Featured in Qojo Media: From No Portfolio to Head of Creative in Dubai
My Creative Journey Featured on Qojo Media
I’m grateful to share that Qojo Media has published a feature about my journey as a Filipino graphic designer in Dubai. The article, “Cilmar Bacus Went From No Portfolio in Dubai to Head of Creative,” was published on October 29, 2026.
The story looks beyond a job title to the experiences, challenges and lessons that helped me grow from a self-taught designer into a Head of Creative working at a marketing, branding and creative consultancy in Business Bay, Dubai.
Starting in Dubai Without a Strong Portfolio
When I arrived in Dubai in 2017, I did not have a strong professional portfolio or formal education in graphic design. I had studied Computer Programming in the Philippines, and much of what I knew about design came from watching tutorials, practising and learning through real projects.
There were rejections and moments of uncertainty. But I kept improving my skills, one opportunity at a time, because I wanted to build a better future for my family.
How Different Creative Roles Shaped My Career
My first role in Dubai was as a Graphic Designer at a corporate gifts company. Later, working in digital printing and production helped me understand materials, print processes, deadlines and how artwork must function beyond the computer screen.
From there, I moved into hospitality marketing and creative agency work, developing experience across branding, campaigns, packaging, digital design and UI/UX. Each new role expanded my perspective and helped prepare me for creative leadership.
The Lesson I Keep Coming Back To
One of the biggest themes of the Qojo Media article is the value of continuous learning. I believe design is not only about knowing software or producing beautiful visuals. It is also about solving problems, communicating ideas, understanding production and adapting to new challenges.
I do not see my journey as finished. There is always more to learn, and I hope this story encourages other aspiring creatives, especially self-taught designers, to keep going even when they start without everything in place.
Read the Original Qojo Media Article
Read the full feature on Qojo Media: Cilmar Bacus Went From No Portfolio in Dubai to Head of Creative.
Thank you to Qojo Media and writer Himanshu Sharma for sharing my story and giving space to the journey behind my creative career.
More About My Creative Journey
You can also explore my media features and published articles, read my full Dubai creative career story, or learn more about my graphic design work in Dubai.
