Lu, the manager at Gazal Lounge in Milton, Ontario — a Turkish & Middle Eastern restaurant — is someone I have deep respect for. She’s from the Philippines, the oldest sibling of three, and the main breadwinner for her family. She didn’t just hear about hardship — she lived it. She understands what life can be like back home, where opportunities are limited and every dollar carries weight. Being the oldest means you don’t get the luxury of thinking only about yourself. You grow up fast. You carr