Unsung Heroes | MARK BALAGDIA
Every school day, there’s someone behind the canteen counter keeping things moving, serving snacks and drinks, chatting with students, and somehow keeping up when the lunch rush arrives. We’re shining a light on Mark Balagdia, Chatterbox Canteen Server at NAS Dubai, one of the unsung heroes who helps make our school community feel lively and welcoming.
1. ABOUT YOU
Q1: Where are you from?
Answer: I’m from Manila, Philippines.
Q2: How long have you worked at NAS Dubai?
Answer: I’ve worked at NAS Dubai for one year.
Q3: What do you like about your job?
Answer: I really enjoy my job because it gives me the chance to connect with so many different people every day. Every day feels a little different. Spending time with students and teachers keeps things fun, as there’s always a new question, a new story, or something unexpected happening.
Being part of the school community means I get to share in all the energy, curiosity, and humour that make this place feel alive. It’s hard not to enjoy that.
2. LIFE AT THE CANTEEN
Q1: What is the most challenging part of your job?
Answer: It gets wild during break and lunch. The moment the bell rings, it’s like the whole school decides they desperately need a coffee, a snack, or both, right now!
Since I’m serving on my own, I sometimes feel like I’m starring in a one-person speed-run challenge, handing out sandwiches, pouring drinks, and keeping the queue moving. It’s busy, a bit chaotic, and honestly… that’s what makes it fun. There’s never a dull moment.
Q2: Do the students all buy the same things?
Answer: Most students go straight for the small snacks, anything quick they can grab before running off to class.
Teachers, on the other hand, are much more predictable: it’s almost always a coffee and a slice of cake, like clockwork. By lunchtime, I can practically guess who’s coming and what they’re ordering before they even reach the counter.
Q3: What is it like dealing with the kids in school?
Answer: Dealing with the kids is honestly one of the best parts of the job. They’re all so polite and respectful, but they also bring this hilarious, unpredictable energy that keeps my day interesting.
Some come in cracking jokes, some stop for a quick chat, and others just zoom past like they’re on a secret mission. They make the school feel lively, and they always manage to put a smile on my face, even on the busiest days.
3. LIFE OUTSIDE SCHOOL
Q1: What do you do on your day off?
Answer: I like playing basketball, and I’m usually on the court in Barsha or Rigga depending on the day. It’s my favourite way to unwind and have a bit of fun.
On my day off, I switch gears completely. I catch up on my household chores and then make sure I get some proper rest. It’s a nice balance between running around and slowing down.
Q2: What’s your hobby?
Answer: I love playing basketball, and when I’m not on the court pretending I’m about to be drafted into the NBA, I’m in the kitchen cooking.
My absolute masterpiece is Adobo — a Filipino speciality that I’ve perfected so well I’m convinced it could win awards. If basketball doesn’t make me famous, my Adobo might!
Q3: What’s your favourite place in Dubai?
Answer: I love going to the beach. There’s nothing better than relaxing by the water and pretending I’m on holiday, even if it’s just for an afternoon.
And one day soon, I’m determined to make it all the way to the top of the Burj Khalifa. I keep saying “soon,” so hopefully this time I actually mean it. It’s definitely on my Dubai bucket list!
