City Life Magazine Dec/Jan 2022/23

IMMEDIATE RESULTS GUARANTEED

This NEW non-surgical and non-invasive internationally patented cold laser technology is approved for spot fat reduction/body contouring and reducing the appearance of cellulite and is also approved for pain relief/control and management

FDA-approved and Health Canada-licensed. Holistic approach to fat loss: does not freeze or heat fat cells to death, require injections or liposuction.

Exclusively offered in Ontario ONLY at our clinics.

DESIGNED FOR LIFE

We offer a complete start-to-finish service, to build spaces that are as beautiful as they are functional. Every step of the way we try to bring out the best in your property, from preparing a detailed to-scale CAD drawing, to picking types of vegetation and colours for the patio stone.

416-949-7999 kennethmorgan.com @kennethmorganpools

DEMOLITION DONE THE RIGHT WAY

Endless Demolition is dedicated to quality service in every aspect of the demolition and deconstruction process. We are a team of expert operators and site-work managers with decades of experience in all types of general construction services.

416-336-6911 endlessdemolition.com @endlessdemolition

Kenneth Morgan Group believes that a pool and its surrounding landscape is more than just a home improvement. It is an exciting new lifestyle.

COMBINING LUXURY & SAFETY

We at Next Level Railings have completed projects of all sizes for a wide range of residential and commercial clients. We love what we do and we’re only satisfied when you are, too. Next Level is our passion and our business.

647-477-6398 nextlevelrailings.com @nextlevelrailings

PROFESSIONAL QUALITY RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL PAVING & INTERLOCKING SERVICES

We proudly offer commercial and residential asphalt paving (parking lots, driveways, private roads, new construction, tennis courts, resurfacing, etc.), excavation services, drainage services, asphalt milling, and asphalt reclaiming.

647-716-4111 nextlevelpave.com @nextlevelpave

We are FurnitureScapes. Whether you are poolside or beachside, at a 5-star resort or relaxing on your own patio, we believe the perfect day is spent outside. Our products are designed to create perfect outdoor spaces for entertaining and relaxation.

647-860-4799 furniturescapes.ca @furniturescapes

Home is where the heart is.

weather conditions, one could Lio’s case, where was God body, nearly taking his life and both of his legs?

the questioned religious leaders going up the stairs to rescue response that to this date gives me the rescue workers bringing Florida. And God was in the Lio. He was with the family life and later, for his recovery. ordeal, De Lio is lled with ready to help others nd ways to then, God also resides in De 32. not agree with my thoughts all know that one should not religion, for these are sensitive exactly a safe topic anymore, interested in our story about religion with 5 to 7 million believe in the betterment of service, you might nd your place of all sexes, races and creeds, and religion. Story on page 74. use more unity, love and faith, May you enjoy this edition of yours to experience and do

could God and leaders rescue me bringing the family recovery. with to De thoughts not sensitive anymore, about million betterment of place creeds, 74. faith, of do

Zerillo Co-Founder/Creative Director @amorebagstoronto@fernandozerillo

DESIGN

Prepare for the holidays, and have a stress-free season! Get ready with our list of gift ideas, decorations and organization must-haves!

WRITTEN BY MONICA MARANO

Featuring a boldly elegant steel ribbon, the Delfina chandelier by Prima Lighting is both visually intriguing and pleasing, as the light flows gently across the overlapping bands. shop.primalighting.ca @primalighting

LUSH & EVERGREEN

Crate & Barrel’s faux pre-lit hemlock instantly updates your front door or mantel with holiday cheer. The exclusive pre-lit hoop wreath enlivens your home with the look of fresh evergreens for years to come. crateandbarrel.ca @crateandbarrel

SCRUMPTIOUS II

This one-of-a-kind custom, custom carpet incorporates 38 shades of glorious colours! Made from 100% wool, Experience the softness against your skin. wstudio.ca @wstudiocarpets

MAJESTIC IN NATURE

This bejewelled panther statue, or jaguar if you prefer, is the perfect home accent for this holiday season. zillihome.com @zillihome

PEACE, LOVE & HOCKLEY

Staying home for the holidays? Shop local and visit a community favourite for local, fresh and organic products. hockleygeneralstore.com @hockleygeneralstore

DESIGN NEWS

IT'S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR

Add a subtle touch of festive décor this holiday season with this Christmas Village Ceramic House. kitchenstuffplus.com @kspstuff

KOSHER MENORAH

This durable mélange of quality and originality fits comfortably at home in contemporary as well as more classic interiors. williamsashley.com @williamashleyco

HOME GOODS

The ideal storage solution for high-traffic areas in your home. westelm.ca @westelm

ACRYLIC ACCENT

A uniquely designed stool with curves that form a beautiful décor piece. elte.com @elte

INVITE NATURE INTO YOUR HOME

This versatile warm-look natural-fibre basket can turn unused wall spaces into practical storage areas for clothes and small items, easy to see and reach. ikea.com @ikeacanada

STYLISH DECOR

Hang these soft knit stockings to your chimney and stuff them with little presents just in time for the holidays. bouclair.com @bouclair

Tasios Orthodontics Does More Than Create Smiles

When it comes to teeth, Dr. Bruce Tasios is someone who doesn’t settle for less than perfect. Here, he explains how he’s translated his vision for unforgettable smiles into a new Woodbridge location

Since Dr. Bruce Tasios started his work as an orthodontist, he’s had a dream to create an environment that reflects the quality of work his clinic does. By combining an artistic approach with the cutting-edge science of orthodontics, he’s helped thousands of people achieve the smile of their dreams. While his first location has already been celebrated for its award-winning design, his new Woodbridge location takes it to the next level.

“When I built this clinic, I wanted to have its esthetic and vibe reflect me and what we strive to achieve for

our patients,” Tasios says. “You’ll see it’s super modern, and great for kids and adults. There’s a cool games room and outdoor minigolf area for kids. For adults, there’s a quiet waiting area with waterfall features and cucumber water. I wanted to create a spa vibe and offer a great, unique experience.”

While the location was completed in August of this year, it was an idea that came to Tasios two years before. Whenever he visited a restaurant or hotel he believed was doing customer service right, he’d take notes and later adapt what he’d learned in his own space.

It’s Tasios’s second location, joining

Dr. Bruce Tasios founded Tasios Orthodontics to provide state-of-the-art orthodontic treatment across Toronto and Vaughan

one in Toronto and you can be sure that whichever Tasios Orthodontics clinic you visit, both have the same approach to service and results. Whether it’s the way someone is greeted when they enter the office, the amenities they find there or simply being seen on time, Tasios wants the experience to be a holistic one with exceptional attention to detail.

It’s the reason the team has gained thousands of followers on Instagram, winning business from its before-andafter photos. It’s also the reason why Tasios has clients who drive up to seven hours for appointments, from Montreal and even farther away, and why they have been voted the top orthodontic clinic in Vaughan for eight years running.

“If someone is contemplating orthodontic treatment, we offer a free consultation where we can review all options,” Tasios explains. “A lot of adults have a misconception that their teeth don’t move as quickly as younger patients, but that’s not true.”

He also explains that more adults are seeking orthodontic treatment now than ever before. He feels it comes down to a greater understanding of the confidence that comes with a better smile, as well as the more discreet options currently available.

It doesn’t look as though the Tasios Orthodontics brand has finished growing, either. As well as celebrating the recent opening of its Woodbridge location, Tasios shares how he’s applying his vision for customer service and orthodontic results by converting his previous location in Woodbridge to a pediatric dental clinic, which should be complete by the end of 2022.

3611 Major MacKenzie W. Dr., Unit 2, Vaughan, Ont. 905-553-7778

2085 Lawrence Ave. E., Unit 6, Toronto, Ont. 416-901-7778 www.tasiosortho.com

PHOTO BY EMAD MOHAMMADI

ORDER

Available at SHOPDOLCE.CA

FAMIGLIA ZERILLO IS PROUD TO BRING YOU PREMIUM EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL FROM THE ADRIATIC COAST OF ITALY.

Zerillo Oil is crafted to perfection by more than three generations of olive growers. Reinforced by the grandeur of the ancient olive trees, Famiglia Zerillo honours our family’s heritage and legacy afforded by its founding members by serving you an elevated farm-to-table experience.

Much more than a brand of olive oil, Famiglia Zerillo symbolizes generational aspiration, passion, connection and humility toward the craft of making olive oil.

ZERILLO.CA

NOW AVAILABLE AT

Meet The Real Estate Agent Selling Dreams

Since Niusha Walker embarked on a career as a fulltime real estate agent, her portfolio’s brought together some of the most impressive properties on the market

For Niusha Walker, an important aspect of being a real estate agent in today’s market is having a strong personal brand that people can relate to and shows what you specialize in. Take a look at Walker’s website and social media channels and the focus is clear: exceptional properties across York Region with all manner of unforgettable features.

Walker has a natural eye for entrepreneurship, having been the owner of a childcare centre in the past, and for providing high-quality services to the general public. Today, with eight years of experience investing in real estate and two years as a licensed real estate advisor, she funnels those business skills into helping people find their dream homes. With her knowledge of real estate, she is also a Certified

Luxury Home Marketing Specialist.

“The most fulfilling part of my job is helping people and seeing their excitement when starting a new chapter,” she shares. “When someone is buying or selling a home it’s one of the most important milestones in their life. During that process, I enjoy guiding them to ensure the process is as seamless as possible.”

Because every person’s journey to buying or selling a property is different, the first question Walker asks any client is “What is your motivation?” “Once I understand your motive behind buying or selling, I can better assist you and meet those needs,” Walker continues. “For example, I’m working with a client who’s living in a 7,000-square-foot home and their motive is to downsize. Now that I know their goal is more of

a lifestyle change rather than financially driven, we can work on selling their property without the pressure of market changes and timelines, but we also have flexibility when it comes to making a purchase.”

Walker feels real estate is one of the safest and best assets someone can invest in right now. As well as seeing first-hand the positive impact it can have on personal and generational wealth, she shares a quote: “You should buy land, because they’re not making any more of it.”

She’s also someone who firmly believes in fusing the tried and tested traditional methods with new technologies. “My listings get distributed to some of the largest global real estate platforms, including JamesEdition and Mansion Global,” Walker notes. “This offers my clients the edge while giving them the most exposure for their property. Locally, I’ll send out direct mail and use targeted online ads and collaborate with the best photographer and marketing team in the city.”

Especially now, in a real estate landscape that’s turbulent and unpredictable, it’s important for people like Walker to stay ahead of what’s happening, and she does that through constant analysis of local market movements, listening to real estate podcasts, reading articles and talking with colleagues about what they’re working on.

With a growing network of reliable lawyers, mortgage brokers and professionals she can connect with to help her clients through the process of buying and selling property, the future of Walker’s work is bright.

“I believe in crafting bespoke experiences for clients, regardless of their price point,” Walker says. “I always want to make sure my clients receive that white-glove approach before, after and during every transaction.”

1700 King Road, #22, King City, Ont. 416-996-9981 niushawalker.com @niushawalker

PHOTO BY FARZAM HD

Niusha Walker is a real estate agent specializing in luxury properties

Jim Anagnostopoulos: Following His Instinct to Help T

he seed that led Jim Anagnostopoulos to found Access Rehab was planted early. His parents, who immigrated to Canada from Greece when they were in their mid-30s, raised Anagnostopoulos as an only child. “When I was in my teens, my dad was already in his 50s. Both my parents worked hard to create a new life in Canada. While my upbringing was different than most of my friends, I’m grateful for the values they taught me.”

But as they grew older and began to struggle with chronic illness, Anagnostopoulos was faced with the challenge of becoming a caregiver, learning to navigate the health care system to help his parents access the care they needed. “It wasn’t an easy road. I had to be resourceful when it came to finding treatments and care for them.”

So, he completed a degree at the University of Toronto in Kinesiology, the study of movement, and started working in treatment centres, learning about the business and building a resource library of where people can turn to for help. This was the foundation for creating Access Rehab.

“I took everything I experienced with my parents, combined with my education and training with rehabilitation clinics,

and created a solution that I wished was available for me.”

That vision is one that offers a personalized approach to recovery, bringing together state-of-the-art technology and physiotherapists, chiropractors, osteopaths and massage experts to guarantee the best-inclass care. The clinic also provides specialty treatments like pelvic floor physiotherapy, vestibular rehab and chiropody and diabetic foot care.

“We don’t hire just anybody,” Anagnostopoulos continues. “We hire the right people. I make sure all my health care providers prioritize recovery and care above all else. My commitment is to provide the best possible care to help people access what they need to make full recoveries and return back to the activities they love most.”

Education is also a vital part of the centre’s mission, and a lot of time is spent with patients explaining the ins and outs of their recovery program. Anagnostopoulos emphasizes that Access Rehab isn’t just a place to treat injury but a continuously growing resource that invests in new technologies and treatments. “I am constantly researching and providing my therapists and clients with new tools and treatments,” he says.

Anagnostopoulos is someone who

has dedicated his life to helping people recover, but that reaches far beyond his vision at Access Rehab. Every two years, he goes to schools to speak on the importance of wearing safety helmets, collaborating with the Toronto Police Service and law firms to give away 300 helmets to students. He also supports Autism Canada, Vaughan Food Bank, Canadian Spinal Research Organization and, most recently, Million Dollar Smiles, a non-profit organization that provides accessible playground equipment to children with disabilities.

It’s an indication of his passion for helping others and all comes together at Access Rehab. At the beginning of the year, Access Rehab moved its clinic to Vaughan, into the newly built York Major Medical Centre, to taking its commitment to recovery to the next level. “I’m proud to be a Vaughan resident, and being able to collaborate with even more medical specialists allows me to expand my reach and provide our community with access to the very best in health and rehabilitation services.”

191 McNaughton Rd. East, Suite 303, Vaughan, Ont. 416-987-8092 | www.accessrehab.ca @accessrehab.ca

The clinical director, president and CEO of Access Rehab discusses his route to the founding of the clinic, its new location and why education is as important as treatment

SUCCESS WITH STYLE

Spread the word. The Haute Couture Academy of Fashion, Fine Arts & Design is on a mission: to prepare every student interested in pursuing a career in the design field for university programs. The best thing you can do to help your child is to set them up with the skills they need to succeed so they can take care of themselves in post-secondary education. Then watch them shine

How can I prepare my child for university? That’s what parents of every highschool student want to know. If your child is interested in design, the answer is always the same. “Don’t wait, start early — kids should have at least four years of specialized training,” says Joanne Dice of the Haute Couture Academy of Fashion, Fine Arts & Design. “If your child is in Grade 7 or 8 and you know they’re interested in the field of design, you have to take it seriously because if you wait until Grade 12, you are sabotaging them,” she says.

Now it’s more important than ever to give children that support, since so many high schools cancelled art and fashion classes over the past few years when they pivoted to online learning. And the cutbacks continue because

they just don’t have the budget. “It’s a mistake to think your child will get into a design program and learn to sew at university,” says Dice. “That’s a massive misconception,” she adds, because one goes to university to master skills they should have been working on for years. Many kids don’t realize how hard it is. They fall behind and become discouraged, which causes them to move to an easier program or drop out altogether.

What Dice is seeing now is kids in Grade 12 who need portfolios to get into fashion, design or architecture at university. Which is wonderful, she adds, “But everyone is realizing that they have portfolios coming up in the next year or two and they have zero training. They’re in Grade 12 and they’ve never really drawn, and the universities are looking for really high-level portfolios.”

Dice, who graduated from a design program herself before opening a school of design, is always at the top of her game when it comes to knowing what universities are looking for. At her school, 8- and 9-year-olds are creating makeup cases and pillowcases, something that high-school students are doing in senior years if they’re even

lucky enough to get sewing lessons at all. “My Grade 12s are doing suits, wedding gowns and even collections,” she says. Not only that, but Dice’s students learn graphic design, too, and they are well-supported with technology, including learning to use software like Illustrator and Photoshop. And that really gives the students a leg up. “Our students are getting into the Top 10 universities in the world for design,” she adds.

Dice likes to share an analogy. She tells students to visualize a huge basket attached to their hip. Every time they learn something, like sewing, patternmaking, visual arts and graphic design, she tells them to put it in the basket. “When the basket is full, you will find that ideas come much more readily, and creativity will be so much easier,” she says. Then all the students have to do is rummage through the basket for what they need to apply in different settings.

If you don’t have a full basket, you can imagine an idea, but you can’t bring it to fruition, she emphasizes. “By the time we send them to university, I want to make sure their basket is full.”

Joanne Dice of the Haute Couture Academy of Fashion, Fine Arts & Design ensures that students get exposure to all aspects of design

CHANGE IS NOT A SKILL. CHANGE IS A CHOICE.

Life & Family Counselling provides clients with a rehab-intensive, reflective workbook that guides you through understanding the way you think, feel and behave

Let’s talk. Mary Marano is a psychotherapist and relationship expert, as well as the owner of Life & Family Counselling. She refuses to believe that people cannot change. With the right support, effort and consistency, she believes we can transform our challenges into opportunities for growth and that, with this awareness, anything is possible. With over 25 years of experience, no one is more passionate about restoring hope and trust to the individuals and the families she helps. She and her partner, to whom she’s been married for 28 years, along with their children, became a family that supported teenage girls, assisting over 80 foster

children and supporting their families while in transition. “That is what was most impactful for me — when I saw the gaps in services and the lack of mental health support for children and their families,” she says. “So that is what prompted me to go back to school, [helped determine] where my focus would be and how I came into private practice.”

Marano started her private practice working from her basement, and describes people knocking on her door. “I know what I am meant to do.” She outgrew her home office and found a space for her newly created business, Life & Family Counselling. Her ability to help people grew rapidly, and today

she celebrates her fifth anniversary with her growing team and the community of Vaughan, where she lives and works.

Now Marano is known in the community for working with challenging and complicated family situations and high-conflict relationships. Many people seek therapy because of a crisis situation. It is difficult to live with feelings of anxiety, anger and despair. She is often the last resort for some individuals, and, with her warm and compassionate approach to therapy, one of her strengths is that she can quickly create a safe environment for individuals to feel supported as they go through life’s challenges. “To be able to restore hope and trust to the family

It’s time to stop repeating old patterns and instead create new habits that allow you to thrive in all your relationships. Yes, it’s possible, with the help of Mary Marano and the team at Life & Family Counselling!

Mary Marano has big plans coming in the New Year as she launches her new brand, Changed By Mary, including her online workshop and workbook

Interior Design

VICTORIA TONELLI: INTERIOR DESIGN WITH NO LIMITS

This Toronto-based interior designer’s esthetic is firmly rooted in seamlessly blending classic style with contemporary lines that find a way to push the boundaries

WRITTEN BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

Victoria Tonelli isn’t shy. As anyone who’s seen her work on some of the most popular design and renovations shows on television will tell you, each of her interior designs bears her unique signature look — clean, seamless lines that blend the contemporary with the functional.

While many interior designers develop a cadence and style their work over time, Tonelli traces her creative instincts to something innate: “As

a little girl, I developed big, bossy opinions on what colour my parents should paint their kitchen and what backsplash should be installed.” And fortunately for us, her perspective hasn’t changed since then. Today, she is creatively involved in making of some the most popular design and renovations shows on television, including her design work as senior art director and production designer for HGTV’s hit show Property Brothers: Buying&Selling, as well as being décor

Tonelli worked as the senior art director for the show Celebrity IOU. This beautiful outdoor space was a backyard-retreat surprise for celebrity Kris Jenner’s friend

producer for CBC’s daytime television show The Goods, just to name a few.

Continuing with the passion and design eye she possessed as a child, Tonelli has seen her work expand globally with projects near and far, including in Nashville, Los Angeles, New York, Calgary and Toronto. Her ability to take an international perspective on interior design is complemented by travel, one of the key sources of her inspiration. “Everything from visiting different hotels and restaurants to seeing different emerging fashion styles and colour combinations or historic buildings and landmarks — there is so much richness that you can get when you get outside your comfort zone and bubble.” This ability to take risks comes through in her creative process, which Tonelli describes as something that “never comes in a straight line … I’ll sweat every possible detail and I rethink designs until I really get excited about executing them. If I’m not excited about a design or an idea, I know I missed the mark and we need to tweak.”

We had the chance to catch up with Tonelli on her biggest design secret, where she sees herself in the next five years, and how to zhuzh up your space during the holiday season.

Q: What is a signature feature that characterizes your design esthetic and can be seen throughout your work?

A: I definitely veer more towards clean lines. I try to find ways to cut the visual clutter to allow the eye to seamlessly move around a space. Whether that be a hidden drain in a custom stone sink, a concealed storage cabinet with a stone-cladd door, opting for a porcelain slab versus small tiles on shower walls and floors, I find ways to to keep the different design elements of a space feeling continuous and maintaining an unobstructed visual flow.

Q: What are your top three career highlights thus far?

A: I think if you were to ask me five years ago what I wanted to accomplish, I would have checked off a lot of those boxes by now. I consider myself exceptionally lucky to have the experiences and travel I’ve had over the last years, so it’s hard to pick just one.

Although Tonelli has dedicated her career to interior design, she once thought she wanted to pursue a career in law. Luckily for us, she didn’t — today, her distinctive designs have aired on television screens around the world

RAPID FIRE

Q: If you hadn’t become an interior designer, what would you have been?

A: Lawyer

Q: What’s one object you can’t live without?

A: I hate to say it but my phone or my notebook — I’m old-school and am constantly making lists for myself and my phone because I have a terrible sense of direction and need Google Maps to stay afloat.

Of course, there’s the highlight of working with big names in Hollywood and collaborating with respected names in the design industry. Collaborating and joining forces with such influential names has definitely felt surreal at times. I'm guilty of Keeping Up with the Kardashians and also love their impeccable taste in interior design, so working with Kris Jenner was definitely a fun project that I really enjoyed. The

Q: Who’s your favourite artist and why?

A: Carol Benson-Cobb — she’s been someone I used from the very start of my career. I’ve seen her art evolve but also stay true to herself. Her work can make sense in the most modern of spaces and the most traditional.

Q: What’s your favourite book?

A: Guy Raz — How I Built This: The UnexpectedPathstoSuccessfromthe World'sMostInspiringEntrepreneurs

Q: What is your definition of success?

A: True happiness

size of the project and the scope of work was the biggest I’ve ever managed, so that was also a unique challenge that I loved navigating.

Q: Where has your work taken you and which city do you feel most inspired by, design-wise?

A: I’ve done contracts in New York, Nashville, Los Angeles, Calgary and Toronto over the past eight years. I

Victoria’s projects range from celebrity-client residential remodels, in-studio set design for daytime television and commercial shoots, luxury home staging and e-design consultations

truly have love for all those cities, but I think Los Angeles is where I feel most inspired.

It’s a place where people really take risks in whatever it is they’re doing and also where risk-taking is welcomed. There is so much visual variety in L.A. People are willing to try anything no matter how out-there and weird it might be, so the inspiration and energy of L.A. is very invigorating. Going out for dinner, walking down Rodeo, staying at the Proper Hotel, pop-up street art — you see some jaw-dropping designs on the regular.

Q: What are your biggest pet peeves when it comes to interior-design faux pas?

A: I mean, how much time do we have here? I would say if you have a piece of art that reads “live laugh love” I’d like you to strongly reconsider hanging it in your home.

Q: What do you think is more important when it comes to interior design? Beauty or function?

A: I think thoughtful interior design can really change how someone lives and the quality of their lives. Thoughtful design to me is really striking that right balance between both beauty and function. It’s my job to figure out how to make functional beautiful. The spaces I design are meant to feel luxurious but livable.

Q: Why do you believe interior design is important in everyday life?

A: I truly feel that good design can change the quality of someone’s life. That statement might sound like an exaggeration, but (good) design goes well beyond picking a paint colour and shopping for pretty things. A beautifully designed home’s ability to change how someone feels day in and day out is very powerful and never lost on me.

It’s between these four walls that you spend most hours of your day, where you raise your kids, where you

A beautifully designed home’s ability to change how someone feels day in and day out is very powerful and never lost on me

Tonelli’s designs express her versatility and range as a designer — always creating spaces that reflects her client’s needs while adding her signature

experience those big life moments and, most importantly, where you have your safe place where you should feel most comfortable. Having these important spaces be thoughtfully curated and designed to meet your own unique needs can be a game-changer to your overall mood and happiness. Design is deeper than just the beauty of it all — it’s all about the joy it can bring and the mood shift that can happen when simply entering a space.

Q: If a student of interior design wanted to enter the field, what advice would you give them?

A: Ask a ton of questions. Make those calls and make those connections. Be pushy at times. Don’t take no for an answer. Work hard no matter what position you start off in — there’s always that opportunity to stand out and climb the ladder. Have a plan. Like a good design project, always start with a plan. Be intentional about what you want to do and where you want to go and work backwards from there to figure out the steps you need to take and the people you need to talk to to get yourself there. Lastly, just make sure you do what you love — the success will always come if you love what you’re doing.

Q:

What’s your best-kept design secret?

A: Hmm — I don’t know if this is a secret per se, but I’d say the first and last step of my design process is a nonnegotiable for me and what a lot of people miss. First step is to always start with a plan. I never start anything without one. Don’t just jump in, you’re asking for trouble. And final step — accessorize. The power of this step is never given enough credit. It’s this last step that can transform even an unrenovated space to feel like your own and have that magazine-worthy wow factor.

Q: What tips would you give to enhance interior design during the holiday season?

A: I absolutely love the holiday season and holiday décor. I think adding just those hints of warmth can make a space feel so cozy and inviting. Swap out your linens for faux furs or beautiful wools, swap in some large Christmas balls on the coffee table and some beautiful pine greenery on the mantle. Candles everywhere. Simple things like this can go a long way.

Q: Where do you see yourself in five years?

A: I want to continue to diversify my portfolio and not follow the more traditional path of a residential designer, designing exclusively residential spaces. My newest goal is to start venturing into hospitality design. I think in those spaces you can really push the limits and execute designs that wouldn’t be universally appreciated in a residential space. Although not career-related, I see myself hopefully having a family in the next five years and navigating that very exciting next chapter.

victoriatonellidesign.com

@victoriatonellidesigns

READ FULL INTERVIEW WITH VICTORIA TONELLI AT WWW.MYCITYLIFE.CA

EDIBLE ARRANGEMENTS IS THE PERFECT GIFT FOR ANY OCCASION

Many know Edible Arrangements as the place to get fruit baskets, but it has become so much more! Now offering flowers, baked goods, dipped fruits and festive treats, Edible Arrangements is the place to get the best gifts for any occasion. Edible Arrangements make the perfect gift for birthdays, anniversaries and to show your sympathy.

In the 16 years since Cannella purchased her franchise, many things have changed. Originally, they only made fruit baskets and offered sameday paid delivery before noon. “Now you can order up until 4 p.m. for sameday delivery, we’ve incorporated flowers and bakeshop goods like cupcakes and cheesecakes, and introduced a new one called a Twix Cheesecake. We

are also now offering nocharge delivery when you order a day ahead.”

With much of her team having been with her for over 10 years, her workplace feels like home, and her co-workers and customers like family. “I work pretty much seven days a week and I still love to get up and go to work every day,” Cannella says. “We have many repeat customers we have gotten to know over the years and we’ve established a strong friendship there. If they need something last-minute or they need something customized or they need something special, they can pick up the phone and ask us and we will move mountains for them.”

Edible Arrangements uses only the freshest fruits brought in from the food terminal daily. Not only are these fruits as fresh as possible, but each fruit is also tested by staff to ensure it meets the standards of Edible Arrangements. The staff at Edible Arrangements are invested in ensuring that every single product that goes out the back door is perfect from the moment they pick up the phone until the moment it gets delivered.

This upcoming holiday season there are so many exciting things to look

forward to, including a line featuring Godiva chocolates, holiday desserts and festive treats that will be perfect to send as gifts or have at home while you host family and friends. “I’m really excited to see how we incorporate some of the new Edible Arrangements products that the brand is bringing in.” There is much to look forward to in the long term, as well. “I look forward to the future because Edible Arrangements has plans. I think Edible Arrangements in another 10 years will look even more different than it does today.” The success of Cannella’s Edible Arrangements has not gone unnoticed, as her franchise is one of the top three most successful locations in Canada.

Anything you order from Edible Arrangements creates a wonderful memory for both gift giver and receiver.

3255 Rutherford Rd., Building H, Vaughan, Ont. 905-738-4100 www.ediblearrangements.ca @ediblearrangements

Successful Edible Arrangements franchise owner Tiziana Cannella discusses the changes the brand has made, the exciting future and her passion for the brand

Edible Arrangements franchise owner Tiziana Cannella showing off one of their beautiful fruit arrangements

The incredible team at Edible Arrangements Vaughan

A FLASH IN THE PANDEMIC

Not quite a love letter, it’s a thank you note. A Flash in the Pandemic: Images, Recipes and Survival Stories is a snapshot of restaurant life during the COVID-19 era. We would rather forget about the pandemic, but the stories of flexibility, drive and partnership speak to the strength of Toronto’s communities.

What started as a way for a group of 11 high-school students to earn volunteer hours during a lockdown blossomed into an e-cookbook celebrating culturally diverse culinary delights from restaurants across Toronto. Images, recipes and survival stories illustrate a central moment in the city’s hospitality industry. With dynamic and lively photography that leaves you wanting to make and eat every recipe, A Flash in the Pandemic: Images, Recipes and Survival Stories tells a story of what restaurant owners, their staff and patrons endured as a result of the lockdowns, paying homage to the temporarily shuttered restaurants where they had once gathered with friends.

Original creators Charles Debane and Finn Creeggan developed a plan to showcase “the vast array of ethnic restaurants that help define Toronto’s distinct neighbourhoods,” says the Daily Bread Food Bank. As the duo reached out to chefs and restaurants,

they soon realized that there was more they could do. Individuals who had been laid off during the pandemic were visiting food banks to survive, and Debane knew that this project had a bigger purpose. As the project grew, the duo was joined by Moineau Shin Binon, Jadyn Cialini, Eloise Debane, Madeline Jones, Sidney Moore, Aria Ruscitti, Kolya Salter, Kai SamuelSzablowski and Haley Varone-Evans. Helping to spread the word, the highschool students were driven to finish this cookbook, knowing the impact that it could make.

Together, they approached over 100 restaurants — in the end, 35 answered their call. The students worked closely with each restaurant and chefs to select and prepare signature dishes, fine-tune recipes and stage the photos taken by the students that appear throughout the cookbook. The book includes intimate quotes from chefs describing how the pandemic challenged them, what they learned and the difficulties they had to overcome. Many of the co-authors, including Moineau, whose mother writes a food blog, attribute their love of food and interest in developing a cookbook to their parents.

For Moineau, it was connecting over food and community. “The pandemic forced us to think in different ways. It was very tough to get through, but

it pushed us to work hard, and we are better now because of it. Success to me is not the amount of money that comes out of something, it is how proud and accomplished you feel in the end.”

Working in back kitchens where mountains of take-out boxes replaced plates and once-crowded dining areas suddenly stood empty, Charles witnessed the devastation the restaurant industry sustained as a result of the lockdowns. “We saw firsthand the number of servers and chefs who had lost their jobs. We knew that many of them would have to access social support, so we decided to donate 100 per cent of the proceeds from the cookbook to The Daily Bread Food Bank.” The Daily Bread Food Bank has grown to become one of Canada’s largest food banks.

Food-bank visits in the city continue to hit record numbers. By purchasing the Flash in the Pandemic e-cookbook, you are helping to provide emergency food access to families and individuals who experience hunger.

Experience A Flash in the Pandemic: Images, Recipes and Survival Stories and purchase your copy today at dailybread. ca/flashinthepandemic

dailybread.ca/flashinthepandemic @flashinthepandemiccookbook

WRITTEN BY MONICA MARANO | INTERVIEW BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

A Flash in the Pandemic is a youth-led cookbook capturing stories, recipes and photos from restaurants and chefs in Toronto during the COVID-19 pandemic

book is an ode to restaurants, not quite a love letter, but a thankyou note

PHOTO BY JADYN CIALINI

FALL. FASHION. STYLE. IT’S THE BEST SEASON

29:Eleven has your back with chic, casual Italian clothing and accessories you just can’t get anywhere else

◀

Take a unique blazer to a new level with this style. The blazer is a “Made in Italy” product and can be worn as a formal piece or used to dress up a pair of black denim pants. Our products are unique and versatile, and can be used for many stylish looks

▲ Accessories make the look. Women’s accessories are available in the boutique in various colours and styles of Trussardi eco-leather handbags. Trussardi leather combat boots are available in two styles and can be worn casually or dressed up

trendy look

It’s all about the fit and the colour. This stunning royal blue double-breasted suit is a showstopper piece that can be worn together or separately. It’s an exclusive “Made in Italy” brand available in various colours and only in our boutique

▶

This European look is a complete “Made in Italy” showcase. The colours and textures of fabrics are stunning and speak for themselves. This exclusive brand is only available in our boutique. The coat and handbag come in various colours

◀ is a complete “Made

◀ Men’s bracelets are handcrafted from natural gemstones and solid stainless steel. Each bracelet is composed of specific stones, which all have different meanings. These bracelets can be worn with all types of clothing for a fun, 1700 King Rd., King City, Ont. 905-539-2911 29eleven.ca @29eleven.kingcity

The one thing you need to know about 29:Eleven boutique? It’s the only clothing boutique in York Region for exclusive go-to fashion from Italy for both men and women. The boutique caters to clients looking for sharp casual and relaxed looks, from runway to street style, featuring exclusive brands like Lui Jo, Trussardi, Adriano Langella and Marella.

The two-year-old boutique is a family affair and a dream come to fruition for owner Domenic Di Pede, who shares his love of fashion and expertise with his sons. Committed to providing the best quality and service for clients, Di Pede’s top tips this season include double-breasted blazers, a wider pant leg for men and women, and sassy, chunky boots.

Here’s a great casual look with an oversized plaid jacket, white T-shirt and comfortable cargo pants. This is one of our favourite looks for this fall season, and a variety of styles are available at the boutique

MAKING YOUR MONEY WORK WITH YOU

CIBC Wood Gundy Senior Wealth Advisor Sugi Kumaresan opens up about investing, travelling to clients and rethinking perceptions when it comes to wealth management

Sugi Kumaresan’s journey into the world of finance has been interesting, to say the least. Originally from Sri Lanka, Sugi’s family fled in 1985 due to the country’s civil war. He grew up in Etobicoke, Ont., where he studied financial services and ultimately landed a teller job at 17 years old at leading bank. He has been on a mission to educate and demystify the world of wealth management ever since.

Today, he leads the vision behind Kumaresan Wealth Management Group (KWMG) at CIBC Wood Gundy. Sugi’s team is a powerhouse of experience, knowledge and commitment: Associate Investment Advisors Michelle Rowe, with whom he’s worked for the past 20 years, and Paul Mannu, and Administrative Assistant Angela Diamanti. Together, they provide clients with comprehensive wealth management services and insights of the highest quality, without ego or complication. “When it comes to investments, all clients want a similar outcome: to maximize return while minimizing risk, fees, taxes,” says Sugi.

A typical day for the team includes helping clients manage their portfolios and wealth planning, such as retirement, business transition and private banking services. Another central focus is shaping a lasting legacy for families and communities through estate and philanthropic planning. As a proud resident of Vaughan for the past 15 years, Sugi understands the influence that community can have on his clients, and its importance.

Sugi shares that he succeeds through a process of reverse engineering. “We don’t pitch you with investment deals showing you how we invest your money. Instead, we find out who you are, what you are and what your desires, needs and wants are. By finding the ‘Why?’ we figure out that goal, and reverse-engineer to build a path to get you there.”

This approach offers an insight into what drives the work that Sugi and his team do and, perhaps more than

Sugithan Kumaresan is a Senior Wealth Advisor with CIBC Wood Gundy

Together, Kumaresan and his team are dedicated to providing clients with advice that’s actionable and uncomplicated

that, how focused it is on people. As someone who loves reading, psychology and how humans interact with each other, he understands the relationships people have with money and how those feed into their personal goals.

“How human beings connect with money is as important as how they invest that money. They say you’ve got to take the emotions out of investing, but money is an emotional thing for people. You have to address that and talk about how you connect with it,” adds Sugi.

Something Sugi and his team talk about a lot is re-shifting perspectives. They put a particular emphasis on education for clients and do away with complication so they can lead by example and empower whomever they work with.

For example, many people believe wealth management is a service reserved only for the wealthy. Sugi and his team believe it isn’t. “The less wealth you have, the greater the importance of estate planning. The word ‘estate’ has been changed to mean ‘wealth planning,’ when it’s not. Estate planning is for everybody,” explains Sugi.

Continuing its focus on accessibility, Sugi’s office, situated at 4110 Yonge St., is conveniently positioned in the centre of the GTA. But beyond that, Sugi describes himself as being constantly on the road, taking an “old-school country-doctor” approach, making the effort to visit clients in their homes and places of business, where they feel more comfortable. “I’ve flown to Ottawa to meet clients and close to home in Woodbridge — wherever business needs to be done, we’ll go.”

Even in the way Sugi mentors and collaborates with his team, there’s extra attention given to relationships with clients. “The three things that dictate what we do are pride, leadership and

joy,” he notes. “I hope everyone on my team is proud of the work they do every single day. I want them to walk in empowered — that this is their business to lead — and ensure they’re having fun.”

Particularly now, when markets are volatile and the future is uncertain, Sugi emphasizes the act of making a plan, and approaching finances in a way that’s personal, proactive and easy to understand. He believes in becoming an important, valued part of every client’s life.

“We work in a complex world, but it doesn’t have to be complicated,” Sugi summarizes. “It’s my job to manage the chaos and give you choices you can comprehend. It’s our goal to make you understand what you own and why you own it.”

4110 Yonge Street Suite 600 Toronto Ont. 416-229-5866 sugikumaresan.com @cibc

THE WORD ‘ESTATE’ HAS BEEN CHANGED TO MEAN WEALTH PLANNING WHEN IT’S NOT. ESTATE PLANNING IS FOR EVERYBODY

CIBC Private Wealth consists of services provided by CIBC and certain of its subsidiaries, including CIBC Wood Gundy, a division of CIBC World Markets Inc. The CIBC logo and “CIBC Private Wealth” are trademarks of CIBC, used under license. “Wood Gundy” is a registered trademark of CIBC World Markets Inc.

ADDING UP TO SUCCESS

If you are a mildly anxious parent anywhere in the province of Ontario, you woke up on October 20th to what can only be described as alarming news. The Education Quality and Accountability Office released information about last spring’s testing, which found that only “59 per cent of Grade 3 students met the provincial standard in math — equivalent to an A or B — while just 47 per cent of Grade 6 students did.” (The Toronto Star)

The rhythm of our daily lives depends for its pendular regularity on the science of mathematics. It is responsible for our ability to balance a monthly budget, take on a home improvement project, time videos or measure the accuracy of a recipe. In hindsight, it turns out that stern Mrs. Vardi (my Grade 6 math teacher) had a point in drilling into me the nauseating phrase, “You’ve got to know math!” And the earlier the better, since mathematics takes hold most readily in young minds.

This insight underlies Brain Power’s Innovator & Explorer Learning Series 2023, a cluster of workshops designed and led by expert instructors to prepare young leaders for the future. With campuses in Vaughan, Hamilton and, most recently, North Toronto, Brain Power, a 30-year leader in enrichment for high-potential kids, fosters in students the capacity to become independent and creative thinkers, exceptional writers and resilient leaders. Brain Power’s singular approach to teaching critical thinking, language and math allows its students to excel in high school and university applications, interviews, and to develop

the skills needed to succeed in a globally changing world.

“When you think about it, math hides in plain sight all around us,” says Brain Power CEO and instructor, Vanessa Serra Iarocci. “As part of the specialized math programs in our new Innovator & Explorer Learning Series, students will investigate how math imposes its laws on the world through geometrical patterns found in nature and art. Consequently, they will be equipped with logical thinking strategies necessary for mastering complex visual models and puzzles.”

Brain Power’s proprietary math workshops include Champions — Contest Math, Math Masters, Brain Designers, and Spatial Reasoning. The first-ofits-kind Champions — Contest Math is designed to complement Brain Power’s core math programs. It is led by renowned Math Olympiad trainer and double-PhD-holder Sana Spektor, who maintains that the program prepares students for AMC, CEMC, Caribou and Kangaroo, among other global contests. It also teaches students how to apply the skills they acquire to a variety of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields (such as data science and artificial intelligence).

Specifically, Brain Power’s popular Math Masters program challenges the minds of young mathematicians through puzzles, visual models, problem-solving, number mysteries and art. The Spatial Reasoning

Power’s Innovator & Learning Series math programs (2023)

Ella Gutin, B. Ed., M.Ed. (left) and Olga Fridman, B.Sc., B.Ed., M.Ed., M.Sc. (right) are just two faculty members, among many, who give Brain Power students access to leading experts and world-class teachings.

program, on the other hand, exercises skills that are necessary for acing gifted testing, such as visual memory, surface development, object & shape rotation and perspective skills.

“Our Spatial Reasoning program would be particularly useful for those contemplating a career in engineering,” says Serra Iarocci. “Further, it provides our candidates with an advantage over others seeking admittance into the prestigious Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Talented Youth (a summer enrichment program). This intervention is possible only because we understand the needs of highpotential students and how they learn.”

This article explores only a few ways in which Brain Power is helping students meet their potential in a world challenged by many educational stressors. And if the disconcerting news about dismal math scores across the province can be taken as a harbinger, then the time to act is now! Brain Power has heeded this call to action by giving youth the tools they need to stand out and make their mark on the world. After all, “The best way to predict your future is by creating it.” (Abraham Lincoln). 905-303-5457 www.brainpower.ca @brain_power_enrichment

Brain

provide a formula for creating successful future leaders

Pan-Seared Atlantic Salmon,

with House-Made Zerillo Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Marsala Zabaglione

8 ounces, plus 2 teaspoons Zerillo Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil

1 salmon fillet, skin on

1 clove garlic

1. Preheat oven to 400°F/200°C

2. Season salmon with salt.

1/2 teaspoon clarified butter

One sprig fresh rosemary One sprig fresh thyme 2 ounces Marsala wine

2 egg yolks 2 pinches sugar

3. Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a non-stick oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Add garlic, rosemary, thyme and clarified butter, and then fry for 30 seconds to release flavours.

5. Add salmon, flesh-side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes until meat is seared, flipping it over for the last minute to brown and crisp the skin.

6. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and continue cooking for 8-10 more minutes.

7. In the meantime, prepare the zabaglione sauce by whisking together the egg yolks, a pinch of salt, sugar and Marsala wine. Add 8 ounces of olive oil and whisk.

8. Prepare a bain-marie by filling a pot halfway with water and bringing it to a simmer.

9. Place bowl with zabaglione over the pot. The bottom of the bowl should not touch the simmering water. Continue whisking the mixture until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

10. Place roasted vegetables on a plate. Once the salmon is ready, take out of the oven, place it skin-side down on top of the vegetables, and pour the zabaglione sauce over the top.

11. Decorate with edible flowers.

Recipe courtesy of Giro D’Italia Ristorante,

Jane St., Vaughan, ON

PHOTO BY EMAD MOHAMMADI

Understanding Your Full Financial Picture

but, with his brother as a franchisor and two sons owners of two franchises, he knows it’s in good hands. “I never, in a million years, thought I’d do this or change careers,” he says.

who came through soccer or Arcadia. There are so many ties that bring me to this industry.”

After working as Arcadia Academy of Music’s CEO for 36 years, Pat Di Rauso was thinking about retiring. But when the pandemic hit, he found himself putting that thought aside. Instead, he wanted to follow his urge to continue helping people and building positive communities but through a different medium.

That desire for change pushed him into becoming a mortgage agent, which he currently is with Sherwood Mortgage, working with clients looking to purchase, renovate, transfer a mortgage or refinance an existing mortgage.

Di Rauso says that moving away from Arcadia Academy of Music, which his father founded in 1984, was bittersweet,

As well as using Arcadia Academy of Music as a platform to give back to the community, he helps with the Vaughan Soccer Club, where he has been a board member for 16 years and executive vicepresident for nine years.He’s also a member of the Mackenzie Health Hospital Community Gifts committee and, most recently, fraises funds for National Pasta Month, a nonprofit he founded that celebrates community, cultural exchange, and “everything pasta!”

Though he didn’t know it at the time, it was these past experiences and philanthropic ventures that formed a pathway that would lead him to the world of mortgages.

“I don’t want to be competing against anybody here,” Di Rauso explains. “It’s never about that. I’ve been in the service industry for 36 years, dealing with people. You have to factor everybody in. When I’m working on a mortgage for a family or a young first-time buyer, a lot of those are players I used to coach, or people

This commitment to helping others is a key driving force in what Di Rauso does. Whether it’s working with music, soccer or real estate, he completes projects with a belief that respect isn’t something to be expected, but earned. He also makes it clear that he’s there for clients. “I tell everybody, don’t be afraid to pick up the phone. Don’t go to bed worried about a question you have,” he says.

Given the economic situation both in Canada and around the world, it’s not uncommon for people’s finances to keep them awake at night. For Di Rauso, the key is patience. “We’re in the eye of the storm right now, and it controls what people can and can’t afford. Everybody has to stay within their means. It’s only a good time to buy if you have the money, can afford the down payment and you have your life in order.”

With so many accolades and achievements under his belt, Di Rauso has a lot of experience when it comes to success. And while he defines success as “balance,” he also says, “the magic word is transparency. Be honest with your clients and have respect.”

529 Wilson Ave., North York, Ont. 416-457-3959

pdirauso@sherwoodmortgagegroup.com

Pat Di Rauso opens up about moving from CEO to mortgage agent, community and the power of transparency

Pat Di Rauso is a mortgage agent serving the Vaughan area

CAREOPOLY IMMIGRATION

Q: Can you tell us about your journey to become a Registered Canadian Immigration Consultant and the business owner of an extremely successful firm?

A: Since 2007, I have always, one way or another, been involved in immigration and politics; since my university days, they have always been my passion. However, it wasn’t until I was the Executive Director of my local Member of Parliament’s office that I truly got to work on hundreds of immigration cases and navigate various IRCC and ESDC streams. The countless cases and multiple needs of people introduced me to many diverse situations. My compassion and dedication to the immigration profession made me stand out from others, and my proven results garnered the respect of my colleagues. It was evident that local businesses and individuals alike were confident in my abilities to represent them in all facets of their applications.

Q: What services do you offer your clients?

A: We offer a wide range of services to our clients before, during and after the application process. Our service menu includes LMIAs, Work Permits, Study Permits, Permanent Residency, Extensions, OINP, Tourist Visas, Refugee, Sponsorships, and Citizenship, to name a few. However, we also help clients with other services like technical evaluation of profiles, interviews, post-landing and settlement services, and English classes.

Q: What do you love about running your own practice and being your own boss?

And what are some of the benefits that come with being a business owner?

A: I love being an RCIC, representing clients and getting to work with various multicultural and diverse ethnic backgrounds. I enjoy being able to form new relationships with clients and other professionals and mentoring other RCICs. But I must say that my favourite part is waking up every morning knowing my team and I are making a difference in people’s lives.

Tobias Lee, Director of RAFAT, says, “We continue to use Careopoly because they have the most vital and strategic ability to help navigate applications. In the past we have used other immigration firms, but now we only use Nadia and her team because they have elevated the bar in servicing our industry and are experts in what they do.”

Q: What drives your passion to practise immigration law?

A: I thrive on the ability to face diversity. Given the challenges companies and individuals face when completing applications independently, one could become easily discouraged. But Careopoly helps to make every application effortless while keeping clients informed with up-to-date Canadian immigration laws. Our clients range from corporate entities to independent applicants. Everyone needs something different, and we find solutions to help move companies forward and prepare applications that will help change people’s lives.

“A seamless application process is what clients are looking for, and this is what you will get from Careopoly. It’s not uncommon for Nadia to call her clients at midnight to ensure they received her email.”

Q: We can understand why individuals come to your firm. But why do corporate companies use you?

A: Corporate clients come to us for help with the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), an LMIA is an application that some employers may need to obtain to hire a foreign worker. The LMIA is an Employment and Social Development Canada/Service Canada assessment application that determines if hiring a foreign worker will benefit the Canadian economy and ensure Canadian workers are not displaced. Although most employers require a positive LMIA before employing foreign nationals, specific sectors do not require an LMIA. An LMIA does not authorize a foreign national to work; it allows them to apply for a work permit with IRCC and evaluate their abilities for the job. IRCC will assess the applicant’s application, and should a favourable decision be rendered, they can start working for the Canadian employer. The best thing for employers to do is to contact us for a consultation so that we can assess their needs.

Q: Okay, here is the question that you are probably asked daily. What are your professional fees for the services you provide?

A: We try to work within our client’s budget. Fees are discussed prior to signing the service agreement and are dependent upon the scope of work involved. Each client case is different, they all have diverse needs, and no two cases are ever the same.

Q: Any last words for our readers?

A: Once you meet and work with us, you will understand our passion for people and why we have garnered the respect of our clients and have repeat clientele. Our dynamic team of highly experienced professionals work diligently to meet objectives and uphold our reputation and standing within our sector. What may seem impossible today is possible; you need the right immigration advice and guidance. We ensure this is what each client receives. Our partnership never ends; no matter what, we are always here to help!

445 Edgeley Blvd., Unit 10, Concord, Ont. 416-704-1511 | www.careopolyimmigration.ca

“Communication is key,”says Nadia Nascimben, RCIC, who is fluent in English, Italian, Spanish and French

Nadia Nascimben, a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant and the executive director of Careopoly, is ready to help with immigration needs

PHOTO BY VALERIA MITSUBATA

JUSTIN PIERSANTI IS A LAWYER READY FOR A CHALLENGE

This experienced Vaughan lawyer opens up on quality over quantity, growing up in Vaughan and catching the little things others often fail to see

When we ask Justin Piersanti what prompted him to follow a career path as a lawyer, he laughs and recalls a home video his father took at his senior kindergarten graduation. “My father asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, and I responded that I wanted to be a lawyer.” After graduating from Ryerson and working in the film and TV industry for several years, Piersanti decided to pursue his dream and headed to law school in 2007. After achieving his Master of Laws, Piersanti was called to the Bar in 2014. In 2018, he started his own firm, Mister Lawyer and Piersanti Law in the city of Vaughan.

Many describe Piersanti as a jack of all trades, since he has practice in various aspects of law. Piersanti says that his primary practice is in franchise law, real estate law, corporate and business law, trademarks, construction and estate planning. “My clients require someone who understands all aspects of the needs of their business. I think of what they won’t.” Piersanti describes taking a top-to-bottom approach and aims to understand all aspects of what the client needs, both business and legal. “People don’t just want a lawyer; they want an adviser and confidant”.

Piersanti says the secret to meeting any challenges his clients give them come from three main questions: What would they like to happen? What do they expect to happen? What must

happen? “No clients are ever alike, and it is important to know what is of value to each client.” states Piersanti.

“It makes it clear to achieve the results the client wants.”

Engaging in client collaboration that provides total transparency throughout the relationship is vital. “Buying or selling a home is a very personal matter and experience.” he says. “My clients trust and know they’ve hired someone who will guide them with ease.” The quality of his practice remains high because he makes his work a continuous learning experience. “I close real estate deals almost every day. While it might seem like the same process over and over, it is about catching the little differences so that the quality remains high. It takes a

lot of dedication, education and research.” he explains. “I treat every client’s file as if it is my own,” he added.

647-9-LAWYER is a number that is directly linked to his cell phone. “I want it to be easy for my clients to contact me. My business thrives on word of mouth and is built on reliability and word of mouth.”

Having lived in Vaughan for most of his life, Piersanti speaks of how the changing culture and diversity continues to positively impact his work and encourage him to be as active in the community as he can be. “As a child, I could only ride my bike to Market Lane or Perri’s Food Market because they were the only places to go when I was younger. Now Vaughan has an international film festival! With my office being near the VMC, the subway access helps more of my clients get to me faster without sitting in traffic,” he says. Piersanti noted that his practice uses remote services for time-sensitive clients. “We are very current technologically in my office. I like keeping ahead of the times!”

At the end of the day, Piersanti Law is a bustling law firm that continues to thrive in a vibrant community that is forever changing.

445 Edgeley Blvd., Concord, Ont. 647-952-9937

www.misterrealestatelawyer.ca

Justin Piersanti specializes in franchise law, real estate law, corporate and business law, trademarks, construction and estate planning

EDITOR’S PICKS

WRITTEN BY MONICA MARANO

3 5

From decadent pancakes to one-of-a-kind jewelry to unique home accessories

these picks are sourced just for you!

@happylabtoys

3. DISCOVER THE MAGIC These dolls are not “just toys.” They are beautiful and comforting pieces of art to be loved by everyone of any age. happylabtoys.com |

4. HOT WINE CANDLE For the wonderful aroma of cloves and crushed cinnamon, light the wick and move straight into the winter mountain climate, enjoying the extraordinary atmosphere. lifestylesbyhailey.com |

@lifestylesbyhailey

5. SMILEY: 50 YEARS OF GOOD NEWS Serving as a beacon of hope and positivity, Smiley has encouraged the world to take the time to smile. assouline.com |

@assouline

6. HAAS HUGGERS BOX Celebrate the beauty of togetherness. This Huggers Box can be used for jewelry, or place it at the heart of your table to create a statement centerpiece. l-objet.com @lobjet

1. LIVE LIFE IN FULL BLOOM For timeless elegance, look to Giambattista Valli. Feel all eyes on you in these floral-print bell-bottom overalls! thefashionedit.com @tfethefashionedit

@tomford

11 9

8

@pixsee.global 9. STOCKHOLM STYLE A trendy design in wide-wale corduroy for a modern-retro look. simons.ca @maisonsimons 10. CIAO BELLA PIZZA OVENS Explore culinary favourites your versatile wood-fired outdoor pizza oven. Cook a variety of meals beyond the perfect pizza

poultry, fish, meats and desserts can be steamed, seared and baked in your oven for a unique flavour experience! ciaobellapizzaovens.com |

@martellifoods 13. LEOPARD SMILEY SLIPPERS Whether it is before bed, a weekend morning or all day, give your feet the comfort they deserve. Complete your at-home loungewear look with a pair of luxurious slip-ons. lim-lim.com | 7

@ciaobellapizzaovens 11. LA DOLCE VITA BOX Featuring expertly curated high-quality products that remind you of what makes life so sweet. dolcemag.com |

@dolcemag 12. FOR THE LOVE OF FOOD This White Truffle Oil is a delectable finish for everything from mashed potatoes to pasta dishes. martellifoods.com |

@limlimofficial 14. AMORE AT HOME Add a unique touch of style to your interior with Amore Bags Home Collection. Jewelry and plates with intriguing designs that tell stories to be enjoyed during dinner parties or one-to-one over a cup of tea. amorebags.ca |

@amorebagstoronto 49 CITY LIFE MAGAZINE Dec/Jan 2022/23 www.mycitylife.ca

CANADA’S CHAMPIONS OF CHANGE

Meet the influencers recognized by Global Citizen for using their art to embrace advocacy and create a better tomorrow

WRITTEN BY JOSH WALKER AND RICK MULLER | INTERVIEW BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

In October, international advocacy organization Global Citizen announced that it would be joining forces with a handpicked selection of influential Canadians. Coming from different backgrounds and regions of the country, with a range of specialisms and lived experiences, these Champions of Change will bring their voices together to support Global Citizen’s 2022 End Extreme Poverty NOW campaign.

These influencers include professional figure skater Elladj Baldé, comedian and TV personality Jessi Cruickshank, Anishinaabe artist, model, speaker and fashion designer Lesley Hampton, writer, speaker, podcaster and community builder Mike Morrison,

and director and photographer Justin Wu.

Together, they’ll align to support four key areas Global Citizen has identified. First, breaking systemic barriers that keep people trapped in poverty. Second, taking climate action to ensure governments meet their environmental promises. Third, empowering young women and adolescent girls. Fourth, supporting and defending advocacy to amplify marginalized voices and protect free speech without violence.

“We have an amazing team in Canada who handpicked each of our Champions of Change,” Global Citizen’s chief growth officer, Caralene Robinson, told us. “They’re in the zeitgeist of culture. They’re unapologetic. They’re making

a huge difference in the world and broadening the storytelling aperture because they’re normalizing difference and that it’s OK to be whoever you are.”

To date, Global Citizen has distributed over $41 billion in funds and impacted the lives of over 1 billion people across the world. It works by using its social media presence to inspire governments, businesses, artists and the public to take action.

To celebrate the news, we spoke with four of the five champions about their respective specialisms, success and what it means to be recognized for their work in pushing Canada forward.

www.globalcitizen.org

@glblctzn

DAVID BEAME

AT THE END OF THE DAY, WE’VE NOT ONLY PUT ON AN INCREDIBLE SHOW, BUT WE’VE ALSO POSITIVELY IMPACTED THE LIVES OF MILLIONS OF PEOPLE. I CAN’T IMAGINE ANYTHING BETTER THAN THAT”

‘‘

VICE-PRESIDENT OF GLOBAL EVENTS AND EXPERIENCE AT GLOBAL CITIZEN

PHOTO BY EMAD MOHAMMADI

PRODUCER DAVID BEAME’S WORK WITH GLOBAL CITIZEN IS RAISING MILLIONS AND IMPACTING EVEN MORE

For some reason, producers in the field of entertainment, be it movies, TV or live music, have never been seen in the most flattering light. They are often portrayed as money-hungry, playing fast and loose with the rules and a shade light on the ethical side of business.

David Beame is a live-event broadcast executive producer and entertainment attorney who is as money-hungry as they come — hungry to raise funds to assist those suffering from extreme poverty, that is. Beame is vice-president of Global Events and Experiences at Global Citizen, an international organization that, through its millions of Global Citizen participants worldwide taking more than 30.4 million actions, has raised more than $41.4 billion, distributing this money to NGO partners over the last decade, impacting 1.15 billion lives.

He first became involved with Global Citizen by volunteering his considerable services for its first festival, in 2012. He soon became an employee and he now services all Global Citizen events worldwide.

“In many ways I view Global Citizen as an artist whose message is a world free from extreme poverty, and I think that message really shows up in our events and broadcasts around the world,” says Beame in a recent interview with City Life. “I’m proud to have accomplished all that we have over the past 10 years. We’ve been able to do so much for those living in poverty, but not since Live Aid took place almost 30 years ago have we seen the kind of dire need we see today. More than ever, urgent action is needed

to mitigate the issues that war, climate inaction and the pandemic have brought on the world’s poor.”

Global Citizen is aptly named, as it is very much a bottom-up grassroots organization, reflective of the times. Citizens in any country can download the Global Citizen app or visit globalcitizen.org and register to become a part. They can then take actions such as signing petitions, sharing messages on social media, writing letters to politicians and more. With every action participants earn points for rewards such as digital content and experiences, beauty products, merchandise, tickets and more.

Beame’s role is producing some of the largest and most notable purposedriven festivals and live broadcasts throughout the world, including the annual Global Citizen Festival on the Great Lawn of Central Park in New York City, as well as festivals in India, South Africa and Europe. Past performers for Global Citizen events have included Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Coldplay, Rihanna, Stevie Wonder, Queen, Ed Sheeran, Neil Young and Pearl Jam. President Biden along with Michelle Obama and celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey, Leonard DiCaprio, Hugh Jackman and Stephen Colbert have also taken part in the fundraising activities, which Beame says are more important than ever before.

“Hundreds of millions of people are not having their basic needs met, with no access to a reliable supply of food, clean water, adequate shelter, education or medical care,” he says. “The international system is broken and not meeting today’s challenges — from epidemics to the climate crisis to collapsing food systems. If we don’t take action now, as many as 200 million more people may be plunged into extreme poverty by November, bringing the total number to one billion people.”

This year, Global Citizen is calling on world leaders, major corporations and philanthropic foundations to make commitments to meet the following objectives: invest $600 million in the

future of women and girls, close the annual $10-billion climate-financing shortfall, deliver $500 million to help farmers on the African continent respond to the global food crisis, as well as provide urgent relief from crushing debts to end extreme poverty now.

A person is a linchpin, not the person’s involvement. Reorder slightly: Beame is a linchpin in Global Citizen’s fundraising success, contributing his talents to the entertainment side of the equation. He was studying music at New World School of the Arts in Miami when the music director recognized he had a knack for the business side of music, and Beame went into the entertainment law business as an attorney, but never strayed far from his entertainment roots.

“Having a deep understanding of entertainment deal structures and intellectual property rights, along with an eye for live experiences and broadcasts, has definitely provided me with a lot of valuable tools to produce memorable and impactful shows,” he says.

These shows raise funds for Global Citizen in the fight to end extreme poverty, which brings Beame a great deal of personal satisfaction.

“We get to produce festivals and broadcasts featuring world leaders, private-sector champions, activists and some of the world’s biggest artists on one stage,” says Beame. “We do this for an audience of active Global Citizens, who are all working together to help end extreme poverty. At the end of the day, we’ve not only put on an incredible show, but we’ve also positively impacted the lives of millions of people. I can’t imagine anything better than that.”

We are all citizens of the world hoping to make it a better place, but it is quite clear that through his talents, his passion and dedication to the cause and his determination to succeed for the better good, the world needs a little bit more David Beame.

LESLEY HAMPTON

ANISHINAABE ARTIST / MODEL / SPEAKER / FASHION DESIGNER

Lesley Hampton is no stranger to accolades or positive press. As well as being named the No. 1 Brand to Watch by Vogue, the Globe and Mail described her as “an important Indigenous face in the Canadian fashion landscape.”

Her eponymous brand is sizeinclusive, based in Toronto and, as well as being known for creating pieces that span evening wear and athletic wear, embraces slow fashion to promote sustainability. It’s also launched initiatives like the Lesley Hampton Award, which works with the Ontario

Mining Association to support Indigenous talent.

A lot of parts came into play to form the Hampton brand today. As someone who identifies as a “third-culture kid,” her early life was spent moving about, and she shares how she spent time in Australia, New Caledonia, Indonesia and England as well as Canada. Her great-aunt teaching her to sew on Vancouver Island is another key inspiration. But, more than that, it was watching Jeanne Beker on Fashion Television where she first discovered the world of fashion.

“It’s so exciting that we can use media as a way to connect ourselves with a world we’re not part of,” Hampton says. “At the time, I was living

in Newfoundland, where there was no fashion industry, so I used that as an initial way of connecting with and discovering fashion.”

Hampton quickly recognized that as much as she’d fallen in love with the fashion industry, it wasn’t representative of people like her. Her brand, founded in 2016, set out to change that. “I knew the concept of my brand and what I wanted to put out into the world,” she shares. “I knew conceptually that I wanted to stand for mental health awareness, body positivity, inclusivity, representation, and I made every decision with those enforcing how I wanted to project my brand.”

With hopes to continue paving the way for other Indigenous talents and opening opportunities so they have easier access to the industry, Hampton says her collaboration with Global Citizen is one she’s excited about. “It’s so incredible to align with an organization that has similar values to mine, and use our platforms to push that message,” she says.

Q: If you weren’t doing fashion, what would you be doing?

A: Probably something to do with psychology. Some way of still interacting with people and having that response of relating to society, and how we can better it.

Q: How do you define success?

A: Empowering yourself and empowering your community.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHAMPIONS OF CHANGE CANADA

‘‘

MIKE MORRISON

WRITER / SPEAKER / PODCASTER / COMMUNITY-BUILDER

Mike Morrison is someone passionate about advocacy, but, more than that, he’s passionate about changing the narrative that surrounds advocacy.

“A lot of us have grown up believing activism is aggressive, scary and only for certain types of people,” Morrison says. “For me and Global Citizen, it’s really about people coming together for common goals and using their platform to say these

issues are impacting us all, we’re unified and we’re going to make sure change happens.”

Morrison’s journey into activism started when he was living in Alberta and the province attempted to pass a bill that would allow school boards to ban Gay-Straight Alliance clubs in schools. “I started using my platform to advocate for change and connect with Canadian celebrities who were out or big supporters,” he says. “It worked, and the government changed the law.”

Since then, he’s continued devoting his time to creating

positive movements. As well as being a prominent voice on social media, he’s spearheaded initiatives like renting out a movie theatre in Calgary so more people could see the LGBTQ+ movie Love, Simon. “Everything I’ve done, be it buying out movie theatres or organizing rallies in 12 hours, is done on social media, which gets traditional media involved,” he says. “We need traditional media to cover these stories so they get to new readers.”

For Morrison, being named a Champion of Change marks the next evolution of his activism, and he shares how pleased he is to be in the company of others. “What I like about this program is that the five people they choose are different and the issues we care about are different, but it’s under the same umbrella. We all use our social media channels differently to promote things we care about. More than looking up [to us], I like to think it’s more, this person is doing it so I’m going to do it this way, as well.”

For those looking to get into activism, Morrison shares that “it’s not as scary as you think it is. It really is just telling your friends and family about issues you care about. Unfortunately, we put out the message that it’s going to result in fighting, but, if you start talking with informed facts and information, that really helps.”

Q: You have a podcast. Tell us about that.

A: It’s called I Quit! The idea is interviewing entrepreneurs about the day they quit their jobs. I’m fascinated by how people make big life decisions. I’m obsessed with knowing what that conversation was like.

Q: How do you define success?

A: Happiness. When I was in Calgary, I was really driven by being invited to things, making the most money, caring what I looked like. I was caught up in it. The pandemic wiped all of that out and made me think about what I considered successful. It’s just being happy.

JESSI CRUIKSHANK

COMEDIAN / TV PERSONALITY

When we talk to Jessi Cruikshank, she’s between stops on her live comedy tour, Up Close and Too Personal. As the former co-host of MTV Canada’s The After Show and having interviewed some of Hollywood’s most famous personalities, she’s someone used to being in front of a crowd, but this marks a new high.

“This tour has been an absolute career highlight for me,” she says. “It’s terrifying to announce a tour and go across the country on my own as a two-plus-hour comedy show. It was one of the scariest but most rewarding things.”

Alongside her work as a comic, Cruikshank is a mother, and launched a Facebook Watch series called New Mom, Who Dis? as an outlet to share the honest experiences, humour and struggles of motherhood. It’s become an important, authentic voice that has resonated with thousands of people. “Motherhood is so hard, and it’s not the perfect, flawless image so many of us are fed on social media,” she says. “There’s no mother in the world who can wear head-to-toe white linen with a baby and keep it clean ... I want to be an honest voice that exists among the white linen, that says, ‘Hey, I’m doing this, too, and I’m just as messy as you are.’”

Cruikshank’s interest in activism is something she traces back to third grade, when she became interested in the environment and recycling. She started a campaign in her elementary school called Clean Up Your Act, putting up signs and convincing the principal to do a neighbourhood litter cleanup.

“It’s all very basic but, looking back with kids who aren’t much younger than that, I can’t believe I had the drive and confidence to do that on my own,” she says. “I hope I inspired more students to take an interest in the environment and, perhaps, that impact lasted beyond the third grade.”

Today, she’s pleased to be putting that love for activism into practice with Global Citizen. “So much of my work as an activist has been trying to use my platform to inspire others to create change and work not just on a global scale, but in a community. Inspiring young people to say, ‘What can I do in my school, community, neighborhood, city, to make it a little bit of a better place?,’ and use their passion to drive their advocacy.”

Q: If you had to teach your children one lesson, what would it be?

A: I think the key to happiness is volunteerism. I really think you have to do something for others in order to feel strength, joy and contentment in your life. I volunteer weekly at Born To Act Players, a theatre group for people of all abilities located in Los Angeles, and have started bringing my kids. I want them to be around that and to know that, even with an insane life, kids and career, I still value giving my time back where I can.

Q: How do you define success?

A: It changes and I think it’s allowed to change. When I was younger, it was solely defined by how much money you make, what purse you carry, what car you drive. Now, it’s measured by fulfilment. Am I waking up every day feeling fulfilled by my career and my family? Do I feel happy and grateful on the inside? If I do, that’s success.

MOTHERHOOD IS SO HARD, AND IT’S NOT THE PERFECT, FLAWLESS IMAGE SO MANY OF US ARE FED ON SOCIAL MEDIA”

JUSTIN WU

DIRECTOR / PHOTOGRAPHER

With parents who were immigrants from Hong Kong who fled China during the civil war, Justin Wu was raised with Asian values at home and Canadian values at school and with friends. He shares how he had a hard time defining his identity and understanding his place in society.

When he discovered and fell in love with the world of photography it helped, but he didn’t get the support from home to follow it as a career path and couldn’t find anyone like himself to look to as a role model.

“My parents simply wanted the best for me and what they couldn’t have themselves growing up,” Wu shares. “They wanted a life of financial stability, which is a typical motivation to move here for new immigrants. You fear what you don’t know, and my parents simply didn’t understand the artistic world because it was something they were never educated about or saw the possibilities.”

However, it was while completing an exchange program in Paris, as part of his Business Administration studies at the Richard Ivey School of Business at Western University, that he took the opportunity to present his portfolio to different agencies.

That bold move worked, and since then, he’s worked with Vogue, Elle and GQ and made his directorial debut on Kim’s Convenience, for which he was nominated for Outstanding Directorial Achievement on a Comedy Show by the Director’s Guild of Canada.

Alongside all of this, though, Wu has ensured his work is driven by purpose, drawing on his own personal experience of breaking into the industry and using his work as a tool to inspire change.

As well as co-founding and supporting United Nations campaigns on human rights and climate change, one particular series he mentions is #InMySkin, a set of images published in V Magazine during the pandemic that expressed the anxieties, frustrations

and insecurities of Black people as a result of systemic racism.

“I hope to be a shining beacon for other artists and young individuals around the world so they can say to their mom and dad that they’d love to be a film director. It’s still not a fully represented industry. It’s made a lot of progress in front of the camera, but behind the camera there’s still a long way to go.”

After being named a Global Citizen Champion of Change, Wu shares how he was honoured to be recognized by the organization, but that it’s also allowed him to double down on ensuring his work has purpose. “I have the support of such a recognized organization, with so many other talented people I admire who have an audience and are using art in their own way. I feel there are new opportunities to collaborate, exchange ideas and find even better ways to reach the public and hopefully solve some major world issues.”

For those who want to take the leap to a creative career but are hesitant, Wu says to “have self-belief. That, to me, is the foundation of it all. If you can believe in yourself, you’ll be able to find the courage.”

He also prompts people to network. “I encourage people to seek out people like themselves. With the power of the Internet, you’ll find someone like you who is pursuing the same thing.”

Q: What is your favourite movie?

A: Gattaca by Andrew Niccol, because it’s a story about a character born with a disability who wants to be an astronaut, believes in himself, but society holds him back because he doesn’t have the right genetics. I see myself in that because I remember everyone telling me I couldn’t do it.

Q: How do you define success?

A: I think success is defined by one’s ability to simply achieve what you sought to do. To be happy to do what you do.

I HOPE TO BE A SHINING BEACON FOR OTHER ARTISTS AND YOUNG INDIVIDUALS AROUND THE WORLD SO THEY CAN SAY TO THEIR MOM AND DAD THAT THEY’D LOVE TO BE A FILM DIRECTOR”

PROFESSIONAL FIGURE SKATER

Though we didn’t get the opportunity to speak with Elladj Baldé, he’s the fifth Champion of Change, making waves to break systemic barriers and promote climate action through figure skating.

Born to a Russian mother and a Guinean father, he moved a lot throughout his childhood. Growing up in Montreal, his mother introduced him to skating at age 6 and he ended up skating competitively for 21 years.

After George Floyd was murdered

in 2020 and the Black Lives Matter movement took hold in the United States, Baldé decided to take action. He met with other athletes of colour and founded Figure Skating Diversity and Inclusion Alliance to fight for representation and diversity in figure skating.

Then, soon after, he and his wife, Michelle Dawley, founded the Skate Global Foundation, which works to create change through pillars of equity, diversity and inclusion, mental health

and climate change.

“I’m honoured to be a Global Citizen Champion of Change, helping to advocate and drive awareness around many of the causes and issues close to my heart,” Baldé says in a statement from the organization. “Global Citizen is inspirational in highlighting so many imperative issues, including systemic barriers and the eradication of poverty both in Canada and globally, and my involvement echoes their mission.”

‘‘

ELLE DESIGN PLANNING: WHERE CREATIVITY AND COLLABORATION MEET

Lisa De La Precilla established Elle Design Planning in 2018 after her love for decorating and event planning became more than a hobby. Elle Design Planning is a full-service creative eventplanning company specializing in corporate events, fundraisers, special occasions, dinner parties, and more, offering quality service that caters to your needs and makes your unique vision come to life.

For any size event, Elle Design Planning offers full or partial planning. The full planning package includes planning the event from start to finish. Lisa will meet with you to discuss your personal preferences and vision for this special occasion, making the event look and feel seamless from beginning to end. Services include but are not limited to on-site visits, planning and logistics, organizing vendors, setup, invitations, catering and digital entertainment. All personal touches and attention to detail will be executed by Lisa and her team. Partial planning is another great option for clients who have some vendors picked out but need a bit of assistance. With a partial package, you customize where you would like help, including event design, execution, budget advising, floor plan layout, as well as three planning meetings. Before booking a partial planning service, clients will have a venue and date booked. Elle Design Planning also offers home staging, where your home will be prepared to be placed on the market or enjoyed by yourself.

Elle Design Planning works with an amazing list of vendors, including balloon, floral, dessert, décor, party favour and stationery companies that will help your vision become a reality.

Buttermill Ave. Unit 5, Concord, Ont.

“Client reactions are my favourite part of this job. I love bringing their visions to life through creativity and planning. Seeing their faces light up when walking into the event is why I do what I do.”

Lisa De La Precilla is the owner of Elle Design Planning

PHOTO BY VALERIA MITSUBATA

BRINGING INTERIOR DESIGN DREAMS TO LIFE

Michelle Bellissimo and Jamelya Francis are the co-owners of Francis + Bell Design Studio in Toronto

Michelle Bellissimo and Jamelya Francis are the interior design duo and co-owners behind Francis + Bell Design Studio. They are creating new spaces that will endure ever-changing trends while reflecting their clients’ unique style

WRITTEN BY ALEXANDRA AULICINO INTERVIEW BY MICHELLE ZERILLO-SOSA

With over 14 years of experience between them, two interior design degrees from Humber ITAL, experience working in commercial and residential spaces, project management experience, and multiple award-winning designs, Michelle Bellissimo and Jamelya Francis were ready to take the next step by opening their own interior design studio. Today, Francis + Bell Design Studio is a full-service interior design firm specializing in residential, food and beverage and retail spaces.

Q: What is your definition of good design?

A: The definition of a good design to us is a space that is not only beautiful but functional for the client furthermore, an environment that is an expression of one’s personality and tells a story through finishes, furniture, as well as all the tiny details. Each client is unique; we all have factors that influence our life and well-being, whether those be environmental, cultural and/or physical. Therefore, it is our job as designers to diagnose each project individually. We use all these factors to help us create a unique design for each of our clients.

Q: Tell us about this reno project.

A: This renovation was for a young family of three who wanted to find a way to maximize space and storage in their 2,000-square-foot builder home for their growing family. The renovation process started off with many challenges. The original location of the kitchen was quite awkward and presented limited opportunity for additional storage and an island. We decided to relocate the kitchen to the north side of the house so that there was more opportunity

for space. Once we’d finalized the new layout, we presented 3-D renderings with two options for design: a blue kitchen or a green kitchen. We wanted to keep the kitchen neutral but still wanted a fun pop of colour to match this growing family’s fun personality. Ultimately, the blue kitchen won, so we headed into construction! During this phase, we had a few hiccups, such as delayed deliveries on products to venture out on my own. Michelle agreed to join me part time, as she was working elsewhere at the time. Oddly enough, she ended up getting laid off three months later from her design job, which really propelled us to go for it and push toward our dreams.

and missing pieces in the millwork. However, once everything arrived, the design came together exactly how we intended. The clients were very pleased to see the design come to fruition — all the way from a 3-D rendering to reality.

Q: How did your company come to be?

Jamelya: I always dreamed of owning my own design company since starting design school. I was propelled into doing it so early in my career because I got laid off from my job at a homebuilder. After getting laid off, I called Michelle, who always said to call her if I ever decided

The kitchen pre-renovation, with very little storage or space

Q: What is the secret to a successful partnership?

Michelle: For us, the secret to success in partnership is finding a person that has different strengths than you do and allowing each person to home in on their strongest skill sets within the business. My strongest skill sets are visual, creativity and architectural. Jamelya is strongest with interpersonal skills, construction coordination and material knowledge. In addition, to help us maintain a great partnership, we had to detach friendship from business and not allow one to interfere with the other.

Q: Name three things you cannot do without.

Michelle: My matcha latte every morning, my sketch book and my laptop.

Jamelya: My morning gym sessions, my measuring tape and my iPhone.

Q: How involved was the owner of this

Each client is unique; we all have factors that influence our life and wellbeing, whether those be environmental, cultural and/or physical

After

home in the final vision of the project?

A: The clients for this project were very involved from beginning to end. At the start of the project, they expressed that cooking and family time was most important. Learning that, we made sure to provide them with enough storage and surface area to use the kitchen as a central, communal space. The clients approved the design every step of the way, from cabinet colours and metal finishes to the overall kitchen.

Q: What are the trends for colour when it comes to kitchens?

A: Current colour trends for the kitchen right now are definitely neutral tones and muted colours mixed with white. We’re finding that a lot of clients are becoming more open to colours other than white. Continuing into 2023, we’ll

definitely be seeing more wood textures and beige, green and blue kitchens.

Q: What are some of the design eras you identify with most yourself?

A: We don’t identify with one, but we love grabbing design inspiration from various time periods and incorporating them into more modern designs. We admire the sophistication and classic elements of the Victorian era, with heavy ornamental details. We love to bring in abstract and playful elements from art nouveau to push the boundaries of design. For example, we’ll take the average fireplace mantle and turn it into an unconventional shape using natural stones or trim.

Q: What are some of the finishes and materials that were used in this project?

A: The cabinets were a combination of two colours by Benjamin Moore, the blue being Silver Gray 2131-60 and the white White Dove OC-17. The hood vent was done in a textured plaster paint to include more elements of modern farmhouse. The backsplash was a classic grey Carrara subway tile with brushed gold trim in between each grout line. For the countertop, we toned it down with a white Carrara quartz with minimal veining. For the metal finishes, we decided to stay consistent with a brushed gold finish for hardware, plumbing and lighting fixtures.

Q: Where do you go to get recharged and inspired?

Michelle: I get inspired and recharged by travelling to new countries and visiting beautiful hotels and restaurants. Experiencing new cities allows me to view design differently; I am able to draw inspiration from various cultures and landscapes.

Jamelya: I love exploring the city of Toronto. Pretending to be a tourist allows me to expose myself to various restaurants and venues to see how other designers have planned their spaces. I get inspired every time I eat at a new place. Seeing how others tackle design constraints motivates me to be innovative in my own business.

Q: Tell us one thing that our readers may not know about you.

Michelle: My nonno (grandfather) was a furniture designer and carpenter who appreciated design and was the one who actually encouraged me to continue on the path of architecture and design. He was the driving force for me in design school; I always had dreams of making him proud.

Jamelya: In my free time outside of the gym and business, I like to sing and curate digital art. From the time I was able to write, my parents discovered that I was a creative child. Singing and designing new art pieces allows me to express my creativity outside of interior design.

www.francisbelldesign.com @francisbellstudio

The beautiful newly renovated kitchen is full of light, breathing light into the home while being functional for the family

DROP, FIZZ & DRINK!

Kiana Gomes recently pitched her business on Dragons’ Den and now four Dragons are investing in her Cocktail Bomb Shop. Barely in her 20s, she is an exploding success story with her bubbling product

WRITTEN BY DONNA PARIS | INTERVIEW BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

Cocktail bombs make it easy to give any celebration a little extra sparkle. All of the products are made in Montreal and packaged with eco-friendly materials

Kiana Gomes built a bustling business out of a great idea –cocktail bombs!

When Kiana Gomes was just a kid, she used to watch Dragons’ Den wishing she could be in front of the Dragons one day. “I would dream of accomplishing something like that,” she says. “But it’s one of those things that you feel will be impossible to ever get there.” Spoiler alert: Gomes got there.

Parents pass on all kinds of things to their kids. And, in Gomes’ case, perhaps it was entrepreneurial spirit. Her mom owned a kitchen store in Ottawa when Gomes was growing up and her dad was in sales. So, as a kid, she sold lemonade, went on to sell clothing online as a teen, then baked and sold cakes, but discovered that wasn’t very profitable. She worked in a soap store that sold bath bombs but she lost her job. In spite of all that, Gomes would prove unstoppable once she watched a TikTok video on chocolate bombs and an idea began to take shape.

“I thought it was cool — I saw a recipe showing how to make them and I thought I would try it and put them on Facebook Marketplace,” says Gomes, who’s now a university student in Montreal. She started getting orders and they started selling like crazy. So, Gomes started producing the chocolate bombs with friends and family, who were all working late into the night making them. In fact, they sold 12,000 hotchocolate bombs from last November to Valentine’s Day.

But you know how it goes everyone is kind of done with chocolate after February 14. Gomes was discouraged, but she put her energy into researching ideas. She found an old article online about a bartender who had created a kind of cocktail bomb for a special event. That got her thinking, and she started experimenting in her kitchen. She came up with a cocktail bomb herself and posted it on TikTok. Loosely based on the bath bomb design, the cocktail bombs are dropped into a glass full of a sparkling beverage for instant mimosas, mojitos and even peach Bellinis. Garnish as desired, or don’t even bother. It doesn’t get any easier.

“It was just a random video and it ended up getting 2.5 million views!” says Gomes. That’s the good news. The bad news? “I didn’t have a website. I didn’t

have packaging. All I had was this idea,” she adds. She got busy, hiring someone to come up with a logo and working on packaging. Everyone was helping: her boyfriend and business partner, who prefers to be behind the scenes, her parents, his parents, other family members and friends. “I’m really lucky that I had a good support network around me because I don’t think I would have been able to do it all myself,” she says.

Eventually Gomes outgrew the kitchen and rented out a location, and the company, Cocktail Bomb Shop, now employs eight people. All of the bombs are made in Montreal and packaged with eco-friendly materials — even the wrap around the bombs is biodegradable. And that is when she gathered up her courage and auditioned to get onto Dragons’ Den. To her surprise, she was chosen to appear in front of the Dragons. She looks very relaxed on the show; however, that was not really the case, says Gomes. She was super-nervous before she was about to walk in. But the production team encouraged her and she started talking and continued pitching even when the Dragons were talking over her, and she got a little more comfortable. All of

them were impressed by her numbers (more than $1.5 million in sales), and the Dragons wanted in. The final deal was struck: $400,000 for five per cent for each of four dragons.

As for her future plans, you better take cover because there are more bombs coming. Colour-changing hot chocolate bombs, maybe coffee bombs, too. And she has ideas for expansion, so she is headed to more markets in the United States.

Gomes has the right mix, really, with way more wisdom and experience than most people have at her young age. Asked what success means to her, she answers honestly. “Traditionally, you would think that it’s having a lot of money,” she says. But there is no joy in mistreating or exploiting people to make money, and it’s better to perhaps not make as much money but to be proud of what you’ve accomplished and ensure that people around you are happy, she adds. For Gomes, that’s the true bottom line. “If you feel like you’re doing something sustainable and you’ve created something good, I think that’s success.”

www.cocktailbombshop.ca @cocktailbombshop

The final deal was struck on Dragons’ Den: $400,000 for five per cent for each of four dragons

I’m lucky that I had a good support network because I don’t think I would have been able to do it all myself

DEBUNKING COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT CROHN’S & COLITIS

Canada has among the highest rates of Crohn’s and colitis in the world. We spoke with Dr. Kate Lee, vice-president of Research & Patient Programs at Crohn’s and Colitis Canada, to understand why

WRITTEN BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

The last decade or so has marked a sea change in how we collectively think about and discuss mental health issues, particularly about the cascading effects that physical illness or disability can have on our mental well-being. Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, conditions that affect the bowel, sit at the intersection of these historically disparate areas of medicine, particularly regarding the significant lifestyle changes, embarrassment and depression that tend to result from their physical symptoms. As Dr. Kate Lee, vice-president of Research & Patient Programs at Crohn’s and Colitis Canada, explains, “People living with Crohn’s or colitis are twice as likely to develop mental health issues, especially anxiety, compared to the general population.”

“The stories you hear about how Crohn’s or colitis has affected people’s lives are heartbreaking. These diseases impact all aspects of an individual’s physical and emotional well-being and can be quite isolating. When someone is in a flare, they stay home, they can’t do anything. They’re even afraid to go grocery shopping because of the unpredictable bowel movements. They even talk about how they’ve changed

their career aspirations because of knowing that they’ve been diagnosed with this disease. Their social life and travel plans are definitely impeded — so many aspects of their lives are affected by this disease.”

Dr. Lee brings up the unfortunate prevalence among Canadians in of Crohn’s and colitis, diseases that are often hidden by those who live with them. “We predict about one per cent of Canadians will have an inflammatory bowel disease by 2030. That’s not a small amount. It’s a disease that is out there, and I wouldn’t be surprised that if you start talking about it, you’re going to find out that you know people who have the disease.”

To understand more about the difference between IBS and IBD, as well as Crohn’s and colitis, we asked Dr. Lee to debunk common misconceptions about the conditions and hopefully shine more light on a condition that people all too often deal with in isolation.

Q: What’s the difference between irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)?

A: Irritable bowel syndrome is not a disease and it doesn’t involve your

Currently, there is no known cure for Crohn’s disease; however, the treatments for the condition traditionally focus on reducing symptoms through lifestyle changes and medications

immune system. Inflammatory bowel disease has the word “inflammatory” and “bowel” in there because it involves your immune system. Irritable bowel syndrome is an intolerance to certain food groups. So, for example, I’m lactose intolerant because my digestive system doesn’t have enough of the enzymes needed to digest lactose. That’s why I developed an intolerance

and why I get uncomfortable when I eat dairy products. There’s a very big difference between the two. With IBD, your own immune system starts attacking your own gut, causing all sorts of havoc in your digestive system, including ulcerations, bleeding, scarring, blockages and fistulas, where the gut has worn away completely and fuses with other organs or body surface.

Q: What is the difference between Crohn’s and colitis?

A: Our organization is called Crohn’s and Colitis Canada to really recognize that the two main forms of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Crohn’s and colitis stands for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. They’re the two main forms of a group of diseases called inflammatory bowel diseases. The reason it’s called “bowel” is because it affects your gut for Crohn’s disease, anywhere from mouth to bum, whereas ulcerative colitis is localized in the large bowel. IBD is an autoimmune disease, so what happens is your immune system goes awry, and your own immune system starts attacking your gut. Unfortunately, there are no cures and it can happen anytime in your life. There are children diagnosed with IBD and there are seniors who are diagnosed with IBD. Having said that, the time when most people get diagnosed with IBD, unfortunately, is during the “the prime of life,” between the ages of 16 and 30.

Q: What are some of the symptoms that people have with Crohn’s or colitis?

A: When it first starts, symptoms can be similar to your gastrointestinal system not feeling comfortable, and maybe having to use the washroom more often. Common symptoms include frequent and urgent bowel movements and bloody stools. When things escalate, if people don’t go see a doctor and get diagnosed properly, it could lead to severe malnutrition and sometimes death. Chronic fatigue is something that a lot of patients experience because of all the bloody stools and having to use the washroom so often, and they have chronic pain, again because their gut is all inflamed.

Dr. Kate Lee is vice-president, Research & Patient Programs at Crohn’s and Colitis Canada. She is driven by her passion to make a difference in health and working with the IBD community to help people affected by Crohn’s or colitis

IBD

Q: Is it a genetic disease, brought on by something that you eat or your lifestyle?

A: It’s a combination. We say that there have to be three factors, and they kind of clash together. And when they clash in a certain way, the individual develops the disease. There’s the genetic component, there’s the environmental component and then there’s our gut microbiome.

Q: What have scientists discovered about those three factors?

A: Scientists have identified more than 200 genes that are involved in IBD and some of the treatments we have target these genes. Scientist studying the microbiome have determined that the gut flora in people with IBD are different

compared to healthy individuals. We also know that industrialization (pollution) is involved. Diet also probably plays a role. Emulsifiers found in many of our store-bought foods could play a part. But the challenge is that we still don’t know what is cause and effect because all studies have been conducted after disease has developed or in animal models. And, although animal models are a great way to try to pull apart questions like cause and effect, discoveries do not necessarily translate to humans. The only human study in the world that is trying to determine the cause or causes leading to IBD is our GEM project that has been following healthy relatives where, because of their genetic link, a proportion of them will develop the disease. We’ve been supporting this study since 2007 and we still have a ways to go. In other words, our researchers have increased our understanding of IBD significantly, but we still have much more to do.

Q: Does hygiene play a role?

A: Yes, there’s also the hygiene hypothesis, where children living in developed nations tend to be less exposed to bugs such as bacteria and viruses while growing up. Exposure to bugs during a child’s development is an important part of teaching our immune system what are good and bad bugs. Since antibiotics kill all bugs, scientists also speculate that increased antibiotic use could be a factor in developing IBD.

Q: What is important to note about IBD?

A: IBD is a progressive disease, which means that the longer you have it, the worse it gets. So, the key to treating it, and to ensuring that you maintain a good quality of life, is to diagnose it early, and to treat it early. The longer you wait, the worse it’s going to be for you. So, if someone has experienced ongoing symptoms suggestive of IBD, I would highly encourage them to go see their doctor.

To learn more about inflammatory bowel disease, visit: crohnsandcolitis.ca/not-alone

crohnsandcolitis.ca @getgutsycanada

PHOTO COURTESY OF DR. KATE LEE

IS A PROGRESSIVE DISEASE, WHICH MEANS THAT THE LONGER YOU HAVE IT, THE WORSE IT GETS. SO, THE KEY TO TREATING IT, AND TO ENSURING THAT YOU MAINTAIN A GOOD QUALITY OF LIFE, IS TO DIAGNOSE IT EARLY, AND TO TREAT IT EARLY