DUGONG SKEPTRON (RIYADH CHAPTER)

UMIF helps OFWs ‘capture’ their dreams

Author: ABDUL HANNAN TAGO | ARAB NEWS

RIYADH: Jayson Hizon, an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) employed as a product designer at a cosmetic company in Riyadh, was hired from the Philippines as a baker back in 2005, but his job did not prevent him from learning information and communications technology (ICT) while here in the Kingdom.

Thanks to Ultra Media International Foundation (UMIF), a group of Filipino photographers in Riyadh, Hizon learned from the group all the techniques about photography and designing. UMIF helps Filipinos upgrade their skills and also enables them discover and develop their talent and personality through communication skills.

Ultra Media comprises a range of communication arts such as videography, scriptwriting, directing, lecturing, and filming. Hizon told Arab News that there is nothing wrong with being a baker, but learning another skill when fellow OFWs are willing to offer their services is commendable.

It is now common to see Filipinos bringing with them high-tech cameras and aiming their lenses at anything attractive, like the sunshine in the desert and Saudi ancient spots. You see them especially at the OFWs’ various social, educational and sports gatherings in the city.

Somebody would think that they are photojournalists working with various media but the reality is they are learning photography techniques. Their purchasing power in cameras with advanced technology facilities has increased.

Founder of the group Rove Rico said the project was a result of the simple aspiration of two people, himself and Jefferson Jabilles, and learning how to bring out the talent and sentiment of OFWs through camera lenses and videos.

“Discouragement, homesickness, problems, insecurities, and fears become the stronghold that prevents the future achievements,” he said.

The group consists of inspired, skillful, talented, and extraordinary Filipinos who devoted their lives to live away from their respective families in the Philippines and able to share their talent with others in the midst of all difficulties and homesickness.

“Before, taking pictures here was a taboo and not permissible. OFWs cannot express their sentiments and sadness that make them bear all the sadness and loneliness but thanks to the good development in communications and media here we can now bring cameras anywhere,” he added.

Talking about UMIF’s historical background, Rove Rico told Arab News that in early December of 2005 they were feeling homesick. “An inspiration came into our minds expressing a dream that must be revealed, something to realize and awaken the irresistible passion of Filipinos in the battle for survival.” He said UMIF is for all OFWs regardless of background.

“Here we bring out and reveal the hidden walls that have been overrun and deceived by fears, insecurities, problems, doubts, homesickness, discouragement,” he added.

Spelling out the mission and vision of his group, Rico said it was to equip the artists, designers, filmmakers and others with the skills to work effectively.

It also tries to enhance and preserve the skills and extraordinary talents so they can use them in their respective professions and upgrade the welfare of OFWs.

UMIF’s vision according to the founder is to help their homeland in facing crises.

Mannix Abela, outgoing president of the group, said UMIF has brought together Filipinos from different companies willing to share their unique and extraordinary talents to be able to help other Filipinos in need in terms of upgrading their skills.

Following are UMIF’s newly elected officers for 2012: president, Arnold Jesena; internal vice president, Edward Patanao; external vice president, Nardz Sahidulla; secretary, Israel Ramos; treasurer, Roel Genson; auditor, Robert Fua; sergeant at arms: Eldrid Refil, Vic Gulla and Joseph De Vera.

UMIF'a co–founders are Mannix Abela, Emil Tipa, Reymond Araneta, Jayson Hizon and Julius Mancio.