Not every young person who enters Walking Street does so because it was their lifelong plan.

For some, it is a temporary way to earn money while trying to finish school and support their family.

During our interview, Mark Cabrega, an 18-year-old transgender Filipina, shared her experiences balancing education, freelance work, and the hope of building a different future.

Her story is about ambition, family responsibility, and resilience.

Growing Up in a Large Family

Mark comes from a large household with seven surviving siblings after the loss of one brother or sister. She described being the fifth child in the family and said only two siblings are still attending school.

The family lives together in a small rented home, where space is limited and everyone works together to make ends meet.

Growing up in these conditions has shaped her determination to pursue a better future.

Continuing School Despite Financial Challenges

At just 18 years old, Mark is a Grade 11 student.

Rather than giving up on her education, she continues studying while earning income through freelance work.

When asked about her future career, she answered without hesitation.

She wants to become an elementary school teacher with a major in Filipino.

More importantly, she hopes to provide free lessons to children who cannot afford educational support.

A Difficult Decision

Mark explained that she had only recently begun working around Walking Street.

She described entering the nightlife industry as a way to earn money during a difficult period in her life.

Throughout the interview, she repeatedly returned to one goal:

Finishing school.

Rather than portraying nightlife as a destination, she viewed it as a temporary means of supporting her education and helping her family.

Family Acceptance Has Been a Challenge

Mark also spoke about her identity.

She shared that she realized she was different from other boys around the age of 12.

Although she has accepted herself, she explained that her father has struggled to fully accept her gender identity.

Despite that challenge, she hopes acceptance will grow over time while she continues proving herself through education and hard work.

Looking Toward a Better Future

When asked what success looks like, Mark didn't talk about wealth.

She talked about graduating.

She wants to become a teacher, support her parents, and eventually give back to children who face the same financial struggles she experienced growing up.

Her goals reflect a desire to build a life beyond her current circumstances.

More Than One Chapter

Mark's interview reminds us that people should not be defined by one period of their lives.

Behind every difficult decision is a larger story filled with family responsibilities, financial pressures, and personal dreams.

Her journey is still unfolding, and education remains at the center of the future she hopes to create.

FAQ

How old is Mark?

Mark is 18 years old and currently attending Grade 11.

What career does she want?

She hopes to become an elementary school teacher specializing in Filipino.

Why did she begin working in Walking Street?

She explained that financial hardship motivated her to begin freelance work while continuing her education.