Name: Viva Andrada O’Flynn
Please describe your current role.
Entrepreneur, Love Viva Cakes and Crafts
GL Communities Neighbourhood Connector
Global Media Relations and Host of “Inspiring Millions Show,” World Humanitarian Drive
Secretary, Filipino Association of Gloucestershire
Publicity Committee, Filipino Women’s Association UK
Community Panel, Voices Gloucester
Community Producer, Hi-Street Festival
My several roles enable me to share love, joy, and inspiration with others. I bring people together to enjoy moments with their community and celebrate life.
What is the maxim you live by?
I would like to share two: “Love life all you can while you still can”– to make the most of every moment.
“There’s always something better if you make it so” — to not be stuck; to keep going and finding better opportunities.
Tell us the biggest challenge that you faced and how you overcame it.
I battled homesickness and loneliness by connecting with others. It’s not easy starting out in a different country, carving a life for me and my husband. I lived in the Philippines for most of my life. When I moved here, I didn’t know anyone, just my husband. I’m lucky to have an outgoing personality; that I welcome adventures and challenges. It made me open up and adapt faster. Of course, my husband helped with the transition as well — love makes life easier. I miss my family and friends back home, but it’s wonderful to be able to get in touch with them on social media, call, and text.
Every effort you make matters, even if it seems you’re not living your dreams. With every step, you’re gaining skills and experience inching you closer to the best version of yourself. Who knows where your path may lead? Open up to new opportunities.
What is the one achievement that you are most proud of and why?
I was awarded Creative Business of the Year in 2019 and International Women’s Day Top 5 Business Women in the UK in 2020 by the Women’s Business Club. I was also one of the top winners of World Humanitarian Drive’s COVID Times Poetry Competition representing the Philippines. However, I believe my greatest achievements are yet to come. I give my best in everything I do. I’m guided by my values: to share love, joy, and inspiration with the world.
With my Love Viva Cakes and Crafts business, whenever I make my customers happy with the products and services I offer, that I feel is my greatest achievement.
What is your advice to young Filipino girls of today?
Life is a constant journey through self-discovery. You’ll keep learning more about yourself with every step you take.
When you’re baking or cooking and if what you’re making doesn’t taste right or look right, maybe you’re using the wrong recipe. You just have to keep experimenting, fine-tuning your recipe and try again.
Every effort you make matters, even if it seems you’re not living your dreams. With every step, you’re gaining skills and experience inching you closer to the best version of yourself. Who knows where your path may lead? Open up to new opportunities.
