By Excel Dyqiangco

With the COVID-19 pandemic severely hurting many companies worldwide, small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs), are among the worst hit.  While governments tackle the complicated job of re-opening the markets while cases still continue unabated, the question remains: how can small businesses with limited resources recover? The answer is critical as small businesses account for two-thirds of the globe’s jobs and half of its GDP. In the UAE, this translates to more than 98 percent of the total number of companies operating in the country, with SMEs contributing 52 percent of the non-oil GDP.

“When this crisis hit, the majority of businesses were concerned about keeping their employees healthy and secure, which means providing them their daily needs,” says corporate law expert Atty. Barney Almazar. “The government has made a directive showing what we can do and what we cannot do, but of course, this is within the prerogative of the employer.”

So, during this time of crisis, how are SMEs coping in the UAE, and what can entrepreneurs do to rise above the challenges? Illustrado hosted a livestream discussion amongst entrepreneurs and business leaders from a variety of sectors to get valuable insights that SMEs can learn from, and here are the main points.

Watch the full livestream here: 

1. PROTECT YOUR PEOPLE AND KEEP IN TOUCH WITH PARTNERS

a. Take care of the health and welfare of your workforce.

“We want to make sure that they are safe and well taken care of,” says Ishwar Chugani, CEO and Managing Director of Giordano Middle East, which operates over 200 stores in 23 countries from their headquarters in Dubai. “At this point in time, I communicate with them, and I have to make sure that everyone is okay. Although expenses continue, we are looking at paid salaries this April – the important thing is we have to make sure that they have enough to live and survive.”

“I am where I am today because of my people,” says Chugani.  He also cautions entrepreneurs from making drastic decisions in laying off staff, mindful that the markets and businesses are set to eventually re-open. “To get new people and to restart would be more expensive. We just need to focus on getting things done and then restart.”

Mary Jane Alvero, Group CEO of Prime Group, leading quality and compliance solutions provider in Asia, Middle East, and North Africa, meanwhile, admits that they weren’t affected much in this pandemic because they are into the construction business and laboratory services. However, Alvero says that they have created a centralized emergency response team related to the outbreak. “We believe that in this way, we could protect our customers and at the same time, we could protect our people,” She adds that part of their business continuity plan is to minimize the visitors, test consultants, suppliers, and customers.

b. Reskill your employees or reassign and redistribute tasks in response to the current market situation.

Adopting to the current situation in some cases requires teaching your staff new skills, or reassigning them to handle other functions.  According to Iman Suguitan, Founder and Managing Director of Ahsant Premium Hotel Supplies and Co-Chocolat, “Those people who used to deal with sourcing leather, for example, are now re-deployed to deliver chocolates,” says social entrepreneur Iman Suguitan. “We focus now on enhancing the customer journey, the customer experience like re-skilling. This is important even when the pandemic first blew up in China, So what we did was to keep everyone busy, and I think we are adapting.

c. Allow your employees to work from home.

Atty. Barney Almazar, a partner at Gulf Law, says that for both parties to make this current situation work, employers can just make their employees work from home. This is a win-win situation since the businesses would still be earning money while at the same time, providing salaries to their employees.  At the time of writing, in Dubai, private sector companies are allowed to have only 30% of their workforce in offices, the rest have to work from home.

d. If salary cuts or unpaid leave is unavoidable, do it lawfully.

Atty. Almazar says that if paying full salaries for employers is not possible, employees may be asked to go on unpaid leave, or given salary cuts.  He explains, however, that this should be mutually agreed upon.  “The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has given a form which they could easily download and have to sign – together with their employer – if they agree on unpaid leave or a temporary reduction of salary,” he says. “In this way, parties are both protected. We also try to advise our clients to have an amicable settlement, but if they can’t agree, then the company has two options: to keep them under the payroll and pay them under the contract without reduction, or they can just let them go. For the employee who has been let go, think of options. If they are let go, they could look for another job when the lockdown is lifted.”

e. Communicate openly with your staff and partners and share challenges.

“I do believe they are their heart and soul of the company,” says Albert Tranquilino, the Managing Director of Darcey Flowers. “I secure their future. Although we stopped operations, we use this time to be calm and to add some best value to our company. We try to be more creative and innovative, and productive too. I was also able to use this time to speak with my business networks and suppliers just to send my greetings, especially during these trying times.”

What Can Small Business Do to Cope with Covid-19?

2. MITIGATE LOSSES AND TAKE ADVANTAGE OF AVAILABLE RELIEF

a. Take advantage of whatever relief packages are available to help liquidity. Talk to your bank.

The UAE Central Bank has recently announced a Dh256 billion Targeted Economic Support Scheme (TESS) to equip banks to extend support to private sector companies and individuals affected by the crisis.  Entrepreneurs are advised to talk to their banks to see how they can benefit from the initiative, whether in the form of loans, deferment of payments, or other support.

“When it comes to renegotiating with the banks, we are classifying the situation of the client,” says Atty. Almazar. “There are those without any default, and that means they have higher chances of having favorable restructuring terms and conditions. However, those who have issues with the banks can also renegotiate. There will just be additional things that we will have to do to prove to the bank that they can cope, considering the situation.”

b. Check out government stimulus measures that can help reduce the cost of doing business and also simplify processes.

Among many other measures to ease business in the emirates, the government has also suspended the collection of administrative fines, and for companies with up to 6 employees, there is a reduction of work permit fees. Foreign companies, moreover, can apply a refund up to 50% of the bank guarantees they have paid for each of their employees, so that will be a big help on their cash flows. Those who are in trading have a 20% refund on customs duty paid for goods being sold in the UAE, according to Atty. Almazar.

The government is also giving extensions in renewing licenses, fines, and penalties, depending on which free zone the company is registered. Sharjah is offering an extension of up to 3 months for fees, and also condone fines at the start of the year. Dubai has several free zones that give a form of discount when license fees are paid in advance, so somehow this will also be beneficial to the cash flow. Other emirates are providing an extension, and the accumulation of fines has also been suspended.

“SMEs can also pay their license fees on installment,” says Atty. Almazar. “The surcharge per installment payment has been waived so this would be very helpful for businesses. They can make a staggered payment.”

Edwin Duria, Managing Director of Play Middle East Business Consultancy and Ambassador of Business Network International (BNI), adds that despite the lockdown, authorities are working online. “Businesses can renew their license online and work on different structures and promotions,” he says. “All they need to know is to check it. The discount depends on the structure and the activity and that the options depend upon the structure.”

c. Raise money by selling off non-core assets.

For companies under tremendous financial pressure, especially those faced with having to lay off employees, Atty. Almazar suggests looking at non-core assets that they have, which they can use to augment their cash flow. He said, “Just last week, we did some asset swap where we sold some of the assets of the companies so that they would be free of debt, and that they would be in a better position.”

d. Negotiate with landlords and suppliers to get more convenient payment terms/relief provisions.

At a time when most businesses are under tremendous pressure, it pays to talk candidly with your landlord and suppliers to strike a deal that will allow for business continuity and would help out both parties.  “If you have a difficult time paying, the court can mitigate the situation, lessen the rent or impose that the tenant pays the rent,” says Atty. Almazar. “But that has to be in court.”  He emphasizes that it’s in the best interest of both parties to negotiate and have a mutual agreement that will help and benefit one another.

With the imminent opening of shops around the emirates, Ishwar Chugani says part of their priorities is to discuss with the shopping malls and various retailers on what they can do for the tenants and what options they can offer, considering that it will take time for consumers to feel comfortable again to go shopping – even if businesses open tomorrow.

3. PREPARE FOR THE FUTURE AND KEEP AN EYE FOR OPPORTUNITIES

a. Use this time to learn and plan for recovery – how you will operate when the lockdown is done.

Mary Jane Alvero, shares, “We have established a business continuity plan that has given us the vision for the next six months. Every week, we regularly review this and see if it needs changes since there are new regulations every day. Even if we already have a short-term plan, we make it a point to update what we are going to do since our projects are related to the government.”

b. Covid-19 will not go away overnight, and as a result, consumer attitudes and preferences, as well as new consumption models are on the rise.

Even after the lifting of lockdowns, and as markets reopen slowly, it is understandable that people will be uncomfortable to go out of their homes for fear of getting the virus. Businesses need to learn and adjust to these new circumstances.   As an off-shoot of the crisis, there will be a growing preference for contactless operations, home services, work-from-home, as well as the continued rise in e-commerce.

“The situation post-COVID will be very different,” says Chugani. “We have to be ready for it. It’s going to be a bit contactless; people will still have a lot of fear going out. People will have a lot of fear about meeting other people. But we are also looking at new business opportunities. We need to have a very different mindset. We have to start and reset based on the new economy.”

Joan Tuaño, Culinary Head at their family enterprise La Carne Premium Meat, says business is doing well, with people staying at home and opting for home-cooked meals.  She shares, “We transformed to a delivery-only shop,” she says. “Lucky enough, we have already set up our online store way in advance. We just had to tune out the physical aspect of our store, and we had to just focus on the delivery. Now we deliver across the emirates. Interestingly, we have turned into something beautiful, and now we are managing customer expectations.”

Iman Suguitan, also emphasizes on the importance of enhancing online channels, “It’s good that we have our online shop for Co Chocolat and that we are also active in our Instagram accounts.”

c. Keep an eye for new opportunities resulting from the new reality.

Despite the current crisis and uncertainty in the markets, these entrepreneurs are positive that there are still opportunities for SMEs. Duria, whose company helps in the establishment of businesses in the emirates, shares, “There have been a lot of licenses, especially in the freelance businesses, as well as new companies related to IT, web designing and e-commerce. This is the trending activity because of the lockdown. Visa-wise, we are gathering a lot of info, collaborating with lawyers, monitoring news from the government, and gathering a lot of deep info so that we can spread information not only to my clients but to the community. We are very busy right now doing some collaboration, preparing our relaunching after all the COVID situation is over. We are learning a lot online, and we are using this opportunity to learn, strategize, and collaborate with our network.”

Alvero, meanwhile, plans to expand her business moving forward.  She adds, “I am positive that whatever is happening now, there will be a lot of opportunities that will come up in the future. More entrepreneurs will come in the future because of this crisis. For our discovery plan, we are also coming up with a new business expansion that will be under the group. We will go to the manufacturing side.”

4. DETERMINE THE “NEW NORMAL” AND HOW YOUR COMPANY WILL ADAPT OR PIVOT.

With this current situation, how do SMEs expect to operate in the near future? According to Duria, people will continue to use online technology for even more extensive communication seven after Covid-19. “We have never used Zoom before, but now we are using a lot of that. I believe that we will use this and other methods of online communication regularly for our businesses,” he says. “Transaction-wise, however, I think everything will go back to normal once the government goes back to normal work.”

For Tuaño, what is happening is a very humbling experience for everyone and has changed a lot of people. She adds that with this crisis, businesses should think more about how to become more sustainable. “Is your business environmentally and socially sustainable?” she asks. “Is what you are doing something that people need for basic living? Are you able to adapt to the needs of the people? We need to go back to the basics. This is the time that creative modeling starts to happen. You can have the time to sell your unique proposition. I think it is going to be about simplicity and quality – less is more.”

“We have learned a lot from this crisis,” says Alvero. “After analyzing the impact of this crisis, I believe that it is high time that we diversify our businesses. The most important thing about this crisis is that you learn how to give importance to every detail that happens in our personal life, in the business, in our careers, and in the community. In the end, we all have to give back.”

Atty. Almazar says after the COVID-19 crisis, they still see a lot of remote work, which would stay for around 4 to 7 months after the government has relaxed the measures. According to him, there will be a lot of government spending, and that banks, meanwhile, will be working on helping to restructure industries like the tourism sector, helping it to adjust according to the new needs of the customers.

“The new norm that we will be seeing is that people will still continue to work on their businesses, but in different ways,” he says. “There will be improvements. For example, now you can notarize your documents through video conferencing. These changes can also be carried on after we have normalized. We get the best things out of this situation, use them and move forward.”

Suguitan adds, “If you can’t go outside, go inside. This situation is a good time to be quiet and reflect. This is not to create fear but to create a sense of calm that there are more important things than what we used to take pride in before.”

Watch the full livestream here: 

The post SMEs: What Can Small Business Do to Cope with Covid-19 appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Business Leader

With over 40 years of retail experience within the region alone, CEO and Managing Director of Giordano Middle East Ishwar Chugani has truly consolidated his presence as an industry legend with his steely Indian business acumen, complemented by a commitment to service that’s unmistakably Pinoy. A De La Salle University graduate, he was born and raised in the Philippines, where three generations of his family lived. Imbued with distinctly Filipino values, Ishwar, who often refers to himself as “Dugong Bumbay, pusong Pinoy” (of Indian blood, and a Filipino heart) partly credits his Bacoleño upbringing for helping him get to where he is today: “Like every fun-loving Pinoy, I like to enjoy life and meet new people. Due to this, I am able to manage different nationalities well, and I am easy to get along with.”

Being included in Forbes Magazine’s Top 20 Indian CEOs in the Arab World for three consecutive years (2015, 2016, and 2017), as well as speaking at the MAPIC Conference in Cannes France – the most prominent international property retail event – are among his top achievements. Alongside these accolades, Ishwar’s steadfast work ethic and constant support have won many hearts within the Filipino community in the UAE.  He was also appointed by the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce (Philippines) as the first Global Ambassador of Goodwill for the UAE.

In 2019, Ishwar bagged the title of Retail Professional of the Year at the Middle East Retail Awards for his work in steering Giordano to enter and thrive in markets that span beyond the Middle East. Now, he has begun planting seeds of Giordano’s franchise in Mauritius.

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

100 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Ishwar Chugani – Retail Legend with a Pinoy Heart

Industry forerunner and celebrated entrepreneur, Ishwar Chugani is a legend in the world of regional retail.  CEO of Giordano Middle East, the globally-adored fashion and brand, he is also a familiar face to Filipinos, having played an active role in supporting the community in the emirates over the years.  Born and raised in the Philippines where three generations of his family have resided, and one of the brave business pioneers of Dubai since the 70’s, he is a unique mix of industry leadership, hardcore Indian business acumen, with a Pinoy heart and Manileno accent to match.  Despite his successes, he remains humble: “My upbringing in the Philippines has kept me the way that I am.  I am still myself.”

2017 has been an excellent year for Ishwar. The Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce (Philippines) has appointed him as the first Global Foreign Ambassador of Goodwill for the UAE. He was also one of the distinguished speakers at the MAPIC Conference – the world’s largest retail real estate conference held last November in Cannes, France. Moreover, Forbes Magazine has named him as one of the Top 20 Indian CEO’s in the Arab World in 2017, not to mention recognized in 2016 and 2015, as well.

Through his significant ventures towards success, Ishwar shares a modest philosophy learned from his Filipino background: “Like any typical fun-loving Pinoy, I like to enjoy life and meet new people. Due to this, I am able to manage different nationalities well, and I am easy to get along with. This philosophy happens to be the core of Giordano’s message – World Without Strangers.”

For the success of his fellow kabayans, Ishwar hopes to see a more significant movement towards entrepreneurship amongst Filipinos in general: “My wish for Filipinos is to see them taking on more management roles in the companies they work for. The Philippines is one of the most fortunate countries in the world, with talented people who can successfully diversify into different global fields.”

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Photography by: Mox Santos

Illustrado 100 was made possible by sponsors: Giordano, Liali Jewellery, Mitsubishi UAE- Al Habtoor Motors, Michael Cinco Couture, Mapúa Institute of Technology, Centro – Amwaj Rotana Hotel , Max’s Restaurant Middle East and GVER – Your Friendly MarketPlace for Sharing

Co-Sponsors: Herschel Supply Co., Rove Hotels, The Medical City – Dubai , Filipino Institute UAE, MPQ Tourism, JAMES Travel and Tours Dubai, Off the Hook Seafood Restaurant, The Original Barrio Fiesta Restaurant – Dubai and Tapa King UAE.

Read more Illustrado 100 on www.illustradolife.com

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For a lot of companies in the UAE and the GCC, the economic downturn of recent years on the back of low oil prices, coupled with slow economic growth and low consumer spending was the ultimate test of survival and resilience.  

While many companies buckled under immense financial pressures, however, the strongest, fittest and most agile of enterprises have used the soft economic situation as a time to evolve, pivot, expand and reaffirm their strengths and relationships.  Proving true the adage, “Necessity is the mother of invention,” these companies show that there are also upsides during the downturn and that even innovations can be birthed during the most challenging of times.

For retail legend Ishwar Chugani, Managing Director of Giordano which has been operating in the region since 1993 with some 230 stores under his team’s purview, a flexible approach is as important as a solid start in a downturn.  With every retailer in the region inevitably affected by challenges, he says the brand was able to prevail by focusing on what the customer wants and needs. “You need to be able to bend with the times and not snap against it. Companies who take pro-active steps and have the flexibility to respond to the market changes are less affected than those who take their time or do nothing at all.  By continuing to focus on our customers’ requirements in terms of quality merchandise along with a great shopping experience, we have managed to enhance customer loyalty even in tough market conditions.” He also adds, “Our strengths lie in our ability to deliver what our customers’ need and what is relevant to them whatever the season. It is the trust that we have developed with our customers what has helped us through these difficult times.”

CEO of Prime Group of Companies, Mary Jane Alvero Al Mahdi echoes the same views.  She says that despite a weakening of their income in lieu of reduced sales and slower payments from clients, her company employed agility to move with the times to deflect the negatives.  They expanded their offerings, taking their business from construction laboratory to analytical chemistry, allowing them to provide other useful services like food analysis, making their company a one-stop-shop for clients.  They have also gone into public-private partnership and have taken the time to invest in marketing and market research while strengthening their team and cutting down on costs. She shares, “We have capitalized on our existing customers, continuously invested in quality and mastered our core competencies.  Most importantly, we maintained our reputation because we strongly believe that it is every Prime’s employee commitment and responsibility.”

Strengthening relationships and improving product and service offerings was also central to Jovy Tuano’s strategy in the last two years.  The CEO of Asia Gulf Trading and Founder of La Carne Premium Meats reveals, “The negative impact was minimal to our retail business since most of our regular customers put more value on quality.   The decline in expat customers was covered by the increase in new local customers.  Still, we focused on maximizing the use of our available resources to improve operational efficiency and grow our customer relationship rather than expanding our market coverage.”  Jovy also states that they have used the time for professional development as well as product innovation, allowing them to launch Filfood – a food innovation initiative created to bolster the local Filipino food sector.

Apart from the impetus to innovate and expand into new areas to generate revenue while strengthening customer bonds, the entrepreneurs have also found other upsides which they have leveraged fully to help improve their bottom line.

Ishwar shares, “There were a lot of opportunities available to us despite the soft economic situation. We were able to open new stores in good locations at lower rents.  Landlords have also become more understanding of the situation and are open to renegotiating rents, which helps to reduce our operating overheads.   Contractors and suppliers were more flexible in their terms and prices during tough times, and we were able to negotiate better rates and payment terms.”

“We have also reviewed our suppliers,” Mary Jane concurs.  “This [downturn] has opened opportunities to take advantage of cheaper prices from suppliers of equipment and technology that could help us to update our services.”

Another upside to this challenging period for businesses was the hard lessons companies have gained from having to reexamine and reset their priorities in order to survive and thrive, in effect allowing them to focus on what’s most important to their organization. 

“Tough times encourages companies to go back to their roots and do what it does best.  An economic downturn highlights the tiny fractures of a business that went unnoticed during the good times. This has given the smart retailer a chance to learn from the legacy of the past to form the wisdom of the future,” Ishwar points out.  He continues, “Shopping is all about relationships. Today’s customers rarely buy from a company; they buy from a person, a person they trust, a person that is knowledgeable and a person that delivers what is promised. Companies need to go back to basics to make shopping enjoyable and make sure factors such as time, treatment of the customer, efficiency, price point, physical and technology aspects are taken care of as all of these elements are importance in terms of customer’s expectation of their in-store experience.”

Still, on relationships, Mary Jane underlines the value of keeping strong bonds in helping businesses weather the storm.  She says, “Every company must develop and maintain strong relationships with their customers. What matters is not whom you know but how you are known to them.”  She also adds that investment in technology is essential. “Technology leverages the world towards a platform of understanding. Adapting to this trend, companies benefit from enormous economies of scale in production, distribution, marketing, and management. People want all the things they have heard about, seen, or experienced via the new technologies.” 

Jovy on the other hand, emphasizes on the need for companies to stay nimble and effective, “As the saying goes ‘Innovate or die!’ Collaborate with other industry players and put your ears on the ground.   Listening to fast-changing customer demand is vital to pivoting your business model to ensure a flowing revenue stream.  Also, convert fixed cost to variable cost and improve liquidity by maximizing cash sales over credit sales.”

With a more promising economic forecast as 2020 approaches and with the World Bank and economists projecting that growth in the UAE is expected to strengthen over the medium term, companies are optimistic, not only with the gains that are expected to come in conjunction with the Dubai Expo 2020 but also for the country moving forward.

“We are all very optimistic not only about 2020 but beyond 2020,” Ishwar remarks.  “The region has all the ingredients to support the growing retail market. The UAE’s geographical location will always be an asset, and the continued influx of regional and international tourism will keep feeding the growth.   We are fortunate to be located in a very resilient and dynamic market. There will always be opportunities to expand, but we have to be on top of our game, and for us, it does not just come down to fabrics and fashions but also the value and service we offer our customers.” 

Mary Jane sees that the Dubai Expo 2020 will have a direct effect on their business.  “Our core businesses are related to certification, inspection, and verification of goods. Since Dubai Expo 2020 will be attended by participants from different countries, I can see clearly the opportunities which will open up for Prime.”  She says that the company also plans to sustain and drive further the initiatives they have taken during the downturn, “We have set our footprints globally. Prime has opened branches in India, the Philippines, and Japan. Maintaining and sustaining these offices and laboratory will not be easy to sustain, but with the right amount of courage in facing the challenges and appropriate measures to monitor impacts on our business activities, we will be able to achieve positive results.”

Advice for Other Entrepreneurs

Do differently from others. Master your craft, know your edge in the market, and be strategically competitive. Most of all, maintain and invest in customer relationships. Always value your customers.

• Mary Jane Alvero Al Mahdi – CEO, Prime Group of Companies

You can only grow your business if you innovate or change the way you produce or trade your products and services to meet customer expectations.

• Jovy Tuano – CEO, Asia Gulf Trading

A company’s culture is the ultimate competitive advantage. Competitors can steal your products or services or even key employees. However, they cannot steal a great company culture.

Forget about product distinction. Today’s retail market is short on the ‘distinct experience,’ so when you create one, you create an instant relationship with your customers.

To succeed, retailers need to embrace the challenge of relationships by leveraging technology as a means to establish and maintain an omnichannel so as to connect with shoppers effectively. Retailers also need to empower their associates to serve the customers quicker and more efficiently.  The future will offer every business an opportunity for growth provided; we prepare for it and have a clear strategy on dealing with today’s fast-changing digital world and knowledgeable consumers.

• Ishwar Chugani – Managing Director, Giordano Middle East 

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Illustrado Magazine June 2019 – Work and Play

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It’s our 12th year anniversary and what’s a more fitting way to celebrate than asking the fabulous fashion circle of UAE to come party with us in their own interpretation of our theme for the evening: “Dark Seduction”.

Spoiler alert? They did not disappoint! One thing we love about our parties is our attendees; because they don’t just show up — they come through in the most stylish way. So expect nothing but darkly seductive looks!

Set in the ultra Insta-worthy naughty Barbary Deli + Cocktail, people took advantage of the 1930’s vibe of the place to pose, snap and dance the night away! Headlining our guest list are fashion industry’s iconic “Holy Trinity” Michael Cinco, Ezra Santos, and Furne One Amato and since it’s also our Big Fashion Issue, top designers in the UAE were also present at the party! Statuesque Phio Enaje came in his mysterious version of the dandy look, Yen AB showcased his impressive signature stone studded cap. Casting Director of Fashion Forward Dubai, the svelte Michael Amazona was present along with Dubai’s fashionphiles. Notable fashion photographers Rozen Antonio and Jef Anog also did not miss out while make-up maven Valentino Montuerto and dazzlingly skilled stylists Joe Dark and The Style Curators Dubai served us with some fashion extravaganza!

Philippine Consul General Paul Raymund Cortes also clocked in with his wife Madame Yasmin Balajadia – Cortes who stunned everyone with her elegant beaded black dress. CEO and Managing Director of Giordano Middle East Ishwar Chugani also joined us as well as remarkable personalities from the business industry like Philippine Business Council Dubai Chairman Bobbie Carella.

We can go on with the name dropping but we think we should just show you:

https://www.facebook.com/illustradomagazine/photos/ms.c.eJxlk8ltBUAMQjuKvIy3~;huL8g9R8rgiBozNuHm7xZsZs7LyL~;9FeoiM~_1~_kotbK~_CqAVDwgzw7KZSVe5KzLhJfkBHUqE~_5xVE4jJ83JCXqlM3u~_IeJLJASpJpJMmi~_Yqzhzic4E59kkUiWcJ8pD9~_3jq2Wulkbl59D~;lFc4Jd04es0zmVBucbzgPHYjRzZW7Gobsz~;pxjQ7v9KxXm61gzOvzix77uSeZ5FrzRycWya9pvvVg~;slX7X8pktmv~_KVf5bBvyxeT7JrW~;JznW9T~;e70.bps.a.10161024772900051/10161024777005051/?type=3&theater

Take a peek at our livestream before the event:

So for those of us who have fun in fashion, it’s a Monday night that is worth remembering – not only because of the music, the naughty vibe and everybody’s love for dressing up, but most importantly, it was an occasion when we all came together to celebrate a community overflowing with so much talent, passion and respect for one another.

Special thanks to: Emirates Airline and Barbary Deli + Cocktail

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ISHWAR CHUGANI

Entrepreneur

He is an award-winning entrepreneur, one of the first few pioneers who, as a young man ventured to set-up business in unchartered Dubai in the 70s.  He heads one of the most well-loved global brands, Giordano, in the Middle East, India, Central Asia, Eastern Europe and Africa.  But more than his position of distinction, his industry accolades and business acumen, what is most endearing is the fact that Ishwar Chugani is and will always be “Dugong Bumbay, Pusong Pinoy” to us Pinoys in the UAE.

True greenie Lasalista, and longtime Filipino-community supporter participating in both initiatives for charity and camaraderie, Ishwar was born and raised in Bacolod, educated in Manila, speaks English like Manileňo, and Ilonggo like a Bacolod-native.  Plain speaking, Ishwar is one of us.

Beyond his unwavering ties with our community, budding entrepreneurs and even professionals would do well to learn from the experience and skills he’s gained through the years, as well as his humane yet pragmatic leadership style that puts him a cut above the rest.  Asked about his recipe for success, Ishwar reveals, “Keep it simple.  Empower people. Have motivation from within, not from out. Don’t be scared of competition.  Know that knowledge is power.  Create a company culture.  Remember the 3Hs – Head, Heart and Hand. Simply put – use common sense, love what you do and work hard.   And finally, define success. Because believe me, it is relative. “

Photo by Alex Callueng; Photography Assistant – Bethoven Filomeno Special thanks to – Giordano, Nikon, Liali Jewellery, Lulu, Mitsubishi and Western Union.

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Felt all the way from Bacolod where three generations of his family were born and bred to his base in Dubai, Ishwar Chugani’s unique presence and simple philosophy is a positive force that moves his home, his corporation, and his community. As the CEO and Managing Director of Giordano Middle East, he heads the group’s business in the Middle East, India, Africa, Central Asia and Europe. He is indeed both an influence and an inspiration for all his fellow expatriates.

The 2014 Retail Professional of the Year Awardee remains grounded with the help of his family. He shares his secret, “Always remember to use your three H’s in whatever you do: Your HEART, so you make sure you love what you are doing, your HANDS which requires you to work hard, and your HEAD where you find the common sense and ability to judge what’s best.”

More than his professional success, what is fascinating about Ishwar is his distinct connection with the Philippines and the sense of belongingness he shares with “kababayans” – something that gels with his cosmopolitan Giordano “World without Strangers” philosophy. “For me, the Philippines, India and the UAE are ‘home’.  I am a person with a more holistic view of the world. I am definitely dugong Bumbay, pusong Pinoy.”

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