GABRIEL JOHN RIMANDO Publisher
RYAN NAMIA Editor-in-Chief
ANGELO DUMAG Associate Editor
ORLI GAYETA Sales and Marketing Manager
JOHN PAUL COSICO Sales and Marketing
ALLAN CARAGAO
Senior Graphic Designer
JONATHAN DUMAS Multimedia Manager
RAYMART PATULOT Distribution Manager
QASSIM QUERESHI Distribution Officer
GILBERT GOMEZ Distribution Officer
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From humble beginnings to building a bright future
- Mark Gil Olay Bustrillo
How one barista’s passion for coffee led her to compete at an international level - Everlee Peran
Building bridges and fostering opportunities in a global landscape - Melvin Raneses
From dreams to Dubai: Ivy Cassandra Abengoza Abonales’s triumphs and inspirations - Ivy Cassandra Abengoza Abonales
A tale of resilience, motherhood, and unwavering determination - Chezka Gonzales
UAE barista champion and rising star in the coffee industry - Cherryl Guadalquiver
From pastry chef to CEO: Filipino in UAE redefining success in the culinary world - Nouel C. Omamalin
CONTACT US
info@theglobalfilipinomagazine.com www.theglobalfilipinomagazine.com
Embracing Challenges Abroad: How A Filipina
Professional Excelled In A Foreign Land - Julie Junio De Castro
Filipina in UAE shares tale of triumph and resilience overseas - Honey Jane Asoy Cadungog
Filipino singer-songwriter finds inspiration and growth in his journey as an OFW and artist - Clifford Allen Estrala
From humble beginnings to building a bright future
Dubai has long been a land of opportunity for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), and among them, Mark Gil Olay Bustrillo stands out as a shining example of determination and resilience. With a fervent passion for civil engineering, Mark Gil embarked on a journey that took him from the Philippines to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) eight years ago, ultimately rising to the position of Operations Manager at LCI Fitout Interiors LLC.
In an exclusive interview with The Global Filipino Magazine, Mark Gil shared his remarkable story and offered insights into his experiences abroad. From his initial struggles to his current successes, his journey is an inspiration to many OFWs.
“When I came to Dubai 8 years ago, I had no job for 3 months of searching, landed just a few interviews but no luck,” Mark Gil recalled. Undeterred, he ventured to Oman and Iran to renew his visa, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to pursuing his dream of working abroad.
Mark Gil’s breakthrough came in March 2015 when he secured his first site job as a Site Manager, tasked with completing the interiors of a building complex with 150 apartments. Despite lacking prior work experience, his dedication to learning and his willingness to embrace new challenges helped him overcome any obstacles in his path.
“Embracing new experiences and opportunities has been my mantra in life,” Mark Gil shared.
“I was so eager to complete the project that I woke up early at 4:00 am and walked 30 minutes to reach our pickup point for the site every day.”
His determination paid off as he successfully completed the project on time and was entrusted with handling additional projects.
Following his accomplishments, Mark Gil co-founded a fit-out construction company from scratch, which has now grown to employ around 40 individuals. Reflecting on this success, he emphasized, “The can-do attitude and having a genuine passion for what you do play important roles in a company’s growth.”
When asked about his decision to work abroad, Mark Gil explained, “The demand for civil engineers in the UAE was high, and the salary was bigger even for freshers compared to the Philippines. Additionally, I believed that having international work experience would be advantageous for my career growth.”
Despite his professional achievements, Mark Gil remains grounded and focused on personal development.
He shared, “We are all influencers, and using my platform in the Mister International Philippines 2023 pageant, I aim to inspire and create a positive impact, especially among the younger generation.”
In light of his experiences, Mark Gil offered valuable advice to struggling OFWs:
“In terms of love, follow your heart, but consider your financial status first before entering any relationship.”
“Financial struggles can be emotionally draining. Start saving and investing, and keep your expenditures at a minimum.”
“Keep a positive attitude and remain persistent in your job search. Reach out to contacts, join online communities, and stay motivated.”
“Finding the right people takes time. Be patient and keep an open mind. Maintain good intentions towards others, and the right connections will come along the way.”
How one barista’s passion for coffee led her to compete at an international level
Everlee Peran, a Filipino based in Dubai, recently made waves in the coffee industry after representing the UAE in the Lavazza My Mocaccino Barista Challenge held in Italy in early 2023. Everlee, who came in second place, has become a local hero and role model in her community, inspiring aspiring baristas to follow their passion and pursue their dreams.
In an exclusive interview, Everlee shared her experience competing in the international barista competition and how she prepared for it. She revealed that she finalized her signature drinks and composed her spiels in December 2022, and practiced every day to deliver her message of coffee experience and craft to the finals. She also talked about the challenges she faced while competing abroad, such as managing the packing of her tools and equipment and looking for ingredients in Italy.
Despite the challenges, Everlee considered being on stage showing her skills and performance as one of the best highlights of the competition. She also expressed her joy in being able to connect with other coffee enthusiasts and share ideas, experiences, and learnings.
When asked about how it felt to be crowned as the Lavazza Barista Challenge Champion, Everlee humbly stated that she felt privileged and that her purpose was to inspire other baristas and coffee enthusiasts. She encouraged aspiring baristas to follow their hearts and never give up, no matter how many setbacks they may encounter.
Everlee started her barista career in 2015 in a local homegrown coffee shop in the Philippines, where she discovered her passion for making latte art. She continued to seek more knowledge in coffee, which eventually led her to work in the UAE, where she met a great barista community in Dubai that motivated her to pursue her passion even more.
Overall, Everlee’s experience competing in the Lavazza My Mocaccino Barista Challenge taught her to be strong and courageous, to enjoy and be prepared ahead of time, and to elevate her skills and knowledge in coffee. She keeps herself up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations in the coffee industry by watching coffee vloggers on YouTube and staying updated with the Specialty Coffee Association’s updates.
Everlee Peran’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring baristas and
coffee enthusiasts. Her passion, dedication, and hard work have taken her to international stages, where she has become a respected figure in the coffee industry.
Building bridges and fostering opportunities in a global landscape
Melvin Raneses, a Corporate Affairs Executive at Bath Spa University RAK, has carved a remarkable career path that intertwines his love for traveling and passion for empowering students.
With years of experience both in the Philippines and abroad, Melvin has established himself as a catalyst in bridging the gap between academia and the corporate world.
Since joining Bath Spa University RAK, Melvin has played a vital role in building strong relationships with key corporations across diverse industries.
His responsibilities encompass enhancing the university’s brand image, facilitating student career opportunities through internships and full-time roles, implementing corporate social responsibility initiatives, spearheading outreach campaigns, and forging partnerships.
These endeavors have strengthened the camaraderie between the university and the business community, enabling students to thrive in the competitive job market.
When asked about his decision to work abroad, Melvin humorously confesses, “It was out of my curiosity and my love for traveling.”
His yearning for exploration led him to fulfill his dream of venturing through Europe and Asia.
Inspired by the diverse people he encountered during his previous positions in the UAE, Melvin
developed an appreciation for collaborating with individuals from various backgrounds and holding high positions in esteemed companies.
Reflecting on his previous jobs, Melvin’s commitment to education and community extension is evident. As a licensed professional teacher in the Philippines, he taught English and Argumentation & Debate to college students. Moreover, he dedicated his time to teaching out-ofschool youth, assisting them in their academic endeavors. In the UAE, Melvin served as an English teacher at an international school, nurturing young minds in grades 9 and 10.
Melvin finds immense joy in his current role as a Corporate Affairs Executive, particularly in facilitating internship opportunities for students.
Witnessing their growth and assisting them in securing fulltime positions brings him great satisfaction.
Additionally, networking with high-profile individuals and entrepreneurs in the business industry allows Melvin to broaden his horizons and stay connected with influential professionals.
Having encountered personal struggles before settling abroad, Melvin’s tenacity and determination shine through.
While contemplating returning home, circumstances forced him to reevaluate his plans. Instead of succumbing to adversity, Melvin embarked on a new journey,
enrolling in postgraduate studies at Bath Spa University.
Graduating as the valedictorian in 2022 with a Master’s in Business & Management, he also completed an MBA in Human Resources Management from Pôle Paris Alternance, France, and received an Academic Excellence Award.
His pursuit of knowledge and selfimprovement has always been a driving force.
Looking ahead, Melvin envisions pursuing a Ph.D. or starting his own business after his stint abroad.
With his broad range of academic achievements and professional experiences, he aspires to make a significant impact in his chosen field and continue empowering individuals to reach their full potential.
When asked about his advice for fellow compatriots facing challenges overseas, Melvin passionately states, “The universe may have its own rough edges, but don’t stop searching for the light - your purpose.”
He believes that failures and adversities are temporary and should be viewed as opportunities for growth. Through determination and unwavering faith, he believes anyone can overcome obstacles and find success.
From dreams to Dubai: Ivy Cassandra Abengoza Abonales’s triumphs and inspirations
Dubai, the city of dreams and opportunities, has become a beacon of hope for many Filipinos seeking a better future. One such individual who turned her dreams into reality is Ivy Cassandra Abengoza Abonales, a remarkable woman who has triumphed over adversity and emerged as a successful Warehouse and Purchasing Manager in Dubai. Her inspiring journey is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the unwavering love of a mother.
“I take immense pride in being a mother to my four incredibly talented children, while also working as a Warehouse and Purchasing Manager for Ikcon Restaurant LLC in Dubai, affiliated with Reef USA,” says Ivy, now 42 years old.
Her journey to Dubai began in 2009, a twist of fate that has proven to be the best decision she ever made.
As a mother and a wife, Ivy was eager to provide financial support for her family and explore opportunities to work abroad.
“Leaving my home country was not an easy decision, but my love and dedication for my children gave me the strength and courage to pursue this path,” Ivy recalls.
She knew that going abroad was her best chance to provide her children with the education and necessities they deserved.
Ivy’s journey to Dubai started with a leap of faith.
“Armed with only 3000 pesos in my pocket, I fearlessly pursued my dreams,” she shares.
Despite the financial challenges they faced, Ivy and her devoted husband refused to let limitations define them. Together, they defied the odds and embarked on a journey fueled by resilience and unwavering belief.
“The struggles that come with working overseas can be overwhelming, and homesickness is one of the most challenging battles to face,” Ivy acknowledges.
Yet, she persevered, driven by her purpose and the love she had for her children.
“My children are my inspiration, and I am driven to provide them with a better future. They are my motivation to work hard and persevere through tough times.”
Throughout her career, Ivy worked tirelessly to excel in various roles.
She started as a receptionist at Empire Chefs Catering and was later promoted to sales under the ice cream department. She eventually transitioned to become a Sales to HACCP Supervisor, where she honed her skills and stayed for 4.5 years.
Her journey was filled with twists and turns, but she remained determined to achieve her dreams.
Today, Ivy serves as a Warehouse and Purchasing Manager for Ikcon Restaurant LLC, affiliated with Reef.
“My journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and hard work, inspiring others to never give up on their aspirations,” she affirms.
She finds joy and fulfillment in her current work, where she can contribute to the success of the company and ensure the highest quality products for customers.
When asked about the greatest influence in her life, Ivy’s eyes light up with gratitude.
“The greatest influence in my life has been my grandparents,” she shares with a warm smile.
“From teaching me the importance of hard work and perseverance to providing a strong foundation of love and family, my grandparents have been my pillars of strength.”
Their guidance and unwavering belief in Ivy have given her the confidence to overcome challenges and pursue her dreams.
As Ivy reflects on her journey and looks towards the future, she envisions retiring at the age of 50 with financial stability and independence. She has a passion for investing in businesses centered on rentals and farming, believing they will benefit both her and the community.
Additionally, Ivy wants to use her experiences and knowledge to inspire others. She aims to advocate for quality education, especially for teenage mothers, and create programs that support OFWs and their families.
A tale of resilience, motherhood, and unwavering determination
From nurse to flight attendant , to airline pilot , to Airforce reservist , to Blockchain President, to being a commercial model , entrepreneur and content creator on top of being a teenage Mom
Photographer: Jaypee Ocampo
Make-up: Mila Gulfan
Hair: Cathy Sta. Ana
Hair Salon: Britanico Salon
Chezka Gonzales, widely recognized as Filipina Pilot Chezka, shares an inspiring story that embodies resilience, motherhood, and unyielding determination. In a society that frequently associates achievement with titles and material possessions, she demonstrates that genuine happiness and fulfillment can be attained without pursuing accolades or accumulating wealth.
From her humble beginning as a nurse, then as flight attendant to becoming an airline pilot, to her current role as the President of Philippine Blockchain Technologies Inc., Chezka has traversed various industries, overcoming obstacles and embracing opportunities along the way.
Born and raised in the Philippines, Chezka initially pursued a nursing course, following her parents’ desire for her to become a doctor. However, the nursing boom during that time sparked her interest, leading her to combine her nursing knowledge with her passion for travel by becoming a flight attendant. Little did she know that her path would take a different turn.
“I decided to apply as a flight attendant because I love to travel. It was a perfect opportunity to combine my nursing knowledge
with my passion for exploring new places,” Chezka shared with The Global Filipino Magazine.
Working as a flight attendant for seven years, Chezka never let go of her childhood dream of flying a plane. With the unwavering support of her parents, she embarked on a journey to become a pilot. Studying while working, Chezka eventually earned her Airbus A320 rating, becoming a First Officer for three years. However, fate had its own plans, and the pandemic disrupted her aviation career.
Amid the challenges of losing her job during a global crisis, Chezka found strength in her role as a young mother.
“If it were not for my kids, I’m sure my life would be different. They are really my inspiration,” she shared.
Balancing motherhood, studies, and work at a young age taught her resilience and maturity beyond her
years.
Reflecting on her journey, Chezka opened up about the hardships she faced and the valuable lessons she learned along the way.
As she embraced motherhood, Chezka discovered the joys and rewards that came with it. Through the challenges and triumphs of motherhood, Chezka learned the importance of selflessness, patience, and responsibility.
“Before, I thought being a mom at 16 would ruin my life. People were judging me left and right. They said she wasted her life. But it was the push that I actually needed. It was the reason why I am doing all of these things in the first place—for the future of my kids and to give back to my parents,” Chezka revealed.
“The best part is when I enjoy my kids and I know that I will be leaving my legacy to them. Just by seeing them be good persons and dream big also makes me so happy,” she shared.
Chezka’s love for aircraft and adventure played a significant role in shaping her career path.
“The perks of flying for free, the places I got to visit, and the feeling of the airport being like home to me— it all shaped my fascination with aviation,” she explained.
Even outside the airline industry, Chezka continues to travel for work,
finding solace in the skies.
During her challenging times, Chezka underwent a spiritual retreat, relying on prayer and surrounding herself with a supportive network. It was during this time that she realized the importance of her mother’s unwavering support and faith in her aspirations.
“My parents are the main reason why I have strong faith and why I am so courageous. They have been so supportive ever since, whatever business, project , or career I try and venture in, they are always there to support,” Chezka expressed gratefully.
While her parents inspired her to pursue a career in aviation, Chezka credits her mother as her number one fan and a pillar of strength.
“My mom especially has been so supportive, letting me try all kinds of educational hobbies, clubs, classes, and extracurricular activities. She has been so vocal and transparent about how proud she is of me to her friends,” Chezka fondly shared.
Her parents’ unwavering support fuels her determination to give back and provide for them in return.
Chezka’s dedication to empowering women led her to establish ‘Women of Substance,’ a brand aimed at spreading positivity, promoting
women empowerment, and providing scholarships through Reskills, an onLive learning platform that’s making education and learning affordable and accessible to everyone. Through this initiative, Chezka aspires to uplift women who face challenging circumstances and instill hope in their lives.
As the founder of Philippine Blockchain Week and Vice President (Internal) of the Blockchain Council of the Philippines, Chezka actively works towards making the Philippines the Blockchain Capital of Asia. Her collaborations with the government and industry experts are steering the nation towards mass adoption of blockchain technology, bringing forth opportunities.
Chezka stands out from others due to her wide range of achievements. In addition to her main activities, she also gives talks and delivers inspiring speeches that motivate people. She is also involved in commercial modeling, appearing in advertisements and showcasing her talent. Her remarkable dedication and talent have been recognized
with multiple awards, establishing her as a highly respected figure in her industry and growth for the country.
Looking forward, Chezka is excited about the future of Web3 businesses. As the host of the web3 edutainment podcast ‘Two to three’ by Tier One Entertainment, she aims to simplify complex concepts and make web3 technology more accessible to the masses. Chezka believes in the power of education and its ability to transform lives, and she continues to inspire others to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
From many professions with a passion for exploration to a trailblazing leader in the blockchain industry, Chezka continues to inspire others to pursue their ambitions, reminding us that true success lies in finding happiness and making a positive impact on the world.
As she wisely advises, “Challenges are what make you better and stronger. Be a blessing to others and work hard...and always pray. It will all pay off. “
UAE barista champion and rising star in the coffee industry
Cherryl Guadalquiver may have only placed third in the Lavazza My Mocaccino Barista Challenge, but for her, the experience was still a huge win. In an exclusive interview, she shares her journey of preparing for the competition and representing the UAE in Italy, as well as her thoughts on being crowned as a champion and her future plans as a barista.
Competing in the Lavazza Barista Challenge was a dream come true for Cherryl, who had been aiming to compete at a national and international level. She started practicing her routine as early as September 2022 and continued until January 2023, despite the tough and tiring preparations. It was something that she truly wanted to do, and the experience of competing in Lavazza Barista Challenge was simply remarkable.
When she was selected to represent the UAE in Italy for the competition, Cherryl was thrilled and honored but also felt a lot of pressure. She was bringing the name of her country to an international stage, which was both overwhelming and nerve-racking. However, being able to travel to Italy was a win already for her. She had always wanted to see Milan, and the experience was something that she would forever keep.
One of the key moments that stood out for Cherryl during the competition was getting to know other competitors from different countries. It was interesting and fun to interact with other baristas and learn about their cultures and coffeemaking techniques. Although she was crowned as the Lavazza Barista Challenge Champion, Cherryl humbly attributes her success to her team’s effort. She believes that it was a victory for the team, not just for herself.
When asked about her advice to aspiring baristas who want to compete at an international level, Cherryl emphasized the importance of loving what you do and being passionate about it. She believes that when you enjoy what you do, it doesn’t feel like a job anymore. Competing or being a barista is not easy, and determination is crucial.
Cherryl’s journey into the coffee industry was not typical. She was initially hired as a hostess in a coffee shop, and her boss convinced her to try being a barista, even though she didn’t like coffee and didn’t drink it. But eventually, she fell in love with coffee and found herself unable to go through a day without it.
Winning the Lavazza My Mocaccino
Barista Challenge was a shock for Cherryl. She didn’t expect it since she did not finish her whole routine and got overtime. When they announced her name, she was so surprised and couldn’t believe it because she was not expecting it anymore. For her, it was already a huge win to place third.
From the competition, Cherryl learned the value of perseverance and the skill of decision-making during a difficult situation. She realized that during a competition, there is no room for mistakes, so one must master the skill of making a decision in an inevitable situation. To keep herself up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations in the coffee industry, Cherryl uses the internet and social media as tools for learning and experimenting.
For her future plans, Cherryl is determined to compete again in other international competitions. But for now, she is enjoying making coffee and sharing her knowledge about it to everyone who visits their place. Cherryl’s story is an inspiration to aspiring baristas who dream of competing at an international level. Her journey proves that with determination, perseverance, and passion, anything is possible.
From pastry chef to CEO: Filipino in UAE redefining success in the culinary world
In the fast-paced and competitive culinary industry, few stories are as inspiring as that of Nouel C. Omamalin, the CEO and Founder of Nifty Chef Consultancy and Bakehouse. From his humble beginnings in the Philippines to becoming a prominent figure in the international culinary scene, Omamalin’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and unwavering determination.
Omamalin’s adventure began in 2005 when he embarked on a quest to elevate his career as a pastry chef. His first destination was the iconic Burj Al Arab, the renowned sevenstar hotel in Dubai, which served as a golden opportunity to showcase his culinary skills on a global platform. Little did he know that this would be the stepping stone to a series of accomplishments that would shape his remarkable career.
“My decisions in life are anchored on self-cultivation,” Omamalin reveals, emphasizing his hunger to explore the unknown and expand his horizons.
This drive led him to spend a total of 18 years abroad, with 13 of those years dedicated to honing his skills in the United Arab Emirates.
During his time overseas, Omamalin achieved several significant milestones that catapulted him to new heights.
In addition to becoming a full-fledged pastry chef in less than five years, he published his internationally acclaimed book, “Nouel’s Nifty Chic Baking,” which garnered recognition on the prestigious Amazon platform.
Embracing new challenges, Omamalin took a leap of faith by joining Etihad Airways as an inflight chef. This exhilarating experience allowed him to share his culinary passion while traveling the world.
Furthermore, he accomplished a dream he never thought would become a reality: delivering a thought-provoking speech as a TEDx speaker, shedding light on the importance of food.
Passionate about his craft, Omamalin also finds joy in helping others thrive. As the CEO and founder of Nifty Chef Consultancy and Bakehouse, he turns concepts into reality and inspires food businesses to flourish. Through his expertise and influence as a brand ambassador, he continues to leave an indelible mark on the international culinary landscape.
Reflecting on his career, Omamalin exclaims, “The best part of the job is that it doesn’t feel like work. I am living my dream as an artist and a chef.”
He acknowledges the fulfillment derived from inspiring others to follow in his footsteps and the excitement he still feels after 18 years in the industry.
Working overseas comes with its fair share of challenges, as Omamalin experienced firsthand.
However, he believes that such hurdles foster personal growth and self-reliance. By immersing oneself in foreign cultures and interacting with people from all backgrounds, individuals can evolve as global citizens.
Despite his many achievements, Omamalin faced numerous struggles along the way. Overcoming his initial shyness and the fear of being far from home, he realized the importance of self-belief and perseverance.
Surrounded by a supportive network of family, friends, and staff who believed in him, he fought his own inner demons and emerged victorious.
Looking ahead, Omamalin’s future plans revolve around expanding his businesses and creating more opportunities. With a renewed outlook on retirement, he envisions a legacy that includes establishing a culinary school for less privileged dreamers and opening his own chocolate factory in the Philippines.
His ultimate goal is to spread his brand across the globe, inspiring aspiring chefs and entrepreneurs in
key cities.
For his fellow kabayans who are struggling abroad, Omamalin shares valuable advice. He emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and encourages a shift in mindset when it comes to money.
“Our mindset about money needs to change. Financial literacy is so vital so we become more free from being enslaved by the limiting philosophy of WORK HARD. We need to work smart, not hard,” Omamalin asserts.
He believes that while working hard is commendable, it is essential to transition to a more strategic and entrepreneurial approach early on. By working smart, individuals can unlock their potential and discover ways to multiply their efforts, creating opportunities not only for themselves but also for others.
Omamalin’s success serves as a testament to the power of working smart and embracing entrepreneurship.
In addition to financial advice, Omamalin encourages Filipinos abroad to expand their horizons beyond their immediate circle.
He emphasizes the importance of learning about different cultures and embracing the valuable lessons they offer.
“Our passport tends to make us feel we only belong to one place. That is a wrong mindset. You are as capable as anyone else. Take courage and always invest in yourself so you continue growing in your chosen field,” Omamalin advises.
Omamalin seizes the opportunity to highlight the achievements of his fellow kabayans in the culinary world.
“There are many kabayan achievers in the world. Yes, we Filipinos CAN!” he proudly exclaims, breaking misconceptions and proving that Filipinos are capable of reaching great heights.
Embracing challenges abroad: How a Filipina professional excelled in a foreign land
In the realm of project management, Julie Junio de Castro stands out as a visionary leader who has carved her path to success through determination, resilience, and a thirst for knowledge.
As the CEO of DeeCee Project Management Services and the Director of Marketing at the Project Management Institute (PMI) in the United Arab Emirates, Julie has proven her mettle in the field by achieving remarkable outcomes time and time again.
Julie, or Julz as she is fondly called by her friends and colleagues, embarked on her professional career two decades ago after completing her chemical engineering degree at Adamson University in Manila.
Her first job as a technical sales engineer in the chemical industry laid the foundation for her future endeavors. In 2005, she took a leap of faith and relocated to Dubai, a city teeming with opportunities and cultural diversity.
Throughout her journey, Julie has never shied away from challenges. When the Covid-19 pandemic hit, she found herself facing the daunting task of reentering the workforce during a time of limited opportunities and fierce competition.
Determined to stay ahead of the curve, she decided to enhance her project management skills by acquiring the prestigious Project Management Professional certification.
Her pursuit of continuous improvement opened doors to new possibilities and propelled her into the realm of volunteering. Julie dedicated her time to PMI, an international professional organization for project managers, where she expanded her network and deepened her knowledge of project management.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions, she became the first Filipino to join the PMI board of directors, appointed as the Director of Marketing for the PMI UAE Chapter.
Armed with a wealth of experiences and expertise gained through freelancing and volunteering, Julie founded DeeCee Project Management Services earlier this year, a venture that combines her passion for project and marketing management.
Located in Sustainable City, Dubai, her company is set to make waves in the industry, thanks to her extensive knowledge and versatile skill set.
When asked about her motivation to work abroad, Julie emphasizes her love for travel and her desire to engage with people from diverse backgrounds.
She firmly believes that facing obstacles is a crucial part of personal and professional growth. Choosing Dubai as her destination provided her with a rich multicultural environment that nurtured her ambitions and allowed her to broaden her horizons.
Working overseas also offered her the opportunity to improve her language skills and gain a global perspective, both of which are essential for her continuous development.
Julie’s career spans various roles in administration, quality assurance, business development, procurement, and project management. Her ability to adapt and gather a well-rounded set of skills has been instrumental in her success.
Furthermore, she finds fulfillment in not only advancing her own career but also empowering others. By sharing her knowledge and promoting the applications
of project management in the workplace, she contributes to the growth and success of individuals and organizations alike.
Julie’s journey has not been without struggles. Moving to a foreign land with limited resources and no acquaintances posed significant challenges. Yet, she remained focused on her goals, driven by the desire to provide for her parents and pursue her dreams.
The initial hardships she faced, such as purchasing a visa and relying on the generosity of strangers for accommodation, served as fuel for her determination.
She worked part-time jobs and actively searched for her dream role, never losing sight of her aspirations. Throughout her journey, Julie found support from unexpected sources.
A kind-hearted Ilonggo couple based in Abu Dhabi extended a helping hand, offering her a place to stay without any advance payment.
Their warmth and shared meals provided a sense of comfort amidst the challenges. Additionally, she leaned on her own strength and perseverance, constantly reminding herself of her objectives and refusing to give up.
Looking ahead, Julie plans to bring her international experience back to her home country. Armed with a unique perspective and a valuable skill set, she aims to make meaningful contributions to her industry, community, and fellow Filipinos.
Filipina in UAE shares tale of triumph and resilience overseas
In a world where dreams often take a backseat to practicality, Honey Jane Cadungog stands out as a shining example of determination and resilience.
A Talent Acquisition Specialist working at ABAN Investment, a prestigious company under the Ghobash Group in the UAE, Honey Jane has spent the past 11 years building a successful career and supporting her family back home in the Philippines.
Her story is one of sacrifice, overcoming challenges, and the pursuit of personal and professional growth.
Honey Jane’s journey began with her fascination for working abroad.
Inspired by her late father, who was an Overseas Filipino Worker in Saudi Arabia, she witnessed firsthand the sacrifices he made to provide for their family of six, including a specially abled sibling.
Driven by a desire to be the family’s hero, she made the life-changing decision to work abroad and carry the torch of financial responsibility.
Arriving in Dubai in 2011, Honey Jane wasted no time in pursuing her career aspirations. Within a week, she secured her first job as a Recruitment Consultant at Nadia’s, a milestone she fondly remembers coinciding with her younger brother’s birthday.
As the years passed, she excelled in her role and gradually progressed to become a Senior HR Administrator with a Digital Transformation Company, Computer Network Systems, still under the Ghobash Group. Recognizing her talent and dedication, she was recently promoted to the position of Talent Acquisition Specialist at the Ghobash Group’s corporate office.
What sets Honey Jane apart in her field is her ability to understand people deeply, a skill she attributes to her major in Psychology.
Her passion for connecting with others, coupled with the excitement and challenges of sourcing top talent in diverse industries, fuels her drive in the HR field. Honey Jane’s mantra in life, “I can, and I will,” encapsulates her unwavering determination to succeed her personal life.
She cherishes the time spent with her loved ones, often embarking on road trips, watching movies, and indulging in their favorite junk foods. These moments of joy and relaxation rejuvenate her and keep her focused and energized at work.
However, Honey Jane’s journey has not been without its share of struggles. Like many overseas Filipino workers, she faced financial challenges and homesickness when she first arrived in Dubai.
With limited financial resources, she had to be resourceful and creative
in making ends meet. The search for part-time jobs proved to be a difficult endeavor, but she refused to let adversity dampen her spirit.
Moreover, one of the most significant challenges she faced was the untimely loss of her father. As she planned to visit her family back home, tragedy struck, and she had to bear the pain of not being able to attend his funeral.
This heartbreaking experience tested her strength and resolve, but it also reinforced her commitment to providing for her family and carrying on her father’s legacy.
Through these trials, Honey Jane learned invaluable lessons in resilience, budgeting, prioritization, and perseverance. Her family and loved ones remain her unwavering source of inspiration.
Their unwavering support and belief in her abilities have propelled her forward, shaping her into the strong and compassionate person she is today.
Looking to the future, Honey Jane’s plans go beyond her successful career. She envisions settling down and getting married, embracing a new chapter in her life alongside her partner.
The love and stability she has built for herself will lay the foundation for a fulfilling personal life.
When asked about her advice for fellow kabayans who may be struggling abroad, Honey Jane emphasizes the importance of strength, dedication, and staying focused.
She encourages others to view every struggle as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Seeking support from friends and family, both abroad and back home, is crucial during challenging times.
Honey Jane reminds others to avoid complaining and instead approach challenges with a positive mindset, coupled with the power of prayer.
Filipino singersongwriter finds inspiration and growth in his journey as an OFW and artist
In the cacophony of the global music scene, one Filipino singer-songwriter has managed to strike a chord that resonates with listeners across the world: Clifford Allen Estrala. His path from humble beginnings to a rising star in the industry is marked by perseverance, personal growth, and a deep love for the art of music.
Clifford’s passion for music began in his childhood, his voice gracing family gatherings and church events. However, it was during his time as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) in Macau that his dedication to music blossomed. Immersed in the vibrant musical landscape of the city, Clifford began performing in bars and restaurants, sharpening his skills and discovering his unique style.
Facing challenges and setbacks with unwavering determination, Clifford found his voice through singing
competitions, eventually garnering the attention of music producers. The release of his debut single “Maghihintay” in 2017 signaled the beginning of his professional music career, one marked by introspective lyrics and a powerful connection to his experiences as an OFW.
For Clifford, music is a universal language, a means of connecting people and sharing powerful messages. He draws inspiration from his own journey, translating his struggles with love, heartbreak, and personal growth into relatable and moving songs.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been a formidable challenge for musicians worldwide, and Clifford was not spared. He faced canceled shows and postponed music tours, but he chose to adapt by focusing on his songwriting and recording new music. The pandemic, while disruptive, pushed him to be more creative and adaptable as an artist.
Despite the obstacles, Clifford has brought his music to diverse audiences, with a standout performance in Dubai. This experience, described as a dream come true, fueled his desire to continue connecting with fans across cultures and countries.
With new songs on the horizon, Clifford promises a more mature and introspective sound, reflecting his evolution as an artist. As an independent musician, he grapples with the challenge of choosing the right platforms for his music while staying true to his art and forging a genuine connection with his audience.
For those just beginning their musical journey, Clifford offers sage advice: “Believe in yourself and your music. Don’t let anyone discourage you or tell you that you can’t do it. Keep practicing, keep writing, and keep performing. Your passion for music will shine through, and success will come with hard work
Clifford Allen Estrala’s story is a testament to the transformative power of music and the indomitable spirit of an artist determined to share his voice with the world. With new, powerful music on the way, fans can eagerly anticipate the next chapter in this inspiring journey.
