Pilot

Originally a banker by profession, Emirati-Filipina pilot Shareefa Al Bloushi made the career shift to one 40,000 feet up in the air, after a need arose to reach her fullest potential. Initially joining Etihad Airways as one of the only Emirati female cadets in 2009, Sharifa now pilots her dream plane, a Boeing 777. After many years of relentless persistence in a majorly male-dominated field, her journey of shattering the glass ceiling is a true testament of how one can succeed and later thrive despite the odds that may be stacked against you. “My greatest achievement is having the courage to do what I love,” Shareefa attests.

Wearing both of her nationalities with utmost pride, Shareefa shares that knowing one’s roots is integral to the future successes of any endeavor one undertakes. She expresses that the greatest facet of being Arab is the camaraderie felt and upheld by her countrymen, as well as how the UAE feels like one big family that works to keep HH Sheikh Zayed’s vision alive. Furthermore, she attributes her values of humility and love to her Filipina side, as well as the importance of being hardworking. The culmination of both cultural experiences have molded Shareefa into who she is today.

“As a woman, I see no difference between my work and my fellow male peers’ work. There will always be some who look at your gender as a weakness. If they see weakness, I see the fear in them.” While many may be easily fazed and intimidated by the challenges, and even contemporaries, associated with one’s line of work, Shareefa remains steadfast in her pursuit to strive for excellence and help women ascend to higher heights in every field.

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

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Shareefa Al Bloushi

Pilot

Airline Pilot Shareefa Al Bloushi exemplifies how with ambition and a hunger for excellence, virtually anything can be achieved. An Emirati-Filipino born to Abu Dhabi native, Mohamed and Iman Saflor who hails from Cavite, Shareefa was raised in the UAE capital and was initially a banker.  Despite enjoying her profession at the time, she still felt she yearned for something more. So, she joined Etihad Airways as a cadet in 2009. After years of fruitful hard work, she now flies a Boeing 777, her dream aircraft, as part of a small but growing class of extraordinary female pilots in the Emirates – a testament to the continued ascent of women in the region towards continued empowerment.

Aiming to become airline captain in the near future, Shareefa attributes her current accomplishments to her unique cultural background: “I carry my Emirati nationality with great pride. The greatest pride of Arabs is their identity and knowing their past. I love being an Emirati because the whole country feels like one big family working on keeping our father Sheik Zayed’s vision alive.  I’m also proud of my other half as a Filipina, as the values of family and being humble, hardworking but smart; all made me who I am today.”

In spite of the hardships faced working in a field that is as challenging as it is competitive, Shareefa considers herself as her biggest threat: “Now as a pilot, I find the challenge is more inside my head. The challenge of fine-tuning your skills and adapting to change. As a woman, I see no difference between my work and my fellow male peers’ work. There will always be some who look at your gender as weakness. If they see weakness, I see the fear in them. The trick is to focus on the mission, and it will divert unnecessary under sight.”

“My greatest achievement is having the courage to do what I love. I went through a career change because I knew I wasn’t reaching my full potential and needed to do what I’m passionate about. Once I reached my goal to become an airline pilot everything fell in place; I became independent and content where I am in life.”

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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.

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Lawyer

 Atty. Barney Almazar is a high calibre international corporate lawyer and a passionate campaigner for the improvement of the lives of Overseas Filipinos.

A recipient of a TOYM (Ten Outstanding Young Men) award in 2015, and the Asian Legal Business Young Lawyer of the Year for the Philippines award in 2016, and in South East Asia in 2017, his accolades speak louder than words. Recently, he facilitated the USD 125 million acquisition of a UAE-based fintech company by a Philippine investment group.  He also represents a syndicate of investors in the negotiation of founder shares in a retail strategic planning firm, operating in New York, London, Sao Paulo, Dubai and Berlin. Last year, he opened an office in Lisbon catering to European venture, while his offices in the UAE and Philippines continue to facilitate trade deals across the Middle East and South East Asia.

Moreover, he has been providing legal assistance to Philippine missions in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, assisting distressed Filipinos for the last six years, and his book, “The Essential OFW Guide to the UAE” has become a valuable resource for the community.

Atty. Barney shares, “In our country, human labor is considered an ‘export commodity’, a means to an end for the Filipinos around the world. This is why for the past 7 years, I have devoted my practice to bringing foreign investments to the Philippines, promoting our brands in the Middle East, creating more jobs back home.”  He adds, “My ultimate wish is for us to be competitive with the rest of the world, so that our government need not restrict the mobility of OFs.  Leaving the Philippines to work abroad is a personal choice, not a necessity.”

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

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Barney Almazar Esq.

Advocate

Despite his success as a Corporate Lawyer, Barney Almazar has taken upon himself the daunting task of helping out the UAEs Filipino community, an advocacy close to his heart while serving a growing international clientele. Well-reputed for handling the portfolios of some high-net-worth individuals across the Middle East oil and gas sector, as well as Southeast Asia, he also led the US$125 million Filipino acquisition of a UAE company, further cementing the Filipino presence in the international market. Thomson Reuter’s Asian Legal Business List also hailed Barney as one of the Top 40 Young Lawyers in Asia.  And through all this, this lawyer also launched the 2^nd edition ‘The Essential OFW Guide to UAE,’ and expanded his local legal aid clinics and interactive touch screen legal portals across the emirates.

“A well trained and educated person puts the nation in the right direction for nation-building. As a lawyer, I play the role of educating minds to achieve their dreams and become future agents of change in our country” Barney quotes.

His dedication, integrity and work ethic have made him stand out among the trailblazers and role models of today’s Filipino youth. He is renowned as a modern day hero, receiving recognition from far and wide. But for Barney, despite all the adornments and titles, the simple and pure joy of seeing a Filipino reunited with their family is enough to fuel his advocacy for kindness.

“Whether I am wearing my corporate hat or lawyer’s hat, I believe it is the kindness and looking after each other’s welfare that keeps humanity alive.”

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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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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

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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.

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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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Philanthropist

A philanthropist and a community volunteer, Leo Barrameda has found his purpose in giving back to the community. For the past four years, he has supported the Blaan indigenous community of Sitio Kanibong, Tulunan, with the Adopt-a-School project, sending children to school for free. To date, Leo and his team have provided scholarships to 150 students under the Alternative Learning System of the Department of Education.

Leo is also head of several initiatives. He is the program head for the Philippine Business Council Fellowship, an 8-month program for Overseas Filipinos seeking to start businesses in the UAE, as well as for Gawad Kasambahay, the CSR initiative of the CMG Group, which honors outstanding and exemplary Filipino household workers in the emirates. For the first quarter of 2020, Leo is heading one of the biggest and most ambitious community projects in the country, Arte Pilipinas, the first festival of Philippine arts and culture, which will be presented to the multicultural audiences of the emirates.

Leo proves how the power of one man alone can influence many. As the key figure in worthwhile endeavors, he works tirelessly to share and inspire. “I want to be someone who volunteers and supports,” Leo says. “Capitalizing in the development of one community at a time.”

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

Leo V Barrameda

Philanthropist

Beneath his humble and timid visage, Leo Barrameda proves how the power of one can make a huge difference in changing the lives of others. After experiencing a series of harrowing events and challenges over the years and his exposure to charity work in 2015, he gained clarity on his life’s purpose and has since devoted his life to helping those around him.

Manager for the International Collectors Programme at Art Dubai, this philanthropist and community volunteer has been supporting the underprivileged through his skills as an entrepreneur and by sponsoring numerous charity organizations and initiatives. In recent years, together with his friends and himself driving the scholarship project, Leo’s group has sent hundreds of B’Laan kids to school.  2018, was a continuation of this effort, Leo has sent 100 kids to elementary school, supported ten high school students, and 50 enrollees of the Department of Education’s Alternative Learning System. Through his social advocacy, Leo has also been awarded the title of “Global Pinoy Idol” by DZMM and TFC. This year, in Dubai, through the Philippine Business Council of Dubai and the Northern Emirates, he is also spearheading the PBC Fellowship: an intensive eight-month programme consisting of seminars and workshops aimed at skill and character building for young, upcoming entrepreneurs.

“I just want my actions and advocacies to inspire others. There is life after your eight-hour work routine, and there is a special feeling in helping those in need and giving back to the community,” Leo shares.

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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.

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Audio Visual Production Agency

Alpha Media’s exceptionally-produced content has left a strong impact on the Filipino community and the corporate sector. Owned by Ernesto Flores and Oliver Serrano, seasoned-creatives with over 15 years of experience in the industry, the company has become the go-to brand in the production scene.

Among its many significant partnerships are longstanding engagements with the Dubai World Trade Center as one of its major clients.  Alpha Media also acts as the solid production arm of GMA Pinoy TV International in the UAE.

Taking on the venture of event management, the company had also organized the “Kapuso Trending Pinoy All-Star Basketball” tournament in September 2019. This year, Alpha Media also leads major events for GMA’s long-running documentary program I-Witness.

Ernesto and Oliver, who emphasize the value of “quality over quantity” say that their goal is to be a partner for every Filipino in UAE, producing high-quality and world-class media services while giving entertainment and public service to each and every Filipino in the Middles East, and in the future, the world.  The also put importance on giving back to the community, sharing, “When people choose to give, they unite different sectors and communities in the name of a common cause.”

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

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Alpha Media Productions

Armed with 15 years of industry experience, Ernesto Flores and Oliver Serrano, the two creatives at the helm of audio-visual production company Alpha Media Productions have given rise to a new level of professionalism to content produced not only for the Filipino community but also for commercial projects in the emirates.

In just two years since its formation, Alpha Media has become one of the trusted production companies in the UAE servicing the biggest brands, government agencies and covering significant events, conferences, and concerts in the country.  Keeping true to their core and always ready to serve the Filipino community, the company also has racked-up some high-profile partnerships including collaborations with GMA Pinoy TV with the popular Trending Pinoy Show, and the Dubai Filipino community’s Philippine Independence and Christmas celebrations lead by the Bayanihan team, among others.

Aspiring to be the production company of choice in the UAE and to train more kababayans in honing their production skills in the future, Ernesto and Oliver swear by the determination in continuously pushing their endeavor ahead.  They say of their compatriots, “We are gemstones scattered all over the world. Some are polished, some are not, few are rare, and others are tested through time. So always be proud of who you are, never stop learning and dreaming even if you are already a CEO, cultivate the incomparable talents that you already have, benchmark excellence in whatever you do, follow your passion and never forget to give back to the family, friends and community that put you where you are today!”

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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.

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Men’s Grooming

Brusko Barbers takes a different approach in business from the usual barbershop of old, providing some of the country’s best male-grooming services to a multicultural customer base in the UAE, which includes personalities, artists, and influencers in the country.

A hip and chilled out hub for the modern-day man, Brusko Barbers’ quirky aesthetics combined with a modern barbershop experience has garnered respect in the sector and even earned the brand the “Best in Grooming” honors at the Men’s Health & Women’s Health Middle East awards.

Founded by Roy Cruz, Abi Gaddi Cruz, Algene Suria, and Malu Gallardo, who’ve been in the industry for more than a decade, Brusko’s mission is to connect and take care of their clients, providing high-quality grooming services to generate loyalty in the long run. The brand wants to be known as an enterprise that exudes the courage to excel in whatever they put their mind into and to prove that innovation indeed can make a mark, even in a business that’s seemingly as mundane as grooming.

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

Brusko Barbers 

Making a difference in their own terms is this Dubai-grown Filipino founded brand that has set a new standard in the male grooming sector in the country.  The story of Brusko Barbers just goes to show that even a simple business, if done with pride and creativity can cut through the clutter.

Not the barbershop of old, Brusko Barbers, the brainchild of co-founders Roy Cruz, Abi Gaddi Cruz, Algene Suria, and Malu Gallardo has climbed from being your typical haircut place to a hotspot among the hip and happening gents of Dubai. With a quirky brand identity, Brusko’s founders have pushed the grooming envelope, delivering their authentic take on the modern barbershop experience from the services, to the nostalgic atmosphere, down to the camaraderie offered by its affable staff. Brusko Barbers has gained patronage among some rising personalities, including artists and influencers, and have also garnered industry recognition landing in finalist position in the category of ‘Best in Grooming’ at the recent #mhwhawards18 by Men’s Health & Women’s Health Middle East.

A specialty brand that serves a growing international clientele built on 100% Filipino entrepreneurship is somewhat of a rarity in Dubai.  Undaunted, they share, “Building a brick and mortar shop targeting to serve multinational clientele by 100 percent Filipino first-time entrepreneurs in the service industry was not an easy feat, but it is a challenge we accepted headstrong. By staying optimistic, putting in the hard work, and relying on each other’s expertise, we overcame these challenges.  Armed with grit, professionalism and creative innovation, now we’ve built a place that has become worthy of very happy and proud customers.”

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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.

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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

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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.

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Entrepreneur & Community Champion 

Entrepreneur Maria Josephine Abina is one of the strongest proponents of Filipino business in Oman.  She has given opportunities to many entrepreneurial kababayans, and also used her vast network to connect people, and foster stronger ties between the Philippines and the Sultanate.

Founder of Fashion House Oman, and partner for the first international center of Vantage International – a Kamiseta Company from the Philippines, Josephine has seen her business reach a new peak recently, gaining over 1000 registered members and resellers under HBT Business Center Muscat.  They currently have five Omani affiliated partners acting as a marketing arm; and three Philippine partner brands – namely Vantage International (Kamiseta Company), Mama Sita’s and Natasha Philippines.

Beyond her many initiatives to help the business and Filipino community, in early 2019, Josephine was also appointed as Ambassador for the Muscat InterNations, the largest global platform for expats. Here, she has organized 12 events and hosted more than 100 activities in the last two years, bringing people together under various regional networking groups.

She is also looking forward to the launch of her first book “The Gospel of Business Networking,” in April 2020.  She shares, “I want Filipino expats to understand that we have serious business to do in this world. Each time we use the resources available around us, we support other people’s businesses. So, let’s be serious because we have accountability here. No matter what, we need to think big and contribute our share.”

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

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Maria Josephine Panagsagan Abina 

A dynamic entrepreneur, community leader, and networking master, Maria Josephine has provided countless business and job opportunities to many and strengthened relations between Oman and the Filipino community.

She is the Founder of Fashion House Oman, and partner for the first international center of Vantage International – a Kamiseta Company from the Philippines. Just recently, Maria Josephine has also been appointed distributor of Omani essential oils brand – OLIBAN.  Using networking exceptionally as a vital business tool, she is also an active Consul of four groups including the Muscat Business Networking group at InterNations, one of the world’s largest international communities, where she has organized 75 activities in the previous year.

Moving forward, she also wishes to take part in trade missions working with local organizations and companies to help boost bilateral trade and business matching opportunities between Oman and the Philippines.  She hopes that all this will come into fruition with the formation of their new business group – Oman Philippine Friendship Association (OPFA).

An entrepreneur through and through, she believes that being an independent business owner is one of her most significant achievements in life saying that it has afforded her the freedom and motivation to be the best that she can be.  She also adds, “This achievement is a form of servitude that compels me to go even higher. When I set my mind to achieve something, no matter what it takes I have to figure it out, and I must get it done. I am aware that I need to strive harder and keep pushing myself above average.”

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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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Mixologist and Entrepreneur 

One of these days, distinctly Filipino cocktails will be part of mainstream beverage favorites in the region, and we won’t be surprised that it will be due to the efforts of Albert Opena. Award-winning mixologist and entrepreneur Alberto believes that when you dream, you have to make it big. A name that rings a bell for many in the region’s food and beverage industry, Albert is the man behind Ounce, a leading facilities management service provider for bars, clubs, and restaurants.

Combining mixology and entrepreneurship, Albert has inspired Filipinos to step up and raise the bar in showcasing our talent for the world to see. This year, he has introduced a unique Filipino product ‘Tagai Cocktails,’ a collection of Filipino-inspired drinks. Its launch was welcomed not only by Filipinos in the region; it even captured the attention of esteemed culinary organizations such as Emirates Culinary Guild and Filfood UAE. Albert’s aim is to make every client not only remember his satisfying signature presentations but to look forward to what the Filipino market has to offer.

“Share your knowledge and experience to a greater audience,” Alberto says. “Encourage others to invest in themselves, work hard and stay focused. Only then would you know that you have been truly successful – it is when people begin to listen and learn from you.”

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

Alberto Opena – Ounce Oz

Mixologist and Entrepreneur

There are many ways of honoring Filipino culture.  Promoting our own through traditional flavors and aromas through beverages, is Alberto Opena’s way of celebrating and introducing the Philippines.

An award-winning mixologist and bartender turned entrepreneur, Alberto’s passion lies in innovation through food and entertainment.  Being able to promote the Philippines, through his take on drinks, utilizing familiar ingredients, as well as techniques, whether by design or for his pure enjoyment, is a definite plus and almost always becomes a high point of interest for people who experience his brand of bartending.

Armed with a decade of extensive experience within the field of bar, club and restaurant management, Alberto has worked across the world with some of the best five-star brands – from a luxury cruiser in Miami to hotel franchises in the Philippines and UAE. His venture Ounce Facilities Management LLC provides bar and lounge services for private, public and corporate events, as well as trade marketing solutions for many renowned brands such as Jack Daniels, Skyy, Russian Standard and more.

Always driven to succeed, Alberto attributes his achievements to his motto: learn, work, share, repeat.   He shares, “The passion that I have in my craft always brings out my creativity and inspires me to keep innovating.  What probably sets me apart from most people is that I don’t measure success in material things.  Rather, it is my client’s success, my family’s support in my craft, and other people who emulate me, that makes up my success.”

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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

The post Alberto Opena – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.