For Leading Aircraftwoman Sheralyn Hill, service to Australia is deeply personal.
Enlisting in Air Force in 2021 as a geospatial air intelligence analyst, she was determined to work hard and make her mum proud.
Leading Aircraftwoman Hill's mum, Miriam, was 17 when she migrated to Australia from the Philippines.
After losing her own mother at only 11 years old, Miriam and her 11 siblings took a leap of faith in the hopes of building a better life.
"The beginning was very challenging," Miriam said.
"Coming from the Philippines, adjusting to a new culture was difficult. We had no money, so we lived with my older sister. The younger siblings went to school and the older ones, including me, had to work straight away to help support the family."
Later in life, when Miriam fell pregnant with her only child Sheralyn, she knew she wanted to raise her to share her resilience, compassion and work ethic.
"I instilled in Sheralyn the value of education and to always try her best, no matter what challenges she faces," Miriam said.
"I encouraged her to stay strong and never give up. I am incredibly proud of her work ethic and her service to Australia.
"The joy I feel every time I see her in uniform, hear about her accomplishments and watch her grow into a mature, confident young woman fills me with overwhelming pride."
'I serve not just for myself, but to honour everything my mum gave up for me, and to give back to the country she now calls home.'
Born and raised in Frankston, Melbourne, Leading Aircraftwoman Hill devotes her service to her mum and every sacrifice Miriam has endured.
"My mum's selfless resilience - shaped by migration, sacrifice and a lifetime of putting family first - has always inspired me, the values I live by, and the determination with which I now serve," she said.
"I serve not just for myself, but to honour everything my mum gave up for me, and to give back to the country she now calls home."
Just five years into her military service, Leading Aircraftwoman Hill is determined to continue building a successful career and to one day have her own family in whom she can instil Miriam's values.
"Determination and resilience is a big thing in my career, and to never give up, no matter how hard or tough things may be," Leading Aircraftwoman Hill said.
"I have had to learn to adapt and be flexible, especially in the military environment.
"My parents have given me a good life, pushed me to work hard and taught me to be determined and successful in my career. I want to give myself and my future family what they gave me."
This Mother's Day, Leading Aircraftwoman Hill gives thanks to her mum for the lifetime of opportunities and love that led her to where she is today.
