Key Points
- Deo Antonio migrated to Australia in the 1980s at age 20 without a university degree, determined to succeed through hard work and perseverance.
- He built a thriving career, rising from data entry to managing five bank branches, driven by his character and resilience.
- Now a mortgage broker, Deo supports the community through event organisation.
In an interview with SBS Filipino, Adelio Antonio or commonly known as Deo shared that he prioritises finding joy in his work over making money. He embraces career challenges, even though the journey hasn’t always been easy.
Along the way, Deo faced numerous rejections for job applications and promotions, as well as instances of racism and discrimination. Yet, he remained focused on his goals. "I received a lot of rejections, but I didn’t take them personally. Instead, I focused on how I could improve. I’d even ask employers what qualities they were looking for, then work hard to build those skills in myself," he said.
Filipinos are persistent, hardworking people. I myself was raised in the Philippines, so I’d say I’m street smart. When a Pinoy works, they do it with excellence, which is an advantage for us no matter where we are in the world.Deo Antonio
After 20 years working in the bank, Deo transitioned to a career as a mortgage broker, seeking a better work-life balance for his family and more time for hobbies like cooking “authentic Filipino food.”
Deo Antonio Credit: Supplied
