Multi-award winning fashion designer Michael Cinco at The Global Filipino Icon Awards on May 17, 2024.

Dubai-based fashion designer Ezra Santos has been awarded as Designer of the Year at The Global Filipino Icon Awards 2024. Ezra received the award in a glittering ceremony at the Dusit Thani Dubai on Friday (May 17) with media icon Jessica Soho as the guest of honor. The award was handed by organizer The Global Filipino Magazine and its publisher Gabriel Rimando. Ezra has been in the fashion industry for more than 30 years, working with several designers in the Philippines and Saudi Arabia before moving to Dubai. He studied at the renowned arts and design college Central Saint Martins in London as well as in the Philippines. In his acceptance speech, Ezra said his award coincides with his 20th year in the fashion industry in Dubai, recalling how he arrived “with uncertainty” in the city where he has carved a name for himself in the fashion industry. He moved to the emirate in 1993 and founded his eponymous fashion label in 2004, becoming one of the most influential figures in the industry. Last year, the Filipino designer created the elaborate wedding gown of Dubai’s princess, Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, daughter of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. On Instagram, “happy bride” Sheikha Mahra shared pictures of her grand wedding, giving followers a look at Ezra’s amazing work with its intricate embroidery complemented by thousands of Swarovski crystals. Ezra has also dressed other A-listers, including Lady Gaga, Britney Spears and Priyanka Chopra. ICA/Expat Media
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