Dubai-based stand-up comedian Imah Dumagay was named one of the 100 Most Influential Filipinos in the World at the TOFA Awards 2025 held on Oct. 17 at The Orleans Hotel in Las Vegas.
The annual ceremony, organized by Elton Lugay and hosted by Dr. Boy Abunda, gathered Filipino performers and leaders from various regions, with appearances from Sofronio Vasquez, Christian Bautista, Rachel Alejandro, Pops Fernandez, Jaya, Nonoy Zuñiga, and Aiai de las Alas.
Dumagay, who grew up in Cotabato City before moving to the United Arab Emirates, highlighted the role comedy plays in connecting migrant communities. “For most of us, humor is entertainment. For me, it’s a bridge — between cultures, between homes, between the laughter of resilience and the silence of migration,” she said. She added that the UAE is “a region where Filipinos are more often known for their hard work than their spotlight moment,” noting that she built her career as one of the first Filipina stand-up comedians in the Middle East.
Her comedic work often draws from the experiences of Filipinos living abroad, using observation and cultural references to address identity, migration, and daily life. Dumagay previously worked as an executive assistant in Dubai before shifting to comedy, production, and professional training.
In 2019, she co-founded Comedy Kix, now regarded as one of the UAE’s longest-running comedy platforms. The group produces shows featuring multicultural performers and runs workshops that teach professionals how to use humor to improve communication and confidence.
Comedy Kix is currently preparing for its upcoming Pinoy Comedy Mixtape show on Nov. 29 at the World Trade Center Zabeel Hall, in partnership with DXB Live, Midas Events, and Eva Live ME. The event will feature Alex Calleja, K Brosas, Tuesday Vargas, Ethel Booba, and the writer of the original interview. Ticket inquiries may be made through @comedykix on Facebook, Instagram, or via WhatsApp at +971564848596.
