Moving overseas can often be a challenging endeavor, but for a 36-year-old Filipino hair and makeup artist, it became an opportunity to carve out a unique space in Dubai’s vibrant fashion industry. With nine years of experience abroad, Mau Piodena IV’s career showcases a remarkable blend of resilience, adaptability, and a passion for creative expression. Transitioning from corporate roles to becoming a sought-after freelance artist, he has proven that it is never too late to reinvent oneself and pursue a true calling.
Before moving into makeup artistry, Mau’s career began in the corporate sector. In the Philippines, he worked as a technical support representative for ePLDT Ventus for six years, eventually becoming a New Hire Trainer.
“I spent over two years training new hires,” Mau recalls to The Global Filipino Magazine.
He then moved to West Contact Services, where he continued to develop his technical support skills. However, Mau felt something was missing from his professional life, a yearning for creativity and expression that led him to pivot toward a vastly different career path.
After stints as a business analyst and logistics officer, Mau planned to move to the United States. However, a change of plans brought him to Dubai instead, a decision influenced by personal reasons.
“I decided to move to Dubai to help myself move on from a heartbreak,” he shares candidly. This unexpected move became a turning point in his life, opening doors to new opportunities he had never imagined.
In Dubai, Mau’s career took a creative turn. Initially working with an e-commerce company as a freelance makeup artist, he refined his skills and quickly adapted to the fast-paced fashion industry.
“It wasn’t long before I was working for international brands like Hermès, YSL, Cartier, and Chanel,” Mau notes, reflecting on his rapid ascent in the industry. His portfolio grew to include magazine ad campaigns and prestigious fashion shows, both locally and internationally.
A standout moment in Mau’s career was when he was invited to work at Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks, a rare opportunity that showcased his talent on a global stage.
“Being invited to Milan and Paris was a dream come true, and working with designers like Michael Cinco during his Paris Fashion Show was surreal,” he says. These experiences have cemented his reputation as a versatile and talented makeup artist.
Passion and the art of makeup
For Mau, makeup is more than just a profession; it’s a form of art and personal expression. He enjoys the creative freedom and the ability to make people feel good about themselves.
“I am more than blessed being able to juggle both of my passions: makeup and training people. It doesn’t feel like working at all,” Mau shares. The joy he derives from his work is evident in his enthusiasm for every project, from high-fashion editorials to personal client sessions.
Aside from his work with top fashion brands, Mau is deeply committed to education and mentorship. He has taught makeup courses at the Filipino Institute and has conducted masterclasses at various events, including Expo 2020. His certifications from prestigious institutions like the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and the International Association for Trainers Society (IATSO) in Paris attest to his expertise and dedication to his craft.
“I want to give back to the community by sharing what I’ve learned, especially with aspiring artists,” he says.
The journey to success hasn’t been without challenges. Mau faced significant cultural adjustments when he first arrived in Dubai and encountered professional skepticism about his capabilities.
“I was told I could only do bridal makeup, but I never let those words define me,” Mau recalls. Instead, he used these challenges as motivation to improve his skills and expand his repertoire. Through perseverance and dedication, he transitioned from bridal to editorial and high-fashion makeup, a move that required learning new techniques and styles.
Mau credits his success to the support of key mentors in the industry, including renowned makeup artists Carla Fuentes, Bobby Caparas, and Jojo Dantespadua.
“They inspire me so much, and I’ve been fortunate to work with them a few times,” he says. Their guidance has helped Mau refine his craft and establish himself as a respected figure in Dubai’s fashion scene.
Looking ahead: Dreams and aspirations
Looking forward, Mau is filled with ambition and a desire to broaden his horizons. “Part of my long-term goal is to work globally and create my own brand and learning institute,” he reveals. His dream is to continue sharing his knowledge and experience with others, helping them find their own path in the beauty industry. “We Filipinos are the most talented, resilient, and resourceful among all. We will thrive and survive anywhere we plant ourselves in,” he proudly states.
This article has been published in Volume 5, Issue 3 of The Global Filipino Magazine. If you have a unique life story or know someone who does, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us at eic@theglobalfilipinomagazine.com. If you’re interested in obtaining a print copy of the magazine, please contact Mr. JP Cosico at +971 54 482 0661.
