Social Entrepreneur, Global Changemaker

Illac Diaz, through Liter of Light, the first global Filipino NGO which he has founded, has brought light to millions of poor families across the globe, and in doing so has also advocated a more progressive narrative for the Filipino people – that of a benefactor nation well capable to contribute solutions to the problems of the world.

A social entrepreneur and campaigner for progress, Illac has developed sustainable technology, bringing solar – powered illumination to impoverished families with little or no access to electricity. His grass roots platform which has hubs in 30 countries, and is supported by some 1,400 volunteers has lighted some 1.5 million homes across the world.   Liter of Lights’ open source technology has been recognized by the United Nations and is also used in some UNHCR camps.  The foundation has also received the St. Andrews Prize for the Environment (2016) and the World Habitat Award (2014-2015).  In the UAE, Illac has received the Zayed Future Energy Prize (ZFEP) in 2015 and facilitated a world record ‘The Largest Environmental Sustainability Lesson’ with the support of the ZFEP.  He is set to showcase Liter of Light’s initiatives at the Dubai Expo 2020 as one of the grant recipients whose work will be showcased at the landmark event.

From creating sustainable solutions to igniting a worldwide movement, Illac Diaz tirelessly works to help the impoverished while demonstrating that the Philippines is an innovative nation, and its people, a globally competitive force that can lead.

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

Get a copy of Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition

Illac Diaz – 100MIFG 2019

A campaigner to bring a better life to the poor of the world, Illac Diaz has quite literally become the bringer of light not only to regions across the Philippines but to communities across the globe. Through his global grassroots movement, Liter of Light, he has brought simple and sustainable technology providing solar-powered illumination to impoverished families with little to no access to electricity.

Illac’s work has inspired and united an international group of volunteers which helped him install over 350,000 recycled bottle lights in more than 15 countries, since 2011. Drawing towards the final quarter of 2018, he began his most significant international journey called the ‘Voyage of Light.’ Backed by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, it is the largest Filipino–led global campaign, set to travel across the seas to countries in the Asia Pacific, Africa, and South America in collaboration with the Japanese organization, Peace Boat.

Among his other notable endeavors, Illac’s project won the Zayed Future Energy Prize (ZFEP) in 2015. With the support of the ZFEP, he also set the world record for the ‘Largest Environmental Sustainability Lesson.’ The project done in collaboration with hundreds of young students in the UAE  produced a solar portrait for the Year of Zayed utilizing over 1400 solar lanterns.  Filipinos in the UAE have even more cause to celebrate Illac’s work which is slated to be showcased independently during the landmark Dubai Expo2020 event.

A shining beacon for the rest of the world, Illac thoughtfully, but also simply summarizes his sentiments behind his advocacy. “With great privilege comes great responsibility.  And I was living too well when so many people were not.  So, I started simplifying what I want for myself, because I really didn’t need much, and started focusing on really sharing what I had.”

Read more about Illac Diaz on Illustrado Most Influential Filipinos of the Gulf 2018

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Special thanks to our sponsors: Emirates Airline, Stars n Bars La Mer, Liali, Instax – Grandstores UAE, Dusit Thani Dubai, Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing, Meeting Dancewear , MPQ, CMG, Filbrit, and our partners Rozen Antonio Photography,  Alex Callueng Photography, Jef Anog Photography, and Ethereal Photography.

Browse the digital issue of Illustrado 100 Most Influential Filipinos of the Gulf 2018

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The forum, entitled PHILx, featured a stellar list of speakers including Giordano Middle East CEO and Managing Director Ishwar Chugani, Owner of Kubyertos Cuisine and Kiesha Beauty Lounge Gina Valbuena, and International Fashion Icon and Designer Ezra Santos.

Philippine Consul General Paul Cortes opened the program by welcoming the multinational set of guests, many of whom were there at the Philippine Consulate in Dubai for the first time. Cortes shared some of the projects that he undertook in service of the Filipino business community and expressed his hopes that the initiatives would continue long after his official term of service in the UAE ends. It was previously announced that the Consul General has been recently promoted as Assistant Secretary for Migrant Workers and would be returning to Manila in November.

SandBox Middle East CEO Lito German then delivered his keynote address, which included his personal experience moving from the automotive industry to the import and distribution business. German questioned why he was often the first Filipino in the boardrooms of the multinational companies he worked for and challenged other businessmen who have climbed the corporate ladder to help other Filipinos follow their path.

Gina Valbuena, on the other hand, shared her inspiring journey from employee to entrepreneur, while Ishwar Chugani shared some tips on how to cultivate a people-focused corporate culture. Ezra Santos told the story of his transformation and growth from being an artist and designer to being a well-rounded business owner.

One of the highlights of the event was a touching tribute to Consul General Paul Cortes, in acknowledgement of his countless achievements as Head of the Philippine mission in Dubai and the neighbouring Northern Emirates for the past six years. The tribute was organized by the management board of SandBox Middle East led by CEO Lito German and COO Mark Mauricio.

Entertainment for the evening was performed by the Filipina diva and songstress, Shanice Michaels, who regaled the audience with jazz hits, as well as an impactful and memorable rendition of the Philippine National Anthem.

The event was well attended by an international group of businessmen from various industries such as Retail, Manufacturing, Finance, and F&B. It likewise aligned with the aims of the Expo 2020 in Dubai to increase foreign investments into the UAE and spur further economic growth in the region.

The post Filipino Business Leaders Share their Experiences at Philx Thought Leadership Forum appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Public Speaker

Rowena Niduaza discovered the beauty and power of public speaking when she joined Toastmasters International in 2004, and through this group, she was able to bring out her other strengths and provide a voice to the Filipino community in the speaker’s circuit. This led to a slew of titles she has won for the country: the Division (UAE) championship and the District Championship (Middle East). In 2013, she won the Middle East Championship, becoming the first regional representative to reach the semi-finals of the Toastmasters International World Championship in Public Speaking in Canada.

Rowena also utilized her communication prowess and unique brand of humor and charisma to speak on female empowerment at conferences such as the Dubai Women’s Summit in 2017 and 2018, sharing the stage with other women leaders from the UK, France, Canada, etc. – inspiring audiences to bring out the best in themselves.

Originally from a creative background, heading the design department of a regional furniture retailer, she is currently looking to return back to fashion – her original calling.  She is set to launch her fashion line in the Philippines this 2020 and focus the project until she eventually retires from the emirates.

Nevertheless, even with her mic parked, for now, she will always be one of those rare people who successfully promoted the Filipino voice and wit, out there into the world, providing exceptional representation of our people on the global stage.

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

Get a copy of Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition

Rowena Niduaza

Public Speaker & Comedian

Public speaking powerhouse, Illustrado Woman of Substance Honoree and all-around lovable comedic personality, Rowena Niduaza occupies a unique position among many of Dubai’s charismatic personas. Well-known in the speaker circuit in the region, Rowena was a keynote speaker at the Dubai Women’s Summit 2017, and once again in 2018, sharing the stage with His Excellency Zulfiquar Z. Ghadiyali, CEO at the private office of His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon Bin Saeed Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, as well as other women leaders from the UK, France, Canada, etc. In 2019, She is slated to be a part of another Women Empowerment Summit, this time in Manila.

Away from the gravitas of the female empowerment summits, Rowena is also a comedic talent, performing stand-up at the wildly successful “Comedy Cocktails” with well-known personalities from India, and Saudi Arabia.  Her comic routine centers on the humor of the mundane, the amusing points of motherhood and family – something Rowena relishes talking about.

Always grounded and comfortable in her skin own skin, Rowena swears by honesty and faith as her guiding light in life.  “If we can be honest with ourselves about who we are, our relationship with others will be deeper and stronger.  Then we seal it with faith. The same goes for improving ourselves; we need to be honest about what we can and cannot do because it’s only through this process we can take in the right learnings to improve ourselves. After that, all we need is the faith that we can do it.”

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Special thanks to our sponsors: Emirates Airline, Stars n Bars La Mer, Liali, Instax – Grandstores UAE, Dusit Thani Dubai, Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing, Meeting Dancewear , MPQ, CMG, Filbrit, and our partners Rozen Antonio Photography,  Alex Callueng Photography, Jef Anog Photography, and Ethereal Photography.

Browse the digital issue of Illustrado 100 Most Influential Filipinos of the Gulf 2018

Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf – Rowena Niduaza – The Storyteller

Rowena Niduaza has gained the respect and admiration of the Filipino community in the UAE for her magnificent strides with Toastmasters International – a non-profit organization that conducts communication and leadership training worldwide. After winning the Toastmasters Competition in the UAE in 2005, she won the regional leg of the competition and subsequently became the first Middle East representative to the 2005 Toastmasters International Convention for World Championship in Public Speaking held in Toronto, Canada. She is heralded as a master communicator, debator, and public speaker, and community leader, but there is one other title that gives her immense pride: survivor.

Rowena was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2005, but in a twist of fate that could only be described as “miraculous,” she was eventually declared cancer-free by her doctors. This event led to a new awakening for Rowena Niduaza. “It was like a fresh new canvass but this time instead of using my brush right away and paint the colours directly on the canvass, I learned that it’s worthwhile to sketch my thoughts first before the final touch of colours and signatures,” she says. “I learned to look at life at a different angle. If one angle doesn’t satisfy my questions then I will try looking at it at another angle until I find the right answer and purpose in the situations around me. Life after cancer is like living with a better view finder.”

She felt a great desire to present her testimony to the world, and Toastmasters International gave her the perfect platform. For her, it wasn’t only about winning anymore, but also letting everyone know that hope can still thrive in the face of such a debilitating disease. “My speech was all about my life with cancer and I just kept on revising it in every level of the contest, but the story and the message were always the same,” she says. “We don’t need to wait until we experience the fear of dying before we appreciate living because we should fear what is dying inside us while we are still living.”

Despite the accolades that she has acquired through the years, Rowena Niduaza considers her family her greatest achievement. “I am proud of how my three kids have grown and how they have achieved much,” she says. “It’s not only about their success in their field but how they both treat people and animals with great care.”

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Last December, in cooperation with Vivz Fashion School , MM Milano showcased it’s latest sustainable fashion collection at Dubai World Fashion Week. Designed by Chona Bacaoco, a Filipina designer based in Milan, Italy, the dresses were made of natural and upscaled textiles like Hablon, Pineapple silk and recycled materials. The show has also brought together global talents from the US, UK, Switzerland, Romania and the Philippines. With inspirations from native flowers like the ‘Waling-Waling’, the audience cheered at the collection’s unique designs.

The dresses were accompanied by custom-made runway music, composed by Andréas Volkmar, who received the award for “Best Runway Music” by H.E. Sheikha Dr Hind Al Qassimi, H.E. Sheik Sultan Al-Qasimi, and H.E. Sheikh Dr. Saeed Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan.

Further awards were given to Schirin Alexa Thoma-Jugl for “Achiever Model of the Year”, Kayla Nicole Solis for “Charitable Model of the Year” and Natalia Angelina Spanhel for “Promising Model of the Year” alongside other famous awardees. Our young singer from Romania Maria Cristina Flăcău a.k.a. “Maya Rose” thrilled the crowd by performing her new single “Someone” supported by the local dance group PiNoy DXB Crew, and was awarded “Model & Artist of the Year”.

The event has also featured a number of advocacies through personalities like Olivia DePiore, a model of determination who used her runway career to raise awareness on Down Syndrome and surviving cancer.

Apart from the fashion show, the team, together with its global talents, carried out a photoshoot and fashion walk in the Dubai Desert.

“We, the MM Milano Team around are proud to announce that our MM Milano 3-Day-Event around Dubai World Fashion Week from 18-20 December 2020 has been a great success for our Brand and all our global talents coming together to form a conscious community in fashion, sustainability, and social responsibility. We thank everyone who helped to raise money for the Buklod Kalinga orphanage in the Philippines in partnership with Filipino football player Simone Rota, and are honored to have received the “Designer of the Year” award.”

“We are bringing together Global Talents and Sustainable Fabrics” Please find further information on our Brand and Agency on Social Media: Instagram | Facebook | Youtube | Twitter

The post MM Milano Showcases Latest Collection at Dubai World Fashion Week appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Expatriates in the United Arab Emirates can now directly send money to their families without any transaction fee. Denarii Cash offers 1 free money transfer for the month of November.

Expats can download the Denarii Cash app from Play Store or App Store and add their recipient’s details on the app. Denarii Cash also offers several ways to pay transfers so they can send money as soon as they need to. The recipient will also immediately receive the money in their cash pickup centers, mobile wallets or bank accounts.

“As a business that caters to a lot of expat workers, we believe that expats deserve a faster, cheaper and safer option to send to their families back home. Denarii Cash is known to have the highest exchange rate and lowest transaction fees in the market. We, at Denarii Cash, are working extensively to offer our services to other expatriate communities in the UAE.” says Denarii Cash founder Jon Santillan.

Denarii Cash is one of the leading cross-border money transfer apps in UAE that takes care of money-sending needs. It was founded by a team of expats with most of its employees being expats as well. Denarii Cash is also looking to expand their services across the Middle East so more people can experience the same benefits.

Expats who wish to avail of this offer can use the voucher code LOVEDCILLUSTRADO

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Writer

Riding on the crest of the online communications and social media surge in the Middle East, Cristina Magallon has made a name for herself as the woman behind the influential UAE DNA, a prominent business blog in the region which features entrepreneurship stories as well as other valuable information.  She is also a content creator and a public speaker who had the opportunity to speak at the Mother of the Nation Festival and in front of H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, the UAE Minister of Culture, Youth and Social Development.

Moments like these, she says, are ‘surreal.’   “I can say that it was a career highlight for me as a speaker,” she says. “I was so proud to be on deck as a Filipino and talk about digital influence in the biggest annual event in UAE, where we have very little representation. This was not only a career highlight – but this also opened so many doors for me.”

Cristina has also written four books and is currently working on her new project ‘Descendants of the Dirham,” which is slated to be released in time for Expo 2020. She is also the lead writer for Emirates Genetics (under Emirates Healthcare), and a consultant for business development with Pixonal, an interactive solution that transforms data into stories. An advocate for social media usage, she uses her LinkedIn and Twitter platforms extensively to connect people across the region and across sectors in view to collaborate.

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

Get a copy of Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition

Cristina Magallon

Writer, Publisher

www.uaedna.com

Go-getter Cristina Magallon runs UAE DNA, an authority in chronicling business stories from around the UAE. With a strong online presence on platforms like Linkedin and Twitter, UAE DNA has become an epicenter that purveys valuable information to aspiring entrepreneurs and facilitates cross-cultural idea sharing among its followers across the GCC and beyond. 

Coming to the UAE was a hard reality check for Cristina due to the drastic difference that exists between Philippine and Emirati corporate climates. With no local connections at the time, and nobody to give her a job in media, she then came to a poignant realization: “I had a very clear understanding that if anything was going to move forward in my life here in the UAE, I was the only person responsible for making that happen. So, I made my channel.”. Now apart from her platform, Cristina has also written four books and is currently working on the “Descendants of the Dirham,” a project she is closely working on with top UAE advisers, slated to be released in time for Expo2020.  She has also spoken at several events, including Mother of the Nation, where she discussed the power of social influence.

Of her learnings from interviewing some of the most successful entrepreneurs in the country, Cristina shares with Filipinos aspiring for success.

“Think big. Continually challenge yourselves, and yes, break ceilings. Equip yourselves with the knowledge to broaden your horizons and mostly, have a positive attitude even in the face of despair.”

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Special thanks to our sponsors: Emirates Airline, Stars n Bars La Mer, Liali, Instax – Grandstores UAE, Dusit Thani Dubai, Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing, Meeting Dancewear , MPQ, CMG, Filbrit, and our partners Rozen Antonio Photography,  Alex Callueng Photography, Jef Anog Photography, and Ethereal Photography.

Browse the digital issue of Illustrado 100 Most Influential Filipinos of the Gulf 2018

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Real Estate Expert & Image Consultant

Agnes Stott Briggs is one lady who’s totally sharp – both in her acumen for business, as well as her professional sense of style and image branding.

This former Chairman of the Philippine Business Council in Abu Dhabi who has been an active proponent of the Filipino business community in the capital, has a successful career in real estate, and is also a renowned personal styling and corporate image consultant.  She has been empowering women, not only in the UAE, but also in the Philippines and beyond, with knowledge on how to better present themselves for confidence and self-fulfillment.  Aside from this, she also launched the Philippine Women’s International Network, a platform that connects and supports Filipina professionals across countries in their respective fields, because for Agnes, “Filipina should uplift, inspire, and support one another.”

Beyond her business life, Agnes is wife to Trevor Stott-Briggs, one of the founding members of the Philippine Rugby Football Union and respected advocate of the sport in the UAE and Asia, and mother to three talented boys, one of whom – Kyle, has played for the Philippine Volcanoes (under 19s).

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

Get a copy of Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition

The Briggs Family

 Very few fans of the sport would probably know that a British citizen enamored with the Philippines and a Filipina was a major driving force behind the establishment and development of rugby as a sport in the Philippines.  His story and his family’s are somehow inextricably linked to the sport in the homeland.

Trevor Stott-Briggs arrived in the Philippines in 1981 and lived there for over 27 years working for the ADB World Bank, pursuing projects aimed to improve the life of the urban poor.  He met Agnes Aquino in 1989 and the rest is history.  The two now have three talented children – Jason (23), Kyle (17), and Colby (13).

A passionate rugby fan enthusiast, Trevor played for the only club in the country at the time – the Manila Nomads. Realizing the lack of activity directed to his favorite sports Trevor endeavored to change things. In 2004, the Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) was formed with him as one of the founding members, its first-ever Executive Director, and most passionate supporter. Standing today, the PRFU has transcended original expectations and has become part of the International Rugby Board.  It has also expanded into eighteen different rugby clubs around the country and has served an integral role in the orphaned youths as part of a PRFU outreach programme giving kids a sense of pride, discipline and team spirit.

Moving to the UAE in 2007, Trevor started another rugby club – the Arabian Potbellies/Dubai Sharks RFC in the Emirates.  But life for Trevor and his family changed in the blink of an eye in 2011.  An accident while playing broke Trevor’s neck rendering him a paralyzed quadriplegic.  His wife Agnes – real estate broker, image consultant and former Chairman of the Philippine Business Council in Abu Dhabi, had to stand as the family’s primary support system and its symbol of strength, despite the hardships.

Still, being an optimistic family, the Stott-Briggs’ managed to conquer what others are unable to. Trevor says, “It’s the distinctly Filipino TLC that helped me get back on my feet.”  Now he walks with crutches, drives, and works. He even published a book called ‘TSB: Confessions of an Ex-Hooker (aged 66 and a half) AKA Don’t Stop Believing’, about having faith in oneself and your body’s ability to recover.  Never giving up on their passion, the family also returned to their love of rugby, starting up mixed-touch rugby in Ruwais where they now live and where Trevor coaches.

Somehow, life came full circle in 2018.  Amazingly, a number of the kids who have come under Trevor’s coaching have moved on to join national teams.  Most significantly, their son Kyle, who shares the love of the sport with his father, has been selected to play for the Under 19s Philippines Volcanoes squad.  Kyle has joined the team in November for the Division 1, Asian Championship – significantly being part of the team and the movement his father helped build.

Ultimately proud and fulfilled, the Stott-Briggs family looks back to their past and their future, where it seems Trevor’s legacy and their divine link to the sport of rugby in the Philippines, will continue on.

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Special thanks to our sponsors: Emirates Airline, Stars n Bars La Mer, Liali, Instax – Grandstores UAE, Dusit Thani Dubai, Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing, Meeting Dancewear , MPQ, CMG, Filbrit, and our partners Rozen Antonio Photography,  Alex Callueng Photography, Jef Anog Photography, and Ethereal Photography.

Browse the digital issue of Illustrado 100 Most Influential Filipinos of the Gulf 2018

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Marketing Professional

Joseph Alcantara exemplifies the shining image of the young bright Filipino leader, running at full speed ahead, with a global outlook, sterling work ethic, and the purpose of bringing others with him towards success.

Heading the marketing communications department for the Middle East and Southern Europe of Emirates Airline, Joseph leads a multicultural team of creatives, PR staff, and marketing experts.  He has contributed significantly to many successes in his company since he took the helm almost three years ago.  2019, however, provided more personal milestones that he is particularly ecstatic about.  He won a scholarship to the Emirates Leadership Development Programme, which has taken his professional learning to the next level. Joseph was also a judge for the 2018 and 2019 Effie Awards, and his written pieces were featured in Campaign Middle East, Campaign UK and Gulf News.

With a vision of contributing to the development of Filipino representation in the region, Joseph has co-founded a group of Filipino communicators, facilitating the sharing of skills and opportunities that he is hoping will lead to collective successes.

Joseph proves that Filipinos can ‘break glass ceilings’ and that if we set our sights high enough, we could emerge on top.  He advises, “We should benchmark the best in class globally, rather than compete amongst our small community pond.  Before fighting for international representation and recognition, let’s show the goods first, as real and legitimate work. Output, mentality and contribution will speak for itself.”

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

Get a copy of Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition

Joseph Anthony Alcantara

“True to my birth name, I’ve always been a dreamer.  Yet, what sets me apart from other Josephs is that I will never stop persevering until I make every single dream a reality.”  And make his dream come true he did – for Joseph Alcantara who is exactly where he hoped to be – working in a leadership role for his dream company, which happens to be one of the world’s most admired brands.

Head of Marketing Communications for internationally-renowned Emirates Airlines, Joseph brings with him over 17 years of corporate experience from across seven organizations and four countries, not to mention charismatic leadership that brings out the best in others.  Starting his career with the airline five years ago, as the triumphant sole Filipino applicant among over 300 aspirants from around the world, he now runs a specialized multicultural team overseeing advertising, digital, PR, social media, events, and sponsorships for the UAE hub and Southern Europe.

He shares, “More than the prestige and title, I also thrive in knowing that I’m inspiring other Filipino dreamers who just need a proof that we have what it takes to conquer the world.”  He also advises, “Be an epitome of world-class Filipinos that make the Philippines shine internationally.  Make other global citizens respect, look up to and love Filipinos for their unparalleled talents, admirable ingenuity, and aspirational values.  Let’s collectively inspire our fellow Pinoys to create a positive dent that results in meaningful actions for themselves and the world around them.”

 Hoping to motivate Filipinos to raise their profile further globally, Joseph has launched his own digital platform www.flywithjoseph.com which features inspiring entries on career development, positive lifestyle, travel, and fitness.  He is also writing a book containing a collection of his learnings and insights that could prove valuable to other Filipino expats.

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Special thanks to our sponsors: Emirates Airline, Stars n Bars La Mer, Liali, Instax – Grandstores UAE, Dusit Thani Dubai, Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing, Meeting Dancewear , MPQ, CMG, Filbrit, and our partners Rozen Antonio Photography,  Alex Callueng Photography, Jef Anog Photography, and Ethereal Photography.

Browse the digital issue of Illustrado 100 Most Influential Filipinos of the Gulf 2018

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www.rozenantonio.com

Since: 2016

Founder: Rozen Antonio

Rozen Antonio is fashion photographer based in Dubai famous for his works for the UAEs top couture designers – i.e. Michael Cinco, Amato and Ezra Santos, not to mention Ryan Pacioles, Garimon Roferos plus a host of other luxe brands. Rozen has been artistically creative all his life, and transforming even the simplest things into pieces of art has always been his talent. Rozen’s photography offers endless indulgences for creative brands. His ardent sense of how to create dazzling looks and transform it into fashionable and stunning imagery has given him a definite edge in the highly competitive industry.

ALPHA MEDIA PRODUCTION SERVICES FZE

www.alphamediaproduction.com

Since: 2016

Founders: Oliver Serrano and Ernesto Flores

Alpha Media Production Services has become one of the premiere media agencies among the Filipino community. Armed with 15 years of professional experience, the team is composed of seasoned industry professionals and creatives. Through the leadership of co-founders Oliver Serrano and Ernesto Flores, the agency has worked with over 500 satisfied clients and has maintained a record of over 1000 successful projects – from award-winning television projects collaborations with large brands, institutions and government entities including the Philippine Department of Tourism, Schindler, Shell, ACM, and GMA.

MILO TORRES PHOTOGRAPHY

www.milotorres.com

Since: 2004

Founder: Milo Torres

With over 15 years of professional media experience, Engr. Milo Torres is one of the industry’s most formidable talents specializing in industrial and commercial sectors, championing in product photography, company profile design development, multimedia, website design, and video coverage. The company provides services for events, conferences, workshops, weddings, and private functions, serving each and every client with personalized and affordable packages. With one of the most impressive industrial portfolios out there, Milo’s company has served high profile clients such as Dubai Duty Free, Sharjah Duty Free, Air France, Turkish Airlines, Movenpick Hotel, Patchi, Sony Gulf FZE, Leo Burnett and Action Impact among others.

“Know your customer’s expectations,” Milo says. “It is pivotal to give your customers a good reason to come to you rather than your rival. Maintain your compelling advantage by focusing on your most valuable asset.”   He also emphasizes that staying ahead of the competition is critical, “You need to find out who your competitors are, what they are offering, and their struggles and weaknesses.”

ALEX CALLUENG PHOTOGRAPHY

www.alexcallueng.com

Since:

Founder: Alex Callueng

Fashion editorial and commercial photographer Alex Callueng has always believed that the greatest works of art come from one’s burning desire to create. Now neck deep into his craft, Alex has quickly exceeded the level of many veterans within the country’s fashion mediascape, evolving into an international photographer that has served some of the most prestigious glossies in and out of the region including Vogue Arabia, Harpers Bazaar Middle East, Harpers Bazaar Russia, L’Officiel Middle East, Grazia Middle East, Illustrado Magazine, Haya Magazine, DOTW Magazine, Men’s Fitness Mag, Crave Magazine, and Ezy Health Mag Singapore, among many others. Adaptable and always flexible, Alex’s key to success lies within his work ethic – where he encourages individuals always to be open-minded and willing to evolve beyond their current level.

CUBE3 BY JEF ANOG

www.jefanog.com

Since: 2017

Founder: Jef Anog

Jef Anog is one of Dubai’s most respected and well-established photographers. Combining his love for photography with his professional theatre background, he has always had a talent for bringing out the dramatic and beautiful within his many clients. Through his company, Cube3, he shoots fashion editorials, commercial portraits, ad campaigns, events, businesses, and private commissions. He holds numerous accounts as the preferred photographer for many corporate brands and local fashion houses within the region, having worked with Michael Cinco, Dubai Tourism, Emaar, St. Regis, Apparel Group, Majid Al Futtaim and more. As the preferred photographer for many clients, Jef has also done commissioned shoots abroad, and his works have been featured in numerous magazines including Forbes Middle East, ELUXE Paris, Garage, Velvet and Illustrado.

HYKU D PHOTOGRAPHY

www.hykudphotography.com

Since: 2016

Founder:  Hyku Desesto

Female entrepreneur and photography all-star Hyku Desesto has taken on some of the biggest clients with her photography and videography brand since its establishment. After entering Dubai as a newbie on the scene, she has quickly expanded her network and business, setting up an office, and hiring full-time employees. Since then, Hyku D Photography has worked with Vogue Arabia, Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, Adidas, and more.

CHRIS CALUMBERAN FZE

www.chriscalumberan.ae

Since: 2015

Founder: Chris Calumberan

One of the Filipino pioneers of the local industry, Chris Calumberan has become an ambassador of Filipino photography in the emirates – his work has made a mark on Dubai’s automotive, industrial, beauty, retail, corporate and F&B sectors.  His clientele includes prominent brands such as McDonald’s, MasterCard, Audi Magazine, Enoc, Tonino Lamborghini, and more. Currently, he is also working on creating a platform that further adds to the industry via content creation.

The creative entrepreneur swears by his long-standing good reputation, comprehensive network, and positive Filipino values and qualities that people in the industry have come to rely on, as part of his success.  He also underlines the importance of keeping updated, taking care of mental and physical health, and keeping close relations with previous clients, not to mention practicing the Blue Ocean Strategy, a marketing tactic that aims to create and capture uncontested market space, to keep ahead.

SANDBOX CREATIVE

www.sandboxcreatives.com

Since: 2017

Co-Founder/Managing Partner: Kristine Abante

Sandbox is a multi-disciplinary one-stop media production agency with expertise in delivering professional quality creative content. With its diverse, young team of creative experts, they specialize in the photography and videography of food, fashion, events, and products. They also offer branding, graphic and web design and 360-integrated marketing campaigns. While relatively new within Dubai’s mediascape, Sandbox has nailed business collaborations with Sofitel, Reebok ME, Jumeirah hotels, Al Futtaim, ABS-CBN, and the UN World Food Program.

THE MELRISH STUDIO

www.melrish.com

Since: 2009

Founders: Melon and Arish Perez

Fueled by a passion for storytelling and a knack for all things art, Melon, and Arish Perez opened their own studio in 2009. They have specialized in the art of storytelling, handling the creative ventures of various corporate events as well as small businesses through photography, videography, design, and animation. “We want to give you works of art, images that will make you skip a heartbeat and take your breath away, and videos that will tell your brand’s story.” They have worked as the official storytellers of the Middle East Film and Comic-Con and the Dubai Muscle Show, and have collaborated with Ikea, Al Islami, Arabian Adventures, Cisco and more.

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KAHON.PH

www.kahon.ph

Established Since: 2017

Founder: Nick Padilla and Carlos Domingo

As the first tech-enabled full-service storage solution in the Philippines, Kahon.ph is elevating the concept of storage by integrating technology in the practice of decluttering. This startup, co-founded by Nick Padilla and Carlos Domingo, eliminates the logistical burden of having to bring items to a storage facility, providing customers with unlimited storage space on-demand: “Packing, pick-up, storage, and return — we’re there every step of the way to help you make space for things that really matter.” Through the combination of digital and physical realms, they have created an efficient, hassle-free self-storage experience. Currently, Kahon.ph offers storage by the box (kahon) and storage by the square-meter (kwarto) on a subscription basis.

Since the company’s inception, Kahon.ph has had over 2000 square meters stored and has managed over 6000 of its customer’s items. Starting with the Greater Manila area with hopes of expanding throughout South-East Asia, the future bodes well for founders Nick and Carlos: “We’ve had a 6-fold increase in revenue for the first quarter of 2019 compared to that of the same period last year and with an overall annual growth of 122%. We still believe word-of-mouth is the most effective way for other people to get to know us and we’re glad that our customers see us as a service worth recommending.”

Nick attributes his know-how on real estate and flair for creativity to his experience at Zalora, Rockwell, and the Powerplant mall – having worked in the digital innovation arm of these companies – and to attending trade shows growing up. For Carlos, after his stint at Ace Saatchi and Saatchi and Publicis Jimenezbasic, he left the advertising industry to manage the family business, which is one of the first third-party local logistics companies, VGL Industries Inc. Before starting Kahon.ph, he took on the significant role of Director at the family business, then later he worked as the CEO/General Manager at Excelcare Logistics Inc. Together, they aim to change the traditional storage industry by leading the shift away from the closet or bodega, and by making Kahon.ph the preferred storage solution across the Philippines.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 

GEEK MOBILE SOLUTIONS

www.mrgeekmsi.com 

Established Since: May 2016 

Founder: Rowi Bautista 

Since being founded in 2016, Mr. Geek Mobile Solutions has been catering to Micro, Small, and Medium-scale enterprises (MSMEs) delivering specialized tech services ranging from customized mobile apps to software development. Alongside this, they also offer free mobile apps through another platform – MyStart-Apps (MSA).  With hopes that their services provide their clients with an equal shot at success, founder Rowi Bautista remarks: “We intend to level the playing field for micro, small and medium Enterprises by providing technological innovations to achieve market dominance that leads to high profitability.”

Mr. Geek Mobile Solutions has closed several significant projects with top companies like BDO and Toyota over its three years of operation. As well as this, the startup represented the Philippines at the 2017 Asian Entrepreneurship Award competition in Japan and won a pitching competition at a business convention held at the University of the Philippines in 2018.

As the founder and CEO of this company, Rowi is a serial entrepreneur among other things. He is the founder of Mr. Click (a digital marketing agency in the Philippines serving the needs of MSMEs), Mr. Pluffy (a leading cotton candy company with over 70 outlets nationwide), and is also a co-founder at myBOSS (a Fintech company that offers back-office support services). Rowi has even built and sold his first tech startup in 2015, which specialized in microchips. Besides currently pursuing his Master’s in Entrepreneurship at the Ateneo Graduate School of Business, he plans to cultivate Mr. Geek Mobile solutions as a company further: “Our Vision is to be the number one mobile solutions provider for micro, small and medium enterprises in the Philippines in the next five years.”

MEDIA

SnippetMedia

www.snippetmedia.com

Established Since: 2016

CEO: Christopher Star

Imagine consuming quality online content while being rewarded for it at the same time. As a leading news and entertainment app based in the Philippines, SnippetMedia provides brands with a unique opportunity to share content with an audience of over 1.5 million. When individuals read, watch, or share the content, they accrue points which can then be exchanged for real items.

SnippetMedia’s CEO Christopher Star who builds and launches startups in Southeast Asia is armed with an extensive background in marketing for web/mobile startups, and a proven track record in user acquisition, business development, community management, content creation, and audience retention.  He has worked for various industries in the sector for over fourteen years including prominent brands such as Lazada, GuavaPass, DateTix, HappyFresh, Paktor, and Duriana.

“We bring together a group of skilled, driven, enthusiastic, and professional individuals who come together every morning to bring you the stories that matter,” Christopher shares. Having had over 2.5 million active users in the Philippines over the last eight months, he aims to bring about innovation when it comes to content as well as the media industry through integrating both in a seamless platform: “I want every bit of content to be rewarding for every user. We aim to reinvent content consumption and revolutionize online advertising.”

Previous article – Filipino founded startups: Stylegenie PH and GVER

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