A UAE-based Filipino has carved a niche for himself in the world of business analysis and management information systems (MIS) at Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank. Jian Carlo Rubio’s journey reflects a blend of resilience, adaptability, and relentless pursuit of growth, emblematic of the spirit captured by his life’s mantra, “Ad astra per aspera” — through hardships to the stars.
Jian, known affectionately as JC to his family, embarked on his journey as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) in 2014, catalyzed by an unexpected phone call that led him to a career-changing opportunity in Dubai.
“I thought it was a fraud because years had passed after I registered my profile on workabroad.ph,” he recalls with The Global Filipino Magazine.
Yet, the authenticity of the offer from Citi Bank and the absence of any financial strings convinced him to leap into the unknown.
Starting as a Bank Sales Officer, Jian faced the daunting challenge of adapting to a new sales environment far from home.
“I had to talk to strangers and build relationships from scratch,” he explains, detailing the initial struggles of meeting sales targets and navigating the cultural landscape of the UAE.
Despite these hurdles, his determination saw him through, and he gradually fell in love with his new home.
However, 2016 brought significant trials when Jian was affected by company downsizing.
“It was the most difficult period in my life. Anxiety and uncertainty started to seep in, and sadness and longing for home began to haunt me,” he shares.
This period tested his resolve deeply, pushing him to the brink of despair.
Rescue came through the support of friends and a renewed sense of purpose, leading to a position as an outsourced Support Officer in a bank in Abu Dhabi. Here, Jian’s IT background proved advantageous, allowing him to engage deeply with data analysis and project involvement, which aligned closely with his academic pursuits in information technology.
His consistent performance and dedication led to a promotion to MIS Analyst and eventually absorption into the bank’s payroll.
“I continued what I had been doing: learning along the way, expanding my experience, upskilling, and personally investing in my education,” Jian says, highlighting his journey from managing data to managing a team.
Reflecting on his decision to work abroad, Jian notes it was driven by a desire for independence and the pursuit of his ambitions.
“I wanted to experience life outside of the Philippines,” he states, emphasizing the personal and professional growth he has experienced since moving to Dubai.
Before his venture abroad, Jian’s career in the Philippines was marked by roles in both private and government banking sectors, and even as a university lecturer. These experiences not only honed his professional skills but also fueled his passion for teaching and helping others, which he continued in Dubai by volunteering as a trainer at a start-up training company.
Today, Jian’s role involves intricate data analysis that informs significant business decisions.
“Numbers reveal a lot…they do not lie,” he asserts, underscoring the objective clarity that data brings to business strategy.
The collegial atmosphere and the vibrant team dynamics at his workplace also add to the job’s appeal, making every workday enjoyable and fulfilling.
For Jian, living and working abroad has expanded his worldview, exposing him to new cultures and people, which he cherishes greatly. Despite the initial struggles, including financial hardships and personal setbacks, his journey has been one of continuous learning and adaptation.
Looking to the future, Jian remains open to possibilities, whether that involves continuing his career abroad or eventually returning to the Philippines to teach and share his experiences. His advice to fellow OFWs is heartfelt and pragmatic: “Your faith will give you strength…You’re not alone. Be honest and kind, and never stop learning.”
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This article has been published in Volume 4, Issue 11 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.