From Humble Beginnings to Makeup Stardom
Mau Piodena didn’t start his journey with the intention of becoming a renowned makeup artist working with elite brands like Chanel and Dior. Born on September 22, 1987, in the Philippines, Mau grew up in a home where the professional path was expected to lead either to an office job or the medical field. Coming from a traditional family with medical backgrounds, the idea of pursuing a creative career—let alone makeup—seemed far-fetched.
Yet, Mau’s story shows that passion has the power to push boundaries.
The Spark That Lit the Fire
The spark that would ignite Mau’s creative journey came unexpectedly during his older sister’s 18th birthday. he watched in awe as the glam team transformed his sister for the special day. That moment stayed with his. Pageants, beauty transformations, and makeup artistry began to fascinate his. Still, it was just a dream—until fate and courage took his to Dubai.
Dubai: A Land of Limitless Possibilities
Moving to Dubai was a cultural shift. Initially, Mau believed that makeup for women could only be done by women. It was a belief influenced by both social norms and his own uncertainties. But Dubai, known for its diversity and inclusiveness, opened doors that Mau had never imagined.
During a magazine shoot in the early stage of his career, He was told He was only “fit for wedding makeup” and that editorial or fashion shoots were beyond his reach. Most people might have taken that as a final verdict. Mau took it as motivation. He began investing in hisself—learning new techniques, mastering editorial makeup, and adapting to high-fashion demands.
Turning Rejection Into His Biggest Break
That one statement—“You can only do wedding makeup”—might have discouraged many. But for Mau, it became a turning point. He hustled hard, transforming himself from a wedding makeup artist into a sought-after creative for fashion, editorial, and celebrity projects.
His portfolio now sparkles with top-tier names: Chanel, Dior, Hermès, and Cartier. Mau’s work has been featured in Vogue, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, and Forbes—magazines once seen as untouchable from his childhood in the Philippines.
Growing up in a third-world country, luxury brands felt like distant stars. Today, Mau Piodena is among them, making his mark and breaking barriers—not just for himself, but for other aspiring artists too.
The Struggles Behind the Success
But let’s not forget: the road was anything but smooth.
In his early days abroad, Mau faced serious challenges. He lost his job due to cultural misunderstandings and found himself unemployed in a foreign country. But rather than give up, He hustled. Scrolling through social media one day, He found an urgent call for a wedding makeup artist. He grabbed the opportunity—and it changed his life.
From that one gig came more referrals, more bookings, and eventually, a steady income. He built a small network through word-of-mouth and church communities, slowly creating a name for himself. That one chance gave him enough to survive another month, and eventually, to thrive.
Leaving the Corporate World Behind
While juggling him makeup gigs, Mau still worked a 9-to-5 corporate job. But it was tough—events by night, office duties by day. Exhaustion crept in, and so did questions about the future. Then came the big decision: go full-time into makeup.
He stepped into the unknown, not sure of the outcome, but driven by passion. The gamble paid off.
Fashion Capitals and Global Dreams
Mau’s dedication and talent soon took him to the international stage. He has worked backstage at fashion weeks in Milan and Paris—places He once only dreamed of visiting. His skills and reliability made his a top pick for many luxury campaigns and global fashion events.
Next month, Mau will work for celebrities who walk for the glamorous red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival—a dream three years in the making. It’s more than a milestone; it’s a symbol of how far He’s come.
Being at Cannes not only brings personal fulfillment, but also opens doors to his next big goal: launching his own makeup school. He hopes to mentor and uplift others, especially those who started from humble beginnings like him.
A Vision for the Future: Giving Back and Paying It Forward
Mau is not just about brushes and blush—He’s about building people up. Him ultimate vision is to create a space that offers opportunities to all. He believes in supporting others, especially those who are unseen or undervalued.
“Sometimes, just showing up for someone can mean the world,” He says. And H lives by that.
He wants to be remembered not just as a top makeup artist, but as someone who gave others a chance.
Lessons from Mau: Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Artists
In an industry as fast-paced and competitive as beauty and fashion, Mau knows the pressure to stay relevant. “We are only as good as our last project,” He says.
Him advice?
- Always give your best. Every project could be your breakthrough.
- Be open to learning. Each encounter brings a chance to grow.
- Adapt and innovate. The industry changes rapidly—keep up.
- Please your clients, not the critics. Focus on making people feel their best.
Staying Grounded Despite the Spotlight
Despite all the glamour, Mau keeps it real. He knows that success isn’t a straight path. There are days when nothing makes sense, when doubt creeps in, and when it’s easier to quit.
But Mau keeps going.
“Stay grounded, keep the ball rolling, and never hold your guard down,” He says. Him life is proof that the journey may not be easy—but it’s definitely worth it.
A Life That Inspires
Today, Mau Piodena is not just a makeup artist. He is a storyteller, a mentor, and a living inspiration. From humble beginnings in the Philippines to the fashion capitals of the world, him journey reminds us that dreams don’t have borders.
It’s not just about glam. It’s about grit.
It’s not just about makeup. It’s about making people feel seen, valued, and beautiful—inside and out.
And as Mau heads to Cannes and works toward launching him own school, one thing is clear:
He’s just getting started.
Follow Mau Piodena:
Instagram: @maupiodena25
Email: mau.piodena@gmail.com
Phone: +971 52 898 5978
