I can still vividly remember that day, six years ago, when I stepped onto the scorching sands of Kuwait. Full of youthful energy, dreams, and a heart hungry for creative exploration, I embarked on what would turn out to be the ride of a lifetime. You know, it’s funny how dreams take shape – back then, I couldn’t have imagined where this path would lead me.
I was just a young, aspiring photographer, working in an advertising company, fueled by an insatiable hunger to make my mark. I wanted to be part of something bigger, to create visuals that resonated with people, to dip my toes into the boundless sea of creativity. Little did I know, this stint in Kuwait would be the catalyst for a journey beyond my wildest dreams.
I had stars in my eyes – not just the ones adorning the country’s sky but the ones that adorned its stages and screens. I dreamt of working with those luminaries, of weaving their stories through my lens. It felt like a far-off aspiration, a goal reserved for the lucky few. But I was determined to make my own luck.
Fast forward those six years, and oh boy, what a ride it’s been! It wasn’t all smooth sailing, mind you. There were challenges that tested my resolve, hurdles that made me question my choices. But in the face of adversity, I found the fuel to push ahead. Those struggles, they were like ingredients in the recipe of my journey – they added flavor, depth, and character to my story.
Leaving Kuwait was a tough decision, but deep down, I knew it was time. A promise I made to myself echoed in my mind – a promise to build something of my own. A place where creativity roams free, where dreams take form, and where fellow Filipinos could find a platform to shine. And so, with unwavering determination, I set out to build Acabo CC (www.acabocc.com).
Acabo CC isn’t just a business endeavor for me. It’s a vision that keeps me up at night, a mission that propels me forward, and a testament to what a simple human can achieve with dedication and a touch of audacity. As I build this dream, I can’t help but think about the dreams of others. It’s not just about me anymore; it’s about fostering a community, igniting aspirations, and helping others carve their own paths.
I want to take a moment to extend my heartfelt gratitude to those incredible individuals I had the privilege of working with in Kuwait. To see your successes back home in the Philippines, building your own businesses, is a joy beyond words. Thank you for sharing this journey with me, for inspiring me, and for being a part of my OFW story.
Six years from now, as I glance back at this very moment, I hope to see that little dream transformed into a tangible reality. I hope to see Acabo CC not only as a creative hub but as a beacon of empowerment, a testament to the power of dreams nurtured with passion and grit.
To all the dreamers out there – whether your dream is as small as a whisper or as grand as a symphony – remember that challenges are just stepping stones, pushing you towards your destination. Stay hungry, stay passionate, and always believe in the magic of your dreams.
So, here’s to the dreams that shine bright, no matter how dark the journey might seem. To the dreams that keep us awake at night, to the dreams that drive us to become more than we ever thought possible. And to all of you, fellow dreamers, I say, “Padayon lang, Pre!”
Cheers,
Syed Qassim Acabo 😊
Follow me on my Social Media:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/syedqassim.acabo/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejustreflections/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/syedqassimacabo/
- Twiter (X): https://twitter.com/syedqassimacabo
