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.

Embraced by the cosmopolitan allure of Dubai, where cultures intertwine from over 250 countries, Roba Mohamed Hodefie’s journey embodies resilience, passion, and unwavering dedication. Born and raised in the ancient city of Damascus, Roba’s story is one of ambition, rooted in a childhood enriched by literature, familial influence, and a deep-seated desire to make a difference.

Roba’s professional odyssey commenced in 2001 when she embarked on her career as an executive secretary in Kuwait, laying the groundwork for what would later blossom into a flourishing trajectory in the media industry. Armed with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Damascus University, she embarked on a path that would see her evolve from managerial roles to becoming a prominent journalist in Al Hadaf magazine.

However, it was her innate passion for media that led Roba to her true calling. Reflecting on her journey, she reminisces, “The thrill of engaging with viewers on television, energizing crowds as an event host, and sharing laughter and excitement with live audiences is unparalleled.” This fervor for the media industry saw her transition seamlessly into the role of a TV presenter, where she captivated audiences across Kuwait and the Arab world.

Roba’s journey is not merely a tale of professional conquests but a testament to the values instilled in her during her formative years. Growing up in a household where her father, a renowned writer and journalist, and her mother, a music teacher, cultivated an environment rich in intellectual stimulation, Roba imbibed the importance of perseverance and the pursuit of dreams. “I’ve always believed that nothing is impossible, and dreams can come true with dedication and hard work,” she affirms.

Throughout her career, Roba’s personal philosophy has been shaped by principles of empathy, resilience, gratitude, and purpose. The COVID-19 pandemic, in particular, served as a poignant reminder of the value of human connection and community. “Despite physical distancing measures, I found ways to stay connected with others through virtual meetings, phone calls, and social media,” she reflects.

In her quest for meaning and purpose, Roba emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, alignment with personal values, and the cultivation of practices that nurture holistic well-being. “Finding meaning and purpose in life is an ongoing journey that involves self-reflection, exploration, and alignment with personal values and aspirations,” she shares.

Balancing the demands of work, family, and personal pursuits is a feat that Roba navigates with grace and intentionality. For her, family is paramount, and she finds solace and joy in spending quality time with her husband and children. “My family is my pride and joy in life,” she asserts, underscoring her unwavering commitment to their well-being and happiness.

Dubai, with its promise of opportunity and endless possibilities, holds a special place in Roba’s heart. “Dubai is the city of dreams,” she declares, emphasizing its role as a beacon of hope for those aspiring to turn their dreams into reality.

In the realm of international law and strategy, Romain Gerardin-Fresse stands out as a luminary, reshaping the contours of consulting with his innovative approach. At 34, Romain has established himself as one of the world’s top professionals, steering GFK Middle East towards unparalleled success and expansion. His journey from founding a groundbreaking business law firm to leading the charge in crisis management during the COVID-19 pandemic is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence and adaptability.

In 2017, Romain took a bold step by founding a pioneering business law firm in Europe. His vision was clear: to offer clients a holistic approach that transcends traditional legal boundaries. Combining law, strategy, financial management, and crisis management, his firm quickly gained traction, expanding its footprint to key global hubs including the UK, New York, Dubai, and Singapore.

For Romain, the satisfaction lies in navigating complex challenges, which he describes as “mental gymnastics of strategic planning.” His approach underscores the importance of adaptability and finding the optimal strategic mix for successful market penetration. He firmly believes that intelligence lies in the ability to adapt and innovate, a philosophy that permeates every facet of his work.

Central to Romain’s success is his unwavering dedication to client satisfaction. He emphasizes the significance of never shying away from client requests, even in less-than-ideal circumstances. Creativity and flexibility are paramount in transforming projects into viable endeavors, despite inherent challenges.

A cornerstone of Romain’s methodology is multi-sector collaboration. By bringing together legal experts and economic stakeholders, his firm ensures a comprehensive and effective response across jurisdictions. Rather than viewing others as competitors, Romain advocates for a collaborative approach, recognizing the immense value of partnerships in navigating international complexities.

Driven by his passion for problem-solving, Romain sees every challenge as an opportunity for personal and professional growth. His commitment to breaking down silos between professions underscores his broader vision of pooling expertise for the greater good. Inspired by leading American and British firms, Romain integrates professionals from diverse sectors, offering clients multimodal solutions that transcend conventional boundaries.

Despite the demanding nature of his profession, Romain emphasizes the importance of work-life balance. He believes in setting aside time for personal well-being, recognizing its pivotal role in enhancing efficiency and preventing burnout. This holistic approach to life and work reflects Romain’s commitment to long-term success and fulfillment.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Romain’s dedication to pro bono projects speaks volumes about his deeper sense of purpose. As GFK Middle East gears up for expansion into the UAE and Africa, Romain’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring advocates worldwide. His recognition as one of the UAE’s 100 Entrepreneurs underscores his impact within local and expatriate communities, cementing his status as a transformative figure in the field of law and strategy.

For Romain, success is not merely measured in terms of growth and accolades but rather through the tangible impact on clients and communities. His unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence sets a benchmark for aspiring professionals, signaling a new era of consulting defined by collaboration, adaptability, and purpose-driven leadership.

In the world of career transformations, few stories resonate as profoundly as that of  Vivien “Aisha” Cuenca. Her path from a government Document Controller to a Sales and Marketing Manager is a testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of language.

Aisha’s journey began in the corridors of bureaucracy, where she meticulously managed official

documents and records. Despite her diligence, she sensed a stirring passion for sales and marketing, a desire to connect with people on a deeper level. This realization sparked a remarkable transformation.

Driven by her fascination with linguistics, particularly Arabic, Aisha honed her skills as a verbal translator, adept at bridging cultural divides through language. Her journey reached new heights when she joined a corporation with ambitions in the Middle East, tasked with ensuring effective communication with local audiences.

“I didn’t just translate words; I conveyed emotions, nuances, and cultural context,” Aisha reflects, encapsulating her approach to linguistic mediation.

As her reputation flourished, Aisha became sought after by clients spanning various industries, from consultancy to technology. Her ability to capture the essence of messages, coupled with her cultural insight, made her an indispensable asset. She wasn’t merely translating; she was shaping narratives and influencing branding decisions.

Transitioning from translation to a pivotal role in an Arab business marked a significant milestone in Aisha’s journey. Her success underscored the importance of cultural understanding in the global marketplace, illustrating how language could be a catalyst for business expansion and connection.

The turning point came when Aisha recognized her aptitude for communication and her longing to engage with people. Undeterred by challenges, she embarked on a journey of continuous learning, acquiring skills and knowledge in sales and marketing through courses and seminars.

“I refused to be defined by obstacles,” Aisha asserts, reflecting on her unwavering determination.

Her persistence bore fruit as she secured a position as a Sales and Marketing Manager, where her expertise in document management merged seamlessly with her newfound marketing acumen.

Aisha’s story serves as an inspiration, showcasing the potential for career growth through dedication and adaptability.

But Aisha’s journey is more than a tale of professional success; it’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Raised amidst financial hardship, she learned the value of perseverance from an early age. Her journey was punctuated by setbacks, yet she refused to be deterred, using each obstacle as a stepping stone to greater heights.

“I understood that trials were opportunities to learn and grow,” Aisha reflects, highlighting her unwavering resilience.

Supported by friends and family, Aisha’s determination remained unyielding. Her success became a beacon of hope for those facing adversity, a testament to the belief that with perseverance and a positive mindset, anything is achievable.