Urban Art Instigator

Before urban art became popular and Dubai started showcasing graffiti with pride in its buildings, before the city’s hip art spaces came to be, one Filipino spearheaded the lowbrow art movement in the country.

Rollan Rodriguez, the founder of the art collective BrownMonkeys, can be credited for popularizing accessible street art, first through the group’s exhibitions in alternative spaces, eventually growing into commercial features on billboards, commissioned murals for creative agencies, and showcases for the Middle East Film and Comic-Con, StreetCon, the Sharjah Biennial, among others.  Rollan says of their impact, “In some little way, somehow it made a contribution to the art world in the UAE, empowering and influencing the area of art and design.”

Respected as well in the commercial design world, though his work within his own agency, Ape Creatives, Rollan has been involved in numerous projects and has also bagged two international honors from the Indigo Design Awards held in Tokyo, Japan.

Rollan professes that he is most proud of being able to usher in a new wave of thinking in the UAE, “A brand new attitude on how we intermingle with varied cultures, and also, making our community realize that it is possible to make it – that it’s okay to be different, to be weird brown and proud.”

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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Rollan Rodriguez

Visual Artist, Community Leader

To paraphrase a certain pop star, “Art makes the people come together.” That’s exactly what Rollan’s art has been doing. His talent is so immense that it has become contagious – infecting those around him with an irrepressible spirit of creativity that compels them to do bigger, better things with their talent. He has built communities around his media, and has inspired movements towards a higher appreciation of Pinoy aesthetics.

His career has certainly been exemplary: 10 years of experience in graphic design and advertising; instigator of The Brownmonkeys – a design collective that has taken Dubai’s art scene by storm; founder of Ape Collective – a graphic design studio that specializes in brand identity, illustration, art direction and event curation. Recently, Ape Collective held an exhibit at AlSerkal. Entitled “Byahe,” the exhibit drew inspiration from the hand-painted signage found mostly in the side streets and on public transportation in the Philippines, such as the iconic Jeepney.

Through the elements of typography and design on signage, the artists of Ape Creative dared to examine how people connect through their stories, their travels and experiences.

Of the highly successful, distinctly Pinoy exhibit, Rollan professes: “The core inspiration for Byahe arose out of our interest in hand-painted signage and the traditional art of lettering. We wanted to explore this dying art and its connection to our own personal histories  – a  lot of us here in Dubai came from somewhere, and a lot of us are also moving about from place to place. We wanted to take out these unique elements from our own backyard and see how these signs would speak to people from different parts of the world, from different backgrounds and point of view.”

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

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Artist & Musician

Cromwell Ojeda balances two passions at the same time. By day, he is a senior graphic designer for the first nuclear energy power plant in the region. At night, he turns into a passionate artist pushing the boundaries of locally-produced music and elevating the Filipino brand in the process.

His passion project, the Blacksheep Production which started in 2008, gave birth to the Filipino underground music scene in the emirates. With him at the helm, Blacksheep provided a platform for Filipino bands to play original music, shunning the stereotypical notion of Pinoy groups doing only covers. Blacksheep gave birth to its spin off – the Rocktoberfest, which is the longest running Filipino rock event in the Middle East.

Under his own brand, Muhaisnah Four Cromwell produces synth pop and chill wave music. He has performed with the region’s top artist from Lebanon, Egypt and Bahrain, and has played with international artist Princess Nokia, Daedelus, Dam Funk, Knxwledge, Jessy Lanza, Earl Switshirt to name a few. Cromwell has also worked with top brands such as RedBull, AlexanderMcqueen, Moscot, and Palladium Shoes among others, and was chosen as one of the first Adidas Original ambassadors in the Middle East.

Cromwell hopes that through his initiatives, he can push to better the platform for Filipino talents in the region.  He says, “I hope to keep inspiring and pushing Filipinos to rise as world-class top acts in the creative and music industry.” 

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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CROMWELL OJEDA

Musician

“A regular kabayan who is passionate on promoting original Filipino music, a struggling artist, and a fan and forever student of music.” This is how musician Cromwell Ojeda wants to be known and remembered for. But with his relentless dedication and long list of achievements, one would be hard-pressed to put Cromwell anywhere near the word “regular.” In addition to having a day job as a design specialist and being a working musician, Cromwell is the founder of Blacksheep Production – a non-profit production group and artists’ collective that provides platform for progressive Filipino musicians and artists in the UAE who want to take their craft to the highest level.

This year, Cromwell led the launch of Blacksheep Production’s newest department, Blacksheep Records, which recently released two amazing records from Dubai-based Filipino bands, Verdad and We Left As Humans. As part of the indie electro and synth-pop group Muhaisnah Four, Cromwell was amongst the few artists in the Middle East who were chosen to participate in the Red Bull Music Academy Bass Camp in Dubai.

His words of wisdom for his fellow kabayan musicians: “If youre going to do it, put your 100% heart, mind, and soul into it. Practice even though you’re not playing any gig. Keep on creating new music. Write your own song. It doesn’t have to be great – strive for at the very least something you can call your own. Don’t’ focus on playing the same cover song again and again. Madaling mag banda pero mahirap maging musikero.”

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

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HR Professional & Lifestyle Influencer 

Proudly kayumanggi beauty Nina Peňalosa-Carpio is one lifestyle influencer who is using the power of social media to make a positive change in the narrative on Filipinas in the digital space.

Nina’s goal is to elevate the image of Filipinas by highlighting success stories of those who have broken virtual barriers to become leaders and influencers in their respective fields.  She also promotes the celebration of Filipina beauty, providing a great representation for kayumanggi-skinned Pinays, through her platforms.

Prominent as a lifestyle influencer in the UAE, Nina is currently the Human Resources Director at Jollibee in the emirates.  Recently, she has also taken on a new role as TFC’s regional host in the online show KWorld, covering different community events and featuring Filipino achievers in the country. She had interviewed a roster of Filipino talents, including Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray.

Nina shares, “One of the reasons why I’m doing what I’m doing is to change the narrative about Filipina beauty and being a Filipina in general. I believe that through my works, I have encouraged many Filipino women to celebrate the kind of beauty they have. I wish that I have also inspired them to elevate the image of a Filipina and embrace the idea that it’s not uncommon for Filipino women to be CEOs, presidents, directors, and country managers in companies.”  She adds, “I want the world to know the Filipinas through their beauty, intelligence, and passion in pursuing positive change. We can blaze the trail – not just for ourselves, but for generations of other women.”

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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Nina Peñalosa-Carpio

www.smilelikenina.com

Amidst Dubai’s ocean of social media personalities, Nina shines like a dazzling pearl – a truly chic and clever lady with an inimitable talent and passion for creating beautiful content, be it through her blog posts or Youtube videos. In her own words: “As a lifestyle blogger and vlogger I try to create content that highlights my daily life but is also significant to others. I do my best to share my travel adventures in my blog and youtube channel “SmilelikeNina” in hopes that it will encourage others to go and experience different countries and cultures. Additionally, I aim to motivate people to try healthy living by imparting neat tips on how to do it. Moreover, as a lover of fashion and beauty, I dish out the latest on new fashion trends and makeup as well.”

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

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@thestylechoreo

Fashion and lifestyle blogger Paul Ramos of “The Style Choreo” has been a very prominent fixture in Dubai’s fashion scene as well as the digital landscape.  His commitment to the dapper sartorial style is memorable and hard to miss.

Paul’s feed has been peppered with numerous exciting projects with an enviable roster of brand collaborations.  2019 was equally jampacked with initiatives that cement his name as a top blogger in the region.  The year’s highlights include his interview with 50’s Inside, a French TV show in Paris about Zaya Nurai Island, the most Instagrammable place in the UAE.  He has also worked with international fashion brands, hotels, restaurants, malls, supermarkets, and barbershops.  One of his recent fave gigs is his partnership with Coach on their latest Naruto–inspired collection.

For Filipinos aspiring to make an impact out there, Paul has this to say, “Focus on your passion and be determined to achieve your goals.  Most importantly, do what you love and love what you do.”

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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PAUL RAMOS

Blogger

Paul Ramos’ sartorial style and sensibilities can be summed up in one word: Commitment. In the searing blaze of a Dubai summer afternoon, Paul can be seen walking the cosmopolitan concrete in full dapper suit and tie, his hair slicked to perfection, his shoes spic and shiny. This uncompromising devotion to fashion is at the core of Paul’s success as a blogger and has made him one of the UAE’s most sought-after brand ambassadors. This year, he was chosen to represent Huawei and Bachelor Shoes, and even led and hosted a flatlay photography workshop in the Mall of the Emirates, in collaboration with Harvey Nichols.

Of his not-so secret to success, Paul attests: “Be yourself and put your heart in everything that you do. Be consistent and focus on things that you care and enjoy the most. Do what you love and love what you do.”

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

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Blogging Pioneer

Known as ‘Boy Dubai,’ Ion Gonzaga has been one of the earliest bloggers in the UAE scene and has now gone on to reinvent himself and his career. Currently, the Lead Digital Transformation Consultant of Accenture Middle East, Ion, leads the UX design of the region’s would-be first highly interactive B2B platform. This year, he also formed BXDNOW.COM, a network of content co-creators and writers around the world committed to empowering GLOCAL communities through stories shaped in a meaningful perspective and encouraging context.

At present, the website has contributors from UAE, KSA, Kuwait, Qatar, Philippines, Singapore, and New Zealand. “We have just started bi-monthly workshops about blogging, vlogging and about online tools to use in creating digital content,” he says.

Ion has represented the UAE in different blogging events, written for magazines and dailies, spoken at blogging conferences, and partnered with major brands for commercial collaborations – earning several awards in the process such as the Rotary Youth Leadership Award.

Always the storyteller, he encourages his peers to reach out and share people’s stories with the world. “I believe it’s about time to ‘unlimit’ ourselves when it comes to our concept of community,” he says.

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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ION GONZAGA

Blogger

Ion is amongst the most prolific and truly relevant Filipino bloggers in UAE. As Boy Dubai, he is able to write about his experiences, share his most powerful life principles, and be the voice of many overseas Filipinos. In the OFW community, Ion covers the untapped areas he believes will inspire and empower his fellow expats to look at life abroad a little lighter. Most of the subjects he covers reflects happiness and fun in mostly simple ways.

2016 has been a transformative year for Ion. He has been able to evolve his platform from a mere lifestyle blog into a true bastion of Filipino empowerment, covering topics that both inspire and challenge in an approachable, relatable manner. He believes that Filipinos can do far more than just eat out or go places to cope up homesickness. Ion convinces his readers to live and enjoy the present while still planning for the future.
Understanding the full scale of his responsibility as a mass communicator, Ion operates under the principle that if something is to go viral, it should be positively influential. He ensures that his material is proactive and has a positive social impact to the readers and their circles. Changing lives, changing mindsets through the spiritual perspective, one blog post at a time.

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

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Pioneering Vlogger

Junie Sorsano is a pioneering vlogger who gave representation to ‘everyman Juan de la Cruz’ on the web since he debuted on his Youtube channel in 2011.  His wholesome and down-to-earth blog, has since become an invaluable source of information and advice, and sometimes comfort, for Filipinos in the UAE and beyond.

Now, as the head of Megaworld International in the UAE, Junie, who started as a vlogger in the UAE, gives credit to the experiences he had as an influencer on social media.  Considered as one of the earliest personalities in the region, Junie has received numerous accolades.  The most recent once being his inclusion in as a Finalist for Hospitality Excellence Food/Travel Blogger of the Year for the Middle East Excellence Awards 2019.  He also landed a gig at GMA Pinoy TV as a host for the show Trending Pinoy which is now in its second season.

Having worked with brands such as LBC Express, UAE Exchange, The Visa Center, Style MNL, MPQ Travel and Tourism and others as a brand ambassador, Junie believes that his professional ethics and integrity have been vital in gaining trust in the sector.  He also gets inspiration from people who send him words of inspiration and gratitude for promoting Filipino presence in the multicultural scene.

As a message to aspiring Filipino vloggers, Junie says, “If you love what you are doing, you will definitely elevate everything that you do, and become better and become successful.”

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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JUNIE FRANCISCO SORSANO

Blogger, Social Media Personality

Buoyed by the massive technological advancements of the recent decades, a lot of what happens in life today is accessible online. As the most predominant Filipino Vlogger in Dubai, YouTube personality Junie Francisco Sorsano is one step ahead of current trends with his videos sharing useful content and advice about his “Buhay sa Dubai” with fellow OFW’s.  Junie is an inspiration to the community, representing the typical Juan Dela Cruz with great gusto and style.His vlog post, “Hindi Bobo AngMga OFW,” reached almost a million views on Facebook.

With a formidable background Social Media, Junie has been accredited with several recognitions acknowledging his positive, infectious presence in the Internet. This year, he was featured in some of the most prominent Filipino publications in the UAE, and was awarded the Best Media Personality by the DDS Humanitarian Group, U.A.E. He even appeared in a TVC for a popular, UAE-based retail brand. Beyond Junie’s accomplishments, it is the genuine influence he has over society through his online platforms that makes him such an important force in the community.

Knowing how different institutions have taken note of his efforts, and how Filipino students all over Dubai have used his vlogs as a basis of their projects and theses, Junie ensures that his every piece of content he puts out is armed with positive values. He says, “I want to serve as an inspiration for all OFW’s. Just as I took an extreme career shift to do what I love, I would like to encourage everyone to never stop dreaming.”

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

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Lifestyle Bloggers

 2019 was a monumental year for Janelle Vales-Yasay and Reina Tejano-Beriña, who run the respected Saudi-based platform the Pink Tarha. They celebrated their blog’s 10th year anniversary with a grand public event, while also collaborating with the Saudi Seasons Initiative (under the Saudi Commission on Tourism and Heritage) as the only Filipina bloggers approached for the project.

As online influencers who have received honors in Saudi Arabia which are not usually bestowed on expats, Janelle and Reina understand that they have the power and responsibility to provide compelling content to their followers; hence their commitment to delivering language and visuals that are not only interesting, but also factual, and mindful. Their early work in the kingdom has contributed to the positive imagery of the city of Riyadh, garnering the two Tourism Excellence Awards from the Saudi government as well as a well-earned feature in regional TV MBC.

Of the current digital scape, the duo shares, “With the most recent changes in KSA, we’re proud to be at the forefront of helping spread correct and credible information about Saudi Arabia through our platforms.”  They also recognize the pivotal role communicators like them play in contributing to how people perceive the country, as well as spreading positivity and bringing pride to the Filipino community.  “It’s an honor for us to give Filipinos in Saudi Arabia an avenue to see the brighter side of things, uplifting their spirits and enabling them to enjoy life in their second home.”

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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The Pink Tarha

Reina V. Tejano, managing editor, and Janelle Vales-Yasay, Editor-in-Chief, are the power duo behind the successful multi-awarded blog “The Pink Tarha”, an online lifestyle guide in Saudi Arabia. They started their blog in 2009 and since then have inspired many people through showcasing the fun and interesting side of Riyadh. What started out as a hobby for the girls has gained so much positive attention and appreciation in the process winning them the Saudi Excellence in Tourism Award.

In this day and age where people constantly seek validation through social media, it is sometimes hard to determine the authenticity of a social media influencer; especially now when likes and followers are bought. Reina and Janelle who were featured in MBC in 2016 for their work, share that they were able to stay on track by keeping the quality of their work great. If there is anything substantial that they want their readers to take away from them, it is that: “We can’t always change the situation, but we can always change the way we look at things. And we hope we all see it from the bright, pink side.”

Special thanks to – Giordano, Nikon, Liali Jewellery, Lulu, Mitsubishi and Western Union.

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Social Media and Content Specialist

It’ll be hard to erase the endearing image of the cute boy next door of “Lo’s Closet” fame even as Kier Pascual turns a new leaf evolving from a renowned blogger to a professional who’s now focused on his social media management and digital marketing career at an agency in the capital.   He says, “I’ve made peace with it, and I’m ready to pass the baton to those whom I have inspired to do blogging and let them shine.”

While he recalls the incredible journey he had as an influencer, Kier believes that there are more opportunities in store for him – and even more valuable lessons that deserve his focus.  Excited with the huge career leap he has taken, Kier carries with him the burning passion for taking up challenges that come his way, consistently rising to the occasion and learning new things.

Nevertheless, even as he steers his path to another direction, the image of the ever-positive blogger, another significant Filipino face in the digital space who earned positive attention and admiration, is sure to endure.

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

Kier Pascual

www.locloset.blogspot.com
Kier Pascual is a social media specialist for a luxury 5-star hotel. He creates engaging visual content and takes charge of all the social media channels of the company. Having the skill-set to battle it out in the blogosphere, he started his own blog featuring his personal style. He has worked with local brands in the UAE and have extended his presence in the international community. A young chap with a good vision of the things he wants to do in life, his advice to others is: “If you think you are good at something, build a future out of it. Don’t be afraid to commit mistakes and definitely do not compare yourself to other people’s success. Find something that you love doing and always believe in yourself.”

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

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Social Media Professional

Bettina Micu’s exposure to the fashion and blogging scene as an influencer in recent years has served her well.  At 21 years old, she has handled the social media campaigns of some 30 clients within the beauty, fashion, hospitality, F&B, and events industry.  She considers 2019 as the most exciting year of her life, wherein she had the privilege to execute campaigns for large scale initiatives such as Club Social & Wasla Music Festival.  She also shot her first campaign for Real Techniques, produced and directed three YSL beauty assignments, landed a project with Fashion Forward October Edition, and is now set to become the Creative Lead at her agency.

Taking time off from being in front of the camera to work behind the scenes, wasn’t easy, she admits. “It’s extremely intimidating to stand next to so many talented creatives in this region. I’ve been absolutely terrified, but I’ve never let it keep me from doing a single thing. In the end, I don’t want to be remembered as someone who was fearless; I want to be remembered as someone who constantly practiced courage.”

As a Filipino born and raised in the UAE who had to grapple with her identity growing up, Bettina also says, “My biggest motivation at work is knowing I am representing Filipino women. I am a proud, courageous-Filipino woman, and I want to show my colleagues and the people I meet just how intelligent, hard-working and passionate Filipinos are.”

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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BETTINA MICU

www.bettina-micu.com
Young, beautiful, and armed with a cleverness that belies her tender age, Bettina represents the future of fashion blogs in the Middle East. Her style mindset is decidedly practical and inclusive. She says, “Never judge! Even if I see an outfit that I know isn’t my style, or something I don’t immediately identify with, I always remind myself that we all have different taste and ways of expressing ourselves, and I think that’s really cool!” She is the antithesis to the elite affectations of most fashion bloggers, speaking and writing with a calm and friendliness that keeps her relatable and relevant. Her advice to up and coming bloggers: Find your own unique voice and create quality content- make everything you write mean something!”

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

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Hair and Make-Up Artist

Working in the region as a Filipino make-up artist is a challenging yet rewarding experience for Arulfo “Bobby” Caparas.  A veteran in the industry known for his unapparelled professionalism at work, Bobby worked with many celebrity clients, publications, models and designers in the region over the years.

In 2019, he was involved in the wedding of renowned luxury real estate developers in the Gulf. He has also been the hair and make-up artist for Nat Geo TV Kids in Abu Dhabi, and has worked on projects for FRAMESI (Italy), Citizen K Arabia 100 Magazine, Gucci, Dior, Louis Vuitton and more.

While doing the things he loves, Bobby aspires to bring home his learnings, eventually establishing his own hair and make-up seminars through Kawit Tourism in Cavite. He shares, “Through volunteering and getting involved I’ve expanded the quality of my life in ways I never once thought possible.”

Bobby is also gearing to launch his own make-up line this year.

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

BOBBY CAPARAS

Make Up Mogul

Widely considered as the Gulf’s top Glam Guru, Bobby has a career that extends 36 years as one of the most admired make up artists in the Asia Pacific. Two years ago, he won the Asian Trend award for Make Up Artist Of The Year in Chengdu, China – proof positive of Bobby’s ability to transcend trends and stay relevant amidst the ever-evolving standards of beauty.  Bobby elaborates: “They say experience is gold, but I’d say perseverance is platinum! I always push myself each time I do a project motivated not only by financial reward, but mostly by my love for the art of makeup and style. Passion ignites creativity. It is the impetus that propels us to greater heights. You don’t influence or rock the status quo with familiarity. You do so with a spirit of adventure and curiosity.”

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

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