Why this Filipino keeps his home open for those in need

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, July 28, 2026

Filipino creative JM Avelino has been providing temporary shelter and financial support to expatriates in Dubai who face housing insecurity and financial difficulties. His efforts aim to combat isolation and nurture emerging talent in the city's creative industry by offering mentorship, resources, and hands-on experience.

JM Avelino, a Filipino creative based in Dubai, has made a habit of offering shelter to expatriates facing financial hardship or housing insecurity in the city. Over the years, Avelino has welcomed individuals into his Deira apartment for varying lengths of time—from a few nights to several months—providing them with a temporary refuge as they seek employment or regain stability.

Avelino emphasizes that his actions go beyond charity, framing them as an effort to ensure that no one feels isolated while trying to build a life far from home. His inclination to help stems from personal experience; before establishing himself in the UAE's creative industry, he faced significant financial challenges and feelings of uncertainty. "I know what it’s like to look at your wallet and wonder how you’re going to make it through the month," he said, describing the struggles he endured in his early days abroad.

In addition to offering housing, Avelino has lent money to emerging filmmakers and creatives, assisting them with equipment rentals necessary for their projects. He expresses understanding when borrowers are unable to repay, viewing these acts of support as investments in others’ potential during critical moments. Furthermore, Avelino has mentored aspiring directors and creatives by inviting them onto professional film sets in Dubai, providing them with hands-on experience to develop their skills and portfolios. He believes that access to creative knowledge should be open, mirroring the support he received at the start of his career.

Avelino’s dedication to storytelling led him to pursue formal education in filmmaking. In 2016, he used his savings to study in Australia, before relocating to Dubai in 2018. Since his arrival, he has been inspired by the city’s dynamic environment—the striking architecture, multicultural population, and vibrant street energy—which he views as a rich backdrop for storytelling. His experiences highlight a commitment not only to his own creative growth but also to fostering opportunities for others facing similar challenges in a foreign land.

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