Corporate Governance & Sustainable Finance Expert

When talking about accomplishments, Nick Nadal will not run out of things to share.  But he is a man who would rather not discuss himself. A conversation with him will just be about the causes he’s involved with and how this can benefit many.

A corporate expert who works for the government of Dubai, specifically the Dubai Sustainable Finance Working Group, he is one of the key persons behind making the emirate a global player in sustainable finance. He does this while working on advancing good governance practices in regional organizations, addressing boards and decision-makers, framing decisions related to environmental responsibility, fairness to labor and community, company stewardship, and relationship to society, among others.  He also has set-up a regional think tank on corporate governance driving research, company engagements, and program development.

With all that he has learned through the years serving various causes, Nick encourages Filipinos to elevate themselves by embracing the greater community that they belong in. “We need to realize that human dignity, environmental responsibility, and the general need to be kind transcend our communities, and that despite differences in geographies, in how each one of us were raised, in our education, and in our general outlook in life, all of us have much more in common than there are differences. So, let’s all work to elevate the place we live, work, and play, by so doing, we also elevate our communities and ourselves.”

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

NICK NADAL

Advisor at the Executive Council, Government of Dubai

Photo by Alex Callueng; Photography Assistant – Bethoven Filomeno

Most often in modern society, those who deserve recognition are the ones who desire it the least. Such is the case with the elusive Nick Nadal – a corporate governance and policy-making powerhouse who, in his capacity as Advisor at the Executive Council of the Government of Dubai, is quite possibly the most influential Filipino in the UAE outside of public office.

Nick’s work is so important, most of it is unprintable – which is no skin off of his nose, as he is always very hesitant to participate in any conversation about his immense achievements in the region. That’s just how Nick rolls: he gets the job done, and then he lets the results speak for themselves. And what amazing things this man has been ticking off his to-do list. Case in point: he is part of the core team that helped develop, articulate, cascade, and implement arguably one of the UAE’s more consequential government plans, particularly in the area of government services improvement and innovation, urban governance, and affordable housing. Through a corporate governance institute that he helped set up in the UAE a decade ago, he spearheaded the enhancements of a number of initiatives related to advocating for greater gender diversity in the workplace, thereby helping put more women in positions of top management decision-making and innovation-enabling.

But perhaps what’s really impressive about Nick is how he manages to remain resolutely grounded and centered despite his sky-high list of accomplishments and frenetic whirlwind of responsibilities. In lieu of his many triumphs in the corporate and government sector, he would much rather talk about the fancy raclette that he whips out during dinner parties at home, or how he – above and beyond being one of the most influential Filipinos in the Gulf – is first and foremost a loving son, a loyal friend, and a dutiful husband.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:

Special thanks to Illustrado 100 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2016 sponsors – Giordano, Nikon, Liali Jewellery, Lulu, Mitsubishi and Western Union.

…………………

Related Article:

Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Kenneth Surath – Tastemaker

Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Bong Guerrero – Trailblazer

Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Izhcka Zeta –Tastemaker

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

Fashion Catalyst 

Bong Guerrero came to the UAE in 1990 with promising potential and an appetite to develop great projects and brands. He founded his first events company in 1999, initially producing and managing corporate events, product launches, as well as projects that helped catalyze the now booming fashion scene in Dubai. Today, Bong is the Managing Partner of BRAG – a prominent events agency in the region that also provides creative services – and CEO of Fashion Forward Dubai (FFWD) – the region’s seasonal landmark fashion event showcasing the industry’s best designers and creatives.

Having worked alongside an impressive roster of high-profile clients like Kenzo, Jimmy Choo, Mercedes Benz, Netflix, as well as the best fashion houses in the region and beyond, Bong has developed an impressive body of work that will undeniably continue to grow and diversify. Some of the recent standout events organized by BRAG include Enrique Iglesias @ The Pointe, Dua Lipa @ The Pointe, and WASLA Music Festival 2019. Bong has also steered FFWD into the direction of managing turnkey events for the fashion, beauty, and luxury industries, as well as e-commerce – allowing fashion enthusiasts to buy clothes straight off the runway.

Turning every challenging circumstance into a fruitful opportunity, Bong, like most entrepreneurs, has experienced the paralyzing fear of projects not succeeding – but has not let this fear inhibit him in any of his undertakings. He expresses that, despite the roadblocks along the way, when you have a great team, good ethics, and a focused vision that inspires you to work hard, then one can do anything.

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

Bong Guerrero – Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2018

Entrepreneur

Nobody has probably done anything as impactful for the fashion industry in the UAE, and perhaps even the entire region, as much as society icon Bong Guerrero.  Widely acknowledged as ‘the’ country’s fashion catalyst – Bong’s work as CEO & Co-founder of FFWD (Fashion Forward) has catapulted Dubai into global consciousness as the region’s fashion capital.  FFWD has provided a platform to bolster homegrown brands and has brought international industry leaders, talents, and media into the City of Gold to what has become the region’s definitive seasonal fashion event.  As Managing Partner of BRAG, he has also been at the forefront of significant events for luxury brands around the country.

Recognized as one of Esquire Magazine Middle East’s 100 in 2018, Bong shares of 2018, “The year has been very exciting on many levels. BRAG has continued its focus on large-scale community events as well as other corporate events, while FFWD has uniquely positioned itself to focus on providing streamlined turnkey event solutions for the fashion, beauty, and luxury industries in Dubai and the Middle East. Fenty Beauty by Rihanna, Jimmy Choo, YSL Beauty, Kenzo, Farfetch, NARS, Dolce & Gabbana among others are some of the clients that we have created experiences for in the last year.  Moving ahead, we plan to continue to expand this portfolio as well as come back with some exciting plans for Fashion Forward.”

Beyond the glamour of Dubai’s style and luxe world, Bong believes in optimist and goodness as critical traits that allow one to get ahead.  He remarks, “Positivity begets positivity. I have always believed in turning any challenging situation into an opportunity, by focusing on the good that may come out of it. All is well, that ends well.  This in addition to being a fundamentally good person, and most importantly doing your work with authenticity, love, and passion.”

“I would like to remind people to focus on doing the work that they enjoy – when you love what you do, you will succeed at it – and when you succeed at it, you will love it even more. Challenges are inevitable, but it’s how you react to them that will determine the end result. It’s a virtuous circle of positivity.”

……………………….

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

 100 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2017: Bong Guerrero – Entrepreneur and Industry Catalyst.

A true Dubai society icon, entrepreneur, and fashion industry catalyst Bong Guerrero underlines happiness as a state of mind that is central to his success.  “For me, it’s always important to be happy.  To live simply.  I’m quite simple in my way of living.  I don’t need much.  As long as I’m happy with what I’m doing, who I’m with, the people I interact with, and I get a lot of joy in my work, that’s what’s important.”

And ‘simple’ could easily be the uber understatement of the year when speaking about the man’s accomplishments which have made an indelible mark and steered the trajectory of the local fashion industry to international heights.  As Co-Founder of FFWD and Brag Events, Bong has been at the helm not only of the definitive seasonal style event in the UAE which has put the Middle East in the global fashion map.  He was also part of the beginnings of the careers of several elite designers including Furne One, Ezra Santos, and Rami Al Ali, among others.  The fact that his projects are well known in the fields of luxury and corporate events is mere icing on the cake.

Still, despite being the leading man in the glamorous world he moves in, Bongs shares that his true vocation lies in being a creative force behind the events that brought out the finest in people. He says that his upbringing in Ateneo de Manila has deeply ingrained in him the value of living for others.  He shares, “Be a man for others.  Because when you do good things for others, it always comes back to you.”

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. 

Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2016: Bong Guerrero, Trailblazer

 BONG GUERRERO

Founder and CEO – Fashion Forward (FFWD); Managing Partner at Brag Events

As Founder and CEO of Fashion Forward (FFWD) – Dubai’s most prestigious fashion industry event, and Managing Partner at Brag Events, the Alpha male of the Dubai style scene, Bong Guerrero has not only carved a name for himself as an entrepreneur: he has transformed himself into a true society icon. With over 25 years of experience in the Gulf, Bong’s expertise in the field of events management, concert production, and fashion is difficult to match. And in 2016, he helped orchestrate a major evolution in the Fashion Forward brand – moving the venue of the shows from Madinat, Jumeirah to d3. More than just a change of space, the move signifies an enhanced focus on marrying the concept of sustainability with the fashion industry.

In an earlier interview with Illustrado, this notable Filipino sums up his simple philosophy, “I enjoy the work that I do. I truly love what I do, and I’m very passionate about what I do. I’d like to think that [passion] brings out some kind of creativity.”

Special thanks to Illustrado 100 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2016 sponsors – Giordano, Nikon, Liali Jewellery, Lulu, Mitsubishi and Western Union.

…………………

Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2015: Bong Guerrero – Dubai’s Fashion Catalyst

Bong Guerrero – Photo by Eros Goze

Bong Guerrero has succeeded in an area where so many have tried and failed in previous years.

As Founder and CEO of Brag Events – creators of Fashion Forward, he has successfully facilitated Dubai’s aspiration to build a credible fashion industry event that is not only supported by local and regional businesses, but is also respected by its other stakeholders – from the media to buyers, to the discerning and voracious fashion crowd in the country.

Having spent 25 years in the country, his local history can and will always be connected to the growth of fashion and the fashionable crowd in the emirates. From heading one of the first prestigious couture houses in Dubai – Ghanati – the birthplace of quite a few of the leading haute couture designers, to being an event organizer par excellence managing glamorous projects for international brands and practically starting up the city’s clubbing culture, Bong has always been surrounded by the movers and shakers, socialites, business magnates and royalty.

His engagement with fashion seem to have escalated when he organized the first game-changing runway show of high street brand Splash in 2007 – something totally unheard of back in the day. From then on, there was no turning back. After 15 fashion shows for Splash, numerous commercial events for an enviable roster of international luxury brands, and the birth of Fashion Forward now on its 6^th season back in 2013, Bong’s reputation as Dubai’s veritable fashion catalyst has been cemented.

Indeed, Bong Guerrero’s shift from legendary party ‘machinator’ to the brains and brawn behind the definitive fashion platform for Dubai and the entire Middle East was not only a much needed shot in the arm to the previously flailing niche, but also a spectacular feat of professional success. In an earlier interview with Illustrado, this notable Filipino sums up his simple philosophy, “I enjoy the work that I do. I truly love what I do, and I’m very passionate about what I do. I’d like to think that [passion] brings out some kind of creativity.”

Related Post:

Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Izhcka Zeta –Tastemaker

Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Mercedes Cabral – Trailblazer

Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Dr. Becky Desiderio – Trailblazer

Bong Guerrero – The Elusive Life of the Party

Profile published Illustrado Magazine 2010,  Story by Sherry Tenorio

His name probably doesn’t ring a bell.  That is, if you’re just a regular Joe or a plain Jane – an “anonymous” in the city of gold’s glitzy party scene.  He’s made quite a reputation in privileged circles by being at the heart of the emirates’ glamorous events – creator, instigator and life of the party all at once, constantly surrounded by Dubai’s beautiful and influential A-listers.  As a matter of fact, sans exaggeration, you’ve got to be somebody special if you are part of the life of a certain Bong Guerrero.

Bong Guerrero cuts an image of quiet self-assurance in the midst of the “bling” and bacchanalian euphoria that usually characterizes his legendary events.  The man has quite a presence, one that is relaxed and confidently devoid of pretense – particularly refreshing especially in a world where the well-heeled and powerful coexist with poseurs, social climbers, aspiring models, the fickle fashion crowd, et al.  You would know it when Bong is running the show, because there would always be that perceptible slight shift of gravity when he appears. Though there is a price to be paid for being a significant player in such rarefied field. It is entirely conceivable why people have a number of things to say about who he is – without really knowing what he’s all about.

Bong Guerrero lives a covetable life – a life that is one huge party. As an events guru, he personifies a glamorous existence where five star hotels, champagne and fancy cars are just plain accessories. He is surrounded and loved by shakers and movers, beautiful models and socialites, movie stars and celebrities, business icons and royalty. Because of his exposure in Dubai’s social scene and his closeness to a number of influential and A-list personalities, Bong’s life has become very public to many eyes.

“I was very exposed, especially when I was doing the ‘Bong!’ parties,” he admits. “I was Mr. Party for almost three years,” he explains how people have come to know him through his exclusive guest-list entry parties – an elite concept he introduced to Dubai in 2004. His branded parties – named after how people would exaggeratedly call out his name – heated up the city’s social landscape, making him one of, if not THE, pioneer of Dubai’s clubbing scene.

If New York refers to Studio 54 as the golden days of partying, Dubai feels the same towards ‘Bong! Parties.’ “They always remember me with lots of fun and nostalgia. For a lot of people, those were the greatest parties Dubai ever had,” Bong says. ”I was a night owl then. I had an office that I never visited because I slept during the day and worked at night. I was out five times a week. I would bring DJs from Paris, London, Ibiza and we’d have fabulous parties,” he recounts.

Bong knew, however, that he cannot live on parties forever. After three years of late night gimmicks, Bong decided to move from that chapter in his life. “I woke up one day and realized I could not be doing this forever. Besides, the dynamics had changed. All of a sudden, having over 3,000 people in the event became a trend, which was not my kind of thing at all. Don’t get me wrong, I still know how to party, but I just thought it was quite too much. I can do that again but probably on limited editions only.”

The man took a few steps back from the social scene, although he never fully left. He shifted to corporate events, leveraging on the amazing roster of clients and contacts he always had. In fact, long before the legendary shindigs, Bong Guerrero was already respected in the events business particularly in terms of the live concerts, fashion shows and corporate affairs that he conceptualized and produced.

Bong’s epiphany on venturing into events management actually resulted from attending a poorly organized concert staged in Dubai sometime in ‘99. Bong admits that during that period, he was at the crossroads. From owning a perfumery-slash-fashion house for almost six years and stumbling into a momentary career on marketing building materials, Bong always knew that something was missing. He says with a smile, “While scratching my head thinking about what to do in with my career, I thought to myself, after watching the concert, that I can do this, I can do better than this.”

He then found himself flying to Manila and ended up bringing Side A and Gary Valenciano to Dubai. Concerts, one after the other, filled Bong’s busy calendar then.  But it was an invitation to organize the Dianoor Charity Fashion Show, the very first fashion show to be staged at the iconic Burj Al Arab in 2000, that marked his career as a definitive events manager. From then on, his strong portfolio grew to include prestigious clients like Motorola, Virgin Radio, Mini Cooper, Christie’s (auction), Dubai Properties, Pepsi, Puma, Chivas Regal, Rami Al Ali Couture, Aigner Munich, Diesel, Emaar, as well as Splash with their much-anticipated bi-annual fashion shows, to name a few. Bong attributes his success to – “Enjoying the work that I do. I truly love what I do, and I’m very passionate in what I do. I’d like to think that  [passion] brings out some kind of creativity.”

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

Non-Profit Group

The Philippine Business Council of Abu Dhabi, a non-profit organization registered with the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce, envisions a Filipino community of business leaders, constantly growing through supporting trade, commerce, and investment between the Philippines and the UAE.

Having done many projects over the years, one of their flagship events is InfoRoom, a series of talks aimed at strengthening the ecosystem of Filipino SME’s within Abu Dhabi. Another notable project is BizTalk, a series of lectures by established and successful entrepreneurs and resource speakers.

With the collective goal of linking Filipino entrepreneurs and partners, the PBC-AUH plays a key role in connecting entities to business opportunities whether in the Philippines through the Department of Trade & Industry (DTI) or via the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry, and its attached service units and other supporting entrepreneurial organizations.

The group believes that, with the innate Filipino resourcefulness and resilience, success in business is there for the taking. According to Chairman Deborah Gay Dayrit, “We global Filipinos are known for our remarkable adaptability and ingenuity. If these traits are augmented and backed up with a proper support system, we will produce more Filipino owned SMEs that will outshine the rest. To rise from the status quo, one needs to dare fearlessly, and yes, the PBC is here to support and see them compete globally.”

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

PHILIPPINE BUSINESS COUNCIL-ABU DHABI

The Philippine Business Council – Abu Dhabi continues to grow and enables high quality business interactions among Filipino businessmen and professionals at par with international business/local community. Their work involves promoting private sector trade and investment between the Philippines and the UAE; providing assistance, advice and promotional support to all members and sponsors.

Being nonprofit organization, PBC – Abu Dhabi has established a reputation for providing service to Filipino and international business communities and has thereby positioned itself as an important member of Abu Dhabi’s private sector business community. , PBC – Abu Dhabi has been particularly active this year, with internal and external events designed to foster unity amongst its members and expand the groups local and regional footprint.

The PBC Abu Dhabi’s Execom and Coordinators for 2016.  In this photo (left to right): Elham Ali Al Tunaiji – Vice Chairman, Agnes Marelid – Membership Coordinator, Janet Tuano (member), Jan Barlow – Chairman, Yen AB (member), Ms. Agnes Stott-Briggs – Head of Special Projects, Angela Muir – Communications Coordinator, Jovy Tuaño – Director of Trade, Industry and Entrepreneurship, Ms. Teresa Keating – Director of Events/Sponsorship.  Not included in the picture are Atty. Michael Barney Almazar – Corporate Secretary, Dr. Joey Villanueva – Director of Healthcare and Well-being and Vicky Mikkelsen – Events Coordinator

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

The post PBC Abu Dhabi – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Social Entrepreneurship Program

Over the years, the Ateneo LSE (Leadership and Social Entrepreneurship) program has transformed the lives of many overseas Filipinos across 27 countries, empowering them with the knowledge to become the next wave of entrepreneurs who have an advocacy in helping their community. The largest organization of its kind, their accredited programs have provided entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and leadership skills to thousands of Filipinos worldwide.

Aside from the training and lessons, Ateneo LSE in the UAE is also helping the Ateneo School for Government to expand its reach across the Middle East, with their sights set on Oman and Bahrain. The organization has also helped students in Qatar begin their entrepreneurial education journey. Through their many deeds and accomplishments, the UAE Ateneo LSE has been selected to host the upcoming 2020 Global Ateneo LSE Homecoming summit in Dubai.

Founding President JR Papel shares his thoughts, which align with the organization’s values and aspirations, “Filipinos should find their passion or interest that they think can add value to their community. They should consistently hone, push and develop themselves to be able to push this passion that it eventually becomes their identity and life’s mission. This gives us a deeper reason to wake up every single day.”

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

Ateneo LSE

Of all the educational courses that have been offered to Filipinos outside the  Philippines, the Ateneo Leadership and Social Entrepreneurship (LSDE) program stands unrivaled in being the largest international Filipino organization of its kind, spanning 27 countries, birthing thousands of entrepreneurs each year.

With 2018 marking the 10th year of their operations, the Ateneo LSE has successfully produced 2500 graduates, with 460 of them from the UAE. With their 6-month training programs, they have provided entrepreneurship, financial literacy and leadership skills to a growing number of professionals within the region. This year, they have also launched their Continuing Education Series, providing alumni with the opportunity to continue adding valuable knowledge and skills under their umbrella. Moving into 2019, the LSE will be launching more programs to be of further support to overseas Filipinos, with Women and Youth Empowerment, as well as other packaged courses in the pipeline.

According to spokesperson JR Papel, “People should always be clear about why they join and serve organizations.  At the Ateneo LSE, we believe that values should always be at the heart of why and how we do things. Respect, humility, integrity, selfless service and excellence are the values we believe in. It is also clear to us that our mission and vision for the Ateneo LSE is to uplift and empower Filipino migrants and their families. “

……………………….

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

ATENEO – LSE

Leader And Social Entrepreneurship Program

The Leadership and Social Entrepreneurship Basic Course (LSE 101) of the Ateneo School of Government (ASoG) of Ateneo de Manila University is a six-month empowerment program consisting of 12 full-day sessions each for Leadership, Financial Literacy and Social Entrepreneurship. In Dubai, the program is adopted by the Philippine Business Council – Dubai & NE chaired by Marian Celeste Carella and fully supported by the Philippine Consulate and POLO/OWWA. It has been responsible for producing some of the most accomplished and socially engaged entrepreneurs in the UAE in recent years.

The core values of the LSE Dubai Secretariat have always been anchored on selflessness, humility and becoming men and women for others.  Gina Valbuena, Head of Ateneo LSE Dubai Secretariat, expounds: Undeniably, we experience challenges and issues along the way. However, at the end of the day, it is always about understanding, perseverance, learning and most importantly the love of what we are doing. As part of the leadership team, our job is not just about churning out glorious moments. It’s also about keeping the team vibrant, focused and motivated – working and overseeing in the background as we lay the groundwork for the participants to succeed and allow them to shine.”

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

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

Nathaniel Alapide

Artist

We live in an age of digitized aesthetics, where art can be churned out quickly, and online platforms can ensure that it lives forever. Hence, it’s rare to find artists like Nathaniel Alapide who are still willing to utilize a medium as difficult and fleeting as sand. Working for the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Nathaniel uses his unique talent and resourcefulness to create breathtaking sand-drawn art and large scale murals on the beaches of Dubai. In addition to creating artworks upon request of VIP hotel guests, he even hosts specialized classes on how individuals can tap into their inner creativity.

Nathaniel credits his late grandmother Federica Alapide as his main source of inspiration. He recalls how his love affair with sand art began on the day he wanted to do something special for his grandma: “What I do now on sand started out as a tribute to my late ‘Lola.’ I created a massive tree for her on the beach as my way of letting her know how much she meant to me and my other siblings.” Since then, Nathaniel has evolved into one of the most recognized artists in the genre, until his work was recognized by Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Now, he resides in an artistic sweet spot where he gets paid to do what he loves.

His advice to his fellow Filipinos: “Do more of the things that give you life, because our time here won’t last forever.”

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

The post Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Nathaniel Alapide – Trailblazer appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Jacob Alcala

Film maker

Jacob is a 15-year old film maker with an eye for imagery that belies his young age. In 2016, his film was nominated for Best Picture and won Best Editing at the 2016 Thimun Qatar Northwestern Film Festival. Entitled “Connectedly Disconnected” the film tackles the pitfalls of seeking comfort through temporary connections. With all the success that he has achieved at his age, he says that his father keeps him grounded by constantly reminding him that “It’s not enough to rely on talent alone, you have to have passion. You must love what you do and not treat it like it is ‘work.’ Most of all you have to treat yourself as an “amateur” because no matter how good you are, there is always room for improvement.” He adds that he wants to someday represent the Philippines internationally and lend his talent in raising the standards of quality film making in the country.

His advice to his fellow, young Filipino artists: “Never let the fear of not being good enough stop you from trying something new. If I had let that fear stop me, then I would not be where I am and who I am today.”

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

The post Most Influential Filipino in the Gulf: Jacob Alcala – Trailblazer appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Collin Dayle Torres Photographer, Community Volunteer   “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.” This adage applies to young photographer Collin Torres, son of renowned photographer and entrepreneur Milo Torres. A student of The Westminster School, two of Collin’s photos were shortlisted at the 2016 Expo2020xHIPA Photography Competition – an exceptional achievement that he credits to the loving guidance of his father. He recounts, “Since I was very young, my dad has been teaching me how to handle a camera. I didn’t take it seriously at first. It took me years to fully understand what the camera was capable of. It was only recently that I’ve started to pursue the photography scene. All it took was a lot of perseverance and the passion, and of course, a lot of patience from my dad.” Engineer Milo didn’t just teach Collin how to take good photos – he also taught him the value of volunteerism. Collin attests: “I’ve been a community volunteer ever since I was a toddler. I was influenced by my parents, who are community leaders. They have helped me to become a better humanitarian and a patron for the less-privileged. Along with that, I’ve been a part of the Youth for Christ community for four years now, acting as a leader, helping young people like me become better versions of themselves.” His advice to his fellow Filipinos: “You are your own person, you have the power over yourself, your choices, your feelings and your life. The only way that you’d ever feel that you’ve lost is if you didn’t take that first step, that you didn’t take the initiative – that you didn’t try. Have faith in yourself, believe that you are capable of doing amazing things, and I’m sure that you’re going to leave your mark on the world.”   Photo by Alex Callueng; Photography Assistant – Bethoven Filomeno Special thanks to – Giordano, Nikon, Liali Jewellery, Lulu, Mitsubishi and Western Union.

The post Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Collin Torres – Trailblazer appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

THE ACENA SISTERS

Tennis Players

Watch out, Venus and Serena! A new breed of sibling tennis champs is on the rise, and it goes by the name of The Acena Sisters. Renee and Bea have been displaying prodigious skill in tennis from a very young age, and through hard work and discipline, they have individually become exemplary champions in their sport. In 2016, Renee reached the seminals of both the singles and doubles categories of the Asian U14 Tennis Tournament held in Dhaka, Bangladesh in November. She also reached the semifinals of girls’ U14 category of the PCA Open 2016, held in the Philippines. On the other hand, Bea won the Masters Finals in the Clark Francis Tennis Academy for the girls’ U14 and U18 categories last May. For her victory, she was given an all-expense paid trip to watch the French Open 2016 at Roland Garros in Paris.

In addition to their impressive skill and talent, Renee and Bea exhibit a level of dedication and professionalism that belies their young age.  Of the secret to her success, Bea professes: “The saying ‘There is no substitute for hard work’ is actually what has propelled me to where I am today as far as my fledging tennis career is concerned. I am not the most athletically gifted girl out there, but I make up for it with hard work. My practices are marked by fierce intensity, which I also bring to my matches. I believe that winning is a direct consequence of the amount of work one puts in.”

Renee offers a more intense point of view: “I hate to lose. In every match, I always come in with the mindset of winning it. And because of that, I never give up, and play each point as if it were my last. Of course, I do lose matches, but I always treat each loss as a learning experience, which helps me improve on my game going forward. For anyone aspiring to be good at any sport, and in life for that matter, work hard and believe in yourself. I am a firm believer that if one works hard, dreams do come true.”

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

The post Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Acena Sisters – Trailblazer appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

TENG ROMA

Salons are said to be haven for loose talks, rumors, and gossips but Teng Roma is serious about this business. It is his duty to make people look and feel good through world-class grooming and a luxurious salon experience. He is a co-owner manager of his flagship Emphasis Salon in Rockwell – an institution of style and beauty in the Philippines, with a 15-year track record of providing “opulent salon” experience to Manila’s crème dela crème.  Teng has also launched two eponymous branches in swanky Fairmont Hotel and Alabang.  Recently, he opened the Teng Roma salon in the luxurious Desert Palm in Dubai, with another branch opening soon at the Conrad Hotel bringing his well-respected Philippine-grown brand and signature service to the well-heeled of the emirates.

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

The post Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Teng Roma – Trailblazer appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Antonino Benitez

Exemplary Overseas Filipino Student

His name is Antonino. His colleagues also lovingly refer to him as “astronaut,” as he is so good at everything at he does, he is not even limited by outer space. You see the track record of success that he has managed to generate, the languages that he can speak (3, and still counting!), and the tasks that he can surmount with almost alarming ease at such a young age, and you just have to ask, “Really? Why not an astronaut?” In many ways, he is the exemplary overseas Filipino student – resourceful, unbending in his commitment to higher learning, but imbued with the unmistakably Pinoy values that brings great pride to his motherland.

Despite being only 15, Antonino is already a published writer, serving as a junior contributor for Illustrado GO. Through his unique style of writing, he provides a fresh take on a variety of subjects from a fascinating perspective. 2016 has been a particularly momentous year for this wunderkind, as he was chosen as one of the 5 students out of hundreds to win an essay competition hosted by Western Union in the UAE.  Under the topic of ‘Delivering education, facilitated by technology, to the refugee children in Syria,’ Antonino was also able to read and elaborate on his essay at a global financial leadership summit attended by dignitaries, entrepreneurs, academics, and community leaders of various nationalities. Of this triumph, he attests: “The most rewarding aspect of the experience was discovering that I was the only Filipino winner. I consider it a truly a pivotal moment in my life. It galvanized my belief that Filipinos, regardless of age, can excel in a myriad of fields.”

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

The post Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Antonino Benitez – Trailblazer appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.