Balancing a full-time career, motherhood, and entrepreneurship is never easy, yet it’s a path many aspire to take. For Marjie Mirabel “Apple” Gawaran, a 33-year-old Filipina veterinary receptionist based in Abu Dhabi, it has been a journey of blending passion, purpose, and perseverance. Together with her husband, Aaron Jan, a dedicated head nurse and registered nurse from the Philippines who moved to the UAE in 2014, and their daughter, Amber Jan Elouise, she built AG Creative Prints—a family-powered business born from shared interests and a desire to create something meaningful. From the moment Aaron and Apple’s paths crossed, they became each other’s biggest supporters, encouraging one another to pursue what they truly love. “I believe that’s the secret to our success—walking side by side, lifting each other up every step of the way,” Apple said.
Turning personal passions into a shared vision
The roots of AG Creative Prints lie in the couple’s individual hobbies. Aaron has been a dedicated toy collector since 2007, particularly fond of Transformers and Gundams. Apple, on the other hand, has always loved crafting, especially personalized items. “It’s something that brings me joy and helps me express myself creatively,” she said. For years, these passions existed separately, until one heartfelt conversation changed their course.
Aaron’s work as a head nurse has shaped his approach to their business, bringing the same care, patience, and attention to detail into every creation. Many of their bestsellers are personalized Funko Pops—each one telling a story they hold dear. Some are thoughtful gifts for a boss, while others are heartfelt tokens for loved ones. Beyond Funko Pops, they also craft personalized souvenirs, keepsakes, and more, with every piece serving as a tangible story made with passion and purpose.
Since the beginning, they dreamed of starting their own business—but they didn’t know where to start. The journey wasn’t easy, but as Apple describes, it was a blessing in disguise. “Every challenge shaped us, every obstacle taught us, and every small win reminded us why we started,” she said.
They realized they wanted to combine their talents into something they could build together. 3D printing emerged as the perfect bridge—merging Aaron’s love for collectibles with Apple’s flair for custom creations. “For the first time, we found something that excited both of us, and we haven’t looked back since,” Apple shared.
More than just a business
What started as a project quickly became a shared passion and bonding time for the family. Each creation is infused with creativity, teamwork, and love. Apple explained, “We put our hearts into every piece we make, and we’re grateful for the support and trust of our customers who believe in what we do.”
Aside from both working full-time and being licensed content creators, they make it a point to join events that inspire them and help grow their creative community. These gatherings allow them to connect with people, share ideas, and celebrate the creativity that fuels AG Creative Prints.
A journey of purpose and legacy
Apple’s path to entrepreneurship was shaped by personal sacrifice. With a degree in Information Technology and a background in customer service, marketing, and quality control in the Philippines, she left a promising career at 23 after her father’s passing to support her family. Moving to the UAE in 2014, she discovered her calling in animal care, now thriving at a veterinary clinic.
What inspires them most are fellow Filipino OFWs in the UAE who, like them, started as employees and went on to become successful business owners. Their journeys serve as a reminder that with determination, faith, and creativity, dreams can become reality. “Our journey is still unfolding, but one thing’s for sure—we’re crafting not just products, but memories, dreams, and a legacy our daughter can one day be proud of,” Apple said.
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