OFW Interview with Iveth, Marketing Manager for a Premium Real Estate Agency

“Continuous learning is important.” This is one of the insights shared by today’s featured OFW, Ms. Iveth, also known as “Vivz.” She’s a marketing manager for a premium real estate agency by day… an avid gamer and podcaster by night! Vivz has been living in Dubai for about five years now.

Before becoming an OFW, Vivz has worked in various jobs back home. She was a known as a “raketera” in college — selling K-pop items online, accepting freelance writing gigs, and working as a production assistant to help support her studies. For her internship with Viva Records, she even handled the popular “JaDine” tandem during the release of the hit movie, “Diary ng Panget.” Cool!

As a career person, Vivz has always been driven and motivated to learn and “upskill.” This trait came in handy when she lost her job during the pandemic, since she was immediately able to find a new one! Her diligence, skills, and ability to work in a multicultural environment has also earned her the “top employee” award in not just one, but two of the companies she has worked with!

Vivz’ flourishing career is only matched by her passion for gaming and anime. In 2022, she co-founded “The Ara Ara Channel,” which happens to be the first ever anime podcast in the UAE, and now a top-ranking channel. Let’s get to know more about Vivz as she talks about career, podcasting, and life in Dubai!

OFW Feature: Vivz, Filipina Real Estate Brokerage Marketing Manager

Name: Iveth Solevilla
Nicknames: Vivz
Age: 30 years old
Current Profession: Marketing Manager for a Premium Real Estate Agency
Education: Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication
Years in Dubai: 5 years

1. Tell us about yourself.

Hi! I’m Iveth Solevilla, also known as “Vivz” in the community. I’m 30 years old and a graduate of Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication. I’ve been an academic scholar since elementary school, and during my university years, I was fortunate to receive scholarships from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Letran Alumni Association. I’m grateful to these institutions for their support, which allowed me to pursue my education without financial worries.

Currently, I’m a Marketing Manager for a Real Estate Brokerage in Dubai. Over the past few years, I’ve focused on building my professional career in digital marketing in the real estate industry. Outside of work, I’m a passionate content creator and streamer, indulging in my hobbies like anime, cosplaying, and video games.

I’ve been living in Dubai for five years, experiencing my share of ups and downs along the way.

2. Why did you come to Dubai?

I moved to Dubai five years ago to pursue new opportunities for career growth and to support my family, much like many Filipinos living here. Dubai has a dynamic and diverse environment in which I’ve been able to expand my skills, take on new challenges, and grow as a professional.

3. What were your previous jobs?

Prior to living in Dubai, I had several part-time jobs while being a student. My family and friends used to call me a “raketera.” I worked as a Production Assistant for events and as a Freelance SEO writer for various industries to earn extra money while still in college. I was also a feature writer for the school publication, The Lance, contributing articles on relevant trends, interviews, and reviews. Additionally, I ventured into several online businesses, such as buying and selling K-pop items and selling commissioned cosplay props and costumes. For my internship, I had the pleasure of working with Viva Records, handling the then-popular “JaDine” with the release of “Diary ng Panget.”

My corporate journey started at Convergys, now known as Concentrix. I spent four years there, working my way up from a Customer Service Representative to a Product and Communications Trainer for an American company. During my time there, I was awarded multiple times as a top trainer, which was a significant achievement in my career.

I then transitioned to real estate, working at SM Development Corporation as an International Property Specialist, and was sent to different countries like the UAE and Qatar. Realizing that the sales life was not for me, I shifted to digital marketing and permanently moved to Dubai.

Here, I’ve experienced working with various award-winning real estate agencies. I am proud to say that I’ve had a hand in getting those awards because my work is mostly about lead generation, which significantly contributed to their success.

In addition to my corporate roles, I was the host of a local gaming podcast in the Philippines called “Puro Ka Laro” and eventually co-founded “The Ara Ara Channel” in 2022, the UAE’s first anime podcast, a platform to share my passion for anime and gaming.

4. How do you find your current job/business? Are you happy/satisfied with it?

Yes, I am happy and satisfied with where my career and my workplace are now. The initial months of finding a job here in Dubai were hard. It took a lot of applications and interviews before I managed to land my first job which was a Marketing Executive. Since I am a person known for my grit and hunger for learning, it didn’t take much time for me to adjust and handle the multicultural workplace that I was in.

Unfortunately, I lost my job during the pandemic but the good thing was that I managed to find a new job immediately. That’s when my passion for learning and upskilling really paid off. I was focused on self-growth and constantly collecting certificates on media buying and lead generation. Since then, I have become known in the industry for my remarkable work in marketing. I am grateful to say that it is now easier for me to find jobs through referrals and connections, especially on LinkedIn.

There were even times that I was awarded Top Employee of the Company on multiple occasions. In fact, I have been recognized as the top employee in two of my previous companies. One of them even rewarded me with a PlayStation 5 in 2021, knowing that I am an avid gamer. This was particularly special because it was during a time when PS5s were out of stock due to high demand.

5. Are you able to save in Dubai? Or do you have any investments you wish to share?

After the pandemic, losing my job without having a safety net was my wake-up call. I realized that at the end of the day, all I have is myself, so I needed to build an emergency fund. Since then, I meticulously tracked my finances daily, following the 50-30-20 rule, and opened a savings account with a set-and-forget feature.

Working in the real estate field, I bought a preselling property in Manila that will be handed over soon, which I plan to turn into a rental income. Additionally, I have life insurance and MP2 savings.

6. Is it difficult to live in Dubai? What are your struggles? What’s life like outside work?

It was quite difficult in the beginning since I came here without any backup plans, no savings under my name, and no support system. It was a sink-or-swim situation. However, over the years, I found friends and colleagues who made my life much more enjoyable and easier.

I am thankful to be in a place where I can balance my work and life, allowing me to make time for my hobbies and travel whenever I want. Finding a good employer in Dubai is the hardest thing ever!

7. What do you like about Dubai?

Dubai is a city of endless possibilities where dreams can become reality. With its dynamic economy, world-class infrastructure, and a melting pot of cultures, Dubai offers a unique environment where hard work and determination are rewarded. The city’s commitment to innovation and excellence makes it an inspiring place to live and work.

8. What do you NOT Like about Dubai?

Summers in Dubai! Another one that I can think of is how hard it is to save in Dubai with the amount of tempting shopping and entertainment options.

9. What are your plans for your career/family/future?

Living and working in Dubai has been amazing and I do have some exciting plans for my future. Career-wise, I want to keep improving and eventually open my own media agency. Traveling and exploring new places is also my main priority at the moment since I’ve been so focused on my career for the past few years, I think it’s time for me to enjoy the fruits of my labor.

Building meaningful relationships is super important to me, whether it’s with family, friends, or colleagues. I don’t see myself moving out of Dubai anytime soon because this city has so much to offer. I’m excited to continue my journey here and make the most of every opportunity!

10. You have any tips for kabayans when working/finding work/living in Dubai?

For kabayans working, finding work, or living in Dubai, continuous learning is important. The job market is highly competitive, so staying updated with the latest skills and industry trends can give you an edge. Invest in your education through online courses and certifications! If you do well in your job, it’s easy for people to refer you to better opportunities. Make sure your LinkedIn is always up to date!

It’s also important to live within your means or else you might get caught up in the “Dubai lifestyle.” Saving money and having a backup plan is a must. This could mean having an emergency fund, securing health insurance, or having a plan B in case your current job doesn’t work out.

BONUS: Would you like to share a special message?

Hey everyone! Just wanted to give a quick shoutout to our YouTube channel, “The Ara Ara Channel.” If you’re into anime and gaming, be sure to check it out for some awesome content! Also, don’t miss out on our podcast, available on both Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Connect with Vivz Online

Get to know more about Vivz by following her on social media!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vivzblackmage
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vivzblackmage/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vivzblackmage
Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/vivzblackmage
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivethsolevilla/

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* Photos provided by Vivz

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