity. If she doesn’t succeed today, she knows she can always try again tomorrow.
Looking to the Future: Aspirations for Change
Though she feels young in her profession, she has been coordinating for several years and is now thinking about the next generation. Her aspirations go beyond personal success—she wants to leave the world better than she found it.
“I aim to create a global network of educators who promote inclusion,” she shares. Her vision is to ensure that every student, regardless of background, has access to a learning environment where they are seen and heard.
Becoming an Effective Mover and Influencer
For her, being an effective mover or influencer in today’s society requires more than just passion—it demands a clear vision and the ability to communicate that vision in a way that resonates with others.
“You need to have a genuine passion for the cause you’re advocating for,” she explains, “and the ability to inspire others to join you in making a difference.”
A Message for the Younger Generation
Her advice to the younger generation is simple but profound: “Bloom where you are planted. Make the most of where life has placed you, even if it’s not exactly where you imagined it to be. Break through your current situation, grow with it, and seek opportunities to learn and contribute. Stay focused and grounded, and always remember to take care of yourselves—because you can’t give what you don’t have.”
Gelyn’s story is a powerful reminder that no matter where you start, your journey is yours to shape. Through resilience, purpose, and the willingness to embrace change, you can become a catalyst for transformation—not just in your life, but in the lives of those around you.
