For more than two years now, Jose Alvarez has been helping Filipinos achieve their financial goals in his capacity as Client Engagement Associate at SmarTrade, one of the pioneer financial education companies in the country.

"I feel like it is my own way of giving back for the blessings I have received," says Alvarez who was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2012. "My doctors have given me a new lease on life when they managed my Parkinson's disease, but SmarTrade has given me a new opportunity to continuously experience my freedom doing the things I love to do."

Prior to developing Parkinson's, a progressive disorder that affects the nervous system and the parts of the body controlled by the nerves, Alvarez worked as a Customer Service Associate for a luxury vehicle brand abroad. Since then, the single father of two found it difficult to be employed because of his medical condition.

"It was a struggle to find work and I am grateful to have been accepted as a full-time employee at SmarTrade. I enjoy the work environment. My bosses and my colleagues are very friendly and positive. It made my life easier and I was provided with all the tools for me to work properly and effectively," Alvarez said.

Alvarez helps SmarTrade participants and other ATFX clients by providing them with needed information regarding online trading and how to attend and register for the free learning sessions. He also collates reports and inquiries used by SmarTrade to further improve its services.

"Even with my condition, I can complete tasks smoothly because everything is online, which reduces the amount of movement required. It's a challenge for me to answer in a timely manner, especially in social media chats where the client needs a quick answer. But I am thankful that clients have the patience to wait for a reply. My reflexes are occasionally slow, but I complete all tasks that are assigned to me," Alvarez said.

Cristel Tasha Rubio, a SmarTrade webinar attendee and a newbie trader, is among the clients Alvarez has helped.