Ivy is well liked in Qaqortoq. You often meet her behind the shelves at Pisiffik, and many older residents meet her every Sunday at church. Not because she makes a lot of noise, but because she is present. Ivy from the Philippines first arrived in Qaqortoq in October 2023 to work at the town café Kunguak.
Today, she works at Pisiffik, feels at home in the local community – and at the same time runs several businesses in the Philippines. Behind her calm appearance lies a life story shaped by responsibility, hard work, and a strong desire to give back.
“I know what it’s like to have nothing. That’s why I work hard,” Ivy says.
Christmas is just around the corner, and people are busy buying gifts and food while preparing for the holiday. A time when togetherness and love mean the most. Ivy remembers her first Christmas in Qaqortoq clearly:
“I celebrated it completely alone and thought I had to go home. Today, I can handle it better – I go home every year,” says the 35-year-old Ivy.
Giving gives strength
Already at the age of 16, Ivy began supporting herself. She grew up on a farm where both parents were farmers, and life taught her the value of hard work at an early age.
“Since I started taking care of myself, I have always cooked food for children who live far from society – children and elderly people living in the jungle in the Philippines. I believe that when you give something, you also receive something in return. That gives me strength.”
One of the things Ivy especially appreciates about Greenland is the kindness in everyday life – that people greet each other. And the snow. A childhood dream that has come true.
Businesswoman in the Philippines
Ivy began working almost around the clock already at the age of 16. Her education was put on hold so she could earn money, and slowly she began building her own business in the Philippines.
“What started as one small shop has now grown into four businesses – and soon the fifth will open. During the pandemic, I had to close my clothing store, but I shifted to food products instead because I knew that was what people needed,” Ivy explains.
For Ivy, business is not only about work, but also about values and community.
Thanks to Ivy’s strong commitment to the fruit and vegetable department, Qaqortoq has achieved the highest growth in fruit and vegetable sales among all Pisiffik stores nationwide in both 2024 and 2025. On this basis, Ivy has been honoured and awarded special recognition by the Pisiffik Board.
With great dedication, she is highly appreciated by both customers and colleagues. She has a strong focus on reducing food waste and, among other things, prepares bags and trays of cut fruit at an affordable price.
Christmas brings back memories – both of longing and togetherness. Today, Ivy has found her own way of celebrating Christmas, even far from home. With food, open doors, and warmth, she brings people together.
“Christmas is the same, no matter where in the world we are. Merry Christmas to you all,” Ivy concludes.
