The Sarnia Journal has partnered with local photographer Art Connolly to feature his captivating “Humans of Sarnia” series as he delves into the lives and experiences of everyday people in Sarnia. Follow his series on Instagram and Facebook
Ishtar Villavicencio has always been ready to make the most of new beginnings, taking each step forward with a rare resilience and commitment to growth. Her journey began in Manila, Philippines, where she grew up alongside her two sisters. Her father’s work as an electronic engineer took the family to Qatar, one of the wealthiest countries in the world, known for its thriving oil and gas industry. For Ishtar, this move was the first of many shifts in her life, each one bringing her closer to her goals and each one undertaken with a sense of purpose.
In Qatar, Ishtar began her career working with toddlers as an assistant teacher, a job she recalls with fondness and laughter. “I loved the kids,” she says. “We had 22 kids in the class. I was young then, so it was more like I was playing with them!” The position suited her naturally caring personality, but she soon sought to apply her diploma in Hotel and Restaurant Management, majoring in Cruise Line Operations. This qualification opened the door to a receptionist position with a major corporation, a chance she embraced wholeheartedly. For Ishtar, that first opportunity held a special place. “In life, sometimes all you need is one opportunity,” she reflects.
It wasn’t long before Ishtar’s talents were noticed. After only seven months in the receptionist role, her company promoted her to Assistant to the Operations Manager. This role was more dynamic, involving coordination across departments and handling critical documents. It was a position that allowed her to develop a range of administrative skills, and she thrived in it for the next four years. Her boss, who valued her dedication, eventually became the CEO and invited her to join him as his assistant. This time, she would stay in the role for seven years, building a strong foundation of professional experience.
Yet, as fulfilling as her role was, Ishtar eventually found herself ready for something new. After seven years, she sensed that her growth was plateauing. “It was time to move on,” she explains. “I felt like I was in a rut, and I wanted to take on a new challenge.” She began to explore new interests, including photography—a creative pursuit that allowed her to see the world from fresh perspectives. But she was looking for something deeper, a change that would alter the course of her life.
It was during this period of exploration that a friend mentioned a seminar about studying in Canada. The seminar detailed the process of obtaining a student visa, sparking an idea that quickly took root. The possibility of studying in Canada seemed exciting, and after discussing it with her family, she made the decision to apply. “Canada has a strong reputation for quality education,” Ishtar notes. The idea of studying abroad represented both the new start she was craving and a chance to immerse herself n a culture known for its inclusiveness and warmth.
Today, Ishtar is a student in the Business Management Program at Lambton College, nearing graduation. Her decision to pursue this program wasn’t random; when she reviewed the curriculum, she realized it aligned closely with her past work experience in Qatar. With her combined background in business management and operations, Ishtar feels confident that she’ll bring valuable expertise to any role she takes on. She lights up when she talks about her work. “I love it. I am a workaholic!” she says with a laugh. That drive definitely comes from the work culture in Qatar, where employees are encouraged to go above and beyond.
Now, she’s focused on the next step in her journey. She’s actively looking for a position that will allow her to excel and contribute to a company that values her skills. Ishtar’s passion lies in administrative work, particularly in a corporate environment where she feels comfortable and competent. Her goal is to establish a career in Canada, to settle here and make Sarnia her home.
Sarnia, she says, has been welcoming. “People here are so nice,” she observes with a smile. She admires the community-minded spirit she’s found in Sarnia, where residents are always ready to help one another. That sense of community support has inspired her to dream even bigger. Once she secures a work permit and gains one year of work experience, she can apply for permanent residency, a process she’s eager to complete so she can begin putting down more permanent roots.
But Ishtar isn’t just waiting for opportunities to come to her—she’s creating her own as well. Inspired by her love for art, she’s started planning a business called “IshVil Arts and Crafts.” The venture will specialize in epoxy products, such as coasters, wall clocks, keychains, dominoes, and decorative items, all crafted with meticulous care. After conducting extensive research, she’s entered her idea in Lambton College’s “Pitch It” program, which allows students to present business ideas for a chance to win cash prizes and startup resources.
Currently, her business is registered but isn’t operational yet; she’s waiting for her work permit to make her entrepreneurial dream a reality. When she talks about IshVil Arts and Crafts, her eyes light up, and it’s clear that this venture is more than just a business plan—it’s a way for her to connect with her community and contribute to it.
One of the most inspiring aspects of Ishtar’s vision for her business is her commitment to giving back. Once her business can expand, she plans to hire some employees who have completed rehabilitation programs. This is her way of helping people in need and making a positive impact on the lives of others. “I learned this from Canadian culture,” she says thoughtfully. “Canadians really believe in giving back. I want to help others who deserve a second chance.”
Ishtar is determined to make a difference, both through her professional work and her business venture. Her story is one of resilience, of finding purpose in every new chapter, and of building a life with intention. In Sarnia, she sees not just a place to live, but a community to belong to, a place where she can make a meaningful impact.
As she completes her studies and begins the process of launching her business, Ishtar continues to set her sights high. She’s proof that, given the right opportunity and the courage to take it, anyone can transform their life. With her work ethic, passion, and spirit, Ishtar Villavicencio is set to make waves in her new home—one step at a time.
Her journey reminds us that resilience and hope are often the best guides we can have, leading us to places we might never have imagined but were always meant to be.
“Humans of Sarnia” founder Art Connolly is a man fuelled by curiosity and a passion for connecting with people in Sarnia. Inspired by the renowned “Humans of New York” series, with a camera in hand, he captures the very essence of the individuals he encounters, preserving their stories through his lens.
This article was created by the author with support from advanced editorial tools and reviewed by our team to ensure accuracy and fairness. Learn more.