Set to be five times the size of DXB, Al Maktoum International will span 70 square-km
aviation3 hours ago
Josefino Tiberio, 54, is called 'Kuya Joey' by his kababayan (countrymen) in the Filipino community. 'Kuya' is a term that denotes respect and is used to address an older male relative or a friend. And that is what Joey is - an older brother/friend to a young generation of Filipino expats in Dubai.
With almost 25 years of experience in the travel industry, Joey is using his spare time to mentor young professionals who are eager to learn the ins and outs of the trade.
"I came to Dubai in January 1995, and I have seen how the travel industry has grown dramatically. Now, we are expecting a big boost in people coming to Dubai because of Expo 2020 and this means we need more people to work as travel agents or consultants. In this regard, I can pass on some of my knowledge to help people get hired or to improve their customer service," Joey told Khaleej Times.
The travel industry is not just about booking travels or tickets. It requires good customer service and the best way to improve it is when you have proper mentoring, he explained.
"For starters, I initiated a free consultation for people who would like to polish their CVs. And, together with other senior travel consultants, we have formed a loose organisation where people working in the travel industry can discuss best practices," he added. Aside from work, another thing Joey is very passionate about is the game of chess. He served as president of the Filipino Chess Players League from 1997 until 2000 and he is now a senior consultant at the same organisation.
The group has 50 active players competing in various international, regional and national competitions every year and Joey can be seen at the forefront preparing for the logistics, financial and moral support.
Joey can also be credited in assisting Wesley So, the Filipino-American chess grandmaster rated number two in the world, during his match in Dubai back in 2008; as well as Filipino Grandmaster Haridas Pascua, who participated at the inaugural Sharjah Masters International Chess Championship two years ago.
Joey is also a big brother to Filipino chess players in Dubai. He is someone who is always there and ready to give any kind of support. He said: "I feel happy when I act as kuya to them."
angel@khaleejtimes.com
Set to be five times the size of DXB, Al Maktoum International will span 70 square-km
aviation3 hours ago
Officers found hidden compartments in her luggage, prompting a thorough examination that revealed the illicit substance
crime3 hours ago
In recognition of his honesty and integrity, Dubai police awarded Ali Jamal Al Balushi with a certificate of appreciation
uae4 hours ago
Strong demand is outpacing supply at a faster rate this year than estimated, especially after the UAE’s removal from FATF Grey List
uae4 hours ago
The initiative is expected to boost public transport usage
uae4 hours ago
Authorities urged people to wear face masks and glasses when doing outdoor activities
world5 hours ago
In 10 years, all operations of Dubai International Airport will be transferred to Al Maktoum International
aviation5 hours ago