Where the lone skyscraper, the Dubai World Trade Centre, dominates the skyline and a chicken shawarma costs merely AED 1.5, Mark Legaspi’s journey unfolds.
Mark, the CEO and owner of Laser Jockey Electronics LLC, reminisces about his initial days in Dubai. Back in 1993, young Mark moved to Dubai to study and during his school break, he briefly tasted the employment with a job at a popular Filipino fast-food chain. This short stint, lasting only four days, instilled in him a valuable lesson about the sanctity of hard-earned money, setting him on a path to entrepreneurial success decades later.
Returning to the UAE in 2004, Mark began his journey in the AV industry with VV&Sons, managing the nightclub market. It was under the mentorship of Tony Sawyer that Mark conceptualized Phoenix LAS. Launched in 2006, Phoenix LAS, an AV integration service company, swiftly grew in reputation. Its success led Mark to acquire a rival AV company, Laser Jockey. Transforming it from a modest establishment in Naif, Deira, today, Laser Jockey Electronics stands tall as an Expo 2020 contractor, one of the UAE’s top AV companies, boasting numerous brands and even a manufacturing facility in China.
Mark’s portfolio doesn’t stop here. He also proudly owns “The Box Studio” and the lively “Grill and Go (G&Go)”.
The AED50 chapter in Mark’s story is notable. It was all he had. On a particular day in 2006, standing on Sheikh Zayed Road, brochures in hand, and with barely any gas left in his car, Mark made a conscious choice. Instead of refueling, he walked the streets, ensuring he had some money in case a potential client wanted to discuss over coffee. This perseverance led him to his first significant contract: a club owner in need of a sound and lighting company.
Navigating a startup wasn’t easy. The challenges ranged from managing accounts and permits to staff and marketing. “It’s madness trying to learn other elements of the business and survive at the same time,” he told The Global Filipino Magazine. But amidst the chaos, Mark was anchored by the invaluable support of his wife, Jean, his mother, and his mentor.
But Mark’s diverse career isn’t limited to electronics. As the vocalist of Gatilyo, the first hard rock band in Dubai to be signed by Warner Music Philippines, he delves into his love for music. What began as a few OFWs jamming, quickly led to opening concerts in the emirate for legends like Razorback, Kjwan, Franco, Parokya ni Edgar, and Slapshock.
“It was Kjwan’s manager, Joel Ellorin who decided to strike up a conversation with us asking if we would be interested in having our music distributed by Warner Music and touring the Philippines. At first, I assumed it was all talk but then he requested us to send some songs. Afterwards, he mentioned that Warner had accepted to sign us and he will facilitate the tour!” he shared.
“The next thing we know we are on the flight to Philippines embarked on a week-long rollercoaster ride which entailed radio guesting and five-leg tour with legends like Razorback, Kjwan, Slapshock and many more. In addition, we were honored to perform on Wish Bus too – it was incredibly fun!” he added.
In the wake of the pandemic, Mark’s compassion became evident when he initiated a food run drive to aid struggling musicians. Despite logistical hurdles and movement restrictions, Mark’s determination ensured relief bags reached those in need.
When asked about advice for fellow overseas Filipino workers, Mark emphasizes investment: “Invest in things that make money,” he advises. But it’s not all about monetary gains. He underlines investing in relationships, understanding, and children’s education. His life’s philosophy is simple: Be hungry, treat others with respect, draw inspiration from others, strive for continuous improvement, and view failures as learning opportunities.
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This article has been published in Volume 4, Issue 4 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.