Featured in National Finance Magazine: Learning Beyond the Brief

My Creative Journey Featured in National Finance Magazine

I’m grateful to share that National Finance Magazine, part of National Finance Sharjah, has published a feature about my journey as a Filipino graphic designer and Head of Creative based in Dubai. The article, “Learning beyond the brief: Cilmar Bacus on building a creative career in Dubai,” was published on November 6, 2026.

The feature explores how hands-on production experience, continuous self-learning and different creative roles helped shape the way I think about design and leadership today.

Starting a Creative Career in Dubai

When I arrived in Dubai in 2017, I did not have an established local portfolio or professional network. My journey began with the opportunities available to me, including graphic design work at a corporate gifts company. Those early experiences taught me that design is not only about making something look good on a screen.

Working closely with printing, materials and finishing helped me understand how creative concepts translate into real products. That production knowledge continues to influence how I approach packaging, branding and visual communication.

Learning Beyond the Job Description

One of the main themes in the National Finance Magazine article is the importance of learning beyond the immediate brief. I spent time outside working hours studying tutorials, experimenting with new tools and improving my skills through practical projects.

Over time, my interests expanded from graphic design to brand identity, campaigns, digital design, UI/UX and creative direction. Every role brought different challenges, and each one contributed something valuable to my development.

From Design Execution to Creative Leadership

Moving into a Head of Creative role meant learning to think beyond individual designs. Today, my focus includes understanding business needs, developing creative ideas, guiding visual decisions and ensuring the final work communicates clearly across different platforms and materials.

My experience in production remains an important part of that process. It reminds me that strong creative work must be thoughtful, practical and effective—not simply visually appealing.

A Message to Aspiring Designers

My journey is still evolving, and I continue to learn. For anyone starting without a strong portfolio, a large network or the perfect opportunity, I hope my experience is a reminder that consistent practice, curiosity and the willingness to take on new challenges can make a difference over time.

I am especially thankful for the opportunities I have had to grow professionally in Dubai and the wider UAE. Being able to build a creative career here means a great deal to me and my family.

Read the Original National Finance Magazine Feature

Read the complete editorial profile: Learning beyond the brief: Cilmar Bacus on building a creative career in Dubai — National Finance Magazine.

Thank you to the National Finance Magazine Editorial Team for publishing my submitted story and sharing the experiences behind my creative journey.

Explore More of My Creative Journey

You can also visit my Press and Media Features page, read my full journey from self-taught designer to Head of Creative, or explore my graphic design work in Dubai.