When career paths don’t follow the traditional route, the journey often becomes even more powerful. That’s exactly what happened to May Ann Hinacay Cagatin, a 29-year-old real estate agent in Dubai who rose through grit, courage, and an unwavering drive to succeed.
Now working at Déjà Vu Real Estate Broker LLC, May is carving her name in one of the world’s most competitive industries. But behind her poised demeanor and growing network is a young woman who once served tables and chased dreams with nothing but faith and ambition.
Rising through humble beginnings in the Philippines
May’s story starts in the Philippines, where she first learned the value of hard work. She became a working student at 16, juggling academics and a job at a Chinese beauty company. Though financial struggles eventually led her to drop out of college, she didn’t let that stop her from moving forward. She worked as a Beauty Advisor at Watsons and pursued a side hustle as a freelance makeup artist. This gave her both income and confidence.
“From a young age, I’ve always taken initiative and worked hard to support myself,” May shared. “Those qualities continue to define me today.”
Despite not having a degree, May’s spirit never faltered. She eventually set her eyes on Dubai, a city where she believed possibilities were endless—even for someone with no diploma or international experience.
Building a new life abroad from scratch
At just 22 years old, May packed her bags and left her comfort zone behind. “I left everything—no degree, no connections, just a strong belief that I could create a better future,” she recalled. Her first job in Dubai was as a waitress in a small restaurant, working long hours with aching feet and homesick nights.
“It was a tough and humbling start that taught me the value of hard work, patience, and perseverance,” May said. “Every shift was a reminder of where I started—and where I wanted to go.”
She didn’t settle. One year later, she broke into the corporate world, starting as a Secretary and eventually becoming a Property Manager for a well-known real estate investor. Those years would mark a turning point in her life.
“That’s when my real education began,” she said. “I learned firsthand about the Dubai real estate market, how investments work, and the importance of client relationships. My boss became a mentor, and his guidance transformed my understanding of business.”
Armed with knowledge and experience, she took another leap—this time into sales. One year ago, May became a full-time real estate agent, working under her own name and reputation.
“I didn’t take the traditional path. I didn’t have a degree. But I had vision, resilience, and hunger to grow,” she said. “And every day, I prove that your background doesn’t define your future—your mindset does.”
Finding fulfillment in real estate and purpose in service
Today, May thrives in her role as a real estate agent, driven by more than just numbers and commissions. She finds joy in connecting people to their dream homes.
“Real estate is not just about property—it’s about people, dreams, and life-changing decisions,” she said. “Being part of that journey is incredibly fulfilling.”
Her passion stems from the dynamic nature of the industry, where every day brings new challenges and clients from all walks of life. What motivates her most, however, is the trust her clients place in her.
“What I’m most passionate about is building relationships and earning trust,” she said. “Every deal is the result of listening, understanding, and guiding clients through one of the biggest decisions of their lives.”
Her transition from support roles to the frontlines of Dubai’s real estate market also helped her develop confidence, independence, and a sense of ownership over her career.
“Working abroad taught me to face challenges alone, make tough decisions, and become self-reliant,” May explained. “That personal growth is just as important as professional success.”
Turning struggles into stepping stones for the future
May’s journey wasn’t without pain. Moving abroad at a young age—with no network and little savings—forced her to grow up fast. The loneliness, the financial limitations, and the emotional toll of being away from family often felt overwhelming.
“My first job as a waitress was extremely tough,” she said. “There were days I doubted myself, especially because I didn’t have a degree. But I reminded myself of my purpose: to build a better life for myself and my family.”
Her greatest source of support came from back home. “Even just hearing their voices gave me the motivation to keep going,” May said of her family.
Her boss in the real estate sector became another pillar of strength. “He wasn’t just successful—he had vision and confidence. I looked up to that.”
Ultimately, it was May’s mindset that got her through the darkest days. “What helped me overcome those struggles was discipline, faith, and the belief that this was just the beginning,” she reflected. “One day, I knew I’d look back and be proud I didn’t give up.”
That day has arrived. “Now, looking back, I am proud. Every challenge shaped me into the woman I am today.”
Looking ahead to build and give back
Even with her current success, May sees her time abroad as a launchpad for something bigger.
“Once I complete my journey overseas, I want to build something meaningful back home,” she said. Her dream is to establish her own real estate business or consultancy in the Philippines, applying everything she learned from Dubai’s fast-paced market.
But it’s not just about business. May wants to become a source of inspiration—especially for young women who, like her, felt limited by their lack of formal education or modest beginnings.
“I want to be a role model for those who didn’t finish college or who come from simple backgrounds,” she said. “If I can rise, they can too.”
Part of her long-term vision includes giving back through education and employment initiatives. She hopes to support working students and underprivileged youth with mentorship programs, job training, and career guidance.
“I know what it’s like to struggle early in life. And I want to give others the opportunity to rise, too.”
For May, the goal isn’t just to succeed—it’s to uplift others along the way.
A message for kababayans overseas
To fellow Filipinos working abroad, May offers heartfelt advice rooted in experience.
“I know how hard it can be—being far from home, juggling work, emotions, and responsibilities,” she said. “But always remember: you are stronger than you think.”
She urges kababayans to focus on their mindset. “No degree, title, or background defines your future. Your perseverance does. Keep going. Keep growing.”
For those struggling with love, finances, or finding trustworthy relationships abroad, she reminds them to stay grounded.
“Believe in your worth. Learn from every experience, and never settle for less than what you deserve.”
This is only the beginning
As May reflects on the last six years, she doesn’t romanticize the journey—but she embraces every chapter. From being a working student in the Philippines, to a waitress, then an admin and now a real estate agent, each role added to her growth.
“One thing I’ve learned is that success isn’t about the perfect start. It’s about showing up, staying consistent, and never giving up,” she said.
The personal transformation she’s gone through isn’t just something to be proud of—it’s something she hopes others can see as proof that dreams are within reach.
“You don’t need to have everything figured out,” May said. “You just need the courage to start, the discipline to keep going, and the heart to stay kind, no matter how hard the road gets.”
To reach her, contact +971 58 682 5126.
