Business setup can be a daunting task but expert guidance from companies like Futurezone simplifies the entire business journey. Maria Gracia Caguete, the Co-founder of Futurezone, brings extensive 21-year UAE market experience across diverse industries. As a PRO and Business Setup Advisor in Dubai for 11 years, Maria possesses expertise in government transactions and complexities.
Futurezone simplifies business setup for entrepreneurs, empowering them to focus on their core business. Offering comprehensive services, Futurezone seamlessly handles complexities and ensures compliance, enabling smooth business operations.
The Beginning Of Maria’s Entrepreneurial Journey
A native of Oriental Mindoro in the Philippines, Maria developed an entrepreneurial spirit from quite an early age. Influenced by her hardworking parents, particularly her mother who managed a school canteen alongside being a teacher, Maria assisted in selling snacks to students with her mother. This early experience fueled her interest in entrepreneurship.
Maria shares, “My father, an agriculturist, passed away when I was 21 years old, leaving my mother to raise us on her own. Despite the challenges, she instilled in me the value of hard work and resilience. During my secondary schooling, a childhood friend and I ventured into selling cigarettes at a local cockpit on Sundays, further fueling my passion for business.
Determined to pursue a business career, I moved to Manila to study Business Management and worked part-time as a sales underwriter for an insurance firm, gaining perseverance and financial independence lessons.”
Several challenging circumstances arrived at Maria’s career path. Despite that, she stood firm and pursued her entrepreneurial activities, emerging as a successful business leader.
Building a Career Amidst Challenges
After completing her education, Maria started her career in Manila and Taiwan before seeking better opportunities in the UAE. Later, she secured a position as an Executive Assistant for a semi-private company connected to a royal family in 2002.
She reflects, “Over the next 12 years, I gained extensive experience in various fields, from administration and human resources to office management and eventually hotel management. My career took a significant turn when I transitioned to business setup advisory services in Dubai. At the time, women were not commonly seen in the role of PRO (Public Relations Officer).”
Eventually, UAE’s progressive stance on women’s empowerment enabled Maria to overcome barriers and thrive in this field. In these last 11 years, she faced and learned from various challenges, shaping her expertise and position in the industry.
Founding Futurezone
“The future is what we make it”
Building a business is never an easy task and requires a lot of perseverance.
She shares, “I co-founded Futurezone.ae with my angel investor and successful UK entrepreneur, Stewart Lochrie, leveraging his extensive business experience. Our mission is to assist entrepreneurs and investors in understanding and navigating the UAE business market.”
Futurezone offers comprehensive PRO services, ensuring seamless business operations, from obtaining necessary government permits to renewing essential documents. The company provides services for businesses, individuals, and families looking for golden, property investor, and retirement visas in the UAE.
Futurezone Executive Assistant offers business support for startups and established businesses. Our services include administration, clerical work, personal assistance, bookkeeping, data management, research, social media management, and more—all without the overhead costs: scaling your business so you can focus on your core priorities.
Leadership Qualities, We asked Maria Gracia Caguete
Having an efficient leader can increase the chances of success of any business by multiple folds.
Maria muses, “In my journey, I have learned that successful leadership in our industry requires resilience, quick thinking, and transparency. A successful leader must also be adaptable, innovative, and possess a deep understanding of their field.”
The ability to navigate challenges with a positive outlook and to inspire and empower others is crucial to being a successful leader in today’s competitive market.
Embracing Digital Transformation
Fast-paced digital evolution is significantly impacting businesses and the way they perform. And as a business in today’s world, it is crucial to adapt to technological advancements.
Futurezone fully embraces the digital revolution, utilizing digital marketing, SEO, CRM systems, and AI technology to enhance services. Maria’s talented team maximizes efficiency, generates leads, and streamlines operations with these tech tools.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: T.H.I.N.K
Aspiring entrepreneurs can find it extremely helpful to seek advice from industry experts like Maria Gracia Caguete.
She shares, “For those starting their entrepreneurial journey, I offer the acronym T.H.I.N.K as a guiding principle.
- Thoroughly Plan: Ensure you have a clear and detailed business plan.
- Humility: Stay humble and open to learning from others.
- Innovation: Embrace new ideas and be willing to adapt.
- Network: Build strong relationships with various industries.
- Knowledge: Continuously seek knowledge and stay informed about the trends in the industry and the regulating Law in UAE and other compliances in various government sectors.”
A blend of detailed plans, constant learning, networking, and openness to fresh ideas can uplift a beginner’s position in the industry.
Handling Setbacks In Business
Every business faces certain inevitable challenges and failures. Futurezone is no exception in this case and has its set of failures.
Failures and setbacks are inevitable in any business journey. Maria reflects, “I view them as opportunities for growth and learning. Each challenge provides valuable lessons that help improve my strategies and decision-making processes. Embracing a positive mindset and staying focused on long-term goals is essential for overcoming obstacles.”
Constant Source Of Motivation
Being an entrepreneur comes with a lot of challenges, and searching for a constant source of motivation tops the list.
“My motivation comes from a deep passion for what I do and a commitment to making a positive impact. Seeing the success of our clients and knowing that our services help them achieve their dreams is incredibly rewarding. Additionally, the support of my team and the belief in our mission drive me to persevere through tough times.” Maria let us know.
Expansion Plans For Futurezone
Maria plans to expand Futurezone’s services to Saudi Arabia and maintain their innovative approach. Moreover, they aim to lead in digital transformation, improve their offerings, and prioritize building enduring relationships with clients and partners as they continue to grow.
Maria says, “We are thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of Futurezone Homes, a brand aiming to transform the real estate market in Dubai. Our comprehensive services will cater to property investors, facilitating the buying and selling of prime real estate in this dynamic city.
Whether you’re looking to settle down and enjoy Dubai’s vibrant lifestyle with your family or seeking lucrative opportunities in the leasing and rental market, Futurezone Homes will provide expert guidance and reliable property management services to maximize investment returns.”
In essence, Maria’s path from the Philippines to co-founding Futurezone in the UAE is defined by perseverance, resilience, and a pursuit of excellence, shaping her entrepreneurial journey with valuable lessons. She muses, “I am proud of what we have achieved at Futurezone and look forward to contributing further to the entrepreneurial landscape in the UAE.”
Follow Maria Gracia Caguete on LinkedIn.
Find Futurezone on Instagram, Facebook, and X, and visit their website to learn more.
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