Ryan Lumor’s story is one of resilience, entrepreneurship and giving back to the community that gave him his first opportunity. Ryan and Christina Lumor have just opened their fifth business in five years since moving to Ireland from the Philippines.
When Ryan first arrived in Cork 10 years ago he worked in the Ballincollig nursing home that sponsored his work permit. Now he owns three businesses in close proximity to the place that gave him his start, along with two more across Cork City and Dublin.
FILO First is Lumor’s newest undertaking. Designed to be a needle-free skin and glow studio, FILO First provides an accessible entry point into skincare. Made to help people navigate what has become an overcrowded industry. Both qualified nurses, Ryan and Christina have been working in aesthetics for years. Their first clinic, The FILO Clinic is one of Ireland’s most advanced destinations for nurse-led skincare and treatments. Ryan has become a leading expert in skincare and lasers and has trained clinics across Europe, specialising in Sciton, Sofwave and LDM Triple
FILO First, on Main Street in Ballincollig specialises in skin maintenance, professional facials, and chemical peels. Ideal for less intense regimens, or in between treatments. FILO First is made to be the perfect complement to the FILO Clinic in Cork. Ryan and Christina pride themselves on pioneering clinical excellence and innovation.
10 years ago when Ryan made the move to Cork he was alone. Christina, his wife was still nursing in Kuwait and their son Cairo was living in the Philippines with his grandparents. Building these businesses has helped Ryan to create a home in Cork for his family, and other Filipinos like him. Talking about his son Cairo’s future, Ryan says: “I’m trying to convince him to study dermatology in South Korea so he can continue what we’ve started.”
As well as building a homestead for his wife and son in Cork, Ryan was able to give his parents a home in the Philippines. After living in a house made of coconut leaves and wood for most of their lives, his parents now live in a brick house, “The best in the village.” They are full of pride for their son and show off their house at every opportunity.
Giving back to the Ballincollig community has been a huge milestone for Ryan. Creating job opportunities for both Filipino and Irish people makes him feel proud. “Having both Filipino and Irish staff reminds me how far we’ve come. Thinking of everything my mother sacrificed, I’m overwhelmed and proud. I never could have dreamed of this life.”
Having once relied on a sponsored work permit themselves, Ryan and Christina now proudly sponsor work permits for others, helping create opportunities for the next generation. Between their five enterprises, the Lumors employ 18 full-time staff. Christina says “Creating opportunities for people and giving something back to Ireland means more to us than any business milestone.” Growing up in the Philippines taught Ryan the importance of hard work and resilience: “Whether passing an exam or launching a clinic, I aim for the highest quality. I’ll work seven days a week to make things happen.”
Ryan and Christina Lumor have turned their Irish dream into an inspiring reality. When they became Irish citizens they were overwhelmed with gratitude for their accomplishments. “It’s been a long journey,” Ryan says. “But now, I don’t just live here, I belong here. And I’m proud to call Ireland home.”
Check out Filo First on Instagram here.
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