Single parenting isn’t a one-size-fits-all story; it’s a journey full of resilience, creativity, and unexpected joy.
It means being both a provider and a protector, a teacher and a friend, often all at once.
For many, single parenting brings newfound strengths, deeper connections with their kids, and a unique freedom to define family on their own terms.
It’s a path that comes with challenges but also offers powerful rewards that only those who walk it truly understand.
Sarawak Tribune sat down with 37-year-old Rozzie Mila — a powerhouse single mother, career woman, and talented Bidayuh singer — to delve into her unique perspective on single parenting and life beyond the spotlight.
Here is our conversation:
Q: What is something about single motherhood that people often misunderstand?
A: For seven years, I’ve been a single mother to my daughter, Aphrodite Alecsandria, who is now 11. One of the biggest misconceptions about single motherhood, I think, is that it’s all about struggle and sacrifice. People often miss the resilience, joy, and close-knit bond that can flourish in single-parent families. Many single mothers, myself included, discover a sense of empowerment and fulfilment in overcoming life’s challenges with creativity and strength. It’s not just about surviving — it’s about building a meaningful, thriving life for ourselves and our children. And I believe there’s a deep respect for single parents who work tirelessly to secure a strong future for their kids.
How do you find time for self-care or personal growth while managing the demands of single parenting?
As a single mother working full-time as a dental nurse at a government clinic and part-time as a singer, I rely on efficient time management to balance it all. Between my careers, time with my child, and a few moments for myself, every minute counts. I usually reserve singing gigs for weekends since weekdays are for clinic work and, just as importantly, for spending time with my daughter — even if it’s just helping her with homework, each moment with her is precious to me.
What values or lessons are you most focused on instilling in your child?
I want my daughter to grow up independent, and I know that starts with me. By working hard, I hope to show her that success is possible — even as a single parent. As she will face an ever more challenging world, I want her to stand strong with education, knowledge, and a career of her own — free from the need to rely on anyone else. My hope is that she’ll become someone who contributes to society with confidence, proving that she’s capable and resilient, no matter her background.
What’s something new you’ve learned since becoming a single parent?
A lesson I’ve embraced is the value of continuously improving ourselves to reach new heights. In the past, I took acting classes and was fortunate to land supporting roles in several telemovies like “Mi Kolok” and “Sumpahan Jerunei” in 2017 and 2018. I also competed in Mrs Sarawak in 2018, earning third place. By 2021, I ventured into singing, and I’m grateful that my talent resonated with local music fans. I even placed second runner-up at the Anugerah Carta Lagu Bidayuh in 2022 with my debut single, “Cinta Asungku”.
What advice would you give to someone new to single parenthood, based on your own experiences?
To those new to single parenting: don’t give up or feel defeated, especially if you have children. They are our strength, helping us move forward without looking back. Remember, we have family and friends who stand by us, encouraging us to grow stronger and succeed. Trust that this path is part of God’s plan for a better future — but keep working hard to make it happen! Pray for His guidance, so we’re always protected and blessed along the way.
