AICI GL BAL
REBUILD EDITION
REBUILD THE IMAGE BUSINESS FEATURE
STRATEGIES TO HELP REBUILD IN THE “NEW NORMAL” BY AYSHA CORREA
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:
OLEN JUAREZ-LIM ALSO INSIDE: CERTIFICATION STORY: LICI TOMKIW, AICI CIP REBUILDING OUR TOMORROW JUST DO, JUST LEARN IN A TIME OF CRISIS, A NEW NORMAL FASHION STATEMENT EMERGES
JULY 2020
2 | July 2020 magazine
2020
AICI BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Ferial Youakim, AICI CIM President Elect Lilian Bustamante, AICI CIM Secretary Gail Morgan, AICI CIP Treasurer Marilyn Neel, AICI CIC VP Certification Ana Cheong, AICI CIP VP Education Sue Donnelly, AICI CIP VP Business Development Olen Juarez-Lim, AICI CIP VP Conference Mia LaMotte, AICI CIC VP Chapters Alheli Valerio, AICI CIC VP Conference Mia LaMotte, AICI CIC VP Marketing Fernanda Luchesi, AICI CIC VP Membership Martha Risco Executive Director Gigi Sutton, MBA AICI HEADQUARTERS 1000 Westgate Drive, Ste. 252 St. Paul, MN 55114-1067 Phone: 651-290-7468 Fax: 651-290-2266 www.AICI.org Comments about the magazine? editor@aici.org
EDITOR’S NOTE COVID-19 has undoubtedly changed the way of life for humankind. We always dream of focusing on what truly matters, but in our day to day busy lives, where we get stuck in the rut of finishing a task, this remains a dream only. From personal experience, COVID-19 was that wakeup call, the significant life change for me to shift my focus on what I truly want. I sat and wrote down my top priorities in life and decided that I will be focusing on the same from this point onwards. Now I may have made it sound effortless. However, the task of reprioritizing requires a tremendous amount of decluttering your mind. Here are the three steps I suggest to work through the complex entity called the mind and create your priority list: 1. M ake a list of the most critical aspects of your life. 2. M ake a list of the things you spend most of your time doing and thinking about. 3. Compare the two and see how you can get them even more aligned. This edition, we have also focused on helping you all reprioritize and rebuild your image business. In the featured article by Aysha Correa, she shares strategies to rebuild in the "New Normal." We also bring some fabulous pieces from our Editorial team. I'm also honored to interview Ms. Olen Juarez-Lim in the member spotlight. As the Editor-in-chief, I believe that you will find this edition informative, fun, engaging, and thought-provoking, which has been my aim with every issue. It has been a great journey in these two years. With both regret and excitement, I would like to share that I'm stepping down from my role in the AICI magazine. While I will miss my time working on the magazine and with my fabulous editorial team, I'm also excited and looking forward to the next set of leadership to take this magazine to greater heights. Going forward, I encourage all our dedicated readers to read, share, and contribute to the magazine. AICI completes 30 years this year, and it gives each one of us a fantastic sense of pride to be part of this association of image consultant. Lastly, I'm grateful to my excellent editorial team, Limb Design, my contributors, and all the readers and each member of AICI. You made my experience a truly unforgettable one. #ProudToBeAICI
SONIA DUBEY DEWAN, AICI CIP Editor-in-Chief
The Association of Image Consultants International | 3
PUBLICATION CREDITS
Issue 28 EDITOR IN CHIEF Sonia Dubey Dewan, AICI CIP
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Maria Monica F. Prado Rooja Desai
BUSINESS EDITOR Carrie McConkey
FASHION EDITOR Lenore Aguilar
COPY EDITORS Bernie Burson, AICI CIC Julie Kaufman, AICI CIP
FEATURED CONTRIBUTORS Aysha Correa, AICI CIC Lici Tomkiw, AICI CIP Sonia Dubey Dewan, AICI CIP
LAYOUT Limb Design AICI GLOBAL is produced quarterly by Association of Image Consultants International, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing the level of professionalism and enhancing the recognition of image consultants. AICI GLOBAL promotes AICI’s ideas, activities, interests and goals to its members. Responsibility is not assumed for the opinions of writers or other articles. AICI GLOBAL does not endorse or guarantee the products and services it advertises. 2020 © Association of Image Consultants International. All rights reserved. No part of this online publication may be duplicated or reproduced without permission from the publisher. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy of information included in the magazine at the time of publication, the publisher shall not be liable for damages arising from errors or omissions.
FOLLOW US on LinkedIn
4 | July 2020 magazine
LIKE US on Facebook
FOLLOW US on Instagram
07
PG
FEATURE ARTICLE Strategies To Help Rebuild In The “New Normal”..................................... 07
10
PG
Inside This Issue
PRESIDENT’S LETTER...............................06
ARTICLES Rebuilding Our Tomorrow............................................ 10 Just Do, Just Learn.........................................................20 In A Time of Crisis, A New Normal Fashion Statement Emerges..............................28
00
PG
BETWEEN US Member Spotlight: Olen Juarez-Lim.............................. 14
29
PG
CERTIFICATION Story of Lici Tomkiw, AICI CIP.......................................24
The Association of Image Consultants International | 5
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT REBUILDING
WE’RE REBUILDING AT AICI: WILL YOU JOIN US? We are going back to the foundation upon which this tremendous organization was first started - creativity. Rebuilding is such a cliché, but it’s what’s truly happening at AICI, and we invite you to be part of this revolutionary period within the organization. With the above said, the recent world events have changed the scope, direction, and operations of almost every single facet and niche of business throughout the world. Sometimes, though, you have to strip things down to the basics to make them even better than they were before, right? We pivoted to keep our members both safe and engaged. At first, it seemed like a loss, but going back to the basics actually turned out to be for the better. Today, we are rebuilding something that will be even more remarkable than it was prior to the pandemic. We are all AICI. One team, one purpose, and one journey. There’s nothing we can’t face as a cohesive unit. Together, we can start at our creative foundation and construct a masterpiece of epic proportions. ARE YOU READY? That’s not to say that the road to victory will be easy, but I can assure you that it will be worth it. We hope we have weathered the very worst of this dark and frightening storm. For now, let us look toward the bright and beautiful horizon before us.
6 | July 2020 magazine
We’ve left the routine of our daily grind to come up with new and innovative methodologies to safely keep moving forward. Ironically, the result offers even more, not fewer, benefits to our members. While we’ve physically social distanced, our members have connected like never before. We’ve reached out, supported and encouraged one another. The bond we’ve created is priceless. Our webcasts will be offered free of charge to our members. Plus, they’ve been CEU’d so that you can reach your certification goals more easily and efficiently now. Masters in the image industry have come from far and wide to offer you opportunities you simply couldn’t afford to miss, and this is a benefit we will continue to offer moving forward. AICI is here to help you rebuild your business from its own foundation. We have a Four-Part Rebuilding Strategy that you don’t want to miss. If you start now, by 2021, you can achieve these four goals: 1. Get or retain your certification, which will increase your brand awareness and boost credibility. 2. Join chapter events to strengthen your network. 3. Support both brand and industry growth by providing goods and services that are accredited. 4. Support the AICI footprint as the organization continues its global growth. As always, if you have any questions, concerns, or recommendations, don’t hesitate to reach out to me.
Yours Truly,
FERIAL YOUAKIM, AICI CIM President
FEATURE ARTICLE
STRATEGIES TO HELP REBUILD IN THE “NEW NORMAL” BY AYSHA CORREA, AICI CIC
The Association of Image Consultants International | 7
“WE HAVE A NOBLE PROFESSION. WE ARE A SOURCE FOR GOOD IN THIS WORLD. WE HELP PEOPLE COMMUNICATE BETWEEN THE OUTSIDE AND INSIDE AND HELP THEM DEVELOP A VISION OF WHO THEY ARE.”
I
f you are an image consultant, you probably enjoy serving people. It may also be a case that your passion has inspired you to give up a previous career to become an image consultant. I have a similar story and I love to constantly add value to and improve my services, so in January I started a self and identity course at Harvard Extension School. If I had to summarize my favorite lesson learned, it would be a quote, not from a great researcher, but from a familiar and mundane source: “In case of emergency, put on your own mask before assisting others.” In challenging times, collective hurt can consume us. If we don’t take good care of ourselves, we won’t be able to help the ones who need us. So, in this article I’m sharing the best strategies I learned this semester to help rebuild in this “new normal” scenario: LOOK INSIDE At Harvard I came across the work of Laura Crandall, Ed.M. and management strategist. Her subject of study is character. She defines character as what you develop when you act in a way that aligns with your values. Character can help you feel steadier and find balance as you navigate in times of crisis. To demonstrate this concept, she asked us to write 10
8 | July 2020 magazine
to 15 words about the qualities of our character (our virtues or values). Later, we narrowed the list down to 3 or 4 words. The words could be about intellectual qualities, e.g. creativity, curiosity; about interpersonal skills such as compassion and connection; or active things like courage and confidence. According to her, the key to find balance now is to take those 3-4 words that are most important to you and bring them into your life every day. I found out that helping others is one of my character traits and it has guided my choices even during quarantine. When I wake up uninspired, I ask myself “how can I help people today?” I recommend that you to do this exercise. It feels easier to face uncertainty when we reflect on who we are, what matters to us, what drives us and what makes our decisions. As Ms. Crandall says, those things are timeless. The world might change in unprecedented ways, but you can always count on your character! REDEFINE PRODUCTIVITY We need to redefine productivity because social distancing has forced us to perform new roles. We now have to teach our kids, clean the house, cook and work from home, and it’s hard to feel productive with so many identities and tasks. Why don’t we shift from a perspective of how much I am doing to how well I am doing?
traumatic experience and showed signs of increased appreciation towards life. (Joseph and Butler, 2010). She recommends an exercise where at the end of each day we should write 3 good things that happened to us. The objective of this practice is to raise awareness of the positive things we experience, and enhance the capacity of seeing the good even when things are challenging. GIVE YOURSELF PERMISSION TO BE HUMAN
Another challenge is that our job as image consultants may feel lonely. To rebuild in this new reality, it is important to increase our sense of community. I encourage you to participate in AICI teleclasses, webcasts and online events. Meeting other members who share the same worries and passions has made a huge difference to my quarantine days. NETWORK WHILE SOCIAL DISTANCING Besides engaging in online events, you can try to increase the online visibility of your business. Use this time to create or update your social media profiles, connect with old friends and join industry discussion groups that can make a positive impact on your career. BE GRATEFUL I learned from positive psychology specialist Deb Levy about research which suggests that between 30-70% of individuals who experienced trauma also report positive change and growth coming out of the
It’s OK to feel bad about lost opportunities and cancelled events. A global pandemic is not the moment to expect perfection from yourself or others. We may not perform to the best of our abilities when we encounter big changes, and that’s why it is important to be gentle to ourselves when things are changing. I will never forget a message from my mentor and AICI founding member Alyce Parsons in our 26th magazine issue. She stated: “We have a noble profession. We are a source for good in this world. We help people communicate between the outside and inside and help them develop a vision of who they are.” As we go through the trials and tribulations of COVID-19, we need to take care of ourselves first, and then rebuild. We need to improve our industry and prepare for our future achievements.
WE DEFINITELY NEED YOU TO BE A SOURCE FOR GOOD IN THE WORLD, AS ALYCE BRILLIANTLY SAID!
AYSHA CORREA, AICI CIC, is the first Certified Universal Style Consultant™ in Brazil, and holds a certificate in adult teaching from St Giles College (London). Aysha has been using her experience to talk about style in events and institutions not only in Brazil, but also in Angola, Argentina, Portugal and the United States. She is the founder of Aysha Correa Consultoria de Estilo and has served as the Secretary and VP Communication of AICI Brazil from 2016 to 2020. Aysha is now pursuing a master’s degree in applied psychology and is VERY grateful for the amazing people image consulting has brought into her life!
The Association of Image Consultants International | 9
ARTICLE
REBUILDING OUR TOMORROW:
THE AICI GLOBAL MAGAZINE TEAM’S TAKE ON THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC BY MARIA MONICA F. PRADO, ASSOCIATE EDITOR
10 | July 2020 magazine
The world has changed. Social distancing has replaced hugs, kisses, and handshakes. Lockdowns have put a halt to travels and social gatherings. Virtual meetings and classes have taken the place of classroom learning. Indeed, it has been a difficult time for the whole world and we, the members of the AICI Global Magazine editorial board, are there with you. As we worked on the magazine’s July issue, we took some time to reflect and share with you what we have learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and a message that we hope would help you rebuild your career and your life.
SONIA DUBEY DEWAN, AICI CIP
MARIA MONICA F. PRADO, AICI
Editor-in-Chief, AICI Global Magazine Managing Partner, Indian School of Image Management
Associate Editor, AICI Global Magazine Master Trainer and Founder, Communicare Training and Development
What has this whole experience with the pandemic taught you?
What has this whole experience with the pandemic taught you?
Gratitude! With our ambition and maximalist lifestyle, we tend to overlook our blessings. This pandemic made me more aware and thankful for what I have than what I want.
This pandemic is a very humbling experience for mankind. It has taught me to simplify and detach from worldly things. It has also reminded me to have faith no matter how difficult the situation is.
This issue's theme is REBUILDING. It aims to help AICI members rebuild, restart, or relaunch their careers. What advice can you give to our fellow AICI members?
This issue's theme is REBUILDING. It aims to help AICI members rebuild, restart, or relaunch their careers. What advice can you give to our fellow AICI members?
First, trust your core knowledge. What you already know about business is enough.
No one can really say what will happen to the world after this pandemic. What we can do now is plant the seeds because whatever we sow today we will reap in the future.
Second, learn new ways to deliver your core knowledge, for example, remote consultations. Remember that you are the generation that has learned TV, radio, computers, mobile phones, and many other things. You will get this too.
The Association of Image Consultants International | 11
ROOJA DESAI, AICI Associate Editor, AICI Global Magazine Image Consultant and Founder, Caterpillar Image Consulting
What has this whole experience with the pandemic taught you?
This issue’s theme is REBUILDING. It aims to help AICI members rebuild, restart, or relaunch their career. What advice can you give to our fellow AICI members? To face your demons and identify what fears are holding you back. Then, courageously take this moment and make any changes needed in your business to fit YOU. When you truly follow your heart, the doors will open.
There is always enough time, enough love. I pray with my family as we hope for a better tomorrow.
This issue's theme is REBUILDING. It aims to help AICI members rebuild, restart, or relaunch their careers. What advice can you give to our fellow AICI members? Invest in yourself. Learn new techniques and read books. Introspect about the services that you provide and think about how you can improvise them. Think of how you can collaborate with others to give solutions to the exact problems that people are facing now.
LENORE AGUILAR Fashion Editor, AICI Global Magazine Freelance Writer and Founder, Muse Personal Styling
What has this whole experience with the pandemic taught you? For years, I’ve heeded the advice of financial expert Suze Orman, who says: People first, then money, then things. I’ve been keeping this in mind as I progress through this period.
CARRIE MCCONKEY, AICI Business Editor, AICI Global Magazine Owner, Carrie M. Image Consulting
What has this whole experience with the pandemic taught you? To appreciate the small things in life such as the freedom to move about, and the smile on someone’s face not hidden by a mask. And to not take hugs or handshakes for granted.
12 | July 2020 magazine
This issue’s theme is REBUILDING. It aims to help AICI members rebuild, restart, or relaunch their career. What advice can you give to our fellow AICI members? I heard one news report where a business guru said that once quarantine has ended, the next step isn’t about restarting or relaunching—it’s about rethinking. That’s good advice for our lives in general, not just business.
BERNIE BURSON, AICI CIC Copy Editor, AICI Global Magazine Personal Image Consultant, Bernie Burson Color & Image
JULIE KAUFMAN, AICI Copy Editor, AICI Global Magazine Principal, Julie Kaufman Wardrobe Consulting
What has this whole experience with the pandemic taught you?
What has this whole experience with the pandemic taught you?
First, people are generally resilient in a crisis.
I have found that I actually do have the ability to be patient when there is no alternative. I am trying to take solace in little pleasures.
Second, many of my colleagues are coming up with great ideas for working with clients virtually and I plan to implement some of them.
This issue’s theme is REBUILDING. It aims to help AICI members rebuild, restart, or relaunch their career. What advice can you give to our fellow AICI members? Get together with your AICI friends and colleagues on Zoom or another platform and brainstorm ways you can continue to serve clients. There are so many ideas out there, and so many members who are happy to share their expertise and ideas.
This issue’s theme is REBUILDING. It aims to help AICI members rebuild, restart, or relaunch their career. What advice can you give to our fellow AICI members? This is a good time to be thoughtful about what you want from your business and put systems in place. Do all those little things you keep putting off, so you will be organized and so you can concentrate on the important work when business gets going again.
YES, THE WORLD HAS CHANGED… YES, IT WILL NEVER BE THE SAME AGAIN… AND YES, WE DO NOT KNOW WHAT LIES AHEAD… YET ONE THING IS CERTAIN… WE STILL HAVE TODAY TO REBUILD OUR TOMORROW. The Association of Image Consultants International | 13
BETWEEN US
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:
MS. OLEN JUAREZ LIM, AICI CIP BY SONIA DUBEY DEWAN, AICI CIP
14 | July 2020 magazine
This member spotlight I bring to you a pioneer image consultant, Ms. Olen Juarez-Lim. She is a Certified Image Professional, Etiquette and Protocol Consultant, Certified Professional Courtesy Coach, Personal Branding Strategist, Certified 360Reach Analyst, and Certified Social Branding Analyst with 15 years of experience. She has learned from the industry’s best in business, communication, and presentation and shares her rich experience in this section. Read along to know more about Ms. O.
1. H ow did you get started in image consulting? I got started with image consulting in the mid-1980's when I was an assistant to the director/teacher of a personality development school. Even before that, I was a fashion and commercial model and had an interest in personal development. I was mentored by the best socialites and was a beauty contributor, stylist and writer for Cosmopolitan Magazine. I was invited to join academia as a college teacher for Personality Development at St. Scholastica's College and also was Corporate Affairs Director for Slimmer's World International and Mondragon Industries. When I realized people were asking me to speak, write, and be a credible resource on beauty, fashion, health, and etiquette, I quit corporate to work on my own. I figured that if I have to be a credible source of anything, I need to be certified and educated correctly in my areas of expertise. That's when I met Christina Ong and Lynne Marks in 2005 and became an AICI member in 2006. Forward to 15 years later, OJL Consulting is a mother-daughter tandem and proud to have my legacy to pass on.
2. What do you do in your business? My red-carpet clients are corporate businesses, executives and professionals, institutions, media, academies, and individual clients. I consult on wide variety of topics such as beauty and fashion, health and wellness, customer service, and luxury retail. I enjoy conducting programs on Civility at Work, Social Competence, and Systems Thinking for leaders, helping companies towards culture change and leverage to have the only Master Status Certification in the Philippines. I'm in my element when I do Brand coaching as it’s a blend of my fashion, media, and image experience in a mix. I contribute to articles for magazines and online and do speaking engagements, television, radio, and online resource guesting. I credit my work experience in retail, fitness, beauty, fashion, and media that provides me a wide variety of topics and knowledge to share. I like to evolve, practice what I preach, and stay relevant to the times. It’s a constant learning curve. By sticking with the process of my personal growth, trying never to give up, learning to overcome setbacks and obstacles, and trying new strategies, a powerful metamorphosis happens.
The Association of Image Consultants International | 15
3. What is image consulting like in the Philippines today, compared to when you started? When I started over 15 years ago, image consulting in the Philippines was uncharted territory. There was not much awareness of how the impact of image building concerned business goals, but personality development as a personal goal was more the thing. I am proud to have promoted image consulting as a career and the need to be certified.
4. W hat was the biggest challenge in your career, and how did you overcome it? Attracting and developing new clients, finding and retaining my team, maintaining profitability, and balancing work-life were some usual start-up concerns. Landing and maintaining clients, learning new technology and resources, dealing with challenging economy, and now global uncertainty, are some of the roller coaster rides I have experienced. What I have learned over the years is that there will always be challenges to overcome. When there is a continuous challenge, there is learning and growth. Many projects and people I have worked with have become sources of problems, knowledge, inspiration, and wisdom. The distinctive challenges, diverse inputs, and perspectives provide tons of reflection and takeaways that make the job a fulfilling experience.
16 | July 2020 magazine
I am lucky that my passion is my work, and I'm focused on doing what I love and staying true to the mission of my work. Every project is an opportunity to practice, and practice is key to mastery. I have expanded and learned new skills, as it's important to reinvent and evolve. I also learned that not all clients are the perfect fit for me; the flexibility and control over project choices and schedules hold me accountable to do the best I can. I always try to be the best in what I do and provide value to my clients. To reach a wider audience and clientele, I am fortunate to have my daughter, Miakka Lim, on board. Her broad experience in media, sports, beauty, and retail has added more diversity as to market reach and service offerings.
5. Y ou have served several leadership positions in AICI. Tell us about them, and what made you get involved in AICI leadership in the first place? Stepping up to leadership positions is never easy. It's about balancing your business and commitment to AICI. There's always a sense of fulfillment to contribute and leave a bit of legacy in the organization. I would like to think the leadership positions gave me confidence in my capabilities and strengths. Early involvement in the (now defunct) ambassadors’ committee, which involved recruitment
and chapter development, enhanced my leadership abilities, strengthened intercultural communication skills, and allowed me to develop friendships globally. The chapter position was more personal as it was a way of giving back to the Singapore chapter, where I've been a member for over ten years. It's a way for me to reciprocate the support they have shown me and ensure the success and stability of the chapter. They are like family, and I would travel for a day or two to attend board meetings and special chapter days. After a few years of not assuming leadership roles to focus on my business, it was wonderful to be part for the Conference Committee for AICI’s Chicago Conference with Valeria Doustaly and the GG team. I have experience mounting professional events and was excited to contribute. Getting involved in any level of leadership position may sound self-serving as we earn points, but you want to make the organization better and support what it represents. Serving and bringing your skills and energy to the table benefits the organization and you. Don't join only for the title and do nothing; it’s a disservice. I would recommend exploring where you can contribute. I would even suggest increasing the number of leadership points towards the CIP. This
way, we have more people getting involved in AICI, making it a more robust organization.
6. Y ou're one of only 100 Certified Image Professionals (AICI CIPs) in the world. Why did you seek your CIP certification? Those three letters carry a big responsibility. I've been in the industry for quite a while, and my mentor Christina Ong urged me to go for it. It's a tedious task of putting all your records and life's work into a file. I'm a bit of a perfectionist, so I would pay particular attention to submitting a portfolio that speaks of who I am and what I have accomplished and represented. The CIP designation is a gold standard (CIM is Diamond to me) and shows the world you have an extensive knowledge base, experience, and applicable skills to train and deliver results. Colleagues will expect even more from you, and clients see you as the expert that you are. Having the CIP designation raises the bar on other's expectations of you, and that pushes me to be even better. I always expect to produce exceptional work and strive to keep ahead of the game. It gives me a sense of professional and personal achievement, knowing I have the skills and commitment to high ethical and professional standards. The value increases, and I'm able to put a premium on my services.
The Association of Image Consultants International | 17
7. The AICI July 2020 Issue talks about rebuilding your business post- COVID-19 pandemic. Tell us your views on the same? COVID-19 is a global event and challenge that changed our lives at an unprecedented speed and scale. The shock to our livelihood is of a magnitude beyond what we can imagine. The economies and businesses are struggling, especially if you are a small/medium business enterprise. Everyone is trying to figure out the next normal, so resiliency is critical. I am reshaping my business plan and strategy and identifying fresh opportunities as life resumes. I shifted customer connections online, invested, acquainted, and deployed virtual platforms to connect with clients. My experience in media platforms comes into play. I have been invited to several live platforms to speak on positivity, new etiquette, and civility and to talk about opinions and perspectives during life in quarantine. Brand relevance is also critical. We sacrifice brand trust when we stick to our comfort zone. As consultants, our job requires live, face-to-face interactions. To take that away leaves us scrambling for what to do next. We need to be creative about the brand experience. I'm listening and learning from my clients about how they reinvent, taking the cue to adapt it in my business. I reach out to my coaches, collaborate with associates, and remain open to what can be.
8. W hat's your best business advice for other image consultants? My best business advice for image consultants is you are only as good as your last job. I've had that in my head since day one, so I take nothing for granted. I'm grateful for every opportunity, big and small. When there's a misstep, I learn from it. There are no mistakes, only lessons. Be great at what you do so you can be happy for others. That's empowerment – doing your thing while respecting other people's choices. Stay true to your mission and be authentic. At these times, people can see through and sense when someone is driven or posturing. I'm a creature who strives for excellence, and I know that is quite a feat, especially when excellence is not everybody's cup of tea. But I learn resilience and just try to be the best example I can be. Take care of yourself, reinvent, and hold yourself to high standards. There will be many trying times, especially at these COVID times. To keep the flame burning, I turn to my faith and to the people I love. Remember why you started your passion, your mission. Be guided to do what is right.
SONIA DUBEY DEWAN, AICI CIP, is an Image Consultant, an International Keynote Speaker, and an Entrepreneur. She is the first Internationally Certified Image Professional (CIP) in India chapter by Association of Image Consultants International (AICI), USA and also the President of AICI India-New Delhi Chapter. Sonia is the Founder and Managing Partner of Indian School of Image Management, providing education and training solutions to aspiring Image Consultants. Dubbed as a "Fairy Godmother of Transformation" by a leading news publication, Sonia is passionate about sharing her views on Image Management, Personal Branding, Positive Body Image, Entrepreneurship, and Women Empowerment. She regularly features in various news channels and publications in India and Mauritius. She is the Editor-in-Chief of AICI Global Magazine. She quotes, "You are your most valuable asset, start investing in it today."
18 | July 2020 magazine
The Association of Image Consultants International | 19
ARTICLE
JUST DO, JUST LEARN:
HOW AN ONLINE CLASS PROVIDED CLARITY DURING CORONAVIRUS BY CARRIE MCCONKEY, BUSINESS EDITOR
20 | July 2020 magazine
T
he last week of February I had planned a quick getaway to visit my Mom in Atlanta, Georgia. My excitement about the shopping and visiting we’d planned turned to dismay when I arrived to find my poor mother terribly sick… coughing and congested. She was hoping she’d feel better and didn’t want to cancel our time together, but three days later I was feeling ill myself. As I returned home and received a diagnosis of strep throat, a much bigger medical threat had been building worldwide and was quickly overtaking the United States: the Coronavirus Pandemic. My visits to the doctor for the lingering infection became something out of a horror movie, with a nurse in a face shield and full protective gear taking my temperature before allowing me to even enter the doctor’s office. Within two weeks after arriving home from Atlanta I witnessed COVID-19 hit with a vengeance. Seventyfive percent of my image consulting business – partnerships with local companies, presentations, teaching at our state university, and client sessions – had disappeared. I had invested months into some of these projects, in some cases the fruits of my labor having just emerged. My small business, the community, and the world were slowly but surely shutting down. Weak, sick, and scared, I struggled to find meaning in the surreal chain of events and took stock of what remained of my work: freelance writing. Starting as a contributing style writer for one magazine in 2018, the list had grown to four publications, and my work continued to expand into online content and a potential ghostwriting opportunity. I had been enjoying all of it, so I relished the fact that, if nothing else, these projects remained. Weeks before, I had signed up for a Writer’s Digest online writing class to strengthen my skills. It began in the midst of the chaos and I fought to stay focused. I was excited to learn to be a more effective writer, but with the weight of the world’s situation my confidence was shaky. As I interacted virtually with my instructor and classmates from across North America, our discussions included not only writing, but also our fear and shock at what was taking place
in our communities. One student lived in California near Disneyland; our class was among the first to learn of its closure. Late one evening as I worked on my homework, I sent my instructor, Estelle Erasmus, a panicked email. I was having a meltdown – my business was dissolving, and although it was no fault of my own, I felt like I had failed. I had invested in the class to learn how to be a better writer but feared I would “fail” at that as well. As I hit “send”, I immediately worried that she would think I was neurotic. To my relief, I received a comforting reply. Estelle said, “Just do and learn, and in the doing and learning, you will make progress.” As my body regained its strength, my heart and mind experienced a renewal as well. I continued to diligently work on my writing projects and the class, enjoying the productivity and communication with my writing clients and fellow students. I realized I was being pulled toward the craft as everything else fell away. Even my hairdresser had asked me to edit his Coronavirus message as I got up from the chair at his salon, shuttered just hours after I left. Each of these experiences had brought me joy and made me feel needed. Why wasn’t I pursuing it as a valid pathway within my image consulting business? Through my love of writing, I was enabling my clients to express themselves. They knew what they wanted to say, and I was guiding them in how to say it. Isn’t that what image consultants do?
"
DECIDING TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE LOCKDOWN, I PUT “JUST DOING” AND “JUST LEARNING” INTO ACTION, POURING MY TIME INTO VISUALIZING THIS NEW SIDE OF MY BUSINESS.
The Association of Image Consultants International | 21
Deciding to take advantage of the lockdown, I put “just doing” and “just learning” into action, pouring my time into visualizing this new side of my business. I hired Estelle as my private coach and registered for additional online writing courses. I contacted my webmaster to discuss new pages for my website, and had my printer revise my business cards. I held “Coronavirus coffee dates” in the form of phone calls to gain the wisdom of freelancers and published authors I had met locally or online.
This story is far from over… (pun intended). As I write this, calls are starting to trickle in for my traditional image consulting sessions: a client who wants to clean out two of her closets; a husband who is hoping our stores will open in time for a special personal shopping trip for his wife’s birthday. I’m happily welcoming these projects and people back into my life, but thrilled for the debut of another side of my business that will not only be vital and sustainable, but will bring me true joy.
CARRIE MCOCNKEY, M.S., has loved the principles of design and color since childhood. After a career that included interior design, bridal gown design, and work in the nonprofit sector in the fields of Career Services and Fundraising, Carrie founded Carrie M. Image Consulting based in Knoxville, Tennessee, USA. She now works with individuals and corporations on their appearance and written communications. Carrie's writing has been published in multiple magazines including the Knoxville News-Sentinel's Knox.biz business journal, Knoxville Style Magazine, and VIE Magazine. She also enjoys teaching classes as a non-credit lecturer at the University of Tennessee Knoxville.
22 | July 2020 magazine
BETWEEN US
MEET OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS BY SONIA DUBEY DEWAN, AICI CIP
FERIAL YOUAKIM, AICI CIM
ANA CHEONG, AICI CIP
President
VP Certification
LILIAN BUSTAMANTE, AICI CIM
FERNANDA LUCHESI, AICI CIC
President Elect
VP Marketing
MARILYN NEEL, AICI CIC
MIA LAMOTTE, AICI CIC
Treasurer
VP Conferences
GAIL MORGAN, AICI CIP
OLEN JUAREZ-LIM, AICI CIP
Secretary
VP Business Development
GIGI JABER-SUTTON,
MARTHA RISCO, AICI CIP
Executive Director
SUE DONNELLY, AICI CIP
VP Membership
ALHELI VALERIO, VP Chapters
VP Education
The Association of Image Consultants International | 23
CERTIFICATION
THE ROAD TO CIP:
LICI IANKOSKI TOMKIW, AICI CIP BY: LICI IANKOSKI TOMKIW
24 | July 2020 magazine
I
have always been passionate about style and image, and perceived them as a means of communication. As a teacher of English as a foreign language, I used to teach about appropriateness rather than accuracy alone. I said; “Say something wrong politely and you will be remembered for your kindness. Say something right rudely, and you will be remembered for your poor manners.” In 2012 when I moved to New York, USA, I reinvented myself professionally, and turned a hobby into my career. From early on in the image consulting field, I became a member of AICI and focused on pursuing my AICI certification. I had already been a teacher for over 25 years and I was confident I would continue teaching, but with different content, and that I would become highly certified to offer professional training. I believe that to offer training programs, a professional should be pedagogically and technically prepared. Therefore, I needed to have professional certifications. Fast forward three and a half years. I got my, then, AICI FLC (now AICI CIC) and another two and a half years later, I achieved my AICI CIP, which gave me the honor to be the first Brazilian image and style consulting trainer to hold such a certification level. During both certification processes, I was fortunate to have a mentor and colleagues who helped me stay on track and committed to my goal. I must highlight Dominique Isbecque, AICI CIP, for her unparalleled support and guidance. I strongly suggest you find someone whom you admire as a mentor along your professional certification journey. It was support, diligence and drive that helped me along the way. However, nothing has been as simple as I envisioned. I thought I was signing up for a hiking experience, but I was actually starting to climb a rocky mountain. Before we go into how I prevailed and am now anticipating being eligible for my AICI CIM, let me tell you: make sure you plan your certification requirements from day one, so you have an easier path than the one I had. When I first applied for it, I failed the AICI FLC exam. I could not forgive myself for months and suffered from impostor syndrome
until I realized I knew it better. I had studied for the test, but being a newbie I lacked experience when I first applied. In 2015, when I took the test again and sent in my portfolio, not only was I more confident but also prepared to hold and be proud of that AICI FLC.
"
I BELIEVE THAT TO OFFER TRAINING PROGRAMS, A PROFESSIONAL SHOULD BE PEDAGOGICALLY AND TECHNICALLY PREPARED. THEREFORE, I NEEDED TO HAVE PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONS.
Having accomplished the AICI FLC certification, I had another checkpoint ahead of me, AICI CIP. And that’s when my hiking actually became climbing! I applied for the AICI CIP process without being aware of dates and deadlines, and that was a huge mistake. I suggest you read all information when applying, and not try to reinvent the path that is laid out for you. Plan ahead by having all your documents at hand and information to contact people beforehand. Although I had everything laid out in my mind, putting it all together while taking care of a toddler was not a piece of cake. And all of that because I did not factor in my daily routine, how long the entire process was, or how detail-oriented I was (am!).
The Association of Image Consultants International | 25
As a woman of faith, I turned to God for peace of mind when I was sure I would fail. I felt time was short and was afraid my portfolio would not meet the standards. To make it even worse, at that point in my career I was having a rough time in business and felt like image consulting was a far-fetched dream and not for me. On July 15th, as I mailed my portfolio, I made a vow that if I did not pass, I would take it as a sign that I should invest in a different career. However, if I passed, I would bring essence to my practice and spread it to everyone who became my student or client. When I got the email with my approval notice and great remarks on my work, I took that as a sendoff to my next step, teaching women to see beyond image and to dress their clients’ souls, not only their bodies but also to express essence in style. I am still climbing this mountain and have the AICI CIM checkpoint ahead now. The difference now is I am prepared! I know what it takes and what is at
stake. I know that I am not a quitter and that I am meant to be exactly where I am, doing what I do. And so are you! I am happy and proud of my AICI CIP achievement and feel honored to be a part of such select group of professionals who help make our career acknowledged and respected around the globe. I hope I can elevate our profession’s reputation myself in every service and training I offer. In the near future, I hope I can share with you how climbing the last tip of this mountain felt more like a stroll in the park, just because I was aware of what it entailed. If you want to become AICI certified, do not hesitate! Start now. Count on me! It may not be a stroll in the park. It may be harder than expected. But one thing is for sure: in the end, you will learn that climbing mountains may be more rewarding than going for hikes.
A believer in image and style as a means of communicating your personal essence, LICI TOMKIW, AICI CIP, founded Brasilian Image & Style Consulting (www.brasilian.com). With over 30 years in education, she trains and mentors women who believe personal image goes beyond appearance and encourages them to contemplate the essence of clients as she does in her private practice in New York City. With the collaboration of some graduates, Lici launched The Holy Chic, a Christian non-profit project that helps rescue the Bel Et Za in women so they realize they are the house where God shines.
26 | July 2020 magazine
The Association of Image Consultants International | 27
ARTICLE
IN A TIME OF CRISIS, A NEW NORMAL FASHION STATEMENT EMERGES BY LENORE AGUILAR, FASHION EDITOR
28 | July 2020 magazine
"I CAME TO THE DECISION TO MAKE THOUGHTFUL PURCHASING CHOICES BASED ON A STAY-AT-HOME LIFESTYLE UNTIL THE CRISIS SUBSIDES..."
I
live in the Entertainment Capital of the World, fabulous Las Vegas. And my wardrobe looks like I live in Las Vegas: metallics, animal print, sequins, faux fur—and I love it. With the casinos closed, my tickets to shows at Strip venues are sitting in my email inbox until further notice. During my COVID-19 quarantine, I reflected on my priorities while wearing a sweatshirt, elastic waist knit pants, and pink, fuzzy socks. As I plan for my new normal lifestyle, I realize that my fashion choices will no longer be about my Las Vegas lifestyle. I came to the decision to make thoughtful purchasing choices based on a stay-at-home lifestyle until the crisis subsides. I pondered, what will new normal fashion look like? I look forward to wearing my leopard print face mask made with loving care by a fashion designer friend. It fits my face, it fits my Las Vegas persona, and it says that I care about fighting the spread of the virus. I hope this fashion trend is widely embraced, and I also hope it will become obsolete sooner than later. Post-pandemic, I will treasure my mask as a keepsake. Something my future grandkids can take to show and tell.
I love scarves, so I am happy they are popular again, in part for their mask-substitute utility. Scarves are also getting attention since the White House coronavirus response coordinator and scarf aficionado Dr. Deborah Birx began appearing on daily televised press briefings. The Instagram account @deborahbirxscarves created by an admirer has more than 41,000 followers celebrating Dr. Birx’s confidence, accomplishments, and style. Knowledgeable fans share insight into her collection filled with symbolism and Hermès, as well as where you can purchase them. A Wall Street Journal article featured a realtor who, inspired by Dr. Birx, donned a scarf for a Zoom meeting. The realtor describes Dr. Birx’s collection as “a new kind of hyperfeminism power suit” and “Wonder Woman’s cape.” I need a new pair of glasses, perhaps a wire-rimmed style. I predict they will be trendy and perceived as smart and sexy. Alongside Dr. Birx at the White House briefings is her colleague Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and
"...I PONDERED, WHAT WILL NEW NORMAL FASHION LOOK LIKE?" The Association of Image Consultants International | 29
Credit: Instagram @deborahbirxscarves
Deborah Birx of the White House Coronavirus Task Force wearing a scarf featuring a stained Dr.Dr. Deborah Birx of the White House Coronavirus Task Force wearing a scarf featuring a s glass designed by Ethiopian artist Afewerk Tekle, which was gifted to Birx by a colleague she h Birx ofdesigned thewith White House Coronavirus wearing featuring a ss glass by Ethiopian artist Afewerk Task Tekle,Force which was gifted atoscarf Birx by a colleague worked in Africa. worked with in Africa. Credit: Instagram ed by Ethiopian artist Afewerk Tekle,@deborahbirxscarves which was gifted to Birx by a colleague
h in Africa. Credit: Instagram @deborahbirxscarves Infectious Diseases. He was portrayed by Brad Pitt it feels much more relaxed than a standard-issue suit on a Saturday Night Live skit. And, there’s currently a petition on change.org to nominate him as People Magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive. Petition creator Sandra Martin explains that “His comforting and intelligent demeanor has helped to lessen our national anxiety.” One post states, “There’s nothing sexier than brains...” The staple of the normcore wardrobe, the polo shirt, has gained media recognition since New York governor Andrew Cuomo began wearing them to press briefings. In a Fashionista Magazine article, writer Tyler McCall confesses, “(Cuomo’s polo shirts) make me feel like there is a grown-up in charge during this crisis.” He adds, “With one button undone,
30 | July 2020 magazine
and tie. It's a softer look which helps tremendously when delivering a tougher message. . . I can't help but find myself deeply soothed by the big time Stern Dad vibes of this particular look...” In a New York Times article, writer Vanessa Friedman describes Birx, Fauci and Cuomo as “. . . role models, and what they are modeling, literally, is trust, reliability, work ethic, familiarity. Their consistency and calm in the face of fear is echoed by the consistency and calm of what they wear.” In the same article, Richard Ford, a professor at Stanford Law School and the author of the upcoming
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, Credit: Instagram @andrewcuomo
Anthony Fauci, M.D. Credit: NIAID
"...CALM IN THE FACE OF FEAR IS FORDHAM UNIVERSITY ECHOED BY THE CONSISTENCY AND FASHION AND TEXTILE HISTORIAN Anthony Fauci, M.D. CALM OF WHAT THEY WEAR." PFINGST PREDICTS NewALLISON York Governor Andrew Cuomo Credit: NIAID WASH AND WEAR CLOTHING Credit: Instagram @andrewcuomo book “Dress Codes: How Rules About Clothes WILL BECOME WARDROBE Fashioned the Modern World,” explained “[In a STAPLES, NEED TO crisis] we want the security of the tried and true: Lenore AguilarASisWE theWILL founder of MUSE Pers someone who has expertise and sober competence. ECONOMIZE AND SANITIZE. SHE Too dressed down looks like you are not taking this Vegas area resident is also the former lead pe seriously, but too polished seems overly concerned ALSOwhere PREDICTS LONG-LASTING Nevada, she has styled hundreds of wo with image.” BELenore THE NORM. 100CLASSICS volunteer WILL stylists. is a graduate o Experts who have studied fashion in periods of crisis SHE ADDS, “LESS DISPOSABLE concur, according to an article in InStyle Magazine. Consulting Certificate Program. She holds an “Most likely, we’ll see cultural mores about displaying INCOME MEANS LESS MONEY wealth or status change when so many people are out Gate University. She enjoys travelling and hi TO THROW AWAY ON CLOTHING of work,” says Natalie Nudell, a fashion and textile historian at the Fashion Institute of Technology. She https://nypost.com/2020/04/13/fans-figured-o EACH SEASON...” explains that “fur and ornate decoration slipped away during the 2008 recession.”
https://www.wsj.com/articles/dr-birxs-scarve briefings-11587742093 The Association of Image Consultants International | 31
AND THIS CRISIS MAY PROVE TO BE A PIVOTAL MOMENT FOR THE RESALE AND RENTAL MARKETS, ATTRACTING FIRST-TIME BUYERS AND SELLERS AS WELL AS INCREASED BUSINESS FROM EXISTING CLIENTS. So, in my new normal pandemic world, my Vegas wardrobe may not get as much use, but I still plan to make a statement. I’m wearing my leopard print mask, a power statement scarf, Fauci glasses with wash and wear garments purchased from a reseller. But, I’m sorry Andrew Cuomo, I just don’t think I’m ready to sport a polo shirt, at least not yet.
LENORE AGUILAR is the founder of MUSE Personal Styling and a freelance fashion writer. The Las Vegas area resident is also the former lead personal stylist at Dress for Success of Southern Nevada, where she has styled hundreds of women preparing for job interviews and trained nearly 100 volunteer stylists. Lenore is a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology’s Image Consulting Certificate Program. She holds an MBA with a marketing concentration from Golden Gate University. She enjoys travelling and hiking.
32 | July 2020 magazine
UPCOMING EVENTS TUESDAY, AUGUST 11, 2020
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2020
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2020
AICI WEBCAST: FINANCIAL LITERACY FOR FASHION PROFESSIONALS Time: 9:00-10:00 a.m. Eastern Standard Time EVENT LINK
AICI PORTUGUESE TELECLASS - PARIS ALTA COSTURA Time: 4:00 p.m. Brasilia TIME EVENT LINK
AICI SPANISH TELECLASS SOSTENIBILIDAD: CUÁNTO TIEMPO LE QUEDA AL ASESOR DE IMAGEN? Time: 12.00 p.m. HORA CDMX EVENT LINK
FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2020 ARGENTINA INTERIOR CENTRAL: TALKING WITH NEHA MALHOTRA Time: 9:00 a.m. CDT EVENT LINK
FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2020 ARGENTINA INTERIOR CENTRAL: TALKING WITH RACHEL JORDAN Time: 4:30 p.m. CDT EVENT LINK
TUESDAY, AUGUST 25, 2020 AICI SPANISH TELECLASS - IDEAS Y OPORTUNIDADES PARA IMPULSAR TU NEGOCIO Location: New York, NY Time: 12.00 p.m. Hora CDMX EVENT LINK
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2020 AICI US SOUTHEAST REGION’S “FACE, BODY AND SOUL” CONFERENCE 8/28/2020 – 8/30/2020 Location: Raleigh, North Carolina EVENT LINK
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2020 AICI NANJING CHAPTER CIC EXAM Time: 13:00 Location: Wuxi, JiangSu EVENT LINK
ARGENTINA INTERIOR CENTRAL: TALKING WITH MARÍA PÍA ESTEBECORENA Time: 4:30 p.m. CDT EVENT LINK
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2020
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2020
AICI WEBCAST: EL PODER DE LAS RELACIONES PÚBLICAS EN LA CONSULTORÍA EN IMAGEN Time: 9:00-10:00 a.m. Eastern Standard Time EVENT LINK
AICI ENGLISH TELECLASS - HOW YOUR CLIENTS CAN FIND CONFIDENCE AND FREEDOM IN THEIR BODIES... Time: 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time (US and Canada) EVENT LINK
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2020
ARGENTINA INTERIOR CENTRAL: TALKING WITH SONIA DUBEY DEWAN Time: 9:00 a.m. CDT EVENT LINK
ARGENTINA INTERIOR CENTRAL: TALKING WITH COCA SEVILLA Time: 4:30 a.m. CDT EVENT LINK
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2020 AICI CHINESE TELECLASS— 如何运用风格技术创造多渠道收入 Time: 早上 10:00 （北京时间） EVENT LINK
THE FIRST ONLINE EDUCATION DAY OF AICI BEIJING CHAPTER SUCCESSFULLY HELD DURING THE GLOBAL EPIDEMIC! AICI Beijing Chapter organized Education Day in the first half of 2020, amid the global epidemic. Sunny Yun Wang, AICI CIP, the president of the Beijing chapter, made a pioneering move and decided to move it to the first online education day. It was the only one of all chapters in China to host an online education day successfully. Given the actual effect of the lectures, three AICI senior expert teachers were invited to give incredible lectures on three topics in their respective sessions.
The Association of Image Consultants International | 33
NEW! VIDEO OPTION!
ADVERTISE YOUR PRODUCTS & SERVICES IN AICI GLOBAL MAGAZINE
REACH THOUSANDS OF AICI MEMBERS AND OTHER INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS WORLDWIDE AND BOOST YOUR EARNING POTENTIAL. OUR READERS ARE LOOKING FOR: Color Systems Body Styling Training Industry-Related Books & Magazines Multi-level and Network Marketing Opportunities Business Tools Continuing Education Units for AICI certification Health and Beauty Products Professional Development Workshops & Webinars Hotel & Travel Services Website Design and Support Career Coaches Sales Tools Clothing & Accessories CONTACT BLAKE FINGER AT ADVERTISING@AICI.ORG FOR CURRENT AD RATES AND DEADLINES.
AICI GL BAL AICI GL BAL AICI GL BAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT EDITION
BUSINESS IN THE TIME OF CORONA
3 0 TH A N N I V E R S A RY E D I T I O N
30 YEARS OF BUSINESS OF IMAGE
LEADERSHIP EDITION
LESSONS IN LEADERSHIP
FEATURE
UPCOMING BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TRENDS
FEATURE
WE ALL NEED TO BE LEADERS TODAY
BY ASHWIN DEWAN
LEADING THROUGH INNOVATION:
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:
AN INTERVIEW WITH IMOGEN LAMPORT, AICI CIP
ZOHRA BENA ALSO INSIDE: INSIGHTS TO START A NEW BUSINESS
FEATURE
GUEST EDITOR HELENA CHENN, AICI CIM
INNOVATION & INSPIRATION FOR IMAGE CONSULTANTS TEN MUST-READ BUSINESS BOOKS
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
KAREN SNOW, AICI CIP
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT APRIL 2020
KAREN BRUNGER, AICI CIP
JANUARY 2020
OCTOBER 2019
