Within the rich cultural mosaic of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kareem Afghani’s odyssey embodies the spirit of perseverance and achievement. Born Karimullah Abdul Ghani in Afghanistan on June 20, 1996, Kareem’s journey from a small-town dreamer to a celebrated influencer in Dubai is a narrative of unwavering determination and relentless pursuit of success.

As a child, Kareem harbored big dreams of making a name for himself on the grand stage of life. “I wanted to be something in the future that people would always remember me for,” he recalls,

reflecting on the aspirations that fueled his journey. It was this innate drive that propelled Kareem to pursue his dreams with unwavering zeal.

Arriving in the UAE, Kareem found himself drawn to the world of modelling, captivated by the glitz and glamour of the fashion industry. He quickly made a name for himself, gracing the runways of Dubai’s most prestigious fashion events and catching the eye of renowned brands. However, it was

his foray into social media that truly transformed his trajectory.

Embracing platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, Kareem discovered a new avenue to showcase his talent and connect with audiences on a deeper level. “I enjoy being on social media platforms,” Kareem shares, highlighting the joy of forging meaningful connections and exploring diverse cultures through his online presence.

Through his captivating content and magnetic personality, Kareem garnered a legion of followers, cementing his status as one of Dubai’s top influencers. From brand collaborations to acting gigs, Kareem’s influence transcended the digital realm, earning him accolades and opportunities beyond his wildest dreams.

Reflecting on his journey, Kareem attributes his success to a steadfast commitment to his craft and an unwavering belief in himself. “People come and go, but positivity and perseverance are key,” he

remarks, underscoring the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.

Despite his skyrocketing fame, Kareem remains grounded, finding solace in his family and the values instilled in him from a young age. “Family comes first,” he affirms, cherishing the support and love that have been constants throughout his journey.

Dubai, with its kaleidoscope of cultures and endless possibilities, holds a special place in Kareem’s heart. “One of the Best Cities in the world,” he exclaims, expressing gratitude for the opportunities and experiences that have shaped his growth and success.

Looking ahead, Kareem’s dreams know no bounds. With a fervent desire to continue pushing

boundaries and inspiring others, he remains steadfast in his pursuit of greatness. “Inshallah, I will achieve more,” he declares, his eyes set on the horizon of possibility.

In parting words of wisdom, Kareem offers a beacon of hope to aspiring individuals chasing their dreams. “Nothing is impossible,” he reassures, his journey serving as a testament to the

transformative power of perseverance and passion.

Florence Dalupang-Bueno, a seasoned HR Director at SEE Engineering in the Sustainable City, Dubai, UAE, stands as a beacon of excellence in her field. Recently recognized as an awardee of the Emirates Finest Professional Awards, Florence graciously shares her insights and experiences, offering a glimpse into her remarkable journey.

When asked about her initial reaction to the accolade, Florence expresses a mix of emotions: “Being selected for such an award has given me a feeling of excitement, pride, validation, and gratitude.” Her journey, marked by dedication and perseverance, has led her to this significant milestone in her career. Reflecting on her achievements, she emphasizes the importance of recognizing the support received along the way.

Florence’s professional journey is punctuated by key milestones, each contributing to her growth as an HR professional. From her early career roles in HR administration to her strategic leadership as an HR Director, Florence’s trajectory underscores her commitment to continuous learning and development.

What sets Florence apart is her unwavering commitment to leadership and social impact. She attributes her selection as an awardee to her strong leadership qualities and her dedication to creating a positive workplace culture. Moreover, Florence’s initiatives extend beyond the workplace, making a meaningful impact on the community through her advocacy for diversity and inclusion.

Looking ahead, Florence envisions leveraging her award to further her professional goals and make a positive impact in her community and industry. She plans to strengthen her network, enhance her skills, and amplify her voice as a thought leader in HR. Additionally, Florence remains deeply committed to mentoring aspiring professionals and advocating for the empowerment of women.

For aspiring professionals, Florence offers invaluable advice: prioritize continuous learning, develop a diverse skill set, and cultivate strong relationships. Upholding ethical standards and embracing technology are also essential in navigating the evolving landscape of HR.

Florence’s upcoming projects and initiatives underscore her unwavering commitment to empowering others. From speaking engagements to receiving prestigious awards, Florence remains dedicated to her mission of making a positive difference in the world.

Embracing Ghana’s rich cultural heritage, Grace Asibi Asibrele leads the charge for sustainable fashion in the region. At 42 years old, she’s not just a fashion designer; she’s a relentless advocate for sustainable and ethical practices within the industry. Grace, the founder of Einstein Royalty Company Limited, has carved her path by empowering local artisans, promoting eco-friendly fashion, and advocating for social change.

Grace’s journey into advocacy began with a simple yet profound realization: the fashion industry in Ghana needed a transformation. “My advocacy work began by promoting sustainable and ethical practices within the fashion industry in Ghana,” Grace shares. Through her efforts, she has not only championed eco-conscious fashion but has also become a catalyst for societal change. “One of my main concerns is to empower young women and create job opportunities for the people in the Northern Region of Ghana,” she emphasizes.

Witnessing the rich cultural heritage of Ghana served as a springboard for Grace’s advocacy. “The passion to preserve our traditions and environment serves as a constant motivation in my advocacy efforts,” she explains. Her commitment to preserving Ghana’s cultural legacy intertwines seamlessly with her dedication to sustainable fashion.

However, Grace’s journey has been marked by challenges. Overcoming resistance to change within the fashion industry was no small feat. “Convincing stakeholders to adopt sustainable practices has been challenging,” Grace admits. Yet, her perseverance has yielded triumphs. “The triumph lies in witnessing the growing acceptance and integration of eco-conscious fashion principles,” she asserts.

Central to Grace’s success is her collaborative spirit. By forging partnerships with local NGOs, educational institutions, international organizations, and the government of Ghana, she has amplified her impact. “Collaboration has been pivotal,” Grace states. Through these partnerships, she has expanded her reach and effectiveness in spreading awareness about sustainable fashion practices.

Engagement with the community is at the heart of Grace’s advocacy. Through workshops, fashion shows, community events, and social media platforms, she fosters dialogue and garners support for sustainable fashion. “I have been able to engage with people directly,” Grace remarks, highlighting the importance of grassroots involvement in effecting change.

Grace’s advocacy journey has been transformative on a personal level as well. “My advocacy work has deepened my understanding of the fashion industry’s impact on communities and the environment,” she reflects. It has instilled in her a profound sense of responsibility and mindfulness, contributing significantly to her personal growth.

Looking ahead, Grace envisions a legacy of a thriving, sustainable fashion industry in Ghana. “My long-term goals include establishing educational programs and sustainable fashion hubs,” she shares. Additionally, she plans to expand her product line to include interior décor, further showcasing the rich culture of Africa.

Grace draws inspiration from iconic figures like Stella McCartney and organizations like Fashion Revolution. “Their commitment to sustainable and ethical fashion serves as a guiding light for my work,” she acknowledges. To aspiring advocates, Grace offers sage advice: “Embrace collaboration, stay persistent, and educate yourselves continuously.”

Balancing advocacy work with personal and professional responsibilities requires effective time management and delegation, according to Grace. “Prioritizing tasks ensures a harmonious integration of all aspects of life,” she advises.

Grace’s achievements speak volumes about her dedication and impact. From launching sustainable fashion collections to receiving media recognition and accolades like being crowned “GROUND BREAKER OF THE YEAR 2023,” her journey is one of resilience and success.

Looking to the future, Grace is excited about upcoming projects that involve creating platforms for emerging sustainable designers and expanding educational initiatives on ethical fashion practices. Her relentless advocacy efforts continue, fueled by a desire to create lasting change.

In measuring her impact, Grace focuses on tangible outcomes such as increased adoption of sustainable practices by fashion businesses and positive changes in consumer behavior. “Our products are 100 percent recyclable,” she proudly declares, emphasizing her commitment to environmental sustainability.

Surrounded by Dubai’s dynamic culinary landscape, where a fusion of flavors reigns, Afford’aCup Restaurant stands as a beacon of genuine Filipino culinary traditions. Founded in September 2022 by the dynamic quartet of Cris Sotto, Ramona Mariano-Sotto, Aiza Mariano, and Jovito Mariano, Afford’aCup began as a modest kiosk with a big dream: to bring the rich and flavorful Kapampangan cuisine to the vibrant city of Dubai.

Fast forward three years, and Afford’aCup has not only flourished but also earned its place among the Emirates Top 100 Entrepreneurs. With two thriving branches in Manila Building Al Satwa and Muraqqabat Kabayan Night Market, and the anticipation of a new branch opening in Al Nahda Dubai, the restaurant has become a household name within the Filipino community.

“Our aim is to provide a taste of home for our fellow kababayans here in the UAE,” shares Cris Sotto, one of the passionate owners of Afford’aCup. “Seeing the smiles on their faces as they savor our dishes is what drives us every day.”

Afford’aCup’s success stems from its commitment to quality, innovation, and a deep-rooted passion for Filipino cuisine. Despite facing stiff competition in Dubai’s diverse food scene, the restaurant has carved a niche for itself by offering traditional Filipino dishes with a modern twist.

“We wanted to challenge the perception of Filipino cuisine as merely ‘cheap’ or ‘fast’ food,” explains Ramona Mariano-Sotto. “Our goal was to elevate these dishes and showcase the depth and richness of Filipino cooking.”

Indeed, Afford’aCup has become synonymous with excellence in both food and service. The restaurant’s dedication to innovation and technology has allowed it to stay ahead of the curve, constantly adapting to meet the evolving demands of its customers.

“Our commitment to staying at the forefront of our industry has solidified our reputation as a leader in the Filipino food scene in Dubai,” says Aiza Mariano proudly.

However, the journey to success has not been without its challenges. Like many entrepreneurs, the owners of Afford’aCup have faced financial obstacles along the way. Yet, their resilience and determination have seen them through the toughest of times.

“Facing financial challenges is inevitable for any entrepreneur,” acknowledges Jovito Mariano. “But with proper planning, determination, and perseverance, they can be overcome.”

Through hard work and sheer passion, Afford’aCup has achieved numerous milestones, with perhaps the most significant being the sense of community it has fostered among Filipinos in the UAE.

“It brings us so much joy to see the smiling faces of our fellow Filipinos as they enjoy the dishes that remind them of the flavors and comfort of our beloved Philippines,” shares the team.

As they reflect on their entrepreneurial journey, the owners of Afford’aCup offer invaluable advice to aspiring entrepreneurs.

“Don’t let fear of failure hold you back,” advises Cris Sotto. “Embrace failure and learn from it. Building a business takes time and perseverance, but it’s important to stay determined and keep pushing forward.”

In the dynamic world of fashion and art, few figures command as much respect and admiration as Jessica Garnetti Khalaf. With nearly half a century of experience under her belt, Jessica has not only witnessed but actively shaped the evolution of luxury couture fashion and artistic expression. As the founder of Garnetti International, her influence extends far beyond the realm of design, touching upon themes of heritage, creativity, and entrepreneurship. In this exclusive glimpse into her extraordinary journey, Jessica shares insights into her creative process, her unwavering dedication to excellence, and the profound impact of her family’s artistic legacy.

The foundation of Garnetti International rests upon a singular vision: to unite fashion super brands and luxury art in a seamless fusion of style and substance. With a diverse portfolio spanning retail, wholesale, boutiques, private clients, luxury weddings, events, and fashion show productions, Jessica has cultivated a reputation for excellence that transcends borders. “We create capital growth and business platforms that unite fashion super brands and luxury art with history,” she explains, underscoring the timeless allure of her creations.

A stalwart in the industry, Jessica attributes her success to a combination of experience, professionalism, and passion. “Forty-five years of experience with a reputation that delivers professionalism, honesty, passion,” she asserts, highlighting the enduring values that have guided her throughout her career. It is this unwavering commitment to quality and integrity that has earned Garnetti International the trust and admiration of private clients and international super brands alike.

Central to Jessica’s success is her dedicated team of professionals, whom she refers to as “key players.” Together, they form the backbone of Garnetti International, driving innovation and excellence in an ever-evolving landscape. With technology revolutionizing industries across the globe, Jessica emphasizes the importance of an ongoing dialogue to ensure that Garnetti International remains at the forefront of innovation.

At the heart of Jessica’s creative process lies a profound appreciation for the freedom of art and the rich tapestry of cultures that shape our world. Drawing inspiration from her familial lineage, which boasts a legacy of art and design, Jessica acknowledges the enduring influence of her upbringing. “With parents and grandparents in art and design, the DNA remains generation to generation. The core is Family,” she reflects, underscoring the intrinsic connection between creativity and heritage.

For Jessica, the act of creation is a sensory experience, encompassing sight, smell, hearing, touch, and words. These stimuli evoke deep-seated emotions and feelings, serving as the driving force behind her artistic expression. From the vibrant hues of a couture gown to the delicate fragrance of a handcrafted perfume, each creation tells a story—a testament to Jessica’s unparalleled craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Throughout her illustrious career, Jessica has faced numerous challenges, each serving as a stepping stone on her path to success. From the early days of her education to the expansion of Garnetti boutiques and the creation of bespoke bridal gowns for royal weddings, she has navigated diverse terrains with grace and resilience. “The hurdles that arise from any particular reason can be the greatest stepping stone of growth,” she affirms, embodying the spirit of perseverance and determination.

As she reflects on her journey, Jessica imparts timeless wisdom to the next generation of creatives, urging them to follow their passions, remain true to themselves, and embrace change with courage and conviction. “Do only what you Love if you Love yourself and Love life!” she advises, encapsulating the essence of her philosophy.

Surrounded by the spirited atmosphere of Kalibo, Philippines, the harmonious blend of entrepreneurship and public service takes form in Hon. Juris B. Sucro, the 36-year-old Mayor whose journey is marked by an unwavering commitment to societal betterment and economic advancement. From the corridors of business to the helm of municipal governance, Sucro’s narrative is a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership and community-driven initiatives.

Sucro’s odyssey began with a profound recognition of the tangible needs within his community, igniting a passion to effect real change. “My biggest influence has been my community and the tangible needs I have witnessed,” he reflects, underlining the grassroots inspiration behind his endeavors. This ethos propelled him into both the realms of entrepreneurship and public service, driven by a desire to merge innovation with social responsibility.

However, the path was not without its challenges. Sucro faced the intricate task of harmonizing stakeholder interests with the public good, navigating skepticism from traditional industry sectors. “Overcoming skepticism required perseverance and clear communication of our vision,” he recounts, underscoring the importance of steadfastness in the face of adversity.

Yet, triumph emerged from perseverance. Sucro’s business initiatives directly catalyzed local economic growth and sustainable development, seamlessly aligning with national developmental goals. “Our contributions reflect our commitment to a sustainable and innovative future,” he asserts proudly, emphasizing the symbiosis between economic progress and environmental stewardship.

Central to Sucro’s ethos is a culture of innovation, underpinned by a problem-solving mindset. “We foster innovation by aligning our business goals with community needs,” he explains, highlighting the imperative of adaptive entrepreneurship in addressing evolving societal challenges.

Moreover, Sucro’s leadership is characterized by transparency, accountability, and collective problem- solving. During a crisis, his team swiftly adapted to remote work, ensuring project continuity and employee safety. “This experience strengthened our internal communication,” he reflects, emphasizing the resilience cultivated through effective teamwork.

Beyond business endeavors, Sucro’s engagement in community development is profound. From sponsoring local initiatives to empowering small enterprises, he epitomizes the belief that businesses wield the power to shape society positively. “Community service is integral to our operations,” he affirms, echoing his commitment to holistic progress.

Looking ahead, Sucro envisions expanding his social entrepreneurship model to other regions, amplifying his impact and inspiring others to embrace sustainable development. “Success is not linear,” he advises aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of resilience and adaptability in navigating the entrepreneurial journey.

At the core of Sucro’s motivation lies a profound sense of duty, encapsulated in the philosophy of ‘Service above Self.’ “What motivates me is the potential to enact positive change,” he elucidates, underscoring the intrinsic value of his mission beyond mere profit.

Gratitude permeates Sucro’s narrative, as he acknowledges the invaluable support of his team, family, and community. Nominated for the Emirates Finest Business Awards, he views this accolade as a validation of his team’s dedication and a catalyst for future endeavors. “It reinforces the value of our work,” he concludes, poised to continue his quest for excellence and innovation.

Within the vibrant mosaic of Sharjah’s culinary scene, NaDerang Restaurant stands out as an oasis of authentic Filipino flavors, curated with passion by Liberty Cano Samonte-Galang. Owned and steered by Liberty Cano Samonte-Galang, NaDerang has metamorphosed from a humble culinary endeavor into a thriving gastronomic institution, offering a symphony of flavors that evoke memories of home.

Liberty’s journey as an entrepreneur is a testament to the indomitable spirit of resilience and the power of familial support. Born from a deep-seated passion for food and a desire to share the richness of Filipino cuisine, NaDerang’s inception was a labor of love undertaken alongside her mother, Brendalie Cano Samonte. Together, they embarked on a culinary odyssey, fueled by a shared vision to introduce the diverse flavors of Kapampangan cuisine to the bustling streets of Sharjah.

The ethos of NaDerang is encapsulated in its mission statement: “We don’t just cook, we care.” This mantra underscores Liberty’s unwavering commitment to providing not only delicious meals but also a dining experience imbued with warmth, authenticity, and hospitality. Each dish is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using only the freshest ingredients to ensure that every bite is a celebration of flavor and tradition.

The restaurant’s ascent to prominence within the Filipino community in Sharjah is a testament to its dedication to quality and affordability. Despite the presence of competitors, NaDerang has carved out a niche for itself as the go-to destination for those craving a taste of home. Liberty reflects, “Our customers depend on the quality and taste of our food. It feels like home and tastes like home.”

However, the path to success has not been without its challenges. Liberty’s own health struggles, stemming from a past brain surgery, have posed significant obstacles along the way. Yet, buoyed by the unwavering support of her family and the dedication of her team, she has persevered, turning adversity into opportunity and emerging stronger than ever.

For Liberty, NaDerang is not merely a business venture; it is a platform for sharing blessings and spreading joy. She finds fulfillment in being a conduit of God’s love and grace, touching the lives of her customers and community with each meal served.

Reflecting on her entrepreneurial journey, Liberty imparts invaluable advice to aspiring business owners: “Start small… End big. Have a solid business plan. Carefully think about what you really want. What are you passionate about?” Her words carry the weight of experience and the wisdom garnered from years of navigating the intricacies of entrepreneurship.

As NaDerang looks towards the future, Liberty’s vision is clear: to be recognized as the premier destination for authentic Filipino cuisine in the UAE and to become an integral part of her customers’ daily lives. With her unwavering dedication and the support of her team, there is little doubt that NaDerang will continue to delight palates and warm hearts for generations to come.

In Liberty’s own words, “Hard work with proper knowledge, support of loved ones, and God’s grace… you can achieve things you wanted.” And indeed, NaDerang stands as a living testament to that ethos

– a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the enduring bonds of community.

Within the vibrant mosaic of Sharjah’s culinary scene, NaDerang Restaurant stands out as an oasis of authentic Filipino flavors, curated with passion by Liberty Cano Samonte-Galang. Owned and steered by Liberty Cano Samonte-Galang, NaDerang has metamorphosed from a humble culinary endeavor into a thriving gastronomic institution, offering a symphony of flavors that evoke memories of home.

Liberty’s journey as an entrepreneur is a testament to the indomitable spirit of resilience and the power of familial support. Born from a deep-seated passion for food and a desire to share the richness of Filipino cuisine, NaDerang’s inception was a labor of love undertaken alongside her mother, Brendalie Cano Samonte. Together, they embarked on a culinary odyssey, fueled by a shared vision to introduce the diverse flavors of Kapampangan cuisine to the bustling streets of Sharjah.

The ethos of NaDerang is encapsulated in its mission statement: “We don’t just cook, we care.” This mantra underscores Liberty’s unwavering commitment to providing not only delicious meals but also a dining experience imbued with warmth, authenticity, and hospitality. Each dish is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using only the freshest ingredients to ensure that every bite is a celebration of flavor and tradition.

The restaurant’s ascent to prominence within the Filipino community in Sharjah is a testament to its dedication to quality and affordability. Despite the presence of competitors, NaDerang has carved out a niche for itself as the go-to destination for those craving a taste of home. Liberty reflects, “Our customers depend on the quality and taste of our food. It feels like home and tastes like home.”

However, the path to success has not been without its challenges. Liberty’s own health struggles, stemming from a past brain surgery, have posed significant obstacles along the way. Yet, buoyed by the unwavering support of her family and the dedication of her team, she has persevered, turning adversity into opportunity and emerging stronger than ever.

For Liberty, NaDerang is not merely a business venture; it is a platform for sharing blessings and spreading joy. She finds fulfillment in being a conduit of God’s love and grace, touching the lives of her customers and community with each meal served.

Reflecting on her entrepreneurial journey, Liberty imparts invaluable advice to aspiring business owners: “Start small… End big. Have a solid business plan. Carefully think about what you really want. What are you passionate about?” Her words carry the weight of experience and the wisdom garnered from years of navigating the intricacies of entrepreneurship.

As NaDerang looks towards the future, Liberty’s vision is clear: to be recognized as the premier destination for authentic Filipino cuisine in the UAE and to become an integral part of her customers’ daily lives. With her unwavering dedication and the support of her team, there is little doubt that NaDerang will continue to delight palates and warm hearts for generations to come.

In Liberty’s own words, “Hard work with proper knowledge, support of loved ones, and God’s grace… you can achieve things you wanted.” And indeed, NaDerang stands as a living testament to that ethos

– a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the enduring bonds of community.

In the vibrant tapestry of the United Arab Emirates’ entrepreneurial landscape, tales of resilience and determination often come to light, showcasing the relentless pursuit of dreams against all odds. Among these narratives, one stands out—a testament to the unwavering spirit of an individual determined to carve her path in the travel industry.

Meet Marifel Comia Manimtim, the driving force behind Stop International Travel LLC, a travel agency nestled in the heart of Abu Dhabi. Her journey, though fraught with challenges, illuminates the transformative power of perseverance and the unwavering commitment to a vision.

In 2015, amidst uncertainty, she embarked on her entrepreneurial odyssey, armed with nothing but a hundred dirhams and a burning desire to provide for her family. Initially, she treaded the path of a nanny, but soon realized it wasn’t her destined course. Fate intervened through the kindness of a fellow compatriot, leading her to a role as an HR assistant—a stepping stone to discovering her calling in the world of travel agencies.

However, just as she was finding her stride, the relentless onslaught of the Covid-19 pandemic halted her momentum. Undeterred, she returned home, fueled by a vision shared with her husband—to establish their own travel agency. With a meager capital of 3,000 AED, sourced from their savings, and boundless faith in her abilities, she embarked on this ambitious endeavor.

The road ahead was fraught with challenges—moments where scams threatened to derail their dreams, jeopardizing not only personal finances but the very existence of the company. Yet, in the face of adversity, she refused to succumb. It wasn’t just about her and her husband anymore; it was about the team that had rallied behind her.

“My primary source of strength during those challenging times was my team,” she reflects. “Despite experiencing multiple scams, I persevered. I held onto my belief in my team, and their support became instrumental in overcoming the struggles we faced.”

This unwavering belief in her team, coupled with her resilience, paved the way for success. As the business flourished, so did her family—what began with just two staff burgeoned into a team of over twenty, a testament to her unwavering dedication.

Reflecting on her journey, she emphasizes the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. “Before, I didn’t invest in marketing,” she admits. “Now I realize that to grow, you need to sway and flow with the trends, giving priority to marketing and focusing on brand recognition for more customers.”

Indeed, innovation lies at the heart of Stop International Travel’s approach. Embracing creativity, they launched their own game show, “Stop, Drop, and Win,” a pioneering marketing strategy that not only educates but engages their audience, reinforcing their commitment to customer satisfaction.

Yet, amidst the business strategies and triumphs, her ethos remains rooted in people—both her team 

and her clients. “I am passionate about providing a safe space and a welcoming, loving work

environment,” she asserts. “It makes me happy to know that my staff is working with their hearts because they are happy and not feeling pressured.”

For aspiring entrepreneurs, she offers sage advice: “Two heads are better than one. Always be receptive to the opinions and advice of others; there’s a wealth of knowledge to be gained from diverse perspectives.”

Mohammed Hanif Shaikh, Chairman of Emirates Holding Group, emerges as a towering figure in the dynamic world of global business. With a career spanning over three decades, Shaikh’s story embodies perseverance, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Born and raised in India, Shaikh’s journey began with humble origins, but his dreams were always larger than life. “My dream has always been to create a lasting impact through innovative business ventures that contribute positively to society,” he shares. Inspired by his parents’ entrepreneurial spirit and their dedication to serving others, Shaikh learned the values of hard work, integrity, and resilience from an early age.

After completing his MBA in Marketing, Shaikh embarked on a remarkable career trajectory that led him to the helm of Emirates Holding Group—a conglomerate renowned for its diverse portfolio spanning investments, oil and gas, commodities trading, hospitality, and more. His journey took him across continents, from Saudi Arabia to Oman, before finding his home in Dubai.

The highlight of Shaikh’s career came with the inception of Emirates Holding Group in 2005, marking a pivotal moment in his professional journey. “Starting Emirates Holding Group was a defining moment for me,” he recalls. “It allowed me to realize my vision of creating a global enterprise that excels in every business endeavor.”

As Chairman of Emirates Holding Group since 2008, Shaikh has been instrumental in expanding the company’s footprint across the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. Under his leadership, the group has thrived, leveraging its expertise and strategic partnerships to navigate complex markets and drive sustainable growth.

Shaikh’s passion for his work is palpable, rooted in a deep-seated commitment to innovation and impact. “What I enjoy most is the opportunity to tackle complex challenges, innovate, and make a meaningful impact on a global scale,” he emphasizes. His philosophy emphasizes integrity, humility, and a relentless pursuit of excellence—a mindset honed through years of experience and introspection.

Reflecting on the lessons learned from setbacks, Shaikh underscores the importance of resilience and accountability. “Setbacks are inevitable in any journey towards success,” he acknowledges. “What truly matters is how we respond to adversity.” Shaikh’s approach to challenges is characterized by a positive mindset, openness to learning, and a steadfast commitment to growth.

Outside the boardroom, Shaikh finds meaning and purpose in mindfulness practices, philanthropy, and giving back to the community. He prioritizes self-care, family time, and personal growth, recognizing the interconnectedness of his professional and personal endeavors.

As an expatriate in Dubai—a melting pot of cultures and opportunities—Shaikh feels deeply connected to the city’s dynamic spirit. “Dubai’s multicultural environment is truly remarkable,” he remarks. “The city has welcomed me with open arms, providing endless opportunities for personal and professional growth.”

Looking ahead, Shaikh’s ultimate dream is to lead a fulfilling life while making a positive impact on others. He advocates for education, entrepreneurship, and environmental sustainability, aiming to leave a legacy of empowerment and progress.

In parting, Shaikh offers sage advice to aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals: “Stay focused on your goals, remain resilient in the face of challenges, and never stop learning and growing.” His words echo the essence of his journey—a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and unwavering determination.

In the fast-paced world of visual storytelling, where each frame holds a cherished memory, CUSI Films and Stills emerges as a beacon of creativity and excellence. Founded by the dynamic duo Janelli Rose Valdezco-Cusi and Rebo Mon Cusi, the company breathes life into moments, immortalizing them with the click of a shutter or the roll of a reel.

CUSI Films and Stills is not merely a photography and videography venture; it’s a testament to the power of passion and entrepreneurship. Janelli and Rebo, driven by a shared love for storytelling through visuals, embarked on a journey to create something extraordinary. Janelli’s experience as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW), coupled with Rebo’s entrepreneurial spirit, laid the groundwork for their venture.

Janelli’s career spanned prestigious establishments, from ABS-CBN Film Productions to international platforms like YellowPages US and Okada Manila. Her expertise in media production, honed through diverse experiences, provided the foundation for CUSI Films and Stills. Meanwhile, Rebo’s entrepreneurial mindset, coupled with a keen understanding of the industry’s pulse, fueled their shared vision.

At CUSI Films and Stills, every frame tells a story—a story of love, joy, and cherished moments. Their expertise extends beyond traditional photography and videography, encompassing commercial short films that captivate audiences and live-streaming services that bridge distances.

Janelli and Rebo’s journey is a testament to resilience and adaptability, traits essential for navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship. Technical challenges, a common hurdle in their field, are met with preparedness and perseverance. Their commitment to continuous learning and innovation ensures that CUSI Films and Stills remains at the forefront of the industry.

Beyond their own success, Janelli and Rebo aspire to empower others through education and employment opportunities. Their dedication to nurturing talent and fostering growth within their community exemplifies their ethos of giving back.

Reflecting on their journey, Janelli and Rebo emphasize the importance of resilience. Every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow. Technical glitches are met with practiced solutions, ensuring seamless operations and client satisfaction.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Janelli and Rebo offer a piece of timeless advice: find your “ikigai.” In the intersection of passion, skill, purpose, and profit lies the essence of entrepreneurial fulfillment. Take the time to explore your true calling, and build your venture around that foundation.