From tragedy to triumph: A Filipina’s journey from the Philippines to leading a veterinary clinic in Dubai

Dubai: From the heart of Molave, Zamboanga Del Sur, Philippines, Dr Gelah Marie Magtuba’s journey to triumph is nothing short of extraordinary. Born into adversity, her story is one of resilience, unwavering determination, and an unbreakable bond with her family. At a tender age, after tragically losing her mother, Dr Magtuba stepped up to become the unwavering pillar for her two younger siblings. What many would see as a life marked by struggle, she transformed into her driving force, propelling her towards a future beyond her wildest dreams. Through grit and an indomitable spirit, she has not only overcome every challenge but has turned each obstacle into an opportunity to rise, making her journey a true testament to the power of love, perseverance, and relentless ambition.

“Losing my mother was a defining moment in my life, and stepping into the role of both breadwinner and mother figure for my siblings was an immense challenge. At a young age, I had to navigate the weight of responsibility—balancing financial support alongside my father while ensuring my siblings felt safe, loved, and emotionally supported. It wasn’t just about putting food on the table or keeping a roof over our heads; it was about being their anchor during a time of profound loss and uncertainty. That experience shaped who I am today—resilient, compassionate, and deeply committed to lifting others up in their hardest moments,” Dr Magtuba reflects. This overwhelming responsibility ignited her passion for success and instilled the resilience that would go on to shape her future.

With a deep-rooted passion for veterinary medicine, Dr Magtuba’s early experiences in the Philippines taught her that her work was more than just treating animals—it was about transforming lives. “Whether healing a pet or ensuring the health of livestock, every case reminded me of the difference I could make,” she says. This drive propelled her to pursue her dreams, leading her to the UAE in 2008.

The transition from veterinarian in the Philippines to vet nurse in Abu Dhabi presented challenges, but it broadened her horizons and further fueled her passion for animal care on a global scale. "It was about stepping outside of my comfort zone and embracing the challenge," she explains. Every day was a learning experience that made me more resilient and passionate about what I do.”

Her career took a pivotal turn when Dr Magtuba, 43, advanced to veterinarian at a prestigious government hospital in Abu Dhabi. Realising that her impact could extend beyond treating animals, she set her sights on shaping the future of veterinary care itself. This vision led her to become a business partner at Dreamers Veterinary Clinic in Dubai in October 2023, where she now leads a clinic dedicated to providing holistic, integrative care for pets. The clinic combines traditional medicine with holistic therapies, offering services that range from routine check-ups to advanced diagnostics, cancer treatments, and specialised care for exotic and avian species.

Dr Magtuba passionately shared, "Caring for exotic pets and birds means understanding their unique needs and medical requirements. Birds, with their sensitive respiratory systems, and reptiles, needing precise environments, both present distinct challenges. Our approach focuses on tailored care, minimising stress, and building trust to ensure the best treatment for each species."

Beyond her passion for caring for animals, Dr Magtuba excels in nurturing her team. "When you’ve faced life’s toughest challenges, it shapes how you lead and how you truly care for others," she says. "I’ve built a workplace where every employee feels valued, and every pet owner feels heard and understood." With unmatched dedication, fierce compassion, and the transformative strength of resilience, Dr Magtuba proves that adversity isn’t a barrier—it’s the fuel that drives greatness.

Looking ahead, Dr Magtuba is on a mission to expand her clinic, with a bold vision to reach even more pet owners and offer holistic care to communities across the UAE. For aspiring entrepreneurs, especially Filipinos, Dr Magtuba advises: "Believe in yourself, stay resilient, and work hard. Starting a business abroad opens doors to growth, but challenges will come. Our strong work ethic and resourcefulness set us apart. Take the first step, seek mentorship, and turn challenges into success — you can achieve your dreams — not just in the UAE, but anywhere in the world."