Abu Dhabi, UAE — For Gemma Figueroa Paquigbao, a Filipino entrepreneur who has called Abu Dhabi home for the past 15 years, winning AED 100,000 was more than just a financial windfall—it was an opportunity to create lasting change for her family and business.
The owner of a small shop, Gemma recalls feeling an overwhelming sense of happiness when she learned she had won.
“I felt really happy and comfortable,” she said. “I had many plans for the money, but most importantly, it would help my sister.”
Before her win, running her business required careful planning and constant budgeting. Like many small business owners, she faced the challenge of balancing inventory, operating expenses, and growth opportunities while ensuring the business remained sustainable.
The prize money provided the breathing room she needed.
“I invested part of it directly into my business by adding more stock, which helped improve sales,” Gemma shared. “It also supported rent and day-to-day running costs. Now I can keep the business running more smoothly and consistently.”
Supporting Family When It Matters Most
Beyond helping her business, the prize came at a critical time for her family.
Gemma used part of her winnings to support her sister’s medical needs after doctors diagnosed her with stage three breast cancer. Because her sister has special needs, chemotherapy was not a viable option.
“She is now on regular medication, which I continue to support,” Gemma said. “She is doing well and no longer in pain.”
For Gemma, being able to provide that support remains one of the most meaningful outcomes of her win.
Building a Bigger Future
Five months after receiving the prize, Gemma says life feels more stable and structured.
“Before, I would wake up every day thinking about how to manage the business with limited stock,” she said. “Now I can invest in inventory, run digital marketing campaigns, and manage everything more effectively.”
The increased capital has also reduced the long hours she previously spent trying to generate sales through live selling sessions that often stretched until midnight.
Today, she enjoys stronger sales, healthier inventory levels, and an additional source of income.
Still, Gemma sees the AED 100,000 prize as only the beginning.
“My dream is to grow my business, help my family, and support others who come to me for help,” she said. “This win is just a stepping stone.”
Her long-term vision is ambitious: opening 21 branches across the UAE.
“That number came to me two years ago and stayed in my mind,” she said. “I also want to buy a car for the business because right now I rely on public transportation. I’m building step by step.”
Believing in the Possibility
Gemma attributes part of her success to maintaining a positive mindset.
“Yes, I always believed I could win,” she said. “Every time I bought a ticket, I would imagine what it might feel like if I won one day.”
Even when luck wasn’t on her side, she remained optimistic.
“When I didn’t win, I reminded myself there would always be another draw and another chance.”
A Message to Fellow Filipinos
Since her win, many friends have approached her with questions, some even wondering whether the prize was real.
“Many asked me if it was a scam,” Gemma recalled. “I told them I am the example. I even showed my account.”
She has since encouraged others to try their luck. One friend, after following her advice, won AED 100.
“I told her to keep playing and not give up,” Gemma said.
While she continues to participate regularly, Gemma remains grounded about her future goals.
“I play twice a week,” she said. “I’m not dreaming of the AED 30 million. Maybe AED 5 million would already be enough for my goals.”
For now, she remains focused on growing her business, supporting her family, and taking one step at a time toward the future she has envisioned.
