[WIM+] Meet DJ Sabate, One of the Game Changers in the Mobile Industry

DJ Sabate (He/him)  
Partnerships - Asia at Aarki

"I’m glad there’s a company like Aarki that promotes equality and inclusivity, but we need to keep in mind that there are other people who can’t speak for themselves and are silent because of who they are."

Since 2018, we at Aarki have been running our Women in Mobile initiative, wherein we interview exceptional women about themselves and their experiences in the mobile and adtech industry. 

We begin this new chapter to deepen our promise of upholding diversity and inclusion in our industry by branching out our features to outstanding individuals who support and uphold gender equality, women empowerment, and diversity in our industry, regardless of their background and identity.

We are happy to introduce to you DJ Sabate, Partnerships - Asia at Aarki, who is based in Manila. DJ is a fun-loving guy who is passionate about building and sustaining relationships with clients. He is also a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community and an advocate for equality. Catch his views about his experience in the adtech industry, and how diversity and inclusion can be reached inside and outside of the workplace. 

Q: What do you love most about being a Sales Development Representative?

I love that I get to connect with people, learn different things every day, and of course represent Aarki, by attending events, client meetings, and other occasions. I’ve always been passionate about helping clients, building relationships with them, and providing what they need. I love being an SDR because of the team that I’m currently working with. They make things so much better for me.

Q: Can you share with us the most significant or special moment of your career so far, and how it molded you as a person?

Being trusted to handle events and meetings by myself molded me as a person because I’m part of a company that believes and trusts that I can represent them. 

Q: How do you stay motivated at work, in the time of working from home during a pandemic?

At first, the transition from working in the office to working from home was hard for me. I had gotten so used to working in the office, seeing, and interacting with workmates. I also loved going out with them during breaks. This pandemic changed a lot of things, but one thing that made me stay motivated and wake up every day is my goal to be better at what I do. 

Q: What do you think are challenges for the LGBTQ+ community in adtech?

So far, I haven’t experienced discrimination and inequality in this industry towards my gender preference, but that’s just me. I haven’t heard of any LGBTQ+ stories in this field, which is sad because it shows that people from the community are hardly recognized. I can’t help but think, “Why do women and LGBTQ+ people need to prove themselves that they are also capable of working in this industry?” It’s a fast-paced business, but changes come slowly. We need to understand that this community doesn’t need special treatment, what we need is an opportunity to express what we think.

I’m glad there’s a company like Aarki that promotes equality and inclusivity, but we need to keep in mind that there are other people who can’t speak for themselves and are silent because of who they are.

Q: Can you share advice on how to be a better ally to women and people from the LGBTQ+ community, inside and outside of the workplace?

When I came out, my family and friends made it so easy for me. They tried their best to prevent discrimination and bullying, but they can only do so much. Inequality is everywhere, it’s in schools, malls, playgrounds, grocery stores, churches, and the workplace. People experience this every day. To be an ally you need to fight with us, speak up, and use your platform to stop this from happening to anyone. To be an ally, you need to be a better person, and promote equality and a safe space for everyone, where they won’t be afraid to express who they are, and sleep without worrying about another battle of unfairness they might experience tomorrow. 

Q: What do you like to do during your free time?

Playtime with my dog and watching series.

Q: What would your perfect day look like?

Getting my tasks done and eating good food! 

Q: How would your friends describe you ?

Talkative, fun, and outgoing.

Q: What is your personal mantra?

Q: What’s your favorite place in the world?

La Union in Ilocos Region of the Philippines. I’d recommend this place if you’re looking to escape or relax. They have a great beach and different varieties of food!