Illustrado Magazine – Filipino Abroad

Tag: 100 most influential filipinos in the gulf

  • Joe Anthony Silva – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf

    Joe Anthony Silva – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf

     

    Tastemaker – Jo Anthony Silva a.k.a Joe Dark

    Stylist

    Photo by: Jef Anog

    Influence comes in many forms.  For Jo Anthony Silva a.k.a. Joe Dark, impact comes in the shape of fashion statement used for positive representation.  He says, “Fashion is a not only about looking good. It is also an effective way of expressing your thoughts, be it of political or of social relevance. By being undaunted to be different, we celebrate the difference we can make in the world. This, balanced with confidence and responsibility, allows us to wave our flag high all the time – even in our small ways.”

    Indeed, this fashionista rooted in substance, has given a positive representation, for the Filipino community in the regional industry not only with his evident penchant for memorable dressing, but also because of his creative work.

    A visual merchandiser for retail giant Harvey Nichols and Italian brands like Diesel and Pinko, Joe’s work has been featured across stores in the UAE and Gulf region.  Currently, transitioning to focus solely on his first love – styling, Joe has already scored some notable projects in 2019, including an avant garde editorial feature for Emirates Woman Magazine, as well as projects for Level Shoe District, W-Hotels, Formula-1, Jumeirah Group, Al Serkal Jewellery, Native Dubai, and Diesel Arabia.

    Attesting to the power of fashion to influence perception, Joe remarks, “As someone who does not only works in fashion but also lives it, I believe it is important that we recognize the power we have and the platform available to us and use it as an avenue for change.”

     

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  • Gweys Soriano – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf

    Gweys Soriano – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf

    Tastemaker – Gweys Soriano 

    Stylist

    Photo by: Jef Anog

    Being one of the hottest stylists in the region, with an excellent portfolio of collaborations with A-listers, celebrities as well as renowned brands, Gweys Soriano doesn’t only work in the glamorous world of fashion, she has also poured her talents into giving back to the community. “Within the styling and fashion sector itself, the greatest way forward is collaboration instead of competition,” she says.

    Among her many laurels in 2019, the fashion guru has led the styling and design teams for various personalities such as Mariah Carey, singer-actress Azza Zarour, and Filipino celebrities like Janine Gutierrez and Rocco Nacino. She has also worked with brands like Tiffany & Co, Marli & Highstreet Jewelry, Nivea & Lobello, Dolce & Gabbana, and many others. Gweys has also delivered a styling workshop in Manila and collaborated with international models and a US Vogue photographer in Hong Kong for a project that’s soon-to-be-released in 2020.

    With her knowledge and industry expertise, she recently opened the Miranda George School of Style, holding semi-annual workshops to enable other like-minded individuals to learn about personal styling. For Gweys, this is her way of giving back. She says, “My gifts or talents are purposely created not just for myself but to help those around me. They are given to be shared with others.”

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  • Jear Velasquez – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf

    Jear Velasquez – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf

    Tastemaker – Jear Velasquez

    Filmmaker 

    Photo by: Rozen Antonio

    Through his work, Jear Velasquez aims not to impress, but express.

    A renowned commercial filmmaker making waves in the Gulf for bagging significant local and international projects, Jear has built quite a good name for himself in the local fashion and lifestyle industries in recent years. The last year saw him working on Samsung’s regional campaign, as well as with a myriad of beauty brands including Dior, Inglot, MAC, KIKO, and many others. Jear also produced videos for Harvey Nichols, Sandro Paris, and Bambah in the past.

    As a Filipino working in a fierce and competitive industry, Jear stands out by being an inspiration of pure talent and skill, paired with determination, humility, and a distinctively chilled demeanor.  “I never aim for legacy,” he says.  “I just want to inspire people to do things that they enjoy and through that find their passion.”   For Jear, the key success is being open to learning new things while always being ready to showcase skills to the fullest extent to represent oneself and one’s country.

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  • Rolando Lotho – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf

    Rolando Lotho – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf

    Tastemaker – Rolando Lotho

    Entrepreneur, Creative Director & Yoga Ambassador

    Photo by: Rozen Antonio

     

    Creative Director Rolando Lotho says that 2019 has proven to be one of the busiest years of his career, with his event agency, All Access Events, working on projects for a portfolio of luxury brands and the biggest high-end department stores, including American Rag Cie, Bloomingdale’s and Harvey Nichols. He has also hosted international menswear designer Neil Barrett and shoe designer Gianvitto Rossi, amongst other local influencers and designers.

    Rolando has also worked on collaborations with Nespresso, the launch of Vertuo in the UAE, and participated in the region’s biggest design exhibition – Downtown Design. During his downtime, he also teaches a free community yoga class as a way of giving back to the community.

    A true fashionista, he shares the value of being dressed well, especially in his industry. “Dressing up is one step closer to taking over the world – it means you’re polished, ready, and well-represented. Handling a portfolio of luxury fashion brands did not happen not only because I am skilled, but I believe it is also because I speak the language of fashion. World-class, that is. You might not take home the crown, but at least you won best in long gown.”

    He also encourages Filipinos to expand their horizons.  “We should not restrict ourselves working only with fellow Filipinos. It is only by working with different nationalities, that they would discover how good we are, how professional, or how talented and skilled we are.”

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  • Agnes Pedrosa Marelid – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf

    Agnes Pedrosa Marelid – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf

    Thoughtleader – Agnes Pedrosa Marelid

    Brand Philippines Proponent

    Photo by: Jef Anog

    Very few people have the gift of being a veritable bridge that connects people.  For Agnes Pedrosa Marelid who has such extraordinary social currency, this is just part and parcel of who she is; and flying the flag of the Philippines in whatever she does or whomever she is engaging with is her passion.  Since 1997, across Europe and the Middle East, from her work as a previous TV correspondent to her present role as account manager of digital agency, not to mention as former Chairman of the Philippine Business Council in Abu Dhabi, she has contributed to initiatives on female empowerment, business, tourism and culture.

    This year, she has played an active role in supporting sustainability in fashion, promoting local textiles made by small traditional handloom communities in the Philippines. She also collaborated with Jeannie Javelosa of GREAT (Gender-Responsive Economic Actions for Transformation of Women), encouraging fashion designers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to utilize these textiles in upcoming projects.  Her goal is to bring Philippine woven textiles to the forefront of international fashion through collaborations with various organizations while creating a platform for local eco-fashion designers to shine. Currently, she is actively supporting the Philippines in its participation at the Dubai World Expo 2020.

    Helping one another is Agnes’ key to strengthen one another. She says, “The only way we can uplift ourselves is first to be proud of ourselves. From that mindset emanates a strong foundation of who we are and what our purpose in life is.”

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  • Travel Bloggers – Most influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2018

    Travel Bloggers – Most influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2018

    Travel Bloggers

     

    Lady Anne Abit

    I am able to reach people around the globe through my travel blog. It is a joy to think that this passion has built friendships, has helped other people make their dream trips happen, and has introduced Filipino culture to the rest of the world.

    Hannah Magsayo

    I travel a lot, and that’s not only to see new places but forging new friendships and meaningful relationships. We as Filipinos are just like that. We are friendly, hospitable, and caring and through my platform, I am able to impart my Filipino values to places all across the globe. Whether simple memories of one-night stays or long vacations full of exhilarating activities, each trip has its own unique story to convey. I live with it; I capture it, I share it and tell it.

    Debbie O   

    Traveling in itself isa means to connect. As a cabin crew for a Gulf-based airline, I have the great opportunity to represent and share the beauty of the Philippines and the kindness of Filipinos to the rest of the world while in the aircraft, and in the cities I’m visiting. And because of flying, I am able to provide content through my social media platforms, bridging myself with others who have the same interests and dreams like I do. Beyond showing them beautiful places, where and what to eat, I also show them the realities that come with the job, from living away from home and family, and the hard work that comes with it. And through all these, I can only hope I fuel that spark within people – no matter what background, to go our there. To explore, to chase their dreams, to break down walls and – to live.

    Michael Emlano

    Traveling for me is an eye-opener. It is a great opportunity to discover different cultures and explore beautiful places. Through social media, I can share my photos and travel experiences. It also allows me to meet new friends and connect with the rest of the world.  Whenever I travel, I always share what the Philippines can offer and how friendly Filipinos are. This way, I think I am able to bridge the gap between Filipinos and the rest of the world.

     

     

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    Special thanks to our sponsors: Emirates Airline, Stars n Bars La Mer, Liali, Instax – Grandstores UAE, Dusit Thani Dubai, Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing, Meeting Dancewear , MPQ, CMG, Filbrit, and our partners Rozen Antonio Photography,  Alex Callueng Photography, Jef Anog Photography, and Ethereal Photography.

     

    Browse the digital issue of Illustrado 100 Most Influential Filipinos of the Gulf 2018

     

  • Fashion and Lifestyle Bloggers – Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2018

    Fashion and Lifestyle Bloggers – Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2018

    Bloggers: Fashion and Lifestyle

    Kier Pascual

    I’m glad that I’m not only able to inspire my fellow Filipinos but somehow also other nationalities who enjoy my content. Hopefully, I can encourage people also to do the things that I do.  It’s all about being proud and confident about your skills and talent. You can be humble and modest, but if you know you are good, believe it and dare to tell people that you are competent and have the skill to shine. Eventually, the rest of the world will notice.

    Nina Carpio

    Through my platforms, I try to produce content that highlights the beauty and talents of the Filipino people. My travel vlogs provide little glimpses of the different cultures of countries that I’ve had the pleasure to visit. As part of “The Style Curators Dubai,” I also get to showcase our unique talents in that are definitely up to par with international standards.  I believe that beauty, travel, and fashion are universal languages spoken by many. It is something that everyone can relate to. I hope that through these, I have been able to help bridge the gap between the Filipino community and the rest of the world and I will endeavor to continue to do so.

    Abeer Abura

    I always get questions like, ‘Uy Pinoy ka pala, how do you get to read a lot of books?’ or ‘Pure Pinoy ka ba?’. Maybe it’s my name, but I found out that it’s because of my feed—what I share, what I do. A lot of people would assume that Filipinos aren’t “readers.” Yes, we value our education but compared to other Asian countries, we aren’t known as the ‘geeks’ or the bibliophiles. But doing what I do now, I had the privilege to get to know Filipinos around the world who are passionate readers as well. So with my platform, I hope to connect all Filipino readers alike and let them know that they are not alone; that reading is not “baduy” so they should loud and proud.

    Faith Rodriguez

    I wish to inspire Filipinos (and the rest of the world), in showing them that there is so much to explore off the island, outside one’s comfort zone, that travel experiences are worth more than the infamous LV bag everyone wants for Christmas. Whether you are part of the Filipino community or outside looking in, there are stereotypes that make people assume how Filipinos should look, or behave in certain ways. It’s important to be reminded that your passport is not only your identity; it is your ticket to discovery. And when you put yourself out there, you will enjoy the freedom of self-expression, widen your thoughts and horizons, in the way you speak, the way you dress and the way you look at life.

    Jayven Tabernilla

    Being in Dubai, a melting pot of different cultures and people, I am in the best place to show our culture as a Filipino. We love to explore things, and that’s what you can see in my platforms. Through my platforms, Filipinos can see what life looks like in a different side of the world. On the other hand, the rest of the world can see how Filipinos live in a foreign country.  Thus, I’m bridging the gap of our community towards the whole world.

    Junimar Geca

    Photography for me is not just a mere hobby but a passion intended to influence people. By using my skills, I can share Filipino culture, our delicacies, our traditions. I can also share the beauty of the Philippines. Nowadays, it is not impossible to reach millions of people in a matter of hours. I can use this opportunity to encourage people to look into how Filipinos should be treated, and how the Philippines should be known for its beauty.

    Angela Fernandez

    By sharing my passion for life, my adventures and experiences on social media, I wish to inspire the Filipino community and get them motivated especially those who are in a challenging situation. I want to share with the rest of the world one of our unique traits as Filipinos – and that is having a positive outlook in life.

    Alyssa Nicole

    I use my platform to showcase my creativity through my drawings and personal style. This is my way to connect with those with the same passion beyond borders.

    Metrosapiens – Khel Recuenco and Ivan Cabatit

    By nature, Filipinos are very modest and timid. Though these traits keep us grounded and humble, sometimes these also become our Achilles’ heel. We are very creative, cerebral and innovative. We should take pride in our work and know how to take a compliment when it is due, or we will drown to oblivion with the world’s might. This is what we want to achieve – arm the Filipinos with the right information about how they can present themselves better that would make them feel confident about themselves. We want to be able to give that extra push to our kababayans, so every time they step out of their houses every day, they are ready to take the world on, but this time, sassier, more stylish and feeling a little bit extra.

     

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    Special thanks to our sponsors: Emirates Airline, Stars n Bars La Mer, Liali, Instax – Grandstores UAE, Dusit Thani Dubai, Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing, Meeting Dancewear , MPQ, CMG, Filbrit, and our partners Rozen Antonio Photography,  Alex Callueng Photography, Jef Anog Photography, and Ethereal Photography.

     

    Browse the digital issue of Illustrado 100 Most Influential Filipinos of the Gulf 2018

  • Nowhere Birds – Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2018

    Nowhere Birds – Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2018

    Nowhere Birds

    Indie Musicians

    Comprised of Jules and Mitch Suarez, Nowhere Birds is an Indie Folk duo based in Dubai who’ve made a lasting impression on the indie talent scene with their chemistry, harmony and instrumental mastery, and in 2018, they became a permanent fixture among Dubai’s growing sea of international indie musicians and talents.

    The year saw the launch of their self-titled EP and its distribution in Virgin Megastores across the country. They also performed in various venues and events across the city and were interviewed and recognized by local publications like Hype and Khaleej Times, and have made recurring appearances on the Dubai Eye radio show. According to Jules and Mitch, stepping out of your comfort zone is the first move towards gaining success. “We have to step out of our shoes to see how people see us and be mindful of how we deal with others. That way, as individuals, we, could not only succeed but also influence others.”

    For rising stars like Nowhere Birds, music is not just a method of expression, but a necessary part of life. “It’s our passion or thirst for our craft that keeps us doing what we do. It’s like we have to do it to keep our sanity intact.”

     

     

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    Special thanks to our sponsors: Emirates Airline, Stars n Bars La Mer, Liali, Instax – Grandstores UAE, Dusit Thani Dubai, Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing, Meeting Dancewear , MPQ, CMG, Filbrit, and our partners Rozen Antonio Photography,  Alex Callueng Photography, Jef Anog Photography, and Ethereal Photography.

     

    Browse the digital issue of Illustrado 100 Most Influential Filipinos of the Gulf 2018

  • Rappers – Most influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2018

    Rappers – Most influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2018

    Rappers

    In recent years, the UAE’s burgeoning scene for artistic expression – lead by the nation’s dancers, musician, and poets – has become more widely embraced. While rapping is a relatively new addition to the landscape, some Filipinos have taken to the scene and made their presence felt. These forerunners include veterans from the homeland and a new breed of homegrown rappers at the epicenter of Dubai’s emerging hip-hop core.

    Rappers - Most influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2018

    MC Twisted Stylez

    As one of the pioneering rappers of the Filipino hip hop scene both in the Philippines and the Middle East, Vin Albert Martinez AKA MC Twisted has powered through many obstacles to bolster the representation of Dubai’s underground Filipino rappers. He has brought the community together and organized a number events including Bar4Battle, known as a stomping ground for Pinoy rappers and the first OFW battle league. Promoting the value of succeeding together as a united fraternity, Twisted promotes and upholds the spirit of collaboration founded on a code of respect. “As Filipinos, we need to stop hating. Remove the crab mentality and start appreciating. Help others as much as you can, learn to obey, follow, and support the community.”

    Makavely

    Along with other heads of the rap community, Anthony “Makavely” Noche has continually provided support and a platform for Filipino rappers, producing some songs and music videos that have featured fellow artists. Storytelling is a crucial aspect of Makavely’s music, with his family back home being the driving force for his lyrics. Realizing that all OFW’s have a voice to be heard, he turned his bedroom studio into a production center in support of the rising Pinoy rap talents of Dubai. With songs like ‘Saludo’ and ‘Elena’ he paints the story of the OFW in a new and profound light; speaking of conquering adversities and the joys of life away from the Philippines.

    Phat G

    Transitioning from his hip hop roots in Batangas to Dubai’s multicultural playground, Patrik Garcia aka Phat G has managed to carve out a unique presence and following in Dubai’s Filipino hip hop underground. He has released a number of EP’s featuring pieces which talk about his Dubai hustle.  He also established the “Lipad ng Malaya” vlog platform, where he supports a growing number of artists. As a musician, Phat G has set a new bar for aspirants by combining his eye-opening lyrics with his talents as a videographer.  Sharing his insights from the indie scene, he says, “I want my fellow kabayans to become more aware that success and prosperity are self-made and there’s a genius in every human being that we just need to unlock.”

    Rappers - Most influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2018

    Menon

    Much like a lot of artists, Sri Lankan/Filipino Gerrard Anthony Menon has emerged as a self-made talent by drawing inspiration from his life, in this case overcoming a traumatic event for him to realize his full potential. After a near – death experience, he has gone on to become one of the UAE’s most recognized hip hop stars and active artists of the year – performing at the ABT music festival and STEP music fest among many of Dubai’s local and upcoming talent. He also released his first full Album, “Epiphany of a Misfit” and had become a permanent fixture in SoleDXB’s lifestyle movement.

     

     

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    Special thanks to our sponsors: Emirates Airline, Stars n Bars La Mer, Liali, Instax – Grandstores UAE, Dusit Thani Dubai, Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing, Meeting Dancewear , MPQ, CMG, Filbrit, and our partners Rozen Antonio Photography,  Alex Callueng Photography, Jef Anog Photography, and Ethereal Photography.

     

    Browse the digital issue of Illustrado 100 Most Influential Filipinos of the Gulf 2018

  • Hair and Makeup Artists – Most influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2018

    Hair and Makeup Artists – Most influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2018

     

    Jessie Tabla

    When it comes to the fashion industry in the emirates, Filipinos are hands down the front liners.  The same is true for the segment of hair and make-up, and Jessie Tabla is one of those leading the pack.

    He’s the kind of artist/star who gets flown to other countries to do make-up for some of the world’s most recognized celebrities and socialites.  He’s worked with top models for the UAE’s most prestigious runways, and his works have adorned too many fabulous glossies to mention (most noteworthy among them is revered Vogue).  Jesse has also worked for many luxury brands including Valentino, Ungaro, Kenzo, and so much more.  In 2018, Jesse added Raya Abirached (Lebanese TV personality), Dorra Zarrouk (Tunisian superstar) and even Victoria’s Secret Supermodel Adriana Lima to his list of make-up conquests.

    Always aspiring to be his best self, Jessie encourages fellow kabayans to keep pushing for better.  He shares, “Living in this imperfect world surrounded by imperfect beings doesn’t stop us from pushing ourselves higher, aiming for much higher dreams and becoming the kind person whom we want to be.”

     

    Jefferson “Jhajha” Rivera  

    Armed with over a decade’s worth of experience in the region’s beauty industry, seasoned hair and makeup artist Jefferson “Jhajha” Rivera has, under his belt, an impressive portfolio of work for prestigious brands including Chanel, Dolce, and Gabbana, Bulgari, Elle Arabia, as well as Marie Claire Arabia, Emirates, ENBD, Samsung, and Pepsi.

    Besides skill, Jhajha voices how vital resilience, creativity, and flexibility are to one’s survival in such a competitive field. He attests, “As a creative, you’re working against the clock to meet high standards. Every challenge you face provides a new opportunity to grow and rediscover how you as a person can learn to adapt to whatever is thrown at you.”

    Familiar with challenging artistic boundaries, Jhajha encourages the elevation of one’s craft through experimenting with the unfamiliar, and working with people from different walks of life: “If you have a dream to do something unexpected, or outside of your current field, don’t be afraid to go after it. Make connections with people outside of your circle and watch how this openness will also open doors to making your aspirations come true.”

     

    Ivy Kep Peralta 

    His works have graced the pages of both local and international glossies – Vogue US, Vogue Italia, OHLALA Magazine, and Velvet Magazine – as well as the model muses of Michael Cinco, Furne One, Rocky Gathercole, and Zuhair Murad. Dubai based makeup artist Ivy Kep Peralta has always had a knack for aesthetics and creative expression.

    Amidst all of the projects he has worked on, fostered a new approach to his craft that views makeup as more than just an art form. Alongside other career endeavors, he now mentors aspiring makeup artists: “It started with a passion for art and makeup, but as time went on, it has evolved into a love for helping others achieve their dreams. As a people, we should be supporting each other by bringing out the best in all of us”.

     

    Valentino Montuerto Jasmin

    From collaborating with brands like Tryano, Robinsons, Maxmara, Van Cleef and Arpels, playing significant roles in events like Dolce and Gabanna’s first international fashion show and editorials for Harper’s Bazaar, Emirates Women’s, and Vogue Arabia, makeup aficionado Valentino Montuerto Jasmin has successfully turned makeup into an artistic medium of expression and empowerment. He has also conducted various masterclasses and talks about beauty trends within the region.

    Seeking to elevate his art form, Valentino works towards representing the margin that the fashion and beauty industries overlook. “I’m giving my artistry a different approach. In a world full of narcissistic and Ideal beauty, I want to empower ‘imperfection.’ The beauty industry poorly talks about the other side of, I want to change that.”

     

     

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    Special thanks to our sponsors: Emirates Airline, Stars n Bars La Mer, Liali, Instax – Grandstores UAE, Dusit Thani Dubai, Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing, Meeting Dancewear , MPQ, CMG, Filbrit, and our partners Rozen Antonio Photography,  Alex Callueng Photography, Jef Anog Photography, and Ethereal Photography.

     

    Browse the digital issue of Illustrado 100 Most Influential Filipinos of the Gulf 2018