FIVE years into her Royal Australian Air Force career, Leading Aircraftwoman Sheralyn Hill says she is spending Mother’s Day thanking the woman who set her on the path.
The Frankston-born and raised geospatial air intelligence analyst enlisted in 2021, motivated in large part by her mother Miriam’s migrant story.
Miriam moved to Melbourne from the Philippines at 17, having lost her own mother at the age of 11. She and her 11 siblings settled in Australia with an older sister.
“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.”
Sheralyn is Miriam’s only child.
“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.”
Leading Aircraftwoman Hill said her mother was central to her decision to enlist.
“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.”
She said the role had demanded qualities she had developed over time.
“Determination and resilience is a big thing in my career, and to never give up, no matter how hard or tough things may be,” she 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.”
First published in the Frankston Times – 12 May 2026