When you love what you do, even the most demanding tasks become a source of joy. For Janine Alyssa Navarro, the creative mind behind major social media campaigns in the UAE, passion has always guided her career path. Now serving as Chief Strategy Officer for Glimpse, a Dubai-based agency, and leading her own freelance firm, Myndful Social, Janine has carved a unique space in a field often dominated by fast trends and relentless pressure.
Born and raised in the UAE, she represents a generation of Filipinos who grew up abroad yet remained deeply rooted in their culture. At 34 years old, Janine has spent her entire life in the Emirates, building a career that blends creativity, strategy, and a deep understanding of human connections. “This is where my career started and has blossomed, and I can’t picture myself being anywhere else,” she shared with TGFM.
A journey fueled by purpose
Janine’s career began as a graphic designer at the age of 21. Over the years, her work has taken her through boutique advertising agencies, PR firms, and in-house marketing departments, both for local and international brands. “I personally had a special interest for copywriting, content creation, and design,” she shares. “So my interest always gravitated towards projects that allowed me to showcase these.”
Her current role as Chief Strategy Officer blends years of hands-on experience with leadership. She ensures the smooth operation of teams handling social, content planning, and design while also navigating the administrative and contractual side of the business. “My position oscillated between CMO and COO before, and I found out there is a modern depiction of this role—CSO—that aligns both operations and marketing with strategic direction,” she explains.
But what makes her journey remarkable isn’t just the roles she’s held, it’s the consistency in her growth and the gratitude she holds for those who’ve supported her. “The highlight of my career is the entire journey—which I’m still on ‘til today,” she reflects. “Every milestone and hiccup has led me here, and I am very grateful.”
She was recently recognized during The Global Filipino Icon Awards 2025 with the title Outstanding Filipina Leader in MENA Social Media and Digital Marketing, a recognition that reflects her years of dedication and influence in the field.
Choosing to stay, choosing to grow
Growing up in the UAE meant Janine’s exposure to career opportunities abroad began early. Her parents moved to the country in the late ‘80s, and she pursued her education and career in the same place they called home. “The UAE has provided me with many opportunities to practise and improve my skills and to grow in this profession, which is such a blessing,” she says.
She recalls how working abroad as a Filipino wasn’t without its challenges. “I had to power through stereotypical assumptions about me in the earlier years of my career,” she shares. But she didn’t let that stop her. Instead, she sought out inclusive environments and surrounded herself with colleagues who valued her for her talent and dedication. “The UAE has progressed rapidly,” she notes. “And I chose to surround myself with people who do not perceive me based on how I look or my last name.”
Being an introvert, stepping into roles that required networking, leadership, and client-facing responsibilities was initially a struggle. But thanks to her mentors and personal resilience, she learned to adapt. “They’ve taught me one thing: treat life like a game. Play and perform to the best of your abilities,” she recalls. “While some failures hurt, let it. And then move on to the next dream.”
Her greatest inspiration, however, has always been closer to home. “My mom has always been my role model. Her sheer determination, perseverance, and resilience made her the strongest woman I know,” Janine shares.
Beyond the job title
What keeps her motivated isn’t just the title or the prestige of being in charge. It’s the work itself—particularly in the ever-evolving world of social media. “Social media is an ever-changing entity which proves to be an exciting challenge for me,” she explains. “Strategies differ per industry, but as long as one understands how to connect with your audience, it’s exciting to map this out from a digital marketing perspective.”
For her, the most rewarding part is the human side of things. “Social media has always been about people and working together,” she says. “In an era of profits and KPIs, it’s important to not forget the human aspect of this industry.”
Exposure to various cultures and brand perspectives in the UAE has made her work dynamic and meaningful. “Getting to work with people from all walks of life is like living the most exciting story,” she reflects. “We are a product of our collective experiences, and being able to showcase the best of it through our work is what I’d call passion.”
Looking ahead, Janine doesn’t see herself slowing down. “In the near future, I still see myself working in a social media agency and enjoying what I do,” she says. But now, she also makes it a point to step into the light when needed—not for the applause, but to inspire others like her. “I chose to own recognition of my work to make my family and loved ones proud, and to set an example to fellow Filipino creatives in the industry,” she explains.
A voice for her community
To her fellow kababayans abroad, Janine has heartfelt advice. “Do not be intimidated by anyone. Let no one else be your competition but yourself. Cease every opportunity you can get,” she urges. “Sometimes, success and growth is on the other side of ego and cringe.”
Her voice is one of both humility and empowerment. “In failure, it is still a win because you get to learn for the next time,” she adds. And for those navigating the complexities of life overseas, she reminds them of the value of connection. “Keep your true friends close—they are the ones who will continue to cheer and clap for you whether you’re in the room or not.”
Above all, she believes in gratitude. “Give thanks and gratitude for what you have in this life,” she says. “When you can, pay it forward.”
Through her work and perspective, she’s helping redefine what it means to succeed abroad—not just by surviving, but by truly living. “Continuously learning and improving as both a professional and a human being is the most thrilling experience out of all of this,” she says. “Those who came before us, all they knew was to survive. With our changed circumstances, let’s not just survive but actually live. We deserve to. We all do.”
