A Filipina visionary stands tall amidst the gleaming towers of Dubai’s urban panorama, shaping the skyline with her ambition and determination. Mariane de Guzman, an architect of dreams, a catalyst for change, is the driving force behind MABA Corporate Services Provider LLC in Dubai and MABA Corporate Services Limited in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). In her story, we witness not only the ascent of a successful entrepreneur but the embodiment of resilience, tenacity, and the indomitable spirit of the Filipino diaspora.
Mariane’s journey commenced two decades ago when, at the age of 23, she embarked on a life-altering adventure, leaving behind the familiarity of her homeland in pursuit of greater opportunities abroad. Motivated by a fervent desire to support her family, particularly her ailing father, Mariane set foot in Dubai armed with little more than courage and determination. Recollecting those early days, she shares, “I decided to fly to Dubai with nothing but courage and determination to make more money to support the family.” Tragically, her father’s passing just 45 days after her departure left Mariane grappling with the heartache of not being able to bid him a final farewell due to financial constraints.
Her journey through the professional realm saw her undertake various roles, from a receptionist at a car showroom to a Project Secretary at an architectural-engineering firm. However, it was her transition into the corporate structuring industry in 2010 that marked a pivotal juncture in her career trajectory. Climbing the ranks, she eventually assumed the mantle of Managing Director, laying the groundwork for her eventual leap into entrepreneurship.
Navigating the rapids of adversity with grace
Mariane’s ascent to success was fraught with challenges—financial hardships, personal setbacks, and the tumultuous tides of life abroad. Yet, with each setback, she emerged stronger and more resilient, fortified by an unyielding resolve to forge her path to prosperity. “There were so many challenges in both my professional and personal life. They were not easy. It took me a while to recalibrate my life,” she reflects.
In 2018, Mariane embarked on her entrepreneurial voyage, founding MABA Corporate Services Provider LLC. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 dealt a staggering blow to her endeavors, leading to the closure of her joint venture company in Dubai Financial International Centre (DIFC). Undeterred by adversity, Mariane pivoted her focus, acquiring a company in ADGM and expanding her footprint in the UAE’s corporate landscape.
A vision beyond success: Giving back to the community
For Mariane, entrepreneurship transcends mere financial gain; it embodies a profound commitment to effecting positive change and giving back to the community. “There is so much beauty in having freedom. Being an entrepreneur is not easy but the independence that comes with it is very satisfying,” she shares. With a steadfast gaze fixed on the horizon, Mariane envisions leveraging her success to support initiatives aimed at empowering underprivileged children in the Philippines, particularly in the realm of education.
As she continues to navigate the labyrinth of the corporate world, Mariane imparts sage counsel to her fellow kabayans grappling with similar challenges abroad. “Make a decision of who you want to become and what you would like to achieve. Then you should focus on that. Work with passion and be true to yourself,” she advises. Embracing a ethos of kindness, gratitude, and perseverance, Mariane stands as a beacon of hope for Filipinos worldwide, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
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This article has been published in Volume 4, Issue 9 of The Global Filipino Magazine. If you have a unique life story or know someone who does, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us at eic@theglobalfilipinomagazine.com. If you’re interested in obtaining a print copy of the magazine, please contact Mr. JP Cosico at +971 54 482 0661.