In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, George Hojeige, Group CEO of Virtuzone, sits down with Nap Estampador, Group Director and Founder at MEA Finance, to uncover the real story behind one of the region’s leading voices in finance and business media. From humble beginnings in the Philippines to becoming a respected name in Dubai’s financial world, Nap shares his inspiring journey of risk-taking, resilience, and reinvention. He opens up about what it takes to build credibility, navigate rejection, and create a lasting brand in one of the most competitive industries in the UAE. We dive into Dubai’s finance and business media industry, exploring the human side of entrepreneurship, leadership, and storytelling, and how authenticity and trust continue to drive success in a fast-changing business landscape. What you’ll learn in this episode How Nap built MEA Finance from the ground up with no investors. The biggest challenges of running a finance publication in Dubai. Why authenticity matters more than ever in business. How rejection can fuel long-term success. What legacy means in Dubai’s evolving media landscape. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, media professional, or finance enthusiast, this episode is packed with insight, experience, and real talk from someone who’s lived it. Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO of VirtuzoneGuest: Nap Estampador, Group Director at MEA Finance Real Talk Dubai brings you raw, unfiltered conversations with founders, creators, and leaders who are shaping the UAE’s business future — no filters, no fluff. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction & Guest Background 02:00 – From the Philippines to Dubai: Taking the Leap 04:00 – Breaking into Media & Early Career at ITP 06:00 – Founding MEA Finance & Taking Risks 08:00 – Challenges of Building a Finance Brand 10:00 – Standing Out & Building Credibility 12:00 – Passion, Purpose & Profit in Media 14:00 – The Evolution of Finance & Business Media 18:00 – Lessons from Rejection & Resilience in Sales 22:00 – Legacy, Leadership & Advice for the Next Generation Connect & Next Steps Learn more about business setup and growth in the UAE: virtuzone.com Follow Real Talk Dubai for more conversations with founders and creators building in the UAE. New episodes biweekly — subscribe and hit the bell icon.