For many young professionals, finding the perfect career is a journey filled with uncertainty, challenges, and self-discovery. It requires resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering belief in one’s potential. At just 25, Aeron Victor Antonio has already navigated this complex path, establishing himself as a leading name in Dubai’s luxury and fine jewelry industry. As a digital marketing executive and content creator, Aeron’s unique expertise in gemstones, high jewelry, and branding has placed him at the forefront of an industry that demands both artistry and business acumen.
A life shaped by choices and opportunities
Aeron’s journey in Dubai began in 2012 when he moved to the UAE at the age of 12. His father had secured a managerial position in a world-leading FMCG company, giving their family the opportunity to start a new life abroad. A decade later, Aeron faced a defining moment when his family decided to return to the Philippines. He had just graduated from Liverpool John Moores University in the UK with a First-Class Honours degree in International Business Management and was at a crossroads. He could have returned home with them, but instead, he chose to stay and forge his own path.
“You see, Dubai is my New York. So many cultures and people from all walks of life gather here to make something for themselves. It has endless opportunities for people who look and strive towards them,” he shares with The Global Filipino Magazine. “It’s not easy—there are so many told and untold stories of hardships here for everyone, not just Filipinos. But I knew that this country was perfect for my personal and professional growth.”
Choosing to remain in Dubai meant stepping into independence at a young age. The journey was far from easy, as Aeron had to quickly mature and take responsibility for himself and his younger brother. The transition from student life to professional work was difficult, but it became a turning point that pushed him to succeed in ways he never imagined.
Building a career in luxury and fine jewelry
Aeron’s career in luxury marketing did not follow a straightforward path. Like many young professionals, he had to experiment with different roles before finding his niche. His first job was as a graphic designer and social media executive for a padel startup—an unexpected turn for someone with a business management degree. “I had to learn everything on the job. YouTube was very helpful,” he laughs.
His next role as a Department Assistant Intern at a German marine-engineering multinational gave him experience in order management, office administration, and executive assistance to four business unit heads. It was a stark contrast to the creative industry he would eventually join, but it provided him with a strong foundation in operations and business processes. Eventually, he transitioned into design curation for a market research company before finding his true calling in digital marketing for luxury and fine jewelry.
Today, Aeron is a Digital Marketing Executive at Jigsaw Marketing Services, where he supports marketing activities across various industries, including precious metals, diamonds, coffee, and crypto. His role has allowed him to be part of leading global industry events such as the Dubai Diamond Conference 2024, the Lab-Grown Diamond Symposium 2023, and the Dubai Precious Metals Conference 2023-2024. His knowledge and expertise in fine jewelry and gemstones have made him a unique figure in the industry, often invited to exclusive brand activations and industry events.
“At this current moment, I am so far the only male Filipino who is a fine jewelry and gemstone expert with a public platform,” he proudly states. “I’m always learning and studying, with certifications from the Cultured Pearl Association of America and the Swiss Gemmological Institute.” His passion for gemology led to his membership in the Young Diamantaires, an exclusive global organization within the diamond industry, further solidifying his credibility in the field.
Challenges, growth, and an inspiring perspective
Despite his success, Aeron’s journey has not been without challenges. The decision to stay in Dubai alone meant shouldering responsibilities beyond his years. With his younger brother still in university and struggling to find employment, Aeron became the head of their household. “While most people my age were enjoying night outs and fun hangouts, I was thinking of making ends meet, learning, and growing,” he reflects.
The hardships, however, strengthened his resolve. “It was extremely difficult. For years, I felt frustration and immense stress—but at the same time, I learned that the only person responsible for me is me. I’m the only one that can change my circumstances and I’m the only one who can change my life.”
His perseverance paid off. Over the past two years, he has grown tremendously in both his career and personal life. His current job, which he describes as fast-paced and dynamic, allows him to work across multiple industries and projects. One of the most rewarding aspects of his role is being involved in digital marketing activities for diamonds and precious stones. “I get to be in the center of the industry, meeting a lot of changemakers and high-level influential individuals, gaining insights and access to valuable mentorships.”
His work also extends beyond corporate responsibilities. He recently bridged a collaboration between Heriot-Watt University and Robert Wan, where he supports university students in communications and design through masterclasses on pearls and branding. “I never imagined I’d be giving lectures at 25, but here I am,” he says with a smile. This passion for mentorship and education has sparked an interest in becoming more involved in the Filipino community, using his platform to inspire and connect with fellow kabayans.
A bright future ahead
Looking ahead, Aeron is open to many possibilities. He does not believe in rigid long-term plans but instead focuses on continuous growth. “The future is uncertain, and there can be many changes in your path. I try to be present and enjoy each day as it comes,” he says. However, his current exposure to the luxury industry, coupled with his growing network, has given him a sense of direction.
He envisions expanding his presence in the Filipino community, showing that there is a Filipino digital marketer in Dubai who specializes in fine jewelry and gemstones. His experiences and achievements make him an inspiring figure, proving that passion, hard work, and resilience can pave the way to success. “I think it would be an amazing chance for our kabayans to know that there is someone like me here, attending exclusive luxury events and building a unique content offering.”
When asked for advice for fellow Filipinos striving to make it abroad, his response is simple but powerful. “Laban lang. We all have problems, we all experience hardships. But we all have the same potential to do great things. It’s about moving through life with intention and purpose.” He emphasizes the importance of networking, developing both technical and soft skills, and continuously learning. “It’s who you know rather than what you know that lands opportunities first, before expertise.”
His final piece of advice is to embrace life beyond work. “Put yourself out there. Explore this beautiful life and all its wonderful things. Every time you step out of your comfort zone, you get to learn more about the world and yourself.”
