Glady Shobana Abraham | Dovida Ballsbridge

“My culture has taught me that genuine care comes from the heart and that love and compassion can bring people together in powerful ways.”

How has your culture shaped you?

I come from the southern part of India. Although I was born in a busy city, I spent 17 years of my life in my grandparents’ rural village. Growing up in that close-knit community shaped me into the person I am today. I learned to value simplicity, kindness, and respect for everyone, especially our elders. My culture has taught me that genuine care comes from the heart and that love and compassion can bring people together in powerful ways. 

How is care valued in your culture?

In my culture, caring for others is seen as a natural and essential part of life, not as an obligation. When someone in the community faces challenges, everyone comes together to offer support, whether emotional or financial. Elders are deeply respected for their wisdom and experience, and caring for them is considered a privilege. This strong sense of compassion and togetherness defines how we view care; it’s an expression of love, respect, and humanity. 

“As a Dovida caregiver, I bring the same warmth, respect, and empathy that I grew up with in my village. “

What aspects of your culture do you bring to your role? 

As a Dovida caregiver, I bring the same warmth, respect, and empathy that I grew up with in my village. My cultural background has taught me to treat everyone with dignity and patience, and to listen and care from the heart. I believe that caregiving is not just about meeting someone’s physical needs, it’s about building trust, offering emotional comfort, and creating meaningful connections. 

Can you share a story or memory from an important event in your culture or life? 

Before moving to Ireland, I had the privilege of living with a 77-year-old woman for two and a half years. She had lost her mother, grandmother, and sister during the Covid pandemic, and I became her companion and caregiver. During that time, I learned how powerful love and emotional support can be in helping someone heal. Even today, we stay in touch, and she often reminds me that my care filled the space her loved ones once held. That experience reinforced everything my culture taught me – that true care comes from compassion, understanding, and the heart.