Four Friends Transform Their Lives and Community Through Entrepreneurship in the UAE
From sharing rent to sharing success: How four friends found opportunity, purpose in the UAE

Image: Gulf News
Four overseas Filipino workers in the UAE—Jay Esqueta, Delia Rubios, Chrissie Asuncion, and Carla Castro—turned their friendship into a successful cake business, Jaysiedel Cakes. Their journey reflects the resilience and community spirit of expatriates, emphasizing the importance of hard work and giving back.
- 01The friends started their cake business, Jaysiedel Cakes, after encouragement from Asuncion, who recognized Esqueta's baking talent.
- 02Each member brings unique skills from their previous careers, contributing to areas such as finance, marketing, and operations.
- 03Despite challenges like market competition and regulatory requirements, they emphasize the discipline and resilience gained from living in the UAE.
- 04They prioritize employee well-being, continuing to pay full salaries during slow business periods, reflecting their values as former OFWs.
- 05Their community initiatives include free birthday celebrations and cake-sharing activities, aiming to spread positivity and hope among Filipinos in the UAE.
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In Dubai, four overseas Filipino workers—Jay Esqueta, Delia Rubios, Chrissie Asuncion, and Carla Castro—transformed their lives and the lives of others by founding Jaysiedel Cakes. Their journey began with shared sacrifices and aspirations as they navigated life in a foreign land. Esqueta's passion for baking, encouraged by Asuncion, led to the establishment of their cake business, where each friend contributes their professional skills. Despite facing challenges such as competition and regulatory hurdles, they credit their experiences in the UAE for instilling discipline and resilience. The friends prioritize their employees' welfare, choosing to maintain full salaries during tough times, reflecting their values as former workers themselves. They also engage in community outreach, organizing free birthday celebrations to spread joy and togetherness among fellow Filipinos. Their story embodies the spirit of many expatriates in the UAE, who pursue opportunities while fostering a sense of community and purpose.
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Their business and community initiatives foster a sense of belonging and support among Filipino expatriates in the UAE.
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