City Life Magazine May/June 2024

JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME:

Social media influencer, author and dad of twin girls offers invaluable lessons on diverse families & what it means to be part of an unconventional one!

Horse Project, Hindman

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60 HUNTER PROSPER: How one person showed the world we are more alike than different More stories inside … 44 18 56 Season!

SORRENTO RETIREMENT RESIDENCE: Where everyone in their golden years wonderfully thrives

MATTHEW GIORDANO: A local Vaughan musician beautifully dedicates his latest to his late mother

THANK YOU FOR 20 WONDERFUL YEARS! We are grateful to our PRIMA community for your loyalty, trust and patronage. We are honoured to have lit up and furnished your homes for 20 years.

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Fernando Zerillo Co-Founder/Creative Director

FAMILY

“Family is not an important thing. It’s everything.”

— Michael J. Fox

Aswe reviewed the articles we’d lined up for the May/June edition of City Life Magazine, we couldn’t have been prouder. This spring issue is full of stories of people who have chosen to look at challenges and instead of asking themselves “Why me?,” they’ve asked “Why NOT me?”

As humans, we are all beset with human weaknesses and doubts, and it is easy when we face obstacles to feel that we do not have the power to overcome them. But if we’ve learned anything from all the stories we’ve shared with you here and in

past editions, it is understanding that we were all put on this Earth for a purpose! Finding your purpose is a gift — one that may come wrapped up in adversity or tangled up in what seems to be insurmountable difficulty. It is our job to untangle that package and find the thread that will lead us to our life purpose.

This was the situation of our cover star, Joseph Tito. He started his journey as a jet-setter who had it all: a glamorous life filled with luxury destinations, cars and designer brands. Yet, all those things just left him feeling empty and he realized that, for him, “having it all” would never mean material possessions. He craved a family of his own. He longed to be a dad — something that would prove to be a bit of challenge for him as a single gay man.

Once Tito decided to take on all the challenges face-on it wasn’t a question of “Why me?” but “Why NOT me?,” and his purpose soon became apparent. He chose to document his journey as a way to empower others who may have the same desire to become parents — and perhaps face the same obstacles that he did — and to educate people: regardless of what families look like, we as a society need to understand that the most important connection is the love we share. The main message is that “family” means parents and children sharing the same love and the same bond, whether the parents are mom and dad, mom and mom, mom, dad, or dad and dad.

Our life’s purpose is revealed in the moments we experience, whether in experiencing a new friendship, falling in love, giving birth to or fathering a child or the sometimes-slow process of mending a broken heart — all of these experiences are both exciting and scary. And we all go through so many of them! But moments of happiness and sadness come and go and nothing is permanent. And although these moments touch us, they do not alter our essential souls. Hunter Prosper, a nurse and TikTok influencer, said it best in our interview with him. Prosper travels around the world to ask strangers basic questions, like “What is the most beautiful thing you have been told?” or “What is the one thing you wished you had said?”

These questions have struck an emotional chord with thousands of people and led them to reach deeply within themselves for their answers, reflecting on love, spirituality, life and death. Although the experiences we go through in life may be unique to each of us, the emotions we feel when we suffer pain, sadness or heartbreak or experience love or joy are all the same. That’s what makes us human.

We hope you enjoy this edition of City Life Magazine and continue to use each and every experience to propel you forward, closer to your life’s purpose!

With gratitude and love,

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Fernando Zerillo Co-Founder/Creative Director

@citylifemag / @amorebagstoronto / @fernandozerillo

Celebrating 15 years of furnishing your home.

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CITY LIFE MAGAZINE • VOLUME 22 • ISSUE 2 • MAY/JUNE 2024

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DESIGN NEWS

BRUNSCHWIG & FILS’ COSMIQUE

The pattern and palette of this unique wallcovering, part of the Celeste collection, will add a bold statement to any space. steelespaint.com

LE CREUSET OLIVE

Iconic craftsmanship, that blends its classic form and feel with the latest ergonomic and functional innovations. www.williams-sonoma.ca

SUN & WATER

One of the many exceptional arrangements perfect for that summery touch. teatroverde.com

CROSLEY CRUISER PLUS TURNTABLE

Classic old-school musical vibes plus modern functionality - listening to music just got better. www.indigo.ca

RUSTIC FURNITURE

THE KOLTON UPHOLSTERED SCREEN

Featuring a tri-folding design complemented by an artistic touch of nature. www.kravet.com

Exquisite and functional tiles from across the globe, selected by Moscone's product experts so you can create your beautiful space and love where you live. www.mosconetile.com Discover a selection of carefully chosen home essentials that will

Revolutionary technology maximizes living space by transforming a kitchen countertop into a seamless induction surface. ciot.com

Step into the season the right way with sleek outdoor furniture meant for entertaining and comfort. www.shopterrain.com

MOSCONE TILE

DESIGN NEWS

JARDINS KIMONO BATHROBE

By Yves Delorme, this organic-cotton robe evokes a stroll in a botanical garden. www.finelinens.com

LEONE FORNI

A wood-burning hearth-style refractory clay oven designed for exterior and interior residential use. Featuring an oven floor that can achieve 800°F. www.ciaobellapizzaovens.com

CANAROMA TILE

For more than 40 years, Canaroma has combined the latest in technology, performance and sophisticated design to create its opulent and highly functional tiles. canaromatile.com

FOLIA ROCKING CHAIR

Inspired by the veins of a leaf, this chair is characterized unpretentious elegance.

HAMPTON BAY 11-FOOT UMBRELLA

This aluminum and steel Cantilever patio umbrella, made with UV-protection fabric, sets up quickly and easily with its crank-lift system. www.homedepot.com

JACQUELINE RIZEK DESIGN

Creating functional and beautifully harmonious spaces that reflect your unique lifestyle. jacquelinerizekdesign.com

ARCADIA STEEL BENCH

Finished with a textured powder coating, this steel bench offers stylish seating for the porch, patio or garden. www.anthropologie.com

KIDS DENTAL STUDIO SPRING 2024

KIDS DENTAL SERVICES

As part of our commitment to providing tailored pediatric services for your little ones, we offer a complimentary 6-month infant exam that also includes assessment for tongue and lip ties.

WAITING ROOM AND AMENITIES

Patients can relax during appointments in the welcoming environment created just for them and enjoy amenities that include a games room, ice cream, and a prize wheel.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT

Tasios is well-known for its continued philanthropic support of community events, educational programs, sports team sponsorships, and charitable organizations, making it a pillar of the community.

CONVENIENT OFFICE HOURS

Evening and weekend appointments are available!

FUN AND SAFE ENVIRONMENT

Our top priority is to provide a comfortable and enjoyable environment for patients, whether they are waiting, playing games, or undergoing treatment.

ORTHODONTICS

Whether it is with braces, Invisalign, or early orthodontic intervention, Tasios Orthodontics combines an artistic approach with cutting-edge science, giving you the smile of your dreams.

A CHEF’S JOURNEY TO ACHIEVING HIS DREA M S

For

Chef Keith Pears

, learning every facet of the kitchen during his childhood would be the foundation for his culinary acclaim

INTERVIEW BY MARC CASTALDO

AtGlass Kitchen, they go beyond dining: they prepare you for a gastronomic journey, a symphony of flavours that transcend the ordinary, crafted by a culinary champion who has tasted victory and savoured success. Chef Keith Pears, born and raised in Vancouver, dreamed as a teenager of culinary artistry at the highest level and has now achieved that dream. He has competed in several food competitions including Best of the West; Citytv’s MasterChef, B.C. Chef of the Year and Garland Canada International Shellfish Chef Challenge, and he has won Chopped Canada, the National Selection for the “Bocuse d’Or,” and won gold at Canada’s Great Kitchen Party in Toronto.

Q: How would you describe your childhood? And how did cooking play a role in it?

A: It was a culinary adventure right from the start. I grew up in Vancouver. Both my parents are chefs, and my grandparents had their Chinese Western café. I practically grew up in the kitchen. Large family gatherings were always a thing,

surrounded by the hustle and bustle as we whipped up delicious dishes.

Q: What piece of advice would you give to aspiring young chefs today?

A: I would surround myself with food. Be around like-minded people. You must love food and the industry. Cook and try new things as much as you can fit into your schedule. Don’t be afraid of failure.

Q: From your perspective, is there a rite of passage that a person must go through to truly become a chef?

A: It depends on what kind of chef you want to be. Nowadays, you can have many kinds of chefs; it’s not just being a chef of a restaurant or a hotel now. If you were to ask me about that, then I would say yes. I feel it’s important to start at the bottom by washing dishes and doing simple prep work. Go to culinary school and move up the ranks over the years, being sure not to rush it. Many different elements of food and cooking take years to master. Each role in the kitchen is important, and being a chef

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means you must orchestrate your team to success.

Q: Can you describe the defining moment that made you devote your life to the culinary arts?

A: I was in my early 20s. My mom recently got back from a trip to France and brought home a book and DVD by a chef named Michel Bras. I saw what he was doing with food, and no one else was doing anything like it. I saw that food was art. After being in the industry since I was 14, I thought to myself, “OK, this is it.” I will take this more seriously and devote my life to it.

Q: What are some of the most common traits shared among chefs that many people do not know about?

A: We work all the holidays and are away from our friends and families, cooking for our guests.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: It’s a mix of contemporary flair with a nod to tradition. I love taking classic dishes and putting my spin on them, infusing them with fresh, unexpected flavours. It’s all about balance for me - balancing boldness with subtlety, complexity with simplicity. At the end of the day, I aim to create dishes that are not only visually stunning but also delight the palate and leave a lasting impression.

Q: What inspires you every day?

A: I try to be better than yesterday. I wake up each morning with a purpose to attack my day.

Q: Tell me about Glass Kitchen’s philosophy.

A: To pioneer a culinary journey where

traditional brunch and dinner experiences intertwine with innovative fusion cuisine, crafting unforgettable dining moments that captivate the senses and redefine gastronomic exploration.

Q: Describe what went into creating the menu. Was the process difficult?

A: Creating the menu involved drawing inspiration from seasonal ingredients, culinary trends and dishes that my parents and grandma taught along with my personal experiences. Though challenging, balancing flavours and ensuring cohesion made it a rewarding process thanks to the collaborative effort of the team.

glasskitchencanada.com @glasskitchencanada @keith_pears

For Chef Keith Pears, it's all about delivering the next generation of fusion cuisine, blending traditional Asian flavours with contemporary techniques. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, an adventurous diner or simply seeking a memorable brunch experience, it's worth travelling out of your way to experience Glass Kitchen!

STYLISH, CONFIDENT AND FULL OF LIFE

Milana Loren Couture began its journey beautifully and organically and is now one of the hottest brands in fashion

Atthe tender age of nine years old, Layla Loren was captivated by the fashion world! Some might have predicted her career as a designer and CEO of her fashion line by noting the influence of her mother, who owned a fashionable wedding and ladies’ couture boutique. It’s where Loren learned the art of hand-beading and dressmaking.

She recalls, “My mother was Cher’s former designer, so she designed clothes for Cher and other movie-set pieces. I’m so grateful she took the time to teach me as it has led me to where I am today.”

Loren’s five-year-old daughter, Milana, is her muse and the inspiration behind the line.

“Milana is the one who ignited and fuels the creativity in my DNA. When she was born, the creativity naturally emerged, and I started making outfits for her. One gown I made for her for an event had a five-foot train. She was a showstopper. People would always ask where her outfits were from because they had never seen anything like them. Some even asked if they could buy them. It got to the point where I decided to create for others as well,” says Loren.

With this newfound inspiration and loving purpose, Milana Loren Couture was born and today it has become a beacon of elegance. Its collections showcase a level of artistry and sophistication that convey a sense of vibrancy so palpable that the New York City Fashion Week Competition 2024 felt it fitting to bestow Milana Loren Couture with the Best Emerging Designer Award.

What sets Milana Loren Couture apart from other brands is its bespoke shopping experience: each garment is meticulously crafted and a personal concierge caters to the customer’s every need and requirement so that

Luxury dresses handcrafted to make each piece a work of

the final piece, whether it is a charming dress for a special occasion or a stylish everyday ensemble, reflects the wearer’s individuality. Each piece uses only the finest materials, sourced from Italy or crafted in-house, and is perfectly and impeccably tailored.

Vibrant colours, intricate hand-beading and luxurious materials including feathers, Chantilly lace, tulle, silk and sequins are carefully selected to create garments that not only look stunning but also feel comfortable against children’s delicate skin.

But what makes Milana Loren Couture special is Milana Loren herself.

“Milana used to be shy, and then she put on a dress and came alive. She had a smile that I’d never seen before. Even when I’m selecting fabrics, she’s a part of the process because she’s got a great eye. She once sketched a design and asked me to make it. It brings her so much joy when I bring her ideas to life. I always credit her for inspiring me,” says Loren.

Layla Loren Designer and owner of Milana Loren Couture

art

For most families, taking care of its elderly members is not merely one of its most important responsibilities, it is also a moral obligation, one that has been incurred over a lifetime. Your elders took care of you in your early years, so you should take care of them at the other end of the age spectrum, ensuring that their remaining years are spent comfortably in a friendly environment where their needs are attended to most importantly, with a sense of dignity.

That environment can be found at Sorrento Retirement Residence at 10 Station Road near downtown Bolton, Ont. Inspired by the picturesque town of Sorrento, Italy, this warm and welcoming environment brings a distinctively Italian zest for life to a luxury retirement residence. Here, life is lived with passion and purpose, close friendships and, above all, great food and conversation. This is what President Raymond Nicolini envisioned when he entered the retirement residence business: to create an environment based on dignity.

“A number of years ago I saw the writing on the wall. My parents were getting older and, having a bit of experience with properties, I didn’t like what was out there in the market,” says Nicolini in a recent interview with City Life. “I thought we needed something that gave our parents, our uncles, our aunts, our grandparents — or whoever the family member is — we needed to give them dignity when they decide to move into a retirement residence. Sorrento is the result of trying to give our loved ones as much dignity as possible. So we built it and I think it reflects that — at least, I hope it does.”

OUR RESIDENTS SEE THEMSELVES DOING THINGS THEY USED TO LOVE TO DO - AS SOON AS YOU WALK IN YOU FEEL THAT ATMOSPHERE, THAT CARE AND THAT SUPPORT

they enter as they don’t expect this, this level of luxury and beauty,” he says. “They expect something that is more institutional, more clinical, and that’s what we try very hard to avoid. This has to be home because that’s what it is — it’s home. There is always the guilt from kids when they feel their parents need a retirement residence, but when they walk into Sorrento, that guilt is relieved, and they feel it’s a better place for Mom and Dad.”

The atmosphere at Sorrento Retirement Residence is family-friendly and family-first perhaps because it is a family-owned and -operated business.

One of Raymond’s daughters, Desirée, is director of sales and marketing, and the other, Simone, is building operations manager. That warm and familial atmosphere is a key advantage for residents at Sorrento.

“I think the feeling here is excitement, for different reasons that are personal to the individual,” says Desirée Nicolini. “I think our residents see themselves doing things they used to love to do because as soon as you walk in you feel that atmosphere, that care and that support. They see that the opportunities are here, and we provide for them. I think there is a feeling of excitement and hope.”

There is a distinctive feeling of comfort at Sorrento that is almost tangible that separates it from other retirement residences, and which is felt by both the residents and their families, according to Raymond Nicolini.

“We always see a look of surprise as

Residents can choose from a wide variety of beautifully decorated suite plans and floor sizes, and the emphasis is on providing abundant natural light, spectacular views and fresh air from Juliet-style balconies. All suites feature independently controlled heating and air conditioning, built-in kitchenettes, large wheelchairaccessible bathrooms, safety bars and an in-suite nurse call system. Sorrento also provides full housekeeping and laundry services as well as in-suite room service.

Caring, committed and compassionate staff are on call 24/7 to attend to any need, and health-care professionals are on-site, plus concierge services are offered. The Sorrento Wellness Program, personalized to empower each resident, holistically encompasses personal fitness, ongoing activity, healthy eating and community involvement. For residents who require assisted living services, state-of-theart care is offered in private suites on a dedicated floor.

Sorrento also provides community amenities including a gym and fitness area, bistro, pub and games room, movie theatre, fireplace and grand piano in the lounge, as well as a swimming pool, outdoor patio and BBQ area where residents can host family and friends.

— Desirée Nicolini

They can also enjoy group outings or day trips. Massage services and beauty treatments are offered, and there is an on-site salon to help residents look and feel their best. Beloved furry companions are welcome at pet-friendly Sorrento, which offers full pet services, including dog-walking.

According to Raymond Nicolini, the amenities have been specifically designed to encourage a socially engaged and active lifestyle.

“As beautiful as Sorrento is, the most valuable feature that we offer is the availability of social interaction, which is just so very critical,” he says. “And our residence lends itself to that because every day that we can achieve that social interaction our residents will thrive — because we all do it every day. That’s how we all live. We look for social interaction; it’s how we’re made. If we can provide that here every day, that’s a success and another badge on our lapel. We offer shared experiences: residents can laugh together, cry together, tell stories together, and share good and bad news together. That’s what we are offering, and that’s something money just cannot buy.”

Nicolini daughters Simone (left) and Desirée are on-site full time, adding to the family-first feel at Sorrento

Private dining areas where residents can host family and friends are also available

What comes through so clearly when talking to Raymond, Desirée and Simone Nicolini is their strong sense of family values, traditional old-school Italian family values instilled by their beloved Papa, Vittorio Nicolini. Vittorio was a man with a zest for life who loved nothing better than spending time with friends and family over a great meal — so much so that Sorrento’s restaurant is named Ristorante Vittorio in his honour. Vittorio’s values are alive today throughout Sorrento Retirement Residence. According to Desirée, these family values are the guiding light at Sorrento for its staff every day.

“One of our values is that each person is an individual with their own needs, be that care or a sense of independence or different levels of socialization,” says Desirée. “It’s a coming-together of assistance for those who need it and a sense of independence at the same time, while giving them all a strong sense of dignity. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to care. We always remember that this has become their home, and we are just so thankful to be a part of that.”

Desirée adds that the attention to care and compassion at Sorrento is often a huge relief for families. “It’s because families feel good leaving, and when they come and visit it’s a true visit without worrying about whether Mom took her medication today, because that’s our job,” she says. “When families come and visit, it’s true quality time.”

There is a time of transition in every life, and as loved ones age they often need more care, a reality that every family eventually faces. A decision to bring Sorrento into that transition time can make those golden years among the best and most rewarding years. Amenities, which include a bistro, pub and games room, gym, pool and outdoor BBQ area, encourage a socially engaged lifestyle

sorrentoretirement.com @sorrentoretirementbolton

is a holistic approach to active living, fitness, and healthy eating that is personally designed for each

President Raymond Nicolini began Sorrento after looking for a residence for his own parents and feeling the market’s offerings could be improved

The Sorrento Wellness Program

resident

PHOTO BY EMAD MOHAMMADI

SLEEP WELL & LIVE BETTER

Dr. Samantha Bohay of Vaughan Dental Snoring and Sleep Apnea Solutions is transforming lives of patients and their loved ones through Oral Appliance Therapy

FD.ABDSM, who began practicing general dentistry in 2000. Although the opportunity to study sleep apnea and snoring came in the most unexpected circumstances, it turned out to be a blessing.

“Studying sleep kind of fell into my lap, and, when it did, I loved it! One in five people have sleep apnea and 80% remain undiagnosed, so

my passion lies in identifying and helping to put these patients on the path of diagnosis and treatment,” says Dr. Bohay.

She has exclusively treated obstructive sleep apnea and snoring patients for more than 10 years. She is one of only 11 practitioners in the Greater Toronto Area who have achieved Diplomate status with the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine (ABDSM). Diplomates are widely recognized as the gold standard for excellence in dental sleep medicine as they

have demonstrated the skills and knowledge essential for the delivery of excellent patient care.

Dr. Bohay opened Vaughan Dental Sleep Solutions in 2021 to provide personalized treatment for sleep apnea patients using Oral Appliance Therapy. This is a highly preferred alternative treatment for those living with sleep apnea, unlike the industry-standard CPAP machine as it is comfortable, quiet, perfect for travel and easy to care for.

“I always make a point of helping patients understand their sleep disorder, how we treat it, how Oral Appliance Therapy works and how they should expect to improve, making the patient experience positive,” says Dr. Bohay.

She offers precision medical oral appliances using digital scanning technology for the perfect custom fit. Patients can expect to sleep better, restore their alertness and revitalize their health. Much like an orthodontic retainer, the appliance fits over your teeth. While you sleep it supports your jaw in a forward position to keep your airway open.

Vaughan Dental Sleep Solutions understands how crucial sleep therapy treatment is. Getting good sleep every night can help to prevent a wide range of major health risks, such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and increased risk of cancer. Dr. Bohay welcomes walk-in patients (no referrals necessary).

She is also the Clinical Director of the Dental Sleep Medicine Program at the Sleep & Alertness Sleep Clinic located in Toronto and is a guest lecturer at the University of Toronto School of Dentistry. Dr. Bohay’s passion for sleep medicine is boundless!

112 - 3905 Major Mackenzie Dr. W. Vaughan, Ont. 416- 830-2222

www.vaughandentalsleepsolutions.ca

Dr. Samantha Bohay is passionate about increasing public awareness of Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT), which can drastically improve the quality of life for patients and their loved ones

From the Heart of Hamilton to the Shores of Lake Simcoe

Since its modest beginnings in 1992, Rosehaven has built an awardwinning portfolio of over 9,000 homes and condos across southern Ontario. It has steadily expanded into new communities — from the GTA to Niagara Falls and so many in between — treating every new community as an opportunity to reassert its commitment to long-lasting livable luxury.

“Everyone in our company, from our president to the architects, from the designers to the sales staff, all the way to the tradespeople hammering each nail, has bought into the philosophy that every aspect of your home should be completed with

the intention of exceeding expectations,” said Rosehaven President Marco Guglietti. “Perfect corners, beautiful accents, stunning curb appeal; it’s a culmination of all things large and small, with no detail left unattended.”

Rosehaven’s two most recent communities are further evidence of the team’s acumen and their passion for their craft.

The Rebecca is a new high-rise community that will soon open to the public in Hamilton. Located across the street from the revitalized John Rebecca Park, this new urban community will be home to an exceptional range of modern amenities, with architecture and interiors expertly designed

to appeal to the city’s growing class of young professionals. Its most notable features include the Scandinavian-inspired pedestrian-friendly streetscape, stylish entertaining areas, fully equipped gym and versatile living spaces.

The Rebecca is located just steps from one of Hamilton’s top dining and entertainment districts on King William Street, a unique feature in a city that is quickly developing a reputation for its world-class restaurants. At the Rebecca, residents are also moments away from plenty of transit options including the GO train station, and from the city’s shopping areas, music venues, breweries, and urban green spaces.

Rosehaven is also set to launch a new collection of single detached homes and townhomes at Simcoe Woods in Innisfil. Located just off Innisfil Beach Road at Webster Boulevard, moments from the shores of Lake Simcoe, these homes offer easy access to Highway 400 as well as a wide selection of amenities including the big-box stores, shops and services of Barrie and the lakeside escapes of Friday Harbour Resort.

Over the years, Rosehaven has been recognized with dozens of industry awards. The state-of-the-art décor studio not only offers a wide selection of premier home choices, but also the expert guidance homebuyers need to help them navigate those choices.

In addition to the company’s building standards, Rosehaven’s homes are designed to incorporate the local character of the areas where they are built. These are homes you can count on to retain their beauty after being lived in for decades. They are homes where you will be proud to make memories.

Visit RosehavenHomes.com to find out more.

CONNECTING Women to Economic OPPORTUNITIES

The work of Women Building Futures extends beyond preparing women for the industry and also involves getting the industry ready for women

Carol Moen, President and CEO of Women Building Futures (WBF), leads with a unique blend of engineering acumen and a heartfelt commitment to empowering women. During her tenure at its helm, WBF has not just been a job, but has also become a core part of her identity. “In the four-plus years that I have been in this role, the work that Women Building Futures does has now really become part of who I am,” Moen reflects, underscoring her personal connection to the organization’s mission.

Moen’s journey is one marked by a deep-rooted passion for engineering and an unwavering dedication to women’s advancement in fields where they remain underrepresented. Her career began at Dow Chemical, where she ascended through various roles over 26 years, from engineering to global leadership positions. Following her tenure at Dow, Moen served as the first female registrar for the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA), where she implemented critical governance and operational frameworks.

Moen retired in 2017, but soon found that it had been premature and had left her feeling somewhat adrift and without purpose. So when WBF came knocking, she saw it as the perfect opportunity, one that not only aligned with her professional values but also resonated personally. “This opportunity with Women Building Futures

Carol Moen’s vision is to empower this generation of women and the next, through the trades

WRITTEN BY BONNIE CULBERTSON | INTERVIEW BY MARC CASTALDO

... really called to me,” Moen shared in a recent interview.

Under Moen’s leadership, WBF has embarked on impressive and impactful expansions, most recently into Ontario and Saskatchewan, bolstered by a recent $2.6 million grant from the Canadian government. The funding is part of a strategic initiative to enhance the economic security of women, particularly those who are unemployed or underemployed — a cause Moen and the organization champions vigorously.

This expansion also serves as the foundation for building sustainable local partnerships in both regions. “The reality of federal funding is that it’s on a time frame, with this grant being for two years,” explains Moen. “While we can use the grant money to enter new provinces, we’re also doing incredible work to begin building industrial and employment partnerships as well as build private-sector funding through donor partnerships. It’s how we set a strong foundation, because of course in order to stay in a region the province has to want us there. We’ve nurtured a wonderful partnership with the government of Alberta over the years, for example, and now they help to provide us with sustainable funding so we can maintain our programs after grant money time is up.”

Moen’s journey to WBF was influenced by her prior experiences as a woman in engineering, a field where women are significantly underrepresented. “I’ve really come to understand that my story as it relates to being a woman [engineer] isn't the normal story,” she acknowledges, referencing her privilege as a white welleducated woman with a stable home life. This awareness fuels her dedication to making WBF a transformative space for all women, particularly those facing systemic barriers.

The programs at WBF do more than

teach skills; they build confidence and community. They also involve preparing industries to integrate and support women effectively. The organization fosters partnerships with employers to cultivate inclusive work environments and champions diversity, equity, and inclusion across the trades. “We recognize the need to eliminate barriers for women, enabling them to safely access effective pathways to economic security,” Moen states. “We often say ‘We spent the last 25 years getting women ready for the trades, and now we’re spending just as much time and effort getting the trades ready for women,’ and that statement is all about workforce inclusion.”

Moen captures the emotional payoff of this work, saying, “The confidence and pride on the faces of the women when they graduate through our programming just refuels me, it’s an amazing thing.” She adds, “In such a short amount of time we’re able to help someone who was often struggling and have them take control of their life and probably never need to be on social supports again. I think that impact is what brings incredible satisfaction to me and for everyone across our organization.”

Carol Moen’s vision for WBF is expansive and deeply integrated into the fabric of the communities it serves. Her leadership not only advances WBF’s mission but also catalyzes a broader movement towards equality and empowerment in the skilled trades, making a profound impact on the lives of countless women. As WBF continues to evolve, Moen’s influence remains a beacon of progressive change, proving that with the right support women can thrive in any field they choose. Moen’s vision for a balanced and equitable workforce is gradually becoming a tangible reality for many women across Canada.

womenbuildingfutures.ca @wbfintrades

Carol Moen President & CEO of Women Building Futures

A team of dedicated cyclists are actively making a difference by raising funds for Humber River Hospital

WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER | INTERVIEW BY MARC CASTALDO

Many people donate money to worthwhile causes, which is a good thing indeed. It is the right thing to give back and help effect positive change, whatever the cause. It also makes us feel good and provides satisfaction if we are in a position to write that cheque. But some people go a little further in their support for a chosen cause and as a result of their efforts get a little more in return for their support. In short, they just don’t donate — they participate.

Team Revolution is just such a group. It is a team of dedicated cyclists with a passion for staying active and healthy while raising awareness and funds for Humber River Hospital, supporting the hospital’s vision to create a dramatically different health-care centre. This dream to revolutionize health care through Team Revolution came to Frank Ciccolini Jr. over a decade ago during his father’s stay at Humber River Hospital. Ciccolini Jr. was inspired by the dedicated patient care shown by the incredible staff but he also realized the need for a modernized health care facility.

Looking back, having a team of cyclists attempting to raise a generous sum of money seemed farfetched. Little did they know that they would be a major contributor to North America’s first fully digital hospital.

Since its inception in 2011, Team Revolution has raised more than $3 million in support of Humber River.

“We wanted to do something different.

Instead of hosting a golf event or a dinner, we wanted to do something we’re passionate about. So, from that little idea to twelve years later, we have raised well over three million dollars, our team has doubled in size, and we’ve inspired and promoted a healthy and active lifestyle,” says Team Revolution co-chair Robert Colelli.

change lives for the better.

SO, FROM THAT LITTLE IDEA TO TWELVE YEARS LATER, WE HAVE RAISED WELL OVER THREE MILLION DOLLARS

When the original 60 riders formed Team Revolution in 2011, they had ambitious goals: to conquer some of Italy’s most challenging hills in a Gran Fondo (translation: Big Ride), the celebrated cycling race that tests the strength, stamina and determination of some of the world’s best cyclists in a country known for them. Cycling in Italy is as legendary as its football — each cyclist is world-class and recognized as the best of the best. From Francesco Moser to Gino Bartali, Maurice Garin to the legendary Fausto Coppi, Italian cyclists are among the best the world has ever seen.

Cycling in a Gran Fondo was a lofty goal with a modest start. Based in Ontario, the team chose The Blue Mountains outside of Collingwood to train. Part of the Niagara Escarpment and featuring the tallest hills in the central portion of the province, this was the closest terrain they could find that came close to replicating the mountains of Italy and the test that a Gran Fondo would present to them all.

They call themselves Team Revolution because they have shown that any goal, no matter how seemingly unattainable, can be reached. What is cemented in their life is that the power of believing in yourself and working together can lead to extraordinary accomplishments that can

“We all did a training ride at Blue Mountain, and it was probably the first race a lot of us did,” recalls co-chair Steve Gobbatto. “And to have to do a ride that is probably 100 kilometres and involves a lot of climbing scared the daylights out of everybody. But when you complete that and succeed, you know in your mind you are ready for the first Gran Fondo. That sense of accomplishment when you cross

— Robert Colelli

the finish line is like nothing I’ve ever achieved before.”

In 2012, after months of intense training, Team Revolution realized its goal by participating in a Gran Fondo in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, which raised $425,000 for Humber River Hospital. All saw the opportunity to not only donate but also participate by doing two things they are passionate about — cycling and raising funds to help Humber River Hospital continue to innovate by using technology to reinvent patient care.

Among the cycling community the word began to spread about Team Revolution. The team’s size has more than doubled since its beginnings in 2011. The number of active cyclists grew to 143 last year, with 60 going to Italy, and this year the goal is 150 cyclists — all raising funds for a worthwhile cause.

“One of the reasons we go to Italy every two years is to not only race in a Gran Fondo, but to challenge ourselves,” says Colelli. “When you look at what people who are in a hospital are going through, our challenges are nothing compared to them. We are blessed to be able to do something we enjoy and stay healthy and active. But when you get to the top

of a mountain in Italy you are shaking, you are so excited and so humbled to be surrounded by snow peaks. We are a team. We’re more than just a cycling club, we are friends.”

Team Revolution has participated in five Italian Gran Fondos to date, conquering the Gran Fondo Scott Piacenza in the mountains of Piacenza, overcoming treacherous weather and bumpy roads in 2016 in Terracina and, in 2018, setting its sights on the Verona area in the Gran Fondo Peschiera Del Garda, which was a true test of strength and determination to complete.

The 2020 Gran Fondo was rescheduled to 2022 due to COVID, and the team wanted to make a special effort to mark its 10th anniversary but also to make up for the shortfall in fundraising since 2018. The team travelled to Provincia Siena, Tuscany, participated in the Gran Fondo del Gallo Nero and raised more than $650,000. That is the power of determination. This year’s Gran Fondo will be in the Milan region, with a brief ride over into France.

But perhaps the biggest impact Team Revolution has made goes even beyond

the more than $3 million it has raised for Humber River Hospital.

“Our fundraising reach has gone beyond Team Revolution,” says Gobbatto. “I think the foundation of Team Revolution has also brought other fundraising dollars to Humber and greater awareness to Humber and also other events. So now Team Revolution also participates in other charity events to help bring much-needed fundraising dollars, awareness and exposure. Its goal has gone past the initial reach of just forming Team Revolution to support Humber only. It’s grown beyond that, and I think the lifestyle we’ve promoted within the group is also one of our biggest accomplishments.”

Beyond just another regular charity dinner or golf tournament, Team Revolution is an innovative approach to fundraising: good people doing something they are passionate about with ambitious plans to impact our world in a positive way. Not just donating, but participating for the greater good of their community, and enjoying the ride along the way.

www.theteamrevolution.ca @theteamrevolution

THE DANCE BETWEEN TRADITION AND AUTHENTI CITY

THE ODDS WERE AGAINST JOSEPH TITO: HE HAD EVERYTHING MONEY COULD BUY, BUT THE CHALLENGES OF BECOMING A PARENT AS A SINGLE GAY MAN WERE SIGNIFICANT

ave you ever fought through what sometimes felt like insurmountable obstacles, steadfastly trudging the path because you were fuelled by the courage of your convictions? An internal monologue that asserts the need to pursue the thing that illuminates one’s very being — in truth, one’s life purpose — is the very essence of this courage, and the

conviction comes from the confidence that we are doing what we believe is right, even when the majority of our peers do not agree.

That is the state of being that 37-year-old Joseph Tito, the extremely successful producer and director of the kind of high-profile shows that run on Netflix and the Food Network, was struggling to achieve as he stared out the 58th floor window of his Dubai

hotel one lonely and scorchingly hot night.

“I had a great life; I was a jet-setter and I travelled anywhere I wanted to go. I had everything and my earnings, which were tax-free, allowed me to buy whatever I wanted. But I wasn’t happy — something was missing.”

Tito was, he says, in a dance between tradition and authenticity.

Born in Italy and immigrating to

WRITTEN BY CECE M. SCOTT | INTERVIEW BY MARC CASTALDO

Joseph Tito is a socialmedia influencer, author, mentor and public speaker who shares his expertise on a diverse range of topics including surrogacy, parenting and personal growth

Canada with his parents when he was 5 years old, Tito grew up in a traditional household where family was everything, a nuclear unit gathered around the dining-room table, where each person bonded under the auspices of Nonna’s beguilingly delicious from-scratch meals.

It is no secret that one of the fundamental expectations in Italian families, certainly something that was instilled in Tito from a young age, is the mandate to find a suitable partner, get married and have kids.

And although having children as a gay man would add a certain layer of complexity to this scenario, Tito’s mom was always there for him, completely supportive, and she told him that together they would find a way.

didn’t want to be 60 years old with a toddler in tow.”

Tito’s partner at the time expressed an interest in embarking on the surrogacy journey with him, but as time went on, Tito realized that his partner was nowhere near as committed to fatherhood as he was.

“I looked at the advantages and processes of adoption versus surrogacy but ultimately I realized, by watching a cousin go through the adoption process, that it was a very difficult procedure. Especially for a gay man.”

Tito reflects on a defining moment in his journey towards parenthood. In his 20s, he was with a partner who had two children, ages 4 and 6. They were together for a decade and Tito cherished the experience of being a step-parent. However, marriage was always something he desired and during that time same-sex marriages were not legally recognized.

Fast-forward to that night in Dubai when Tito looked around his hotel room, surrounded by a luxurious collection of high-end brand-name possessions — and felt, rather than a deep sense of accomplishment and purpose, an emptiness and loneliness that soon led to a life-changing epiphany.

“I was 37 years old and I thought it has got to be now or never,” Tito says. “I

“I HAD A GREAT LIFE: I WAS A JET–SETTER AND TRAVELLED ANYWHERE I WANTED TO GO”

The fact that Tito was a single gay man who was travelling all over the world and not staying at one particular address for any length of time was another factor that he had to consider.

After researching the possibility of surrogacy in several countries, “I eventually found an agency in India that just opened up in Kenya, and they were advertising that same-sex couples and single males could go through the process,” Tito says.

A surrogate was found to carry the pregnancy in Kenya, and the process of implanting the embryos — eggs from the Indian clinic fertilized with Tito’s sperm — began.

Tito shares, “The embryo must develop for 21 days before it can be confirmed as successful. As someone who loves being in control, this process was especially difficult for me since I had no control over the outcome. With every failed attempt, I felt like a part of me died. It got to a point where even

Tito at home with his husband, Frank, and his girls, Stella and Mia

PHOTO BY

JOSEPHINE

Tito shares his thoughts on surrogacy with his 100,000-plus supporters both on his social media platforms and on his blog, “The Dad

Diaries

Tito’s upcoming memoir, From

Jet-Setter to Fatherhood, details his surrogacy journey and the challenges he faced

“BASICALLY, I AM EDUCATING PEOPLE ON THE FACT THAT WE ALL GO THROUGH THE SAME THINGS IN LIFE — THE SAME JOYS AND THE SAME CHALLENGES. WE ARE ALL HUMAN ”

my mother told me not to update her until the surrogate pregnancy proved successful. There were four unsuccessful embryo transfers in total, and it weighed heavily on me. I started to question if maybe God did want me to be a dad — that maybe this wasn’t meant to be.”

And then, in what can only be described as an earth-shaking surprise, Tito was informed that his surrogate mother was having twin girls.

As the time approached for the girls to be born in late November of 2018, Tito and his mom, whom he calls both a blessing and a light, travelled to Kenya to meet the girls and bring them home.

In a video posted to YouTube at that time, Tito and his mom can be seen entering the hospital in Mombasa, Kenya, their over-the-moon excitement and joy illuminating their faces. As he wipes his leaking-with-emotion eyes, it is evident that Tito is a father who wants nothing more in that moment than to see and to envelop his twin baby girls, Stella and Mia, with a jubilant, grateful heart. There is absolutely no question that these girls are wanted, that they are cherished new members of his family.

However, when it was time to bring the girls home to Canada in January of 2019, the unforeseen bureaucratic complications of doing so created so much emotional upheaval and financial stress that the process could only be described as devastating.

Even though Tito had done his due diligence ahead of time, he was blindsided by the news from the Canadian High Commission in Nairobi, which informed him that he

could not get Canadian passports for his girls. Because he was a secondgeneration Canadian, his daughters had not automatically become Canadian citizens at birth. Instead, they’d need to be sponsored. And even though Tito had lived in Canada since he was 5 years old and his mom had been born in Canada, his situation was made even more complex because the surrogate mother was Kenyan and the egg donor was from India.

It was a devastating and emotionalroller-coaster nightmare that might need 6 to 12 months to sort out — which meant that Tito and the girls would have to stay in Kenya for that length of time — and Tito’s mom’s pills were running out. So were his finances, with his costs soaring well above $70,000.

“In true Italian fashion, my mother refused to go home. Even though there wasn’t much she could do, she put her needs aside for the greater good of the family,” Tito says. “At the end of the day, family and love transcend everything.”

Using his social platform to champion his cause, Tito reached out to his followers as a way to powerfully spread awareness of his situation.

“After I got stuck in Kenya, my community of followers went above and beyond to help me. Not only did they email and call people, they reached out to their Members of Parliament to bring awareness to my plight. As a result, my situation went viral. I even got an email from the office of the Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau. If it wasn’t for my community I would have been stuck in Kenya for a year,” Tito says.

Tito’s social profile and overall

influencer status prompted TLN Media Productions to follow him over his journey’s three-year time frame, ultimately creating a documentary about him called A Happy Life — Una Vita Felice

Although Tito says his purpose is not to tell people what to do, he does have a few salient pieces of advice concerning both surrogacy and parenthood.

“If you are financially stable, try to arrange for a surrogate who is as close to home as possible. And while you are going through the process, be willing to accept the fact that you have to give up control, trust in God, have faith and be patient,” he says.

Tito’s memoir, From Jet-Setter to Fatherhood, which he hopes to have published by May of 2024, details his surrogacy journey and the tough challenges and obstacles he faced and overcame. It is a period that at times Tito found extremely emotional to recount, and when he did he relived what were some of the most difficult times of his life. The book’s title is a fitting description of Tito’s lifechanging decisions as he evolved from being a jet-setter to an “at-home Joe.”

“Basically, I am educating people on the fact that we all go through the same things in life — the same joys and the same challenges. We are all human,” he says.

His first book, The Twin Diaries: Stella and Mia Meet Papa (2023), is a children’s book that provides an overview of the realities of diverse family structures, offering valuable lessons about the meaning of family and what it means to be part of an unconventional one.

These days, Tito’s advocacy for surrogacy has positioned him front and centre on the issue with his 100,000plus like-minded supporters on various social platforms as well as through his blog, The Dad Diaries, a space that allows him to shed light on the fact that not all families are alike. It is also a forum that allows Tito to help, lend an ear, and support others who are going through the surrogacy process.

“The other day Mia asked me why she didn’t have a mom. It killed me. I felt so guilty — whether or not that was Italian Catholic guilt, I don’t know,” Tito says, laughing. “It’s important to instil in my daughters and other children that every family is unique and special in their own way. The most crucial lesson I want them to understand is that they are loved, and nothing else matters.”

The values instilled in Tito from a young age, the values that are the foundation of most Italian families, are the same ones that propel and inspire him as a father to his girls and husband to his partner, Frank, who Tito met when Stella and Mia were two years old.

“IT’S IMPORTANT TO INSTIL IN MY DAUGHTERS AND OTHER CHILDREN, THAT EVERY FAMILY IS UNIQUE AND SPECIAL IN THEIR OWN WAY”

At no point does Tito want Stella or Mia to feel guilty that they don’t have a mom. Instead, he makes sure that they understand just how blessed they are to have two nonnas, two grandfathers and two parents. The most impactful takeaways from Tito’s surrogacy experience and the best piece of advice he can give, he says, is not to care about what people think, because most of the time they’re really not thinking.

“I encourage people, no matter how they identify, to explore the joy of parenthood, the divine sense of love that demands nothing in return,” Tito says, with a lilt in his voice that is infused with gratitude and delight. Indeed, it is not hard to see that Stella and Mia are the centre of Tito’s universe, and the inspiration behind everything that he does.

“Stella and Mia have opened my eyes to the beauty in the world, prompting me to re-evaluate and cherish things I used to take for granted,” Tito shares.

Tito celebrates the values of family, the joys of parenthood, and seeing the world through his girls’ eyes

PHOTO BY JOSEPHINE

SATURDAY, JUNE 1

6

AN EVENING IN SUPPORT OF THE ART OF CANADA

EMPOWERING AUTISM AWARENESS AND TRANSFORMING LIVES WITH HOPE

At the heart of Waves of Changes is a team of passionate volunteers — from the Board of Directors to the executive team and the larger committee, every effort is driven by genuine compassion

Fom left: Mark Di Maulo, Mike Soragnese, Stacey Falbo, Ellen Contardi, Rose Femia, Michelle DeBuono, David Di Benedetto

Waves of Changes for Autism is making a significant difference for families in Vaughan who have a child with an autism diagnosis

According to the most recent government statistics from 2019, one in 50 (or 2.0%) of Canadian children between the ages of one to 17 have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and the rates are continuing to grow, with 57.7 % diagnosed before they’re five years old. Males are four times more likely than females to have ASD, and based upon the population in Ontario, that means there are about 135,000 autistic people in the province.

Besides the emotional cost of having an autistic child, there are very real monetary costs of raising a child with autism, such as ongoing therapies, specialized programs and communications devices. This is why nonprofit organizations like Waves of Changes for Autism play such an important role in the Vaughan community at large.

Waves of Changes’ mission is to provide unwavering support and financial assistance to Vaughan-based families who have a child under the age of 13 living with autism. This financial assistance will help these families to access children’s therapies, specialized programs, communications devices and other personal assistance. Since its founding in 2016, it has raised $1.8 million and has funded 468 applications that families have made for financial assistance. In 2022, the organization was awarded a Queen’s Jubilee Platinum Pin and received that year’s Non-Profit Charity Award winner at the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce Business Achievement Awards.

But rather than be complacent about all its accomplishments and awards over these past eight years, Waves of Changes’ passionate Board of Directors, executive team and compassionate volunteers are redoubling their efforts to make an even greater positive impact on families in the Vaughan community.

The organization has entered a new phase of its journey. “We need to wrap our minds around expanding and, at the same time, solidifying our efforts for a sustainable

What we hear from parents is that we’ve been able to help them and give them hope

future,” says Michelle DeBuono, co-chair of marketing and communications for Waves of Changes for Autism, in a recent interview with City Life. “Among all the eligible applications we receive, funds are allocated equally to help pay for the services or tools that families need. What we hear from parents is that we’ve been able to help them and give them hope. For them, it means a little bit less stress when it comes to paying the bills, knowing they can rely on some financial assistance from Waves for their child who needs special care and attention.”

Through its community engagement, collaboration with local partners and dedicated fundraising efforts including its success in attracting 90 generous corporate sponsors Waves of Changes for Autism is making a positive impact in the community by creating a nurturing and inclusive environment where children with autism can thrive.

The president of Waves of Changes, Ellen Contardi, was first approached to get involved in 2016 and says that since then the experience has changed her life. “I felt empowered to seize the opportunity to help these families and my community,” Contardi tells City Life. “I also believe it is my duty to serve my community as I think giving back

is very important. The group that we’ve managed to put together all believe in that same mindset and mission. This wouldn’t be possible without such a dedicated team who truly believe in the vision to create something extraordinary. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to be where we are. It’s changed my life tremendously as it’s so rewarding. I’m very proud and humbled.”

Registration this year for funding applications will be open from June 20 through September 30. The organization’s biggest fundraising event, its annual Gala — this year’s theme is “Empower” — is scheduled for Thursday, September 12, at the Terrace Banquet Centre in Vaughan. It’s sure to be an evening of celebration for this grassroots community movement, filled with conversation, fine food and entertainment.

It’s also a chance to be together and shine a light on autism. President Contardi explains that one of the biggest battles they face is against general misconception that people living with autism don’t have special abilities.

“Some people think that they’re very limited, and they are not,” she says. “They are beautifully gifted individuals that need to be shared with everybody, and they need to be celebrated, and they need to be seen, and that’s what we do at our Gala. We’re trying to educate everyone that these children are capable.”

Special causes need strong voices. Waves of Changes for Autism is just such a voice, and families living with autism in Vaughan should be proud that some of the strongest and most passionate voices are its compassionate members, making a difference in their own community.

wavesofchanges.ca @wavesofchangesforautism

The world has seen many artists and athletes but there are only a handful that leave an imprint on other people’s lives. What is that unique factor that sets them apart from the rest? The ability to find one’s self amidst the net of expectations and judgment is what allows these individuals to make a significant mark not just professionally but also by touching their audiences emotionally.

A poignant example of a person with this ability is Elladj Baldé, a Canadian former competitive figure skater and co-founder of The Art of Performance, a unique training camp for figure skaters.

Born in Russia, Elladj immigrated to Canada with his family in 1992. He remembers how his parents made huge sacrifices to give him and his sisters a comfortable life. His parents’ work ethic made an impact on him both personally and professionally. Recalling one of the lessons he learned from his father’s journey, he added, “My dad wasn’t the most naturally intelligent but he was certainly the most hardworking and that allowed him to excel.”

Elladj’s own skating journey began because of his mother. When he was 6, his mother took him to a local outdoor rink in Montreal. Initially, his relationship with the sport was skewed because of the pressure and expectations that he felt constantly under. It was only at around the age of ten that he started enjoying skating as the sport's technical aspects started to interest him.

He also mentioned the toll that performance can take on an athlete in terms of mental health since self-worth being wrapped up with the idea of is so a champion, and track of one’s identity in the process.

AS A MAN, DANCING TO SLOW MUSIC IS CONCEIVED AS YOU BEING ‘SOFT.’ HOWEVER, IT REINFORCES MY RELATIONSHIP WITH MY MASCULINITY AND HELPS ME FIND FREEDOM WITHIN MYSELF

It was his trip to Africa in 2015 that helped him on road to self-discovery As he saw people deeply connected to each other and nature, his perspective began to change. He realized how important it was for him to touch on his artistic abilities and tell his story.

Following this passion, Elladj Baldé founded The Art of Performance with Michelle Dawley, training where figure skaters could connect with their own distinctiveness and use it to harness their creativity.

One of th beauties of figure skating as a sport is the fact that it is probably the

only sport with an artistic and athletic balance, where each skater possesses an individual style.

However, the sport has its limitations as well, often forcing to fit into a mold rather than present their true authentic self. For example, Elladj said, he has always been into hip-hop and rap music but during figure-skating competitions he felt obliged to skate to classical music. Today he skates to hip-hop music that allows him to express himself in profound ways. “A man dancing to slow music is perceived as being ‘soft,’” he added. “However, it reinforces my relationship with my masculinity and helps me find freedom within myself.”

Reminiscing about the closing chapter of his competitive journey, he adds how he was recovering from an injury before the national championship in 2018. Amid the competitive pressure, a friend advising him to set himself free helped him.

“I realized that I didn’t need to go to the Olympics to feel that I have done enough or I have been enough.”

Talking about his current relationship with the sport, he said that making videos for social media and skating in the mountains provide him with an incredible sense of freedom.

Asked what he thinks defines a champion, he shared, “The ability to move through failures and mould them into growth is for me the definition of a champion.” Top athletes do that, which makes them not just better skaters or athletes but better human beings. It is this ability to grow as a human that inspires him to get up every day and do what he loves with all his heart.

www.artofperformance.ca @elladjbalde

PHOTO BY DAN DEALY

Leading the Generationnextof WOMEN

At the heart of The Collective: Women’s Empowerment Summit is

a fiery passion to inspire the next generation of women

AtThe Collective: Women’s Empowerment Summit, women from various backgrounds, industries and life journeys unite, share and empower one another to help make change. Every woman’s experience of struggle, whether her challenge is personal, professional or spiritual, is unique and has something that can inspire and teach others. The Collective’s mission is to celebrate female solidarity and shine a light on women’s experiences through keynote speeches, panel sessions and fireside chats.

Karmen LaMer, co-founder of The Collective and founder of Tight Clinic Toronto, is also

With a career that has spanned the banking, technology, automotive, luxury and lifestyle sectors, Sarah Vander Meer has never shied away from a challenge. Now she’s focusing her passion on creating unforgettable female experiences

INTERVIEW BY MARC CASTALDO

a courageous cancer survivor and entrepreneur who has devoted her life to making The Collective accessible to as many women as possible so they can learn that they can do what they never thought possible.

Sarah Vander Meer, president of Charlie & Sprocket Inc., is also a Collective co-founder. It was her experience as the co-producer of the NFL Women’s Summit many years ago that planted the seed by getting her wondering: why didn’t women-centred programming like this exist in Canada?

LaMer and Vander Meer sat down with City Life for an exclusive interview to share their extraordinary journey.

Q: What inspired the creation of this organization?

Sarah: I’ve always been inspired by women or events in my life. Just watching my mother as a very strong working woman who raised three children she is the perfect example of somebody who could have used a community around her to lift her, push her forward and give her more opportunities. But when I met Karmen at her clinic and listened to her talk about hearing stories from other women who are in need and how she would jump at the opportunity to reach out to them, the stars aligned themselves at that moment.

Karmen: I was hearing from so many amazing women, and just hearing these stories was inspirational. No one told me anything along my journey and I said, “Wouldn’t it be nice for people to have a little bit of a road map and to hear some of these things and what others are doing?” So, when Sarah and I started talking about this, she said, “Well, I produced events for a living,” so that’s how it organically grew from there.

BY BARB SIMKOVA

Q: Can you recall the impression you felt when you first met each other?

Sarah: I had just had my second child and I wanted to do something for myself. So I went to Karmen’s clinic, and you think you’re coming in for treatment on the face, but the way she communicates with people, you can just tell she’s authentic and genuinely cares about helping others. Energy is projected, and I remember always leaving feeling so amazing.

Karmen: I remember Sarah being in my clinic and talking to this incredible woman. We had an hour together every week for six weeks, and just having that connection and those bonding moments still makes me smile every day.

Q: If you could send one message to every woman in the world, what would it be?

Sarah: Embrace your power! Seek to uplift yourself and others through connection, education and action, creating a world where every woman and girl can flourish with

authenticity and strength.

Karmen: No. 1, having a mid-life crisis at 35 years old, leaving a corporate career and starting my clinic you can do whatever you want to do, you just need to commit to it. No. 2, life is very short and finite. I am a cancer survivor, and after going through chemo and surgeries a lot of people would have left that feeling like a victim, and I chose to leave that feeling inspired and wanting to inspire others.

Q: What makes you smile the most?

Sarah: My kids - they are magic and light up my life!

Karmen: My team and my dog!

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?

Sarah: There’s a solution to every problem.

Karmen: Don’t think there’s anything that you can’t do.

collectivesummit.ca @collectivesummit

Karmen LaMer's fearlessness, tenacity and desire to achieve excellence propelled her from a successful corporate career into an inspiring, fast-growing entrepreneurial venture

PHOTO

NOTHING IS HOLDING YOU BACK

Hina Khan will help you challenge and explore the thoughts and beliefs that hold you back from reaching your full potential and success

INTERVIEW BY MICHELLE ZERILLO-SOSA

Q: What was your childhood like?

A: I am a first-generation Canadian and it was hard at times to have cultural expectations at home and want to fit in at school and with friends. There was a lot of conflict within that, which I know is a story many people can relate to. I was never truly me; I was whatever I thought the circumstances required me to be. That would be a theme in my early life.

Q: What is one thing you learned about yourself since you embarked on this journey?

A: I have learned that I am truly gifted at helping people transform into the grandest version of themselves and helping them create a life they love through ease, joy and fun. In every fibre of my being, I know this is my purpose and what I came to earth to do and to be. I help people remember their divinity so they can claim their destiny.

Q: Where were you the moment you found your calling and what prompted this revelation?

Hina Khan CEO & Peak Performance Mindset Coach of Hina Khan Worldwide Inc.

sharing my knowledge on TV as a guest expert on various shows to coaching individuals, groups and teams to my podcast, Possibilities with Hina Khan. The common thread in everything I do is to help people transform. My coaching is unique as it is a co-creating [in the] now. Each session, each call is unique.

Q: Who inspires you and why?

their fears and limiting beliefs and I am truly in awe.

Q: How can people create the life they love?

A: I always knew that I wanted to help people. I love people, I love getting to know them, and I love getting all up in their business! And this desire has been expressed through various forms. From my work as a psychotherapist sitting with individuals and couples to hinakhan.ca @coachwithhina

A: My clients truly inspire me. I do daily morning calls and I get to see them take risks, make decisions, and move on things in real time. I see them override

A: The first step is to decide that you want to create a life you love. The second step is to accept that you are worthy of having a life you love. The third step is getting clear on what that looks like for you. The fourth step is taking action from the goal.

MEETING THE CLIENT’S NEEDS

At RV Law LLP, delivering a high standard of personalized service and achieving client satisfaction is the firm’s motto

RV Law

is a firm that is small enough to provide the personalized attention that the firm’s clients have come to expect and continue to deserve, and large enough to have the resources and necessary experience in order to secure effective and favourable results.

Since 2004, and now in its 20th year of service, RV Law has consistently served the needs of individuals and business organizations in Toronto, Vaughan, throughout Ontario and elsewhere in Canada, providing client-focused creative and cost-effective legal solutions in the following areas of law:

• Civil and Commercial Litigation

• Fraud

• Business Law

• Real Estate

• Family Law

• Wills and Estates

• Criminal Law

• Employment Law

• Administrative Law

• Immigration Law

The team at RV Law is compassionate, efficient, empathetic, diligent and dedicated in their approach to resolving legal matters, irrespective of the client or the substantive issues in question.

The RV Law advantage comes from the multifaceted practice, which defines the firm as a general-practice essential-service boutique law firm.

Entrust your legal needs to RV Law and call our firm and/or visit our website at www.rvlaw.ca to learn more about our practice, including our commitment to full-stop service, through comprehensive engagement, or our accommodation through unbundled services, which offer flexibility and cost-effective representation. Make RV Law your one-stop legal resource and join the ranks of our existing loyal and satisfied clientele.

Looking forward to serving the community during the next two decades and well beyond.

Antonio P. Raviele

Evoking a charming, 1960s-inspired aesthetic, this sleeveless floral dress is cut with a flared A-line silhouette. www.holtrenfrew.com @holtrenfrew 5. POLICARO GROUP Over four decades Policaro Group has grown and evolved into a prominent premium automotive group in Southern Ontario. policaro.ca @policarogroup 6. EVIL EYE AMULET Once linked to spirituality and magic, today these amulets are expressions of personal style. www.holtrenfrew.com @holtrenfrew

TASSEL TANK Blue Tassel’s unsupassed fashion design standards elevate simple daily wear. www.anthropologie.com @anthropologie

The classic ’70s big-flower MAJSOL pattern was created by textile designer Göta Trägårdh. www.ikea.com @ikea ITTY-BITTY MIDI ACID KIT A limited-edition skincare kit with a complete set of serums will leave your skin hydrated, smooth and glowing. www.drunkelephant.ca @drunkelephant QUINCE SHIFT DRESS WITH FLORAL APPLIQUÉ

9

12

14. MILANA LOREN COUTURE An award-winning children’s couture line that uses unique, comfortable, and expressive fabrics designed in-house or from Italy! @milanalorencouture 15. RAYMOND WEIL FREELANCER WATCH For gentlemen desiring a unique addition to their collection, a watch that blends mechanical and aesthetic excellence. www.damianijewellers.com @damianijewellers 13 10 11 8 14 15

7. ABRIELLE TORONTO Relaxed luxury that evokes a coastal Mediterranean vibe with its bright flavours, vegetable-forward plates and stunning wine. www.abrielle.ca @abrielleto 8. NINEBOT

KICKSCOOTER MAX G30P IPX5 Offering a smooth, speedy and sturdy ride for zipping around town on all types of surfaces. THE SPRING POLO A timeless look, available in a variety of colours to capture your style. www.simons.ca @maisonsimons 10. BLOSSOM SKIN BOUTIQUE Offering a wide range of non-surgical procedures for women and men who seek unique treatments to enhance their natural beauty. www.blossomskinboutique.com @BlossomSkinBoutique

11. ED HAND: HELPING PEOPLE ONE HAND AT A TIME The true story of an indomitable Newfoundlander who quit school after Grade 7, came to Toronto at 17, and the tragedies and triumphs he experienced along the way to achieving his fortune. www.amazon.ca @edhand_helps 12. LUCANO –AMARO ZERO° A bold, spicy and sophisticated herbal liqueur that can also be used in mixology for an alcohol-free aperitif! martellifoods.com @martellifoods

13. CHERRY BLOSSOM SOAP This fragrance, inspired by nature’s purity, evokes feelings of budding romance and blushing brides zador.ca @zador_canada

THE GOODPHYTE

Amy Golumbia, founder of supplement brand Goodphyte, is using science to unlock better lives for people around the world

WRITTEN BY JOSH WALKER | INTERVIEW BY MARC CASTALDO

When talking with Amy Golumbia, founder of Goodphyte, I understood two things clearly. First, she founded her business out of hard work and passion. Second, it’s a business that is making a profound impact on people’s lives.

With a vision to be a catalyst for improved global nutrition and immune health and a mission to “unlock the benefits of nutrient absorption and strengthen human potential,” Goodphyte offers a range of supplements that help your body gain access to

micronutrients it needs by helping to break down something called phytate.

To understand exactly what phytate Is and the science behind Goodphyte, it’s best to hear from Golumbia herself.

“Phytate is the anti-nutrient in beans, grains, nuts and seeds, and any foods

Amy Golumbia CEO and founder of Goodphyte

made from those, like cereal, pasta and pizza. It’s an anti-nutrient that binds to zinc, iron, calcium and magnesium in your gut and prevents you from being able to absorb them. It also affects the way you use protein,” she says. “Our product is an enzyme that breaks down that anti-nutrient and makes all those other nutrients available. So rather than just eating food, this helps you absorb it.”

As someone who studied nursing at the University of Alberta, has worked as a holistic nutritionist and was the CEO and national race director of 5Peaks, which promotes Canada’s trail-running community, Golumbia has always been surrounded by health and wellness. In 2008, when she was researching phytate, the “aha!” moment struck, and the wheels for Goodphyte started turning.

After diving into more research, specifically about how phytase, which helps to break down phytate, could

THE END GOAL IS THAT WE WANT TO MAKE A DENT IN MALNUTRITION AND HIDDEN HUNGER AND REALLY IMPACT THAT, ESPECIALLY FOR WOMEN AND CHILDREN

help with HIV, and speaking with as many doctors, immunologists and professionals as she could, she built a case but became discouraged, not knowing what to do with it or how to keep it funded. In 2019, a year after her son was born, she felt her idea was something she needed to act on.

“I couldn’t know this information and how many people it could help and not bring it forward,” she says. “There are two and a half to three billion people worldwide suffering from hidden hunger and malnutrition.”

In 2021, she sold 5Peaks to fully dedicate herself to Goodphyte. It started to take off, and began attracting scientific advisors and, as soon as they brought it to market, she started receiving letters from people with autoimmune diseases saying their symptoms had gone away.

“That wasn’t our intention at the beginning,” Golumbia says. “It was knowing there was something big here,

but not knowing how it could impact autoimmune disease. That was a complete surprise. There were people with inflammatory bowel disease whose flare-ups just stopped. Some have gone into remission, and some have no disease left in their body.”

One person whose life has been changed by Goodphyte is Mathew Embry, a filmmaker and founder of MS Hope, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1995 and today is symptomfree. After Golumbia was told about Embry and his work she reached out, and they met. Today, Embry doesn’t just talk about Goodphyte on social media but has also included it to his daily supplement regimen.

“We did a mini-interview and after that he said, ‘This is something I have to try,’” Golumbia says. “He tried it, and results hit him on day two. He had incredible results. He’s very strict with

GoodPhyte is a natural super-powered digestive enzyme that unlocks micronutrients in your food. Customers have noticed

• reduced bloating

• more energy

• improved sleep

• better recovery from workouts

• more regular bowel movements

his diet but had a huge boost in energy and strength. No more brain fog. He was sleeping better and had this sense of elation and hope.”

Looking to the future, Golumbia tells us other product ideas in their pipeline would be beneficial to people’s health and that she’s constantly driven by curiosity.

While we’ll have to wait to see what exactly those are, it seems like the best is yet to come. accomplishment, she says. “But it’s in progress. The end goal is that we want to make a dent in malnutrition and hidden hunger and really impact that, especially for women and children. There are so many children under the age of five who die every year because of malnutrition. I hope that I can have a big impact in that area, look back and say, ‘That was my biggest accomplishment.’” goodphyte.com @jointhegoodphyte

DESIGN EVENTS

DESIGN EVENTS

Salone del Mobile.Milano 2024: Furnishing the Future

The 62nd edition of the Salone del Mobile. Milano, the most eagerly awaited event of the year at Fiera Milano, was where culture, business and networking

ENGINE-COWLING BOOKCASE

A bookcase made from an original airplane engine part demonstrates an original and overlooked theme of utility - nothing goes to waste www.arteinmotion.com

a socially conscious vision of the future of cuisine and dream rooms that foster self-care and connection with our deepest self. The event hosted over 1,950 exhibitors

THE ARYA KITCHEN

Innovative in design, warm and hospitable in the nuances. The Slice creates pleasant and symmetrical geometries that streamline the furniture and open it to space www.siracucine.com

The Peppo swivel armchair picks up on the design of the ’70s and adds a contemporary touch that brings individuality and personality to any room www.kare-design.com

TEXT BY MARC CASTALDO

SWIVEL ARMCHAIR

TEXT BY MARC CASTALDO

“URBAN GARDEN” COLLECTION

Conceived by architect and designer Simone Micheli, blending graphics with materiality, expressed through organic lines that evoke folk songs and hints of art and craft and reflect the richness of popular culture lovelight39.it

“CRABBY” COLLECTION

Designed by Eleonora Barillari to evoke a little crab dancing among waves, in tribute to her and love for the sea and the pure beauty that surrounds us salone2024.innovaimbottiti.com

DUNA BATHTUB

The fluid curves of the tub, an essential element within this series, harmonize with the play of shapes and materials to impart a Mediterranean feel sanycces.es

FANTASMINO

A playfully alluring opaline-glass table lamp with a contemporary twist - it’s both portable and rechargeable www.venini.com

A HEARTFELT TRIBUTE

Vaughan artist Matt Von marks his mother’s passing and honours her memory with his latest single

WRITTEN BY MARC CASTALDO

Music and family have always served the singer, songwriter and guitarist Matthew Giordano (artist name: Matt Von) as the guiding compass throughout his life.

When he was eight years old, his father enrolled him in guitar lessons after he'd been inspired by his older sister, who was pursuing her passion for singing and piano. After learning the guitar, he developed a passion for singing. After high school, Matt studied music at York University, focusing on vocals and guitar. Today, he has grown into a full-fledged performer known for his blending of acoustic pop with hints of country and gospel.

Sadly, Von’s biggest supporter, the person who never missed a live performance and the first one to proudly share his songs, his mother, passed away from cancer in April 2023. Months after her passing and still feeling grief and sadness, he felt his heart unexpectedly filled with the entire song, everything from the chorus to the verses, leading him to compose the single, “Still In My Heart.”

“All of the lyrics were attributed to my mom. It’s hard, especially losing somebody you love. No matter how far they are or where they are in the world, you always have that person and that memory still in your heart. That’s the message I wanted to portray to my listeners,” says Von.

No matter what ups and downs have been thrown his way, unconditional love and melodies have given him the strength to carry on his mother’s last wish - that he continue with his music. With the release of “Still In My Heart,” Von has composed the most heartfelt song of his promising musical career.

THE TEAM THAT SUPPORTS YOUR FINANCIAL SUCCESS

CIBC Wood Gundy Senior Wealth Advisor Sugi Kumaresan and his team make high-net-worth money management stress-free

Acomfortable future begins with financial security. Sugi Kumaresan and his team at CIBC Wood Gundy possess several decades of financial experience and are changing the narrative of how to effectively grow your wealth.

Sugi and his team use a comprehensive approach to help manage, build, and protect their clients’ wealth.

Along with Sugi, Associate Wealth Advisor Michelle Rowe, Wealth Advisor Paul Mannu, and Client Associate Angela Diamanti pride themselves on their affluent client base, team chemistry, bespoke investment advice and portfolio construction.

“We have always lived by pride, leadership, and joy. We are proud of the work we doeveryone on the team is a leader and we have fun doing it,” says Sugi.

Paul adds, “As a team, we are very cohesive because there is no overlap with what we do. We all stick to our strengths and each of us brings out our best.”

Their clients continue to rely on them because of their unwavering commitment to their three-pillar investment philosophy of helping to grow assets: strategic asset allocation, a disciplined investment approach and conservative, tax-efficient income strategies.

Together

financial success

They stress that building a well-rounded and diversified portfolio with patience is key. By combining equities, fixed income and alternatives in different ways, each portfolio strategy they offer is unique.

Tactical asset allocation, active versus passive investing and portfolio rebalancing are other strategies in their arsenal that consistently show their clients that their portfolios are adaptable to market conditions.

Investing is not a race, and their patience has been proven to optimize their clients’ portfolio performance over time. How so?

Because a client’s long-term goals are aligned with meaningful investments to achieve results.

You can strive to meet your financial goals with their innovative solutions because they are designed to meet your specific needs. But they offer more than just investment advice: by leveraging the expertise of their partners across CIBC Private Wealth, they can connect you to a full range of products and services, including:

• Estate preservation

• Insurance counsel

• Corporate and personal tax integration and advice

• Business succession and transition planning

• Multigenerational family wealth consultation

• Strategic philanthropy, foundations and legacy advice

• Financial fluency for younger generations

• Private banking services, i.e., bespoke lending

• Commercial banking services

To truly understand what growing wealth is, you’ll need to meet Sugi Kumaresan and his

maximizing cash flow, minimizing tax leakage and drawdowns and maintaining your purchasing power are what they can help you with.

Your money deserves to make money.

team at CIBC Wood Gundy;

Who is the man behind the camera who showed the world we are more alike than different?

Inlife, whether falling in love or beginning an unexpected friendship, grieving over the death of a loved one or feeling the pain of a broken heart — moments that make

Throughout my life, just like most people, I have navigated moments like these. And while they may leave our souls intact, they still alter us. We might become less naïve or susceptible, or battle-hardened, or utterly demoralized.

Our resilience is tested daily as we struggle to be optimistic or to resist clinging to the past. As moments of happiness and sadness come and go, how do we arm ourselves for this daily battle?

Hunter Prosper to thank for showing the world that the power of solidarity and hope can conquer all.

Prosper is the man behind the camera who has shown that we are more alike than different. His video series Notes from a Stranger and Notes to a Stranger and his interview series, Stories from a Stranger, capture the emotionally raw unheard stories of common people.

As people walk the streets of their communities they are either approached

Hunter Prosper Travelling Nurse, TikTok & Instagram star

by Prosper or encounter a table with a glass bowl filled with anonymously written notes and a hanging sign that reads, “What’s the most beautiful thing you’ve been told?,” “What’s something you wish you had said?” or “What things make you happy in your relationship?”

Those who have come across his videos can’t help but reflect on the nature of love, death, spirituality and relationships in their own lives.

We begin to realize that at their core, our characters and our relationships can both be defined by a single moment concerning any of these questions. Prosperʼs videos have struck such an emotional chord with his millions of adoring followers and have become so popular that he was recently granted a one-on-one interview with U.S. President Joe Biden.

Prosper’s content will make you cry tears of joy and sadness, smile and practice the art of humility.

But who is Hunter Prosper? What has the journey been like for him — the man behind the camera?

He was named in tribute to Hunter S. Thompson by his loving mother, who was a big fan of the American journalist and author, and he was raised by her alone after his father left them when he was very young.

Although Prosper was raised in a home with few material resources or privileges, he experienced an abundance of richness as he grew up: the conversations he shared with his mother.

“Conversation is what bonded my mom and me together. We didn’t have things to distract us like video games, bikes or whatever. We couldn’t do a lot of things other than just be with each other,” says Prosper. “In a deep way, every time I listen to someone I know or a stranger, I sort of associate it with what gave me my first happiness — which was talking to my mom.”

Even though the power of listening and of being present was ingrained in his being, what served as the main impetus for the inspiring social media content the world knows today was his passion for health care. He eventually became a

“Who was your greatest love and why did you fall in love with them?”

he says. “Because of that, I became closed off.”

But unexpected friendships are just around the corner, and Prosper became close to a patient after he promised himself that he wouldn’t. Unfortunately, she died.

“Before she passed, and she knew she was going to pass, I asked her a question — the same question I ask strangers on the street. She looked at me and began to cry tears of joy on her deathbed,” says Prosper.

It was at that moment Prosper realized that although the experiences we go through are unique to each of us, the emotions attached to pain, love, sadness or heartbreak are all things that make us human.

resource nurse, working 13-hour shifts, recalling that his favourite thing to do as a nurse was just to talk to patients.

After he transitioned to the intensive care unit, however, the moments he spent talking to his patients went from being his most cherished to his darkest.

“We all feel, and that connectedness makes me feel a lot more comfortable in knowing that the person sitting at the bus stop has a beautiful, amazing story, and they’re just as much of a main character as I am in this world,” says Prosper. It was this realization that gave birth to Stories from a Stranger.

When Prosper approaches these strangers unexpectedly in the moment, the wall that is ordinarily up when strangers speak slowly falls, and as it falls you can see it in their eyes as they begin to tell a chapter in their book of life, making it a beautifully therapeutic moment for the stranger and the viewers — but most of all for Prosper himself, as he looks back on his early years as a nurse feeling burned out, sad and lost from humanity.

“I wasn’t expecting a response, but the response is the cherry on top. If it wasn’t getting millions of views, I would still be doing it because I need it. It helps me know that I’m not weird for feeling this emotion,” says Prosper.

As I sat across from Prosper, I couldn’t stop myself from asking him, “Do you have any message or any words you would like to say to conclude this interview?”

“The problem with the ICU is you get to know someone, and then you’re doing CPR on them in the next hour or so. You’re getting to know all these people and then you’re losing them,” @hunter_prosper

His response: “Yeah, because she is the most important person in my life … I love you, Mom.”

ZERO 20 KIDS: EVERYTHING FORMAL

We carry the biggest and best selection of formalwear for boys and girls of all ages, from newborn to preteen. We have so many options for Baptism, Communion, Confirmation, Bar/Bat Mitzvah, Flower Girls and Ring Bearers and other special events. Visit us today and let our knowledgeable staff help create the perfect look. Our on-site tailoring ensures the perfect fit. @zero20kids zero20kids.com

E R C A T O

Whether you are celebrating a wedding, shower, sacrament, corporate event or birthday, let us cater to your every wish and desire. Our in-house pastry chefs will create a decadent cake that tastes as delicious as it looks, using only the finest, freshest ingredients. Our artistic flair and attention to detail will have your guests swooning and asking for more. Come in and we will be happy to assist you in choosing the perfect cake for your occasion.

@mercatofinefoods | 905-857-9040 | 1 Queensgate Blvd. Bolton, ON mercatofinefoods@rogers.com

ROB COTOGNINI OF PORSCHE CENTRE VAUGHAN

ZERO 20 KIDS: DISCOVER

MAYORAL

Originating in Spain, Mayoral has quickly become a designer kids clothing brand recognized all around the world. It offers a full line of coordinating, stylish pieces for boys and girls, newborn to size 18 preteen. For every and any occasion, Zero 20 Kids is proud to offer the biggest selection in Canada in one convenient location. Also available 24/7 at zero20kids.com. Come and discover Mayoral for yourself!

@zero20kids

Mercato Fine Foods Bakery and Deli is your go-to venue for events and family gatherings! We bring a taste of Italy to your table with scrumptious pastries, cakes, biscotti, custom designs, Italian products and fresh bread made daily. Gather loved ones for a meal from our hot table, featuring a variety of delicious foods and daily specials. Don’t forget to try an espresso from our coffee bar!

@mercatofinefoods | 905-857-9040 | 1 Queensgate Blvd. Bolton, ON mercatofinefoods@rogers.com

Rob Cotognini, your Porsche Sales Specialist, has cultivated his love for luxury vehicles and sports cars since childhood. Rob is a trusted figure in the industry, dedicated to serving fellow enthusiasts with passionate energy and expert knowledge. Whether you are seeking the thrill of a track or the sophistication of luxury cruising, Rob will make your Porsche ownership experience unforgettable! To get a sneak peek of Rob’s exceptional service and inspiration, follow him on Instagram. Contact Rob Cotognini today for an appointment. rcotognini@porschecentrevaughan.com

DYSON SUPERSONIC™ HAIR DRYER

Powered by the Dyson digital motor V9 and designed to be small, light, and fast, with five thoughtfully engineered attachments that provide precision without causing heat damage. You can achieve salon-quality hair wherever you go while protecting the natural shine of your hair. @dysonbeauty DysonCanada.ca

MERCATO FINE FOODS

MERCATO FINE FOODS

Twins MICHELIN PRESTIGE

History is made in the Mediterranean archipelago by Malta’s first two-Michelin-starred restaurant, the ION Harbour

WRITTEN BY MARC CASTALDO

he ION Harbour, a Maltese restaurant in Valletta, Malta, helmed by Chef Patron Simon Rogan at the beautiful Iniala Harbour House Hotel, serves extraordinary dishes and scenic views from its rooftop terrace vantage point. In the fall of 2023, I was fortunate enough to spend a week in Malta and

experience everything the beautiful island archipelago has to offers. During my travels, the culinary gods graced me with available time for dinner reservations.

From the moment I was escorted to my table to my last bite, the ION Harbour was truly one of the most cherished experiences of my life, and it came as

no surprise when it was honoured with not one, but two Michelin Stars by The MICHELIN Guide Malta 2024, a first for the Mediterranean archipelago.

But Chef Rogan is undoubtedly a catalyst for this level of prestige since another of his restaurants has previously garnered a Michelin star of its own. Recognized as one of the pioneers of

the farm-to-table movement, he’s been building a celebrated international reputation.

Today, Chef Rogan maintains a sustainably operated farm, called Our Farm, and an unwavering focus on hyperlocal and seasonal ingredients as the chef patron of nine award-winning restaurants across London, Britain's Lake District, Malta and Hong Kong. His efforts toward sustainability were awarded with the Michelin Green Star for two of his restaurants. So it was a match made in heaven when Chef Rogan took the reins of ION Harbour in October 2022, since Malta’s commitment to gastronomy and agricultural practices harmonized so well with his.

From the symphony of flavours to the exceptional service, you will be serve but to care - to the point that if

the evening breeze becomes a bit chilly a server will swiftly appear with blankets to keep guests warm before they even think to ask. That, in a nutshell, is the not doing things out of

Maltese cuisine reflects the island’s unique past, and has been influenced by several countries, and restaurants across Malta each bring their unique spin to dishes. What remains unchanged is the

The MICHELIN Guide Malta's 2024

• One 2 Michelin Star restaurant (new)

• Six 1 Michelin Star restaurants (one new)

• Five Bib Gourmand restaurants (one new)

• 28 recommended restaurants (five new)

@ionharbour

A delicate lobster tarte from ION that showcases flavours and artistry

CVIVA CORRADO PAINA

The passing of Corrado Paina marks the loss of a champion of Italian-Canadian relations

WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER

anada and Italy may be thousands of kilometres apart, but no one did more in his life to bridge that distance and bring those two countries together than Corrado Paina, longtime executive director of the Italian Chamber of Commerce of Ontario Canada (ICCO Canada), who passed away in April 2024.

If he had been a world-class footballer, Paina would most definitely have been a striker, as he was tenacious in forcing the play and doing everything in his power to strengthen relations between Italy and Canada for the benefit of businesses and people on both sides of the Atlantic. His passing leaves a great void in the ItalianCanadian community as his visionary leadership, kindness and generosity made him beloved by that community and everyone he touched.

“Corrado was a larger-than-life figure, the heart and soul of the ICCO Canada, and

has left an indelible mark on every person he met throughout his extensive career,” read ICCO Canada’s statement released upon his passing. “He dedicated his life to connecting the two countries he called home, Italy and Canada, and has built longlasting connections and great friendships in both countries. All his work and career have been focusing on the expansion and the enhancement of cultural and business relationships between Canada and Italy, and his passing will be a major loss to ICCO Canada and the Italian Canadian business community.”

In 2022, two-way trade between Canada and Italy totalled $11.8 billion, making Italy Canada’s ninth-largest global merchandise trading partner and third-most important in the European Union. Much of the credit for that increased and continued strength goes to Paina, and, as a testament to his dedication and effort, he received the most prestigious award from the city of Milan,

“Menzione Civica - Ambrogino d’Oro,” for his activity in favour of the twinning of Toronto and Milan.

This man of all seasons was also an accomplished writer, poet and artist. He authored several publications in both Italy and Canada, and his publications and exhibitions have touched the ItalianCanadian community throughout the years and reached great heights in Italy. He was editor-in-chief of Partners Magazine for several years and produced many books and one documentary during his illustrious career. In 2016, Paina was appointed Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy, and, in 2023, he was nominated for Commander of the same Order, particularly for his work in promoting the business and trade relationships between Italy and Canada.

Paina was a tireless champion of the relationship between Italy and Canada and was a part of numerous boards and organizations for which he served as board member, vice president and chairman. Particularly close to his generous heart was The Italy Earthquake Relief Fund (TIERF), founded in 2006 following the earthquake that devastated L’Aquila in Italy, for which he served as vice president.

Paina was also deeply respected in political circles, where he enjoyed rare bipartisan admiration at the very top of government influence. He organized many delegations and trade missions both ways between Canada and Italy during his roles as a communications assistant of an Ontario minister in several portfolios, as a journalist in the cutthroat world of the Queen’s Park press gallery, as an official of the Italian Trade Commission and as an executive director of the ICCO, such as in 2017 when he worked with the Government of Canada on an important trade delegation accompanying Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to Italy. There, his accomplished diplomatic skills coupled with his deep business acumen helped deepen relations between the two countries.

True champions in life leave their mark. Corrado Paina was a true champion of Italian-Canadian relations, and he will be celebrated far and wide for a life very well lived.

corradopaina.com @corradopaina

Corrado Paina was a larger-than-life figure and a tireless champion of improving and deepening the important business relationship between Italy and Canada