The Global Filipino Icon Awards 2024, held last night, May 17, 2024 at Dusit Thani Dubai, celebrated the outstanding achievements and contributions of Filipinos in the UAE. Organized by The Global Filipino Magazine, the event honored individuals and organizations excelling in their fields, raising the Filipino flag high in the international arena. Veteran journalist Jessica Soho graced the occasion as the guest of honor, receiving the prestigious Icon of Filipino Media Excellence Award.
In its fourth year, the awards night drew a crowd of 250 attendees from the Filipino community across the UAE. The event showcased three categories: Special Awards, Star Icon Awards, and the Emerging Global Icon Awards.
The Special Awards recognized individuals and organizations making significant impacts in their respective fields. Meanwhile, the Star Icon Awards celebrated community leaders from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Qatar, and Oman for their exemplary leadership. The highlight of the evening was the Emerging Global Filipino Icon 2024, a coveted award scrutinized by a selection committee, with Nouel C. Omamalin emerging as this year’s distinguished honoree.
Jessica Soho, in her inspiring message, said: “Sa akin po kasing palagay, ang dapat hinihirang na icons, heroes, excellent at outstanding, kayo po iyon, mga OFW, Global Filipinos, Global Pinoys. Kulang ang salitang bayani para sa inyong kadakilaan, para sa lahat ng inyong tinitiis at isina-sakripisyo lalo na po ang mga nanay at tatay na malayo sa inyong mga anak.
You truly represent the best among us—kayo po ang pinakamahusay na ehemplo kung ano ang ibig sabihin ng pagiging Pilipino!”
The event also featured Philippine Consul General to Dubai and the Northern Emirates Marford Angeles, who delivered a special message. Celebrated fashion icon Michael Cinco received the Lifetime Achievement Award in Fashion Excellence, while other notable awardees included Pia Wurtzbach and Cory Quirino.
Gabriel John Rimando, Publisher of The Global Filipino Magazine, expressed his pride and gratitude: “We are especially honored to have Jessica Soho with us tonight. She is a journalism icon and a brilliant example of Filipino talent, who has traveled all the way from the Philippines to be here in Dubai. Her presence, along with that of our esteemed guests, Philippine Consul General Marford Angeles, highlights the importance of unity and teamwork. Our Global Filipinos have faced many hardships with courage and a never-give-up attitude. They remind us that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.”
Nouel C. Omamalin, crowned as the Emerging Global Filipino Icon 2024, shared his inspiring journey from the Philippines to becoming a renowned pastry chef and successful entrepreneur in Dubai. His story of resilience and passion exemplifies the spirit of Global Filipinos who continue to make their mark worldwide.