Dolce Magazine - 2022/23 Vol.26, Issue 4

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WHAT SETS US APART

THANK YOU!

The 2022 Bonfire Bash City Edition presented by Mantella Corporation and Rogers Communications Inc. raised over $500,000 in support of Campfire Circle (formerly Camp Ooch & Camp Trillium).

Thanks to the generosity of guests, sponsors and volunteers, the event will fund over 200 weeks of hospital, community and overnight camp programs. Because of Bonfire Bash, more kids with cancer in Ontario will now get what they need —the chance to just be kids!

Photos: George Pimentel Photography

Presented by In support of

Event Partners

S’mores Sponsors Cabin Sponsors

EICHHOLTZ

Destined for greatness

Follow the Leader

Even among the most elite performers, certain athletes stand out as a cut above the rest. They have a certain swagger and style that separates them. You really can’t describe it or put your finger on it, but it is unmistakable when you encounter it. Federico Bernardeschi is just such an athlete and a person. From our very first meeting, we knew there was something very special about this young man.

The Bravo quote contains the truth about Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who acceded to the throne on Feb. 6, 1952, at the age of 25 upon the death of her father, George VI, and was proclaimed queen by her privy and executive councils shortly thereafter. When she assumed the throne, few Britons had cars, home phones or indoor plumbing. By the time of her death, British astronauts were working on the International Space Station, the country was a leader in research and development of pharmaceuticals and technology and you could take a train under the English Channel to France. Not sure how His Majesty King Charles III is going to top that.

We were welcomed into his family home and shown into the kitchen to wait for Bernardeschi, the Italian soccer star who, before moving to the city to play with Major League Soccer team Toronto FC, was already internationally celebrated for winning the Euro Cup.

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Fernando Zerillo Co-Founder/Creative Director

Find your soul. Believe in yourself. Trust in your God. Love your family. Share your plenty. Lean when you need. Live out loud.

Zerillo Co-Founder/Creative Director

All too often these days, people are publicized for the wrong reasons, such as their popularity on social media channels, rather than actions they’ve taken to improve the world. Furthermore, the media’s attention on women in the spotlight is often problematic, focusing more on who wore less than who did their best.

While waiting we caught sight of this athlete finishing his outdoor game of — you guessed it, soccer with his young daughters, Deva and Lena, impressing us not just with his height and lightning moves, but for being a family man and every bit a hands-on father.

She had an innate ability to laugh at herself and her station, taking a keen joy in removing the crown and embracing what was popular at the time, whether it was making the Beatles Members of the Order of the British Empire in 1965 or jumping out of a helicopter with James Bond (OK, that was a stunt double) to open the 2012 London Olympics, or sharing tea and a marmalade sandwich with Paddington Bear this past spring to mark her 70th year on the throne. In any case, no matter which version of the Queen you preferred, she will be sadly missed and dearly remembered.

As he joined us inside and walked towards us, the twinkle in his eyes matched the lightness of his step, and with a warm-hearted “Ciao” and a strong handshake he joined us to discuss what the Dolce team’s plans were for him and his wife. Federico and Veronica, herself a famous movie star and influencer, would be the stars of our winter edition’s cover story. Just like old friends, we shared stories of their first impressions of Toronto — where upon, over an espresso, they both echoed, “We love it here!” So do we.

The life story of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth is something that we will all cherish for years to come. Her 70-year reign made her Britain’s longestliving monarch. And, given her legacy, one cannot help wondering whether the new King will be as loved and respected by her subjects as she was.

One can’t help but wonder, how did they prepare emotionally and physically for such a huge move, especially with their young family in tow? I recognized their emotions because they echoed our own experience of moving to Canada with our family as a young kid, and this commonality in our shared life experiences created an even bigger soft spot in us for this couple and their daughters.

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa, Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

CAN YOU HAVE YOUR CAKE AND EAT IT TOO?

But the unforgettable woman gracing our cover, Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, was both a role model and a pop culture icon.

Soon after graduating from Cornell University, Ginsburg married her husband and gave birth to their fi rst child. Societal values in the mid-fi fties demanded that Ginsburg quit her career to become a housewife and a stay-at-home mother, but she and her husband were equal partners in life. The next year, Ginsburg enrolled in Harvard Law School, one of only nine women in her class of 500 men. There was only one women’s restroom on the entire campus, one of the libraries didn’t allow women inside, and the dean himself questioned the female students’ right to be there.

One thing the Queen enjoyed was a glass of wine. If you do, too, and your all-time favourite movie list includes The Godfather series, then you might want to try a bottle of the wine produced by its famed director, producer and screenwriter, Francis Ford Coppola. Always an innovator and a leader,

Fast forward a few weeks later and we found ourselves in the company of Bernardeschi and his family again for our exclusive Dolce interview and photo shoot. We had already witnessed the mutual love and respect this power couple shared but nothing prepared us for the day ahead … a photo shoot that felt both easy and memorable thanks to their professionalism, their respect for everyone who was in the room and their undeniable enthusiasm.

ell, in the case of Yolanda Gampp, this could be a real possibility. If you’re not yet familiar with her work, she is a multi-millionaire YouTube baker (3.3 million subscribers, that is) … all thanks to her incredible imagination.

Greatness — that magic elixir that separates the stars from the rest — isn’t just magic. It’s a product of hard work, overcoming challenges, self-belief, selfdiscipline and then even more hard work. There is no question that Federico subscribes to all of the above and is surely destined to achieve great things.

Coppola is revered not only as a movie director but also as the proprietor of the Napa Valley Inglenook winery, known globally for its critically acclaimed Rubicon, Cabernet Sauvignon and many more distinctive blends. Recently, Inglenook expanded with a spectacular 22,000-square-foot winery cave, literally built into a hillside under a vineyard on the estate, a site-specific advantage that means the eco-friendly winery cave maintains its moderate temperature naturally throughout the year and doesn’t need artificial cooling or heating. One of Coppola’s trademarks as a director was his handson approach to every aspect of every production, and that has obviously spilled over into winemaking. Cheers to that!

is is a woman who dreams up cakes for a living — not traditional tiered shapes and avours, but cakes that look like hot dogs, huge candy apples, watermelons, in avours like the ultimate red velvet and chocolate cake … You get the idea. Sweet mother of God, this lady has the power to tempt even the strongest-willed person with her cakes! Her belief is that anything is possible, and with the love and support of family and friends, the highest levels of success are attainable. Read her story on page 38.

The blatant sexism Ginsburg faced throughout her career became the core of her legal work. A pioneer in gender equality legislation, she rose to prominence in her field, eventually reaching the pinnacle of her profession in 1993, her appointment to the U.S. Supreme Court.

For 27 years, she ruled on issues of constitutional law, becoming well-known not only for her fight for equality, but also for the eye-catching collars made of beads, lace and even shells that she wore with her robes. These collars came to symbolize the substance of her work or her position, such as the collar she wore on days she dissented.

Our feature provides a glimpse into how Federico thinks, trains and will thrive in his new city. He has new teammates but the same selfdiscipline, work ethic, determination to excel, and the same dream he has worked to achieve since the age of four, when he first touched a soccer ball. We hope you enjoy our unprecedented glimpse into the life, thoughts, and loves of this Italian soccer

In fact, cheers to all leaders who are needed in most aspects of society, whether politics, religion, business or community-based organizations like Global Citizen, which is responding to the critical issues of climate change, poverty and inequality, and is dedicated to achieving an end to extreme poverty. Take David Beame, for instance, an entertainment lawyer who is also Global Citizen’s

Speaking of belief, we all pray that our faith need never be tested the way Paul De Lio’s is. Many of us go through life without ever having to question why tragedies strike our lives or the lives of others in the world. A few years back, we published an article about the de nition of God. I remember asking the writer to pose this question to various religious leaders: “Where was God in moments such as 9/11?” Given the recent state of

“Justice Ginsburg inspired leagues of men and women to fi ght for equality based on gender, race and basic civil rights,” says Shana Knizhnik, a lawyer who created the blog (and, later, book) “The Notorious RBG,” which compares Ginsburg

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Love heartily. Grow your humanity. Infect the world with your faith.

vice-president of global events and experiences. Beame has a framed quote on his office wall from Margaret Mead: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

— from The Wife by Iris Imeneo

superstar, whose move to Toronto FC is just the latest step in what promises to continue to be a truly world-class career.

Throughout this edition you will read about so many other examples of those who live their lives with great purpose, who are not shy about working hard, persevering through setbacks and through their philanthropic endeavours sharing their sweet life with those less fortunate. They are all inspiring.

natural disasters and extreme weather conditions, one could ask the same question now. In De Lio’s case, where was God when deadly bacteria infected his body, nearly taking his life and resulting in the amputation of both of his legs?

In 2012, Global Citizen hosted its first festival in New York’s Central Park, inviting bands like Foo Fighters and Black Keys, all embracing the mission to help end extreme poverty. Since then, the organization has continued to join talent with purpose, distributing $56 billion to NGOs around the world — heeding Margaret Mead’s call to action.

In that article years ago, one of the questioned religious leaders replied that God was in the remen going up the stairs to rescue the people in the towers. It’s a response that to this date gives me comfort. Likewise, now, God is in the rescue workers bringing relief to Puerto Rico, Mexico and Florida. And God was in the doctors who fought to save Paul De Lio. He was with the family and friends who prayed for De Lio’s life and later, for his recovery. Today, just a few months after his ordeal, De Lio is lled with positivity and gratitude. He is ready to help others nd ways to live with motivation. Dare I say, then, God also resides in De Lio’s heart. See his story on page 32.

to beloved rapper The Notorious B.I.G. Designer Frank Chi and writer Aminatou Sow created the famous “Can’t Spell Truth Without Ruth” image that graces posters and stickers. Fans of Ginsburg have tattooed themselves with images of her face, worn her most famous quotes on shirts and pins, and dressed up as her for Halloween. On the popular comedy show Saturday Night Live, Kate McKinnon’s impression of Ginsburg delivered sharp put-downs with the catchphrase, “That’s a Gins-bur.”

We hope you, too, find inspiration through these stories and can help make a difference at this special time of year — in fact, throughout the year — to someone’s life by sharing a piece of your own dolce vita

The years 2020 and 2021 took something away from all of us — the feeling of togetherness and human connection. This year, we began to get some of that back, reminding us how important we all are to each other. Let us all hope that awareness continues in 2023.

As world citizens, we all need to take urgent action, especially when it comes to global climate change. Perhaps reading our interview with Peter Wohlleben, forester and author, will help shed some light. In The Secret Life of Trees he discusses how to do forestry right and explores the science of how trees communicate — astonishingly, Wohlleben claims that trees can call on birds to get rid of caterpillars feeding on their leaves, among other amazing feats. The book, a New York Times, Washington Post and Wall Street Journal bestseller, has now been translated into 47 languages, proof that people all over the world care about nature. We’ll raise a glass to that!

From our family to yours, we wish you a blessed holiday season and a healthy and successful New Year!

Sadly, Ginsburg passed away in September 2020 at the age of 87 due to complications of metastatic pancreatic cancer. Even in death, she made history as the fi rst woman and the fi rst Jewish person to lie in state at the U.S. Capitol Building. She told NPR in a 2019 interview that she had no regrets about her professional life, and her trail-blazing legacy will be remembered by generations to come.

We hope that you enjoy the latest edition of Dolce, which is filled with the stories of individuals who may not have set out to be leaders but have through their actions become leaders, and legends in their own right.

We hope you enjoy our spring edition and feel empowered and inspired to follow suit.

Of course, it’s possible you do not agree with my thoughts on the whereabouts of God. We all know that one should not speak casually of politics or religion, for these are sensitive topics (although the weather isn’t exactly a safe topic anymore, either). But perhaps you will be interested in our story about the Bahá’Í Faith, a relatively new religion with 5 to 7 million adherents practising globally. If you believe in the betterment of the world, in unity, love and service, you might nd your place here. Bahá’Í’s believe in equality of all sexes, races and creeds, and in the harmony of science and religion. Story on page 74. In this day and age, we could all use more unity, love and faith, regardless of what form it takes. May you enjoy this edition of City Life Magazine. It, like life, is yours to experience and do with what you will.

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Fernando Zerillo Co-Founder/Creative Director

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Fernando Zerillo Co-Founder/Creative Director

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Fernando Zerillo Co-Founder/Creative Director

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@dolcemag / @amorebagstoronto / @fernandozerillo

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“I do think I was born under a very bright star”

W— Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Strive to be notorious

Fernando

“Great leaders don’t set out to be a leader, they set out to make a difference. It’s never about the role, always about the goal.”

— Jeremy Bravo

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DR. STEVE GUPTA APPOINTED TO THE 2021 ORDER OF ONTARIO: THE PROVINCE’S HIGHEST CIVILIAN HONOUR

His success as one of Canada’s leading businessmen has allowed Dr. Steve Gupta to give back to communities and people around the world

Immigrating to Ontario with $108, Dr. Steve Gupta has become a leader in Canada’s hospitality and condominium industries and was recognized as one of Canada’s top 25 immigrants by RBC in 2013. His passion to give back led him to build eye-surgery camps in India, where over 50,000 patients have been treated for eye disease and given life-changing surgeries, send much-needed dialysis machines to Guyana and champion the Indigenous Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Canada.

The Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, and Chancellor of the Order of Ontario, announced 24 new appointments to the Order of Ontario for 2021. The Order of Ontario is the province’s highest civilian honour for individuals.

On Friday, November 4, the Lieutenant Governor appointed Dr. Gupta, founder and

chairman of Gupta Group, to The Order of Ontario. This is awarded to an Ontarian who has shown the highest level of excellence and achievement in any field and whose impact has left a lasting legacy in our province, in our country and around the world.

Dr. Gupta's first job in Canada was as an insurance salesman. Today, Gupta Group is an award-winning organization with 25 hotels and counting across Ontario and Quebec, making his meteoric rise the perfect example of an immigrant’s success story.

Being able to build a new building or a business, having the ability to create thousands of jobs over the years and to put smiles on people’s faces has always inspired and motivated Dr. Gupta to work even harder, to give back not only to our community but to the world. He has sat on numerous governing boards, including Centenary

The Order of Ontario recognizes exceptional leaders from all walks of life and diverse fields of endeavour whose impact and lasting legacy have played an important role in building a stronger province, country and world

WRITTEN BY MONICA MARANO

Hospital/Rouge Valley Health System, Ontario College of Pharmacists and the University of Toronto, to name just a few. He supported Gujarat after its devastating earthquake and built sanitation systems for girls’ schools. Dr. Gupta has always made it a priority to give back and selflessly help others, whether via philanthropy, mentorship or with his time.

Dr. Gupta approaches his business relationships in the same spirit as he treats his friends and family listening and giving unconditionally rather than denying or attaching conditions.

He is an inspiration, a mentor and a true example of humble excellence. We congratulate you, Dr. Gupta!

eastonsgroup.com

@eastonsgroup

ROCK STAR FASHION WITH PURPOSE

In a world dominated by fast fashion, high-quality garments are becoming few and far between, making a brand like Wuxly stand out from the pack. As a sustainably made outerwear brand, Wuxly is committed to reshoring Canadian manufacturing, as well as pioneering the first animal-free and sustainable parkas

WRITTEN BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

My mom used to pick up spiders with a napkin and put them outside. We have been composting since the ’80s, before it was cool, and my brother’s Email handle was fred@respectnature.com. It’s about keeping our customers warm; also being warm to Mother Earth, as well,” says James Yurichuk, CEO of Wuxly. When a career decision prompted pro footballer Yurichuk to move from the West Coast to the East Coast to join the Toronto Argonauts, he was in search of the perfect parka but couldn’t find anything that aligned with his values around protecting the environment.

Fast-forward to today, and Wuxly has been pioneering in the outerwear space since 2015, launching its first-ever capsule collection in 2022 — The BAD Collection. Wuxly’s north star is being friendly to both people and the planet. Manufacturing jackets that are ethical and animalfree is bound to grab the attention of people who have the same aspirations. One of these people is

Canadian music icon and renowned animal-rights activist Bryan Adams.

Adams was first introduced to the brand by the director of the Conceptual Event Society, Jessica Panetta, on a cold Canadian winter day on which he had to perform. “It was really interesting. Jess gave me a parka for a New Year’s Eve show. I was playing in Niagara Falls, and it was minus 6,000. She gave me a Wuxly jacket. I wore it onstage because it was so cold.” Panetta went on to explain the ethos of the brand to Adams, and soon after Wuxly and Adams formed a partnership. As a committed vegan for more than 30 years, Adams shares Wuxly’s dedication to protecting the planet and is proud to be associated with the brand’s animal-free, sustainable clothing ethos. “Our designers work with Bryan to do a great job sourcing recycled materials … Part of those materials include abandoned fishnets picked up from the oceans,” says Yurichuk.

The latest campaign was photographed in Adam’s studio, with Adams rocking the limited

edition himself. Adams helped design the capsule collection, which includes unique details that make each piece rock-star-worthy, like a secret pocket meant for the singer’s guitar picks. Adams recently released his studio album So Happy It Hurts, which includes the song “Kick Ass,” and its music helped inspire the collection of designs and the collection’s logo featuring Adams rocking out. “Music and fashion are sort of intertwined, whether it be what musicians wear onstage or how they go out,” says Adams.

Nowadays, with celebrities promoting every product under the sun, it’s hard to determine how much they actually believe in what they are selling. When it comes to the partnership between Wuxly and Bryan Adams, it’s clear that Adams is standing behind a product he genuinely believes in and uses himself. He’s someone who doesn’t just talk the talk. He walks the walk.

wuxly.com

@wuxlymovement

The Wuxly Bryan Adams BAD Collection consists of three outerwear pieces: the BAD Hoodie, the BAD Elk Parka, and the Kingston

One of Zaha Hadid Architects latest global triumphs is its spectacular design of the Beijing airport, bringing to the fore its innate ability to envision and create gateways to cities

GLOBAL THOUGHT LEADER

Architect Patrik Schumacher is designing and influencing our new world

WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER | INTERVIEW BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

There are special moments in our lives when we may encounter someone for the first time, they begin speaking, and for some reason your inner voice tells you, “I need to listen to this person. I can learn from this person.”

Meet Patrik Schumacher, principal of Zaha Hadid Architects of London, a global thought leader whose universe extends far beyond the world of architecture and design as an author, teacher and globally respected leader in urbanism. His first exposure to architecture came as a young child when his parents needed to expand their home outside of Bonn, Germany, to accommodate their growing family of six children. Schumacher remembers the architect overseeing the job as “really cool.”

“As a child I was very good at drawing and mathematics and my parents suggested architecture might be a career choice,” says Schumacher in a recent interview with Dolce. “I fell in love with architecture as a teenager through art books in school, as the black and white photos of buildings intrigued me. And that’s what I thought architecture could be like — modern and elegant. I studied in Stuttgart, but at first I found it rather childish. But I matured and began to understand natural construction and how to find form rather than inventing form. And the type of architecture we do now requires someone to have a knowledge of geometry.”

Schumacher studied philosophy, mathematics and architecture in Bonn, Stuttgart and London, and joined Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) in 1988, then a boutique firm under the guidance of the

legendary Zaha Hadid, one of the most respected architects in the world. He became principal of the firm upon Hadid’s passing in 2016.

“She was an absolute original creator and true creative genius,” remembers Schumacher fondly of his colleague. “The innovations she pushed through were so radical and her convictions that this would be valuable and possible and important were impressive.”

Schumacher has built ZHA into one of the most multidisciplinary and respected architectural and design brands in the world, now employing more than 500 professionals, operating on six continents and currently undertaking 60 ongoing projects in 28 countries. Its varied portfolio includes art complexes, a twin-tower office complex in China, the Beijing airport and a metro station in Rio de Janeiro.

“We do like urban mixed-use projects, which bring people together and are gateways to cities, and we are working on a number of metaverse projects,” says Schumacher. “We’re always looking for opportunities to innovate, to do something new. We want to escape our own expectations, as we’re looking for freedom of design. We’re always looking for artistic authority tailored to client needs, because if the client doesn’t like it, then you didn’t hit it — but they shouldn’t hold our pens.”

Schumacher’s vast experience has garnered him a reputation as one of the world’s leading experts on urbanism. He is passionate about planning and points to his own headquarters city, London, as an example of poor, politically motivated urban planning.

“Planning in London began postwar and it

PHOTOS BY HUFTON AND CROW

Architect Patrik Schumacher’s design for the new Beijing Airport has drawn worldwide praise

was a disaster, with tower blocks and concrete highways making it crude, and it didn’t function well,” says Schumacher. “The city may not look like it was planned, but there are an enormous number of restrictions, which is the reason we have the affordability crisis. London is actually not very dense. It can absorb more people, but young people can’t get a foothold here, as the planning restrictions are preventing that. So, developers can’t assist in the obvious solutions, which are politically prevented. The bad planning is squeezing out the middle, which could be filling the market.”

He brings this passion and his observations and wisdom to his teaching, having lectured around the world for the past 20 years. In 1996, together with Brett Steele, Schumacher founded the Design Research Laboratory at the Architectural Association in London, where he continues to teach. From 2000 to 2015 he co-taught a regular masterclass with Zaha Hadid at the University of Applied Arts in Vienna, where he continues to lead a PhD research group, and he has been a guest lecturer at Harvard.

He likes what he is seeing from his vantage point in the lecture hall. “I am so impressed with the amount of young, outstanding talent coming

up through the ranks in architecture,” he observes.

As an author, Schumacher has contributed more than 120 articles to architectural journals and anthologies. His research interest focuses on designing and simulating real and virtual environments (and their fusion) with the goal to increase their power to engender and facilitate productive communicative interactions. Accordingly, he is lecturing on the design opportunities and challenges posed by the advent of cyberspace and the collective project of the metaverse.

Equal parts architect, designer, planner, educator, author, visionary and innovator, Schumacher has become what he saw in that architect expanding his family’s home outside of Bonn, and that is “really cool.”

He doesn’t hesitate to answer when asked what la dolce vita, “the sweet life,” means to him. “It means architecture, because we need beautiful spaces, which also help us to imagine a beautiful life.” Patrik Schumacher continues to do his part in creating both.

WE’RE ALWAYS LOOKING FOR ARTISTIC AUTHORITY TAILORED TO CLIENT NEEDS, BECAUSE IF THE CLIENT DOESN’T LIKE IT, THEN YOU DIDN’T HIT IT – BUT THEY SHOULDN’T HOLD OUR PENS

‘‘ ‘‘

The stunning design of Beijing Daxa International Airport is both futuristic and energy-efficient in its use of materials and the abundant natural light

AT WORK

The word “genius” gets thrown around a lot these days. “He’s a genius with the puck.” “ e pastry chef there is a genius.” “She’s a genius with numbers.”

But what exactly does it mean to be a genius, and what do the rest of us mere mortals consider a genius to be? Is it someone who has brilliant or novel insights, someone world-famous on the level of Einstein, Mozart or Shakespeare? In any case, where does that genius come from, and what does that mean?

ese are the questions that motivate Brain Power’s “ ink Like a Genius” program, which will be launching as part of the company’s Innovator & Explorer Learning Series in March 2023. is collection of workshops, created and led by prominent academics, is designed to inspire high-potential students and to help them become future leaders.

With campuses in Vaughan, Hamilton and, most recently, North Toronto, Brain Power is a 30year leader in enrichment for high-potential kids. Brain Power’s programs for students in Grades 1 through 12 help these bright young minds to become independent, creative and critical thinkers, as well as exceptional writers and resilient leaders. With a core curriculum of math, language arts and public speaking, accented by programs like “ ink Like a Genius,” Brain Power’s innovative approach to teaching helps students to thrive in elite high school and university programs, ace interviews and develop the skills needed to succeed in a changing and globally minded world.

“ ink Like a Genius” is a rst-of-its-kind Brain Power workshop that, by retracing the thoughts of some of the greatest scienti c minds in history, gives students insights into how brilliant thinkers conceived of their ideas and came to be known as “geniuses.” Students will learn not only what scienti c geniuses have achieved, but also how. What was it about these geniuses that led them to make their groundbreaking theories, discoveries and inventions? By the end of the program, students will be able to identify the many factors

that contributed to these moments of genius.

e program is led by Dr. Adam Richter, a historian of science with a PhD from the University of Toronto who has received numerous academic awards and has been published in prominent academic journals. Dr. Richter says that, true to Brain Power’s approach, “ ink Like a Genius” digs a little deeper to uncover the ideas and thought processes of geniuses.

"Think Like a Genius" is led by Dr. Adam Richter, who has received numerous academic awards and has been published in prominent academic journals

“ e big question in this workshop is ‘What does it mean to be a genius?’” says Dr. Richter. “Where does genius come from,

is that we have amazing scholars as a part of our team, like Adam, and they are all globally leading experts in their elds,” says Brain Power instructor and CEO, Vanessa Serra Iarocci. “ ese workshops are an opportunity for these scholars to create original new content and work directly with students, and that’s very di erent from other enrichment programs.”

A trademark of the Brain Power approach to learning is to help students develop critical thinking skills and reach beyond their comfort zones. “What I hope to achieve at Brain Power is not just to get students to explore things they are interested in, but to generate new interests as well, as we’re teaching kids who love learning,” says Dr. Richter.

not only in terms of how do geniuses think, which I think is a very important and interesting question, but also culturally in terms of what does the category ‘genius’ actually mean? What does our culture mean when we identify someone as a genius? Who counts as one and who doesn’t? ere are both scienti c and cultural aspects to this. So, the questions are, What does a genius do, what does a genius think and how do we decide who is a genius?”

“One of our di erentiators at Brain Power

For Dr. Richter, when it comes to his students, success is not de ned by test scores or marks, but rather by a broader, more globally oriented picture.

“If we’re getting access to these really bright kids and turning them into really informed citizens who are going to change the world, then for me, that’s a successful class,” he says. And perhaps, with the “ ink Like a Genius” workshop, Dr. Richter can even show these kids how to reach their potential as future geniuses.

www.brainpower.ca @brain_power_enrichment

Brain Power’s new “Think Like a Genius” program invites high-potential kids to explore the thoughts and approaches of history’s great geniuses

GENIUS

WHAT DOES A GENIUS DO, WHAT DOES A GENIUS THINK, AND HOW DO WE DECIDE WHO IS A GENIUS?

ART

BRIONY DOUGLAS IS MAKING ART LARGER THAN LIFE

Calling Briony Douglas’s art larger than life is an understatement. Just take a look at some of her work: a 20-foot teddy bear, a life-sized Porsche installation, and Pantone art made with 15,000 tiny pieces to make one large picture. Welcome to A Show With No Theme, a show full of nostalgia and bright colours

WRITTEN BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

When asked if her art is over the top, Douglas shares, “Absolutely. I made a seven-foot piece with pasta all over the top and a giantsized car just because I wanted to.”

Having grown up in Woodstock, Ont., the dairy capital of Canada, Douglas takes inspiration from her upbringing and channels it into her art. “We were pretty poor growing up, but you can see that through my art now as an adult, which is why I play with a lot of designer things to speak to that.”

One of the installations in her art show includes an arm-candy room that was inspired by a Bottega bag Douglas had seen that looked like candy. “I said, well, it looks like it’s made out of licorice. Why don’t I just make it out of licorice?”

Blending surrealism and pop culture elements, Douglas uses her art as a platform to start dialogue. “It’s the most amazing thing you can do with art, right, because it’s such an unbiased way to start this conversation.” One piece from the show, in particular, speaks to online trolls. “I did my last art show and someone insulted me by trying to say that my art was not good. They called it ‘macaroni art for adults.’ So, what I did was actually make an entire piece out of pasta as kind of a clapback. You can turn a bad situation into something good.” We visited the show to learn more about Douglas and her larger-than-life imagination.

Douglas has a unique style of art, blending elements of surrealism and pop culture while also taking cues from a bygone era.

Q: How would you describe your art?

A: It took a while to develop who I am as an artist, and everything is very eclectic. That’s why it is a “show with no theme.” There are so many different mediums. But when I was younger I thought that I had to create my art through sadness, I thought that I needed to be dark. And as I grew as a human and became happier, I created my art through happiness. I think and I hope what people take away is a feeling of happiness. There’s a lot of colour in my work. And a lot of nostalgia.

Q: If you had to explain your process, what does that look like for you, your creative process?

A: My process is very chaotic. I have endless creativity and I know that’s a nice thing to have as a creative, but my body can’t keep up with all the ideas and thoughts that I have in my head. I have a list of things that I still want to do. This art show was an opportunity to make overdue stuff that I had really wanted to create for a long time. It was also an opportunity for people to see my art in real life, because it’s been so long. There’s something so amazing about standing in front of art as opposed to watching it through a screen.

Q: Have you found that there was a common thread among the individuals purchasing your art?

A: The first two pieces have sold to two women here in Toronto that I respect. They’re both powerhouses, CEOs of their own companies, so I guess that is a common thread. I was very flattered that those two humans, specifically, would want my art in their house.

Q: You’re a voice for the mental-health community. Can you share why you’re so passionate about that?

A: For a few reasons. I struggle with anxiety myself. I think I have high-functioning anxiety. I grew up with some members of my family who struggled with a lot of mental health issues, so it was something that I navigated a large majority of my life. That’s why, you know, in any instance, I’m always trying to think of everyone’s perspective. If someone is getting mad, maybe someone passed away earlier that day. You never know.

Q: Tell me about your sneakers — you’re a sneakerhead?

A: I have a lot of sneakers. Like, an unhealthy amount. I have a second bedroom in my house that is just all sneakers now, which is pretty cool. I hope this never changes, because as a child I never thought that I would have even one cool bedroom, let alone a second bedroom that has neat stuff in it. I do think that sneakers in themselves are pieces of artwork. There’s usually a story behind it when they do collaborations.

Q: Do you have a favourite pair?

A: I have a few favourite pairs. I think my favourite would be the Fear of God sneakers that I got

from Jerry Lorenzo. We made him a Barbie a few years ago and we brought it down to L.A., and then he gave us that. He gave me the Friends and Family pair. It’s in a box and I don’t wear those. But everything else I do wear because I think, Why spend a lot of money on something if you’re not gonna wear it out?

Q:

How would you describe your style?

A: I definitely think that my fashion is different. I do like statement pieces. You know, when you walk into a room like, Oh, my gosh. What is she wearing? Sometimes it’s a little too over the top, but I like that.

Q: Where do you see the next, like, three years headed for you?

A: I’m just very much a day-by-day person. For me,

‘‘

I just kind of do things a day at a time and then just keep being grateful for all the opportunities I do have.

Q: What does la dolce vita — the sweet life — mean to you?

A: There’s three things. Enough money that you’re able to live comfortably, time and health. So, for me, I’m doing OK now, so I do have that. Do I have a lot of time? No. My health is okay. I’m pushing it a lot. So having those three things would be that perfect ideal to me. I need to find that balance.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

www.brionydouglas.com @briony

THERE’S SOMETHING SO AMAZING ABOUT STANDING IN FRONT OF ART AS OPPOSED TO WATCHING IT THROUGH A SCREEN

‘‘

Recently, Douglas had the opportunity to photograph some of the biggest names out there during TIFF 2022: Oprah Winfrey, Hillary Clinton, Jennifer Lawrence, Zac Efron and Ethan Hawke. “It was a whirlwind. I was shooting on the iPhone 14 and you had maybe 30 seconds to a minute with each person … So, if you didn’t get the shots, you didn’t get the shot.”

BAGS OF STYLE

The New Year is calling…and it’s asking for a new purse (or two)!

TEXT BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

ROMAN STUD

Valentino’s Small Roman Stud

The Handle Bag is decorated with Valentino’s signature roman studs, featuring a removable strap and gold-tone hardware. www.saksfifthavenue.com

@maisonvalentino

OFF THE CHAIN

Crafted from soft folds of lambskin leather in a slouchy, gathered design, this Bottega Veneta bag is distinguished by its chunky gold-tone chain. www.modaoperandi.com

@newbottega

DESIGNER ZEBRA

Made in Italy, this Large DG Logo Leather Tote by Dolce & Gabbana features an oversized DG logo decorated in a bold zebra print and beautiful peonies. www.saksfifthavenue.com @dolcegabanna

KNOT PERFECT

Bottega Veneta’s electrifying blue “Jodie” bag is made from nappa leather, cotton and embroidered crystals in a soft crescent shape punctuated by the knotted shoulder strap. www.modaoperandi.com @newbottega

MONOGRAM MAGIC

Designed in a structured silhouette with cut-out handles, Valentino Garavani’s Sculpture tote is crafted of VLogo monogram canvas and trimmed with smooth leather. www.saksfifthavenue.com

@maisonvalentino

SLITHERING STYLE

The Amore Bag Slither Tote features the outline of slithering snakes over an emerald background with edgy black stripes. Made from a vintage doctor’s bag, 30 per cent of the proceeds benefit Doctors Without Borders. www.amorebags.com @amorebagstoronto

ON GIUSEPPINA: Clothing- Dior Jewelry - Anita Ko from Augustina Boutique

ON SALVATORE: Full look - ISAIA

Salvatore Mele and Giuseppina Policaro Mele pictured at Oretta’s newest location, Oretta Midtown, in the heart of the midtown district, enjoying a cup of Lavazza coffee

PHOTOS BY GEOFF FITZGERALD PHOTOSHOOT STYLIST: GIUSEPPINA POLICARO MELE

TORONTO’S FASHION AND FOOD POWER COUPLE: GIUSEPPINA POLICARO MELE & SALVATORE MELE

Meet the woman behind Toronto’s best-dressed women and the man behind the city’s chicest Italian restaurant establishments

WRITTEN BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

Wearing an oversized grey flannel sport jacket and a silver-cream cloth-and-mesh midi-skirt all Prada, of course Giuseppina Policaro Mele is runway-ready. In fact, she is always runway-ready. Call it a hazard of the job. As the stylist of choice for many of Toronto’s most fashionable, high-profile clients, Pina (as she’s affectionately known by friends and family) is on speed-dial for a discerning clientele who have called on Policaro Mele to fix more than one last-minute fashion emergency. And, as you scroll through Policaro Mele’s Instagram feed, you can see why. Her beautiful esthetic is informed by classic Italian notes (think Prada, Fendi, Miu Miu, Valentino) accented by unique pieces that infuse each outfit with just the right amount of flair and individuality. As she explains, “I think my specialty is that I really like to mix and match and find different ways to wear something, as opposed to the conventional way of wearing something. I really push colour because I love colour, and so I always try to help people get away from black and find a little bit of happiness in dressing.”

Freshly home in Toronto from Italy’s iconic Milan Fashion Week (where, it goes without saying, Policaro Mele’s mesh midi-skirt was considered the “it” item of the season), Policaro Mele and her husband, Salvatore Mele, the principal of the acclaimed Oretta restaurant in Toronto, joined the Dolce team to discuss fashion, food and family and, naturally, get in front of the

camera for a photo shoot at Oretta’s brand-new midtown location.

In many ways, Oretta Midtown is the perfect location to be meeting Toronto’s fashion and food power couple. It is a chic Italian oasis — classic olive-green leather booths anchor the bright roomy space, all of which is accented by flashes of pink sprinkled judiciously throughout. The bespoke pink-and-burgundy zigzag to-go coffee cups and designeresque Instagrammable pizza boxes fatta con amore! firmly plant Oretta’s flag as Toronto’s home to outside-the-box thinkers who nonetheless value classic recipes and hearty ingredients. Every bite of food or sip of drink at Oretta is equal parts substance and style.

And so, too, are Policaro Mele and Mele. If Oretta stands at the intersection of food, style and design, it’s because Policaro Mele and Mele have uncovered the common strand fundamental to

their respective lines of work. As Mele puts it, “I think hospitality or any service-based business is all about how you make people feel, and so when people come into the restaurant, I want people to feel important.” Equally so, Policaro Mele adds, for fashion. It’s no coincidence, then, that the Dolce team was made to feel at home at Oretta despite an 8 a.m. call time on a grey October morning, with coffees (Lavazza, of course) for everyone. Oretta didn’t skip a beat, despite our presence, as the restaurant prepared diligently for the upcoming lunchtime rush. Especially nowadays, a thriving hospitality business takes care, energy and devotion.

Given Policaro Mele’s prominent reputation in Toronto’s fashion industry, Mele and Policaro Mele can’t help but laugh at the common assumption that Policaro Mele must have been responsible for Oretta’s stunningly chic design. “I had nothing

to do with it!” confesses Policaro Mele. They credit Commute Design Studio for the interior of the restaurant, who expertly embellished the space with Italian-made furniture, marble tables, and tones of coral, indigo, olive-green and faint rose. As Mele points out, “When you come into a restaurant, you don’t realize that everything has been carefully curated for your experience, from the cutlery to the plates to the uniforms. I think all those little details come together and it becomes seamless. It’s all so thought out but it all works. It’s like fashion, too. It’s the little details, but it comes together and it works.” But that’s not to say that Policaro Mele hasn’t lent her expertise to the restaurant. As Mele notes, “I always ask her about certain things at the restaurant and she gives me her honest opinion.”

Importantly, Policaro Mele’s opinions are always informed by her perspectives on the role of fashion in today’s world, which dovetail with Mele’s views on hospitality: “Most of my clients are all very fun and able to allow me to help them and show them new things — they’re very adventurous in that regard. They trust me, and so with the trust that I’ve gained with them, it allows me to show them things that they would never even look at in a store themselves. As a whole, they’re excited about fashion, their appearance, having fun with it, and not taking it too seriously. It’s not a chore, it’s just feeling great about yourself.”

ON SALVATORE: Full look - ISAIA

ON GIUSEPPINA: Jacket and pants - YSL Tank top - WARDROBE. NYC Jewelry - Anita Ko from Augustina Boutique

ON GIUSEPPINA:

Sweater and skirt - Celine Shoes - YSL Jewelry - Anita Ko from Augustina Boutique

Giuseppina Policaro Mele

Both Policaro Mele and Mele are avid travellers, and even came up with the restaurant’s name together on an impromptu trip they took to New York City together. “My wife and I travel a lot and we were in New York at a restaurant that had a girl’s name. We thought how nice it was to name a restaurant a girl’s name a pretty, fashionable urban, Italian woman, and so we researched names and we came up with Oretta,” says Mele.

Oretta’s origin story could just as easily apply to Policaro Mele, who embodies these chic, fashionable attributes with an added inch of European je ne sais quoi. She traces her passion for fashion to her parents, who, as Policaro Mele explains, “are very stylish, both Italian and really

into fashion. My mom, when she was younger, used to go down to Spadina and find outfits to create herself. And then when I was about five, I started making sketches and creating my own little cut-outs and mixing and matching outfits together.”

Between Policaro Mele’s thriving styling business and Mele’s hands-on management of multiple restaurants under Capocaccia Trattoria and Oretta Hospitality Inc., it’s hard to believe that these loving parents are raising three beautiful children together. “It’s not the easiest thing. Our kids are so little, and they have their own busy schedules. We’re fortunate that we can sometimes work on opposite schedules … If I didn’t have

Sal’s support, I wouldn’t be able to do it … We’re just trying to instil in our kids to be together for dinner, spending time together, and then we pull ourselves away from work to do little things with the kids,” says Policaro Mele.

As we wrap up at Oretta Midtown, in the spirit of true hospitality Mele crafted a few pizzas to go for the Dolce team. As I took my first bite of the Cardinale — fittingly named after Mele’s father’s hometown in Calabria only three words were able to come out of my mouth: Che bella Oretta!

gpmstylistinc.com

@giuseppinapolicaromele www.oretta.to/midtown/home

@orettamidtown

I REALLY PUSH COLOUR BECAUSE I LOVE COLOUR, AND SO I ALWAYS TRY TO HELP PEOPLE GET AWAY FROM BLACK AND FIND A LITTLE BIT OF HAPPINESS IN DRESSING

‘‘ ‘‘

ON GIUSEPPINA: Clothing and shoes - Prada Jewelry - Anita Ko from Augustina Boutique

MIRROR ON THE WALL

These items reflect the fairest products of them all

TEXT BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

IT’S BOND, BOND NO. 9

A gender neutral scent, Chelsea Nights by Bond No. 9 features a blend of gourmand and ambery composition, with notes of saffron, cocoa absolute, and tuberose.

www.saksfifthavenue.com @bondno9ny

RED & SPICY

Made in Spain, Loubirouge eau de parfum by Christian Louboutin presents a spicy cabaret of the senses with notes of cardamom, iris and vanilla.

www.saksfifthavenue.com @louboutinworld

MEDITERRANEAN LOVENOTES

With key notes being mint leaves, orange blossom and vanilla Madagascar, Versace Eros contains a deep woody accord, kept within the blue bottle, a clear reference to the Mediterranean. www.sephora.com @versace

UNIVERSAL GLOW

Dior Addict Lip Glow enhances the lips and brings out their natural colour by reacting to the unique chemistry of each woman’s lips to give them a natural flush of custom colour that suits her skin tone.

www.saksfifthavenue.com @dior

CLASSIC BEAUTY

La Mer’s Moisturizing Cream is an ultrarich cream that instantly immerses skin in healing moisture to reveal a firmer feel and a more lifted, rejuvenated look over time.

www.saksfifthavenue.com @lamer

SACRED SCENT

House of Sillage’s Signature Benevolence eau de parfum is an ode to the sacred essence of comfort and tenderness with Tunisian almond oil and Madagascar vanilla, blended with fresh and floral notes of orange blossoms.

www.saksfifthavenue.com @houseofsillage

JAMES BOND LEGACY

WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER

PHOTO BY CHARLIE GRAY

Wearing his OMEGA watch and cutting his

dashing

style, actor Daniel Craig was guest of honour at the recent OMEGA London celebration

Sixty years ago, the world was introduced to a new type of secret agent. Before British secret agent James Bond appeared in Dr. No in 1962, our picture of a “secret agent” was very different indeed. The 1940s and 1950s seemed to portray secret agents as rather drab and sketchy shadowy types in worn trench coats working out of fog-shrouded alleyways.

Author Ian Fleming envisioned a different type of secret agent when he created James Bond. Bond was a suave, sophisticated man of culture who knew fine wines and fast cars, and who felt at home either in British Parliament or in a Monte Carlo casino. A man who always got the bad guy and always got the girl. And he was always welldressed, could save the world without ruining the crease in his tuxedo pants and wore the most exquisite of accessories. Wherever he was in the world – in the Alps, a Caribbean beach or the canals of Venice – Bond cut a most dashing figure.

James Bond first wore an OMEGA watch on his wrist in 1995’s GoldenEye, and to celebrate the relationship, and sixty years of the world’s most venerable movie franchise, Swiss watchmaker OMEGA recently welcomed actor Daniel Craig, the most recent Bond, to a black-tie London celebration held, most appropriately, at a secret location.

OMEGA watches have been an essential part of 007’s famous attire ever since Oscar-winning costume designer Lindy Hemming equipped Bond with a Seamaster Diver 300M, believing it was the most appropriate choice given his British naval background as an officer.

Bond wearing an OMEGA was only one part of the magic Bond formula that audiences have never tired of in the 25 films produced by EON Productions: a dramatic action-packed opening, a tremendous title song, the Bond briefing with M, to lay out the latest “You must save the world, James!” plot, the gadget briefing with his long-suffering equipment man, Q, and then Bond sets off to meet his nemesis (all of whom, to put it mildly, have been a tad ill-tempered and don’t play well with others) and a few glamorous ladies along the way.

With this legacy in mind OMEGA created a spy-inspired night at a secret London location featuring a dramatic live experience based upon the James Bond universe. The occasion was a fitting tribute to 007, complete with movie props and gadgets from Q’s lab, while a full line-up of James Bond’s OMEGA watches was also on display. These included the two new Seamaster Diver 300M timepieces OMEGA is launching to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the franchise.

“Our partnership with EON Productions and James Bond is something totally unique within watchmaking,” says Raynald Aeschlimann, president and CEO of OMEGA. “It’s a chance to be creative and have fun, while highlighting our qualities and reliability. We love to bring that partnership to life on nights like this.”

Guest of honour, actor Daniel Craig, recently announced his intention to depart the franchise after five films and a memorable jump from a helicopter with a look-alike Queen Elizabeth II to open the 2012 London Olympics. He looked every bit James Bond at this special celebration, and the OMEGA ambassador is a great fan of the brand’s watches.

“It’s been a joy for me to work with OMEGA in all the films since Casino Royale,” says Craig. “James Bond is a character who likes the very best of everything, so it’s always made sense that he would wear something as beautiful and trustworthy as an OMEGA.”

Also attending the celebrations in London were a number of other guests, including the actors

Alisha Boe, KJ Apa, Daisy Edgar-Jones, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Hayley Atwell and Stefano Accorsi, as well as the content creator Jacob Rott.

Launching in the first quarter of 2023 two new OMEGA watches will mark the 60th anniversary of the Bond franchise: the Seamaster Diver 300M 60 Years of James Bond in stainless steel, and the Seamaster Diver 300M 60 Years of James Bond in 18-karat Canopus Gold. Both models are 42-mm timepieces and both feature a distinctive design feature that captures the famous 007 opening sequence – with Bond in silhouette and a spinning gun-barrel design.

IT’S ALWAYS MADE SENSE THAT HE WOULD WEAR SOMETHING AS BEAUTIFUL AND TRUSTWORTHY AS AN OMEGA

‘‘ ‘‘

Both new OMEGA watch releases include elegant presentation boxes, one of which includes the notable film-inspired dots

PHOTO COURTESY OF OMEGA

NOTE PERFECT

Cello sensation HAUSER has taken the world by storm, introducing millions to the joy and wonder of classical music

WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER INTERVIEW BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

Music has always paid attention to new sounds. From Elvis to the Beatles, from Michael Jackson to the advent of rap and hip hop, new sounds have always cut through. The cello isn’t exactly a new sound, as the instrument has been around for centuries, but no one has played it like HAUSER, who has brought the cello from the rear rows of the orchestra to centre stage in some of the world’s biggest venues.

Similar to how the performance by the Three Tenors at the 1990 World Cup Final in Italy brought opera into the mainstream, as a founding member of the duo 2Cellos and now as a solo artist, HAUSER has not only exposed the beauty and possibilities of the cello to millions of music fans but has cemented himself as one of the world’s most important twenty-first century instrumentalists.

HAUSER was introduced to the cello by his mother as a child growing up in his native Croatia.

She even arranged for a cello teacher to come to their small town and HAUSER began lessons at just eight years of age. He still remembers the first time he heard a cello being played on the radio.

“It was a life-changing moment because it was the sound which was so special,” says HAUSER in a recent interview with Dolce. “I could feel these special vibrations. It was such a warm sound, the closest to the human voice, so tender, so warm and I was just drawn to it. It wasn’t even a question that was the only instrument I wanted to play.”

and even a rock style through his mastering of his instrument. For HAUSER, that ability comes from his sense of visualization when it comes to music.

“I was always multi-dimensional, as I could never just see one part of the picture,” he says. “I was always wanting to see a complete, full picture and I have always seen music as a visual whole. That’s the beauty of it. Music must stimulate all of your senses — your eyes, your ears, everything.”

His performance style has been described as electric. With a repertoire that is a repertoire that stretches from Lady Gaga to Tchaikovsky, a HAUSER show is a dynamic and innovative pairing of cello pyrotechnics with beauty, elegance and a touch of rock muscle thrown in for good measure. He has shown his audiences what is indeed possible and powerful for an instrument many of us previously thought, while musically pleasing, was rather meek and mild.

It is safe to say that HAUSER has reinvented and reimagined the cello while defying the conventions of classical music and the established music business. His iconic rendition of Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal” was the vehicle that launched him as an Internet sensation, and in 2020 during the pandemic his highly personal and visually stunning YouTube series, Alone Together, which featured musical portraits of his homeland of Croatia, stunned audiences. The series landed him his very first solo album, HAUSER – CLASSIC, which went to No. 1 on the Billboard chart.

And play he did. He committed to a career as a cellist at age 14 and went on to study in London, immersing himself in his passion for the cello and for classical music until something happened when he was 25 years old.

“I was completely focused on classical music until I was 25, and then something happened,” he recalls. “It was like a switch was turned. I started discovering all sorts of different music as I wanted to expand my creativity. I also became much more social in my personal life. It was a full journey of so many different experiences that shaped me into the person I am today.”

That person has toured with Elton John, played before Pope Francis, the-then-Prince Charles and the late Queen Elizabeth and plays to soldout shows on every continent in such venues as London’s Royal Albert Hall, New York’s Madison Square Garden and the Sydney Opera House. HAUSER has been recognized with no fewer than 21 first prizes from the world’s most prestigious national and international music competitions.

Reviewers have said his greatest talent is his singular ability to communicate contrasting styles and emotional themes through his playing, such as the essences of love, romance and sensuality

HAUSER has embraced social media through all of its platforms. “In my case, social media is a blessing because I was able to showcase my talents to millions of people,” he says. “The music I’m playing now would never be as popular without social media. Not many people use social media for good causes, but I’m happy to be something positive on social media.”

He has been called the perfect twenty-first century musician for what he does in person and online. For HAUSER, his career and his presence have a higher calling and purpose than simply the joy of performing and playing.

“I’m actually adapting to the times, which are changing like crazy,” he observes. “There are so many new things all the time, especially for the younger generation, yet the classical musical industry hasn’t found a way to keep up with these changing times. So I’ve found a way to make millions of people interested in classical music, all of those beautiful melodies, and it seems to be working. I’m actually happy, as I’m on a mission to keep it alive for younger generations. It’s a big responsibility, but I am blessed to take on this role.”

hausermusicfoundation.com @hausercello

I’VE FOUND A WAY TO MAKE MILLIONS OF PEOPLE INTERESTED IN CLASSICAL MUSIC, ALL THOSE BEAUTIFUL MELODIES, AND IT SEEMS TO BE WORKING

‘‘

‘‘

Through his cello recordings, live performances and social media presence, Hauser is keeping classical music alive for the younger generation while becoming one of the world’s most important twentyfirst century instrumentalists

Dress: ROBERTO CAVALLI @roberto_cavalli

Cashmere fringed wrap: +BERYLL @beryllpeople

Blazer: TOMMY HILFIGER @tommyhilfiger

Shirt: TOMMY HILFIGER @tommyhilfiger

Pants: TOMMY HILFIGER @tommyhilfiger

Ring: BULGARI @bulgari

Top:

Skirt:

Necklace: BULGARI @bulgari

Ring: BULGARI @bulgari

Katheryn Winnick demonstrates fearlessness on- and off-screen. She practised taekwondo four or five times a week when she was young and currently holds a third-degree black belt in taekwondo and a second-degree black belt in karate.

Winnick’s passion for the martial arts eventually led her to acting, starring in roles like the shield maiden Lagertha, warrior and wife of a great Viking leader in the critically acclaimed television series Vikings, and one of the leading roles in Big Sky.

Coming from a strong Ukrainian heritage, Winnick started the Winnick Foundation, a platform that allows people to donate basic supplies to help the Ukrainian people during the humanitarian crisis. We spoke with Winnick from her home in Los Angeles, after she had recently been asked to be an ambassador for President Zelensky’s charity, UNITED24.

Q:

A: I had a really beautiful childhood full of backyard ravines and forests. We lived in a cul-de-

sac, so I was always playing road hockey with my neighbours and the boys, and going to taekwondo four or five times a week. My childhood was very active and very outdoorsy. I come from a strong Ukrainian family, so it was part of our Ukrainian tradition to go to Ukrainian schools every Saturday and be involved in Ukrainian scouts. We had a great Ukrainian community in Toronto.

Q: What made you interested in taekwondo?

A: It was an activity that we did as a family. My father, the four siblings, all of us. I fell in love with it, so it was a big passion of mine. I got my first junior black belt at 12. I started at a martial arts school at 16 and turned it into three schools around Toronto by teaching after-school programs. It kept me out of trouble, so that’s always good just to have something to go to after school. It definitely kept me very focused. As a woman, it’s also very good for confidence.

Q: Can you walk me through what eventually got you into acting through martial arts?

A: Through martial arts, I got a chance to train actors, spend some time in different locations and

on set. I started teaching the actors martial arts, and that’s how I kind of got my foot in the door with wanting to pursue acting. And then I moved to New York and then Los Angeles, back and forth from both cities. I’ve travelled, really, all over the world now.

Q: You’re very vocal about the current war that’s going on and giving back through the Winnick Foundation. Why is it important for you to give back philanthropically?

A: I think it’s important for everyone to find something that they’re passionate about and to give back. But the war in Ukraine is unprovoked, and I think this is not just a Ukrainian issue, it’s a world issue. Seeing thousands of people get murdered every day and seeing the war crimes that are unfolding — it’s heartbreaking. I think it’s everybody’s duty as human beings to step up and help. My biggest worry and fear is that we get used to it. This is not something we should ever get used to. We need to do our part to end this war. I just got off the phone with President Zelensky’s charity, UNITED24. They just asked me to be an ambassador for them. There’s a lot more work to

ROBERTO CAVALLI @roberto_cavalli

ROBERTO CAVALLI @roberto_cavalli

What was it like growing up in Toronto?

do. I started the Winnick Foundation as a vehicle for people who don’t know where the money goes to in Ukraine. I can honestly say 100 per cent of all the money goes directly to President Zelensky’s humanitarian efforts. We’re partnering up and we’ll be doing some events and fundraisers to bring more awareness to his charitable foundation.

Q: Out of all the roles and experiences that you’ve had on set, are there a couple that really stand out for you?

A: I think for me, right now, obviously Vikings, playing Lagertha, was a big part for me, and it took seven years for me to play her and bring her to fruition. It was such an incredible experience. I also absolutely love directing and getting a chance to go behind the camera and tell the story and work with the cast and the crew and the DP and tell the story through a different lens versus as an actor. There’s been some great roles. I got a chance to work with Sean Penn on Flag Day, which I really enjoyed. I played Dylan Penn’s mother in the movie and got a chance to produce that, so I’m very proud of that and I’m excited to continue to build on my producing and find more projects that have strong women content.

Q: How do you keep fit on set when you have a busy schedule?

A: It’s really important to have a very healthy sense of mental health and wellness. I try to do at least one “nature thing” a day, if it is going for a hike or walk or spending time on the water if I’m in Los Angeles or the mountains. It’s really important to do that. Trying to get out there and see the sunrise if I can get up early enough, depending on work, or the sunset. I just think that really connects you to nature. In terms of fitness, obviously eating healthy and a gluten-free meal is important because I’m celiac, but I try to work out and weights are important. But I love the outdoors — I’m a skier and I’m a very active person. I want to be able to constantly do fun stuff on the go.

Q: What would you say you are most excited about for the next couple of years?

A: Oh wow, there’s so much to be excited about! I’m excited to do more travelling. I’m excited to direct more. Hopefully help more with Ukraine, give back to the community more and have some downtime to be able to enjoy life. It’s been a really tough working schedule for a few years, so I’m hoping to not work as much in front of the camera.

Q: What’s your definition of success?

A: Happiness. Balance. Freedom. Inspiring others.

Q: What does la dolce vita, the sweet life, mean to you?

A: Live life to the fullest.

www.thewinnickfoundation.org

@katherynwinnick

Dress: MAX MARA @maxmara Necklace and earrings: CARTIER @CARTIER

ATHLETES, ACTORS AND ADVOCACY: INTRODUCING THE 2022 CANADA’S WALK OF FAME

WRITTEN BY JOSH WALKER

The list for this year’s Canada’s Walk of Fame inductees has been announced.

It includes Lionel Conacher, The Tragically Hip, Deborah Cox, Director X, Just For Laughs, Tatiana Maslany, Heather Reisman and Barbara Frum.

Lionel Conacher has been inducted as Canada’s greatest all-around athlete. Known for his dedication, endurance and natural physical aptitude he won the Canadian light-heavyweight boxing championship in 1920, led the Toronto Argonauts to a Grey Cup victory and won all manner of accolades as a professional hockey player. After that, he spent time in the Armed Forces and became a Member of Parliament.

While rock band The Tragically Hip were inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame Arts & Entertainment pillar in 2002, this year they’re being recognized for their humanitarianism. As well as celebrating an exceptional career when it comes to music, they’ve used their platform to support the Indigenous rights movement, environmental issues and charities in their Kingston hometown.

With a career that spans almost 30 years, singer, actress and Broadway star Deborah Cox is a true talent. Her breakthrough came when she worked as a backup singer for Céline Dion. Since then, she’s gone on to earn Grammy nominations, Juno

Award wins and 13 No. 1 releases. Drake, Rihanna and Kanye West are just some of the names that have worked with music-video director Julien Christian Lutz, or, as he’s better known, Director X. Born in Brampton, Ont., Director X has enjoyed career highlights that include the release of his first Sony studio feature film, SuperFly , and has created art installations for Toronto’s Nuit Blanche: Death of The Sun. He’s also passionate about social change, founding Operation Prefrontal Cortex, a program that uses meditation and mindfulness to fight gun violence.

Having hosted comedy icons like Kevin Hart, Joan Rivers and Mike Myers, Just For Laughs has come a long way since its founding at Montreal’s Théâtre St-Denis in 1983. With physical festivals across Canada and international televised content, Just For Laughs is one of the biggest comedy events in the world. It’s being inducted into the Arts & Entertainment pillar.

Also entered into the Arts & Entertainment pillar is Tatiana Maslany, from Regina, Sask. Currently playing the title role of She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, her portfolio includes roles in Orphan Black and Perry Mason, as well as a range of other film and television credits.

As the founder, chair and CEO of Indigo, host of the Well Said podcast and co-founder of

e-reading brand Kobo, Heather Reisman is being inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame in the Entrepreneurship & Philanthropy pillar. As well as being the first woman to be inducted into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame in 2015, Reisman was named one of the top 50 businesswomen in the world by the Financial Times.

Inducted into the Legend pillar, Barbara Frum was an influential figure in Canadian broadcasting. During her career as a journalist for CBC Radio’s As It Happens and CBC TV’s The Journal, she interviewed more than 2,600 celebrities, politicians, changemakers and cult leaders. Her approach to journalism saw her recognized by the National Press Club of Canada Club with its Award for Outstanding Contribution to Canadian Journalism in 1975 and by the Canadian Press with its Woman of the Year Award in the literature, arts and education section a year later.

Alongside this year’s inductees, Canada’s Walk of Fame recognizes the rock band Arkells for its Allan Slaight Music Impact Honour and philanthropist James Temerty for its National Hero Honour, for his dedication to renewable energy, technological advancements and community engagement.

www.canadaswalkoffame.com @cwofame

Canada’s Walk of Fame 2022, from top left: The Tragically Hip, Heather Reisman, Lionel Conacher, Just For Laughs. From bottom left: Director X, Tatiana Maslany, Deborah Cox, Barbara Frum, honourees James Temerty, Arkells

Since 1998, Canada’s Walk of Fame has been dedicated to highlighting the best and brightest Canadian talent. Featuring e Tragically Hip, Heather Reisman and Just For Laughs, this year is no exception

BETTERING THE WORLD WITH MUSIC

In 2002, ve-piece rock band e Tragically Hip was inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame in the Arts & Entertainment pillar. Guitarist Paul Langlois opens up on what it’s like to have it happen again in 2022

WRITTEN BY JOSH WALKER | INTERVIEW BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

Selling over 10 million albums in Canada, 1.5 million in the United States, and with 17 Juno Awards under their belts, The Tragically Hip is a success story founded on a group of friends who met in Kington, released some music and took the world by storm.

When we speak with guitarist Paul Langlois, he’s about to start a day recording in the studio. “I do most of my writing and creating at night,” he says. “That’s when I take the time and interest, writing with guitar or lyrics.”

He describes growing up in Kingston as “pretty normal,” talking about how he met the other members of The Tragically Hip while in high school. Langlois wasn’t a founding member but ended up joining the band in 1986, two years later. “When Gord [Downie] called and said, ‘Do you want to join the band?’ I told my parents. My dad said, ‘For how long?’ and I said, ‘I think they’re going to be big.’”

And big they were. Not only did The Tragically Hip achieve the accolades mentioned above, but they helped put Canadian music on the map,

playing small and then big venues across their home country, the United States, Europe and Australia.

By 1995, they’d been brought by Dan Aykroyd to play on Saturday Night Live, and went on to play at Woodstock ’99.

“We were all lucky enough to drive across the country many times and got to know these towns we’d only heard of,” Langlois says. “The only reason it felt normal is that we knew each other so well and had been buddies for a long time. Even though it was wild, especially when our first records, Up to Here and Road Apples, came out, it seemed to continue getting better. Because it felt normal we just kept at it. Everyone was motivated to keep writing.”

In 2002, that success came to a milestone when the group was inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame in the Arts & Entertainment sector. Now, 20 years later, they’re being recognized again, this time for their humanitarianism.

The news follows a stream of achievements by the band that make the world a better place. As far back as 1993, the band donated proceeds from a concert to support Kingston hospitals. In 2004, they created The Tragically Hip Community Fund to support the city’s local charities.

In 2016, the band completed a tour raising over $1 million for the Canadian Cancer Society and the Sunnybrook Foundation, before the sad passing of frontman Gord Downie, who was fighting terminal brain cancer. In 2017, they were honoured with the Order of Canada for their notable impact on Canadian culture, including their continuous support of social and environmental causes; even through the pandemic, the band donated more than $50,000 in emergency financial relief for musicians and crew members.

“I was confused at first because I read it on Twitter and said, ‘Walk of Fame, we’ve already got one,’” Langlois shares, talking of when he first heard about the Walk of Fame news. “Then it turned out it was for humanitarian causes, which is humbling ... We had a chance, which turned into many chances, to raise money for causes that were close to us, and to the Kingston community as well.”

Langlois says it was playing a charity show with fellow Canadian rock band Rush that got the group thinking about the philanthropic power of music.

“We played in Kingston soon after, and for the rest of our career the Kingston shows were always for charity. When you have an opportunity and a platform, why not use it if you want to? Fortunately, we all did and were able to stay on the same page about what charities we’d give to and play for.”

www.thehip.com @thetragicallyhip

WE HAD A CHANCE, WHICH TURNED INTO MANY CHANCES, TO RAISE MONEY FOR CAUSES THAT WERE CLOSE TO US AND THE KINGSTON COMMUNITY, AS WELL

‘‘ ‘‘

Rock band The Tragically Hip was formed in Kingston, Ontario

FOR LOVE, HONOUR AND COUNTRY

WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER | INTERVIEW BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

Before February 2022, most of us had never heard of the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine. Most of us couldn’t find it on a map. James Temerty could. In fact, he was born there in 1941 and has spent a lifetime giving back in support of his homeland, a task made even more urgent since the Russian fullscale invasion on February 24th.

For this reason, and for his considerable philanthropic work over the decades, James Temerty is being inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame this year as the recipient of its National Hero Honour, a special recognition presented to an individual whose selflessness, dedicated efforts and outstanding contributions have made a significant difference in our society.

“At first I said ‘Why me?’ and was going to decline,” says Temerty in a recent interview with Dolce. “But what got me was that they were building this around Ukraine and the war and my activity in that area, so I really couldn’t turn it down because it’s a duty and an obligation, because somebody needs to stand up for Ukraine.”

Today, James Temerty is an inspiring leader and

philanthropist who has dedicated his remarkable life to renewable energy, technological advancements and community engagement as one of the world’s most successful businessmen. But back then in the Donbas, he was just a confused three-year-old boy fleeing a horror he didn’t understand with his parents and younger sister in a horse-drawn wagon, beginning a year-long exodus to freedom in the West during the Second World War.

One of the searing memories he has of that

A little boy riding in the front of a wagon with his father and his sister and mother in the back when a fighter jet explodes in a field beside them. For most of the rest of us, the biggest trauma when we were three was if our favourite goldfish went to “goldfish heaven.”

The wagon caravan took almost a year to reach safety in Slovakia. At certain times the families hid in the forest for months, foraging for food and other basic necessities. Eventually, the Temerty family reached Munich, then moved on to Belgium and finally they immigrated to Canada in 1950, when James was just nine.

A lifetime of experiences in the first decade of a life.

“Kids, if they have a good family life, kids feel at home anywhere, and I was okay,” says Temerty, giving proof to the old adage that home is where the heart is. You can be in a new and foreign country, but the strength and love of family can make it feel like home. “We were a very close, tightly knit group,” he recalls of his parents, himself and his sister.

journey in a caravan with 11 other families seeking freedom was of a fighter jet crashing into an open field beside his wagon after a dogfight in the skies above them.

Picture that scene for a moment.

Following his education, Temerty started his business career in sales, working with IBM for 15 years, an affinity for which you either have or you do not. In fact, when asked if you are born with business acumen, or can develop it later, Temerty does not hesitate in his response.

“Born with it,” he states confidently. “There is that old saying about nature versus nurture, but I always seem to have the right instincts about getting things done. And to get things done, you need to

Businessman and philanthropist James Temerty left his homeland of Ukraine as a child and is receiving Canada’s Walk of Fame National Hero Honour for giving back in a time of war

IT’S A DUTY AND AN OBLIGATION BECAUSE SOMEBODY NEEDS TO STAND UP FOR UKRAINE

‘‘ ‘‘

James Temerty has worked tirelessly to support his native Ukraine, now even more urgently in a time of war

be able to be persuasive, and if you are persuasive, you’re going to do all right in pretty much any walk of life. Nurturing is important, obviously but that instinct to have the confidence that you can get some things done or sell, for instance, and be good at it, I think that’s a nature thing.”

Those basic instincts have served Temerty well in a business career as a serial entrepreneur for more than four decades, with many successful business ventures to his name. These include ComputerLand franchises, Softchoice Corp. and, most recently, Northland Power Inc., a major Canadian independent power company and market leader in renewable energy with wind, solar and thermal electric power facilities across the globe, in Canada, Europe, Latin America, South America and the Asia-Pacific.

His business successes have allowed him to make significant philanthropic contributions in Canada, Ukraine and globally, supporting education, health care, culture, vulnerable populations and community-building. In September 2020, his Temerty Foundation’s gift of $250 million to the University of Toronto, naming the Temerty Faculty of Medicine, was recognized as the single largest one-time philanthropic donation in Canadian history. In March 2022, the Foundation’s gift of $10 million to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation was the largest single donation to Type 1 diabetes research in Canada.

“It’s nature. I just always needed to do these types of things,” says Temerty. “The American industrialist Andrew Carnegie once said, ‘If a person dies with all of their wealth, it’s a sin.’” A humble and modest man, Temerty received the Order of Canada in 2008 and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012 for his contributions to his country. In 2015, he received Ukraine’s Order of Prince Yaroslav the Wise from the president of Ukraine, the highest tribute Ukraine can confer on a foreign citizen who has not been head of state.

In 2008, Temerty founded and funded the Ukrainian Jewish Encounter, a multinational initiative to deepen Ukrainian-Jewish relations with a view to the future.

Since the war began, the Temerty Foundation has stepped up its humanitarian efforts by supporting the Canada-Ukraine Foundation’s Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal Fund; the Ukrainian World Foundation, for medical needs and relief efforts in Ukraine; Help Us Help Ukraine charity, for winterization needs in Ukraine with a focus on children; President Zelensky’s fund, UNITED24; and the Olena Zelenska Foundation,

for winterization needs of Ukrainian families living in de-occupied areas of Ukraine such as Kharkiv and Kherson. Temerty also worked closely with the Ukrainian World Congress to start the Unite with Ukraine campaign that focuses on supporting volunteer defenders on Ukraine’s front lines with protective equipment.

Temerty has seen first-hand the ravages of war in his homeland and he will continue to fight with all the means at his disposal, as he fully understands the geopolitics at play.

“Leading up to the invasion, Putin was making this point that Ukrainians and Russians are the same people, and that really irked me because we’re not,” says Temerty. “His whole basis for invading the country is built on a bunch of falsehoods. His motive is just imperialism, just grabbing the land.

He doesn’t care what happens to the Ukrainian people. It’s the land that he wants, containing some of the richest farmland on the planet. While Ukraine occupies only four per cent of the planet’s land mass, it has more than 25 per cent of the planet’s blackest and richest topsoil, along with mineral deposits yet to be tapped.”

In our quieter moments, we’ve all privately wondered if we would have the strength and resolve that the Ukrainian people have shown the world since February, and also wondered what it is about them that gives them such resiliency and strength of character, passion and dedication. Perhaps with people such as James Temerty, we are provided with a clue.

temertymedicine.utoronto.ca

Gathered outside Hart House following the announcement of the Temerty Foundation’s historic gift to U. of T. Medicine: Back row (left to right): MD candidate Hira Raheel, Trevor Young, dean of the Temerty Faculty of Medicine and vice-provost of Relations with Health Care Institutions, U. of T. chancellor Rose Patten, David Palmer, U. of T.’s vice-president of Advancement.

Front row: (left to right) Mike Lord, Leah Temerty-Lord, U. of T. president Meric Gertler, James Temerty, Louise Temerty

James Temerty, along with family members (L to R) Mike Lord, Louise Temerty and Leah Temerty-Lord, announce the Temerty Foundation’s $250 million gift to the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Medicine in 2020, the largest single one-time philanthropic donation in Canadian history

Since

LAUNCHING LAUGHTER ACROSS THE GLOBE

WRITTEN BY JOSH WALKER | INTERVIEW BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

Kevin Hart, Amy Schumer, Hasan Minhaj all household names when it comes to comedy, and all names who thank Just For Laughs for being instrumental to their success.

The first Just For Laughs festival took place in 1983 at Montreal’s Théâtre St-Denis and it is a global leader in comedy. As well as hosting festivals across Canada, it televises shows for international audiences and has helped launch the careers of some of our most beloved and renowned comics.

As president of Just For Laughs, Bruce Hills has been described by the Globe and Mail as “the king of comedy” and was named one of Variety’s “50 individuals who impacted comedy.”

His journey with Just For Laughs started while he was a chauffeur, driving the festival’s featured talent from location to location. “I realized at a very early age there are all kinds of different ways to build a Rolodex as you’re pursuing a career, and sometimes they’re not the most obvious,” he says.

From there, Hills was asked if he wanted to work on PR for the organization, went on to become its director of programming, vice-president of international television and then COO. Today, he’s

its president, working in all divisions to actively shape the comedy landscape.

“What was really fortunate for us was that we got in when comedy was exploding, just before a major comedy boom,” he says, talking about the organization’s success. “When the festival was first produced, comedy was a nightclub business ... It was the very beginning of what comedy looks like today.”

There are many parts that come together to form the organization’s success. One is having it in cities like Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver. Another is having something for everyone.

“We’re a combination of live and televised events,” Hills explains. “We have hundreds of shows, solo and multi-comic bills, spoken word and theatre that isn’t captured for television. What the fans see around the world is what we capture for television, but what they see when they show up in Montreal is the biggest comedy event in the world.”

This year, as it celebrates its 40th anniversary, Just For Laughs is being inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame in the Arts & Entertainment category. Its entry marks not just the growth the platform has experienced since its launch, but the

constantly evolving impact and influence it’s had on comedy internationally.

“The key thing for us is to continue being on the cutting edge of this business,” Hills continues. “If we don’t, we’ll get left behind. We have to evolve with what artists want to do and what they need. If we’re not artist-friendly and an important part of their lives, we will go away.”

One example that demonstrates how Just For Laughs innovates is its recent collaboration with Meta. The project sees a lineup of new and renowned comedians perform in virtual reality for the first time. Its New Faces of Comedy program is another initiative that helps discover upcoming voices, and offers a launchpad to stardom.

While an induction into Canada’s Walk of Fame is a milestone to be celebrated, the entire team’s hunger to continue its mission to find and support laughter long into the future is clear. As Hills says, “Our key mandate is to build the best comedy festivals in the world that connect with the cities they take place in and continue to evolve, strive to be superb, push for excellence and take chances.”

www.hahaha.com @justforlaughs

Just For Laughs president Bruce Hills discusses launching talent to stardom, innovation in comedy and the organization’s induction into Canada’s Walk of Fame

its founding in 1983, Just For Laughs has grown to become one of the biggest comedy players in the world

MICHELE PELLEGRINI, GENERAL MANAGER

CLAUDIO TENTENNI CORPORATE CHEF

Young Italian soccer superstar Federico Bernardeschi’s move to Major League Soccer with Toronto FC is just the latest step forward in what promises to be a world-class career to watch

WRITTEN BY ESTELLE ZENTIL AND RICK MULLER

hild prodigies are rare, but history shows they do happen. Mozart was composing music at the age of five, Stevie Wonder recorded his first music at age 12, Wayne Gretzky scored an astounding 378 goals in his final year of peewee hockey, and in the bucolic, rolling hills of Carrara in the Tuscany region of Italy, Federico Bernardeschi first touched a soccer ball at age four.

Among Tuscany’s lush green fields and ancient olive groves live the heirs to the region’s centuriesold history and tradition, perhaps the greatest collection of marble-workers in the world. But following his father, Alberto, into the marble trade was not in Bernardeschi’s future. His future was with his feet, not his hands.

Bernardeschi learned to dribble on the medieval stone steps of Carrara before he learned to form complete sentences. The town’s doors, walls and windows soon became obstacles for the young boy to deftly maneuver around or thread through — to practice with instead of to inhabit. As Bernardeschi explains, “My father bought me a soccer ball in a toy store. I went outside…. I don’t know why, but for me, it was always only soccer. I felt it inside of me — this was my dream, my passion.” Neither broken glass, unhinged gates, general chaos, nor the strenuous protestations of his parents were enough to deter young Federico from working on his skills — not even inside the walls of Alberto’s house.

Bernardeschi began to stand out as a prodigious talent before he was even 7 years old. All the other boys in the local youth league were relegated to chasing him as he dribbled the ball on goal — by 9, he’d been signed by the Fiorentina junior system. Bernardeschi made his professional debut at 19. A short four years later, he had grown into a superstar with a global audience. Following his transfer to powerhouse Juventus in 2017, Bernardeschi won three consecutive Serie A trophies during his time at Juventus and achieved the pinnacle of professional club soccer.

Success has never been given to him. Instead, it has been his hard work, passion and commitment which has enabled his climb to the top. “I feel very fortunate that I’ve been able to realize my dream that I’ve had since I was a kid, mostly because I understand the sacrifice it takes for a player or a young kid, and also the sacrifice that the parents make, for these types of dreams to come to

fruition,” Bernardeschi says in his interview with Dolce. “It’s not a given that everybody succeeds. I know I’ve put a lot of hard work into it and a lot of sacrifices to reach the point of where I am today — even with a lot of work and sacrifices, it’s not a given that dreams come true. Because of the level of sacrifice that goes into reaching the professional level, I feel for the teammates that never made it even though they gave it their all.”

While at Juventus, Bernardeschi’s sublime skill and graceful technique earned him the nickname “Brunelleschi,” after the Renaissance master sculptor and architect responsible for designing the glorious dome of the Florence Cathedral, a building founded itself on the support of Carrara marble. After a lifetime of practice, Bernardeschi’s mastery of skill and technique has made him as much artist as athlete.

one minute,” and he was happy to invite Dolce to draw back the curtain and let the city glimpse the lives of Toronto soccer’s first family through an intimate interview and photo shoot.

One thing you immediately notice about Bernardeschi is that he likes to have fun and takes pride in being a bit of a joker, especially with his wife, Veronica Ciardi. While Veronica usually opts for more laid-back looks, her arrival at the photo shoot gave Bernardeschi the opening he was looking for. “But first, there’s a case of a missing person on set,” cracks Bernardeschi. “Where’s my wife? Where’s Veronica?”

Bernardeschi pretends to not recognize the femme fatale with the pin-straight jet-black hair and exotic tattoos clad in a super-sleek, cherrycoloured open-leg Balmain dress and black slingback six-inch heels who’s just entered the room. Today the fashion-forward trend-setting duo are pulling out all the stops. As Bernardeschi explains, “I will admit that I’ve always liked to dress well, I’ve always followed fashion — it interests me. Being Italian, I’m very proud of the fact that Armani and Cucinelli represent Italy so well outside of Italy. They’re good national treasures for Italian quality and style. Many people around the world think of fashion and style when they think of Italy, and both of them are excellent examples of that unique creativity Italians have when it comes to fashion.”

— Bernardeschi

Today, Bernardeschi stars for Toronto FC as the club’s latest high-profile, highly successful Italian signing. Since making his debut on the Toronto team in July 2022, Bernardeschi has been one of its most electrifying players and most beloved fan favorites. And it’s easy to see why. Despite his artistry and imagination on the field, it’s not just fancy tricks and highlight goals that have endeared Bernardeschi to Toronto FC fans — he plays with a determination, grit and industry that reflects the fundamental characteristics and diversity of the city he plays for. Bernardeschi is revered because he loves his Toronto fans as much as they love him, a factor that may be just as important as their love of his on-field abilities. As he points out, he and his wife “loved Toronto after

Two unmistakable features of Bernardeschi’s look are his hair, which constantly changes style and colour, and his many tattoos. He’s one of those people who never has a hair out of place, always showing discipline with his appearance — a meticulousness that he carries over to his soccerplaying. Messy players usually don’t last too long under a coach’s glare. Although he appreciates the freedom that comes with ever-evolving hairstyles — “Whatever hairstyle I’m currently wearing, that is my favourite” — he equally appreciates the significance and permanence that come with his tattoos. As Bernardeschi explains, his voice heavy with emotion, his tattoos carry immense personal significance. “I have two special tattoos. One is my father-in-law, who died two years ago. He was a very important person in my life and like a second father to me. I also have the number 13 for my friend Davide [Astori] who has passed away. We played together in Fiorentina seven years ago. He was a very young boy and, for me, it was a shock. He was my best friend.”

For all the attention that he receives for being a trend-setting authority on fashion, one hallmark

IT’S NOT A GIVEN THAT EVERYBODY SUCCEEDS. I KNOW I’VE PUT A LOT OF HARD WORK INTO IT AND A LOT OF SACRIFICES TO REACH THE POINT OF WHERE I AM TODAY”

‘‘

ON VERONICA:

DRESS – MARK BELFORD

RING – DAVID YURMAN SHOES – ZANOTTI

ON FEDERICO:

FULL LOOK – BOSS WATCH – OMEGA SEAMASTER PLANET OCEAN ULTRA DEEP

Bernardeschi trait is his humility. World-renowned celebrities are famous for making entrances and playing the hurry-up-and-wait game. But our Dolce photo shoot was scheduled to start at 9 a.m. and at the stroke of 9:00, there was Bernardeschi, punctual, polite and professional, making a point of introducing himself to each and every member of the team. A small thing, perhaps, but made all the more remarkable when, after leaving the photo shoot with the Dolce team, a fan cried genuine tears of joy when Bernardeschi agreed to take a selfie with him. His fans are dedicated — at least one has Bernardeschi’s signature tattooed on his body — and for good reason. Although trying to stay humble in an industry that builds players up to be stars is something most players have to grapple with, Bernardeschi has kept his calm composure and demeanour and has always kept his head firmly on his shoulders. His maturity and confidence are those of a much older soul.

“In the beginning, it was a bit hard, since life changes once you become a professional soccer player,” observes Bernardeschi. “You have a lot of opportunities, a lot of possibilities in front of you, but the most important thing is that you have to keep your feet on the ground and your head on your shoulders. It’s very easy to get overwhelmed at a young age, but if you stay on the right path, the opportunities can become even bigger, and your talent can only grow in the right direction. This has always been my mindset, to work hard and constantly create new thresholds for myself — this is very important to me.”

Bernardeschi credits his wife for his grounded perspective. In fact, when they first met in 2014, Ciardi was more well-known in Italy than her

husband. “At the time I was more famous than him,” recalls Ciardi. “I had participated in a TV show in Italy and he still hadn’t really exploded in the world of soccer. He was already a very good player, but the moment of real success was to come.” And when that success came with Juventus, it was Ciardi who ensured that Bernardeschi stayed true to himself despite his fame. As Bernardeschi explains, “She was tough. I really did not expect it. We needed a bit of realigning of certain balances in our lives. But we were very much grounded in love, with the desire to be together, so it was all very simple.” Today, Ciardi continues to ensure that Bernardeschi has all the support he needs to perform on the field at the highest levels.

As we saw first-hand, Bernardeschi and Ciardi have a deep love and undeniable chemistry. “We first became friends and we bonded right away. Our souls were tied before everything else. Over time, our relationship grew and all the rest was born. It was a meeting of souls,” says Ciardi. Blossoming out of their relationship are their beautiful daughters, three-year old Deva and oneyear old Lena, who joined their parents at the photo shoot with Bernardeschi’s mother nonna Paola. Family is at the core of Bernardeschi and Ciardi’s relationship, and it was important to them that nonna Paola join them in Toronto to help acclimate Deva and Lena to life in a new country. For this reason, despite Bernardeschi and Ciardi’s steamy outfits and intoxicating sex appeal, the photo shoot had a decidedly family feel, particularly when Bernardeschi was sidelined in favour of photos of only Ciardi and their daughters.

Surrounded by women at home, Bernardeschi

is now used to being outmanned, and in fact loves being a hands-on parent. “The sweet life is my family,” smiles the contented husband and father. “Without a doubt they are the most important thing to me. When you have family and everything revolves around the family, there is no better joy, feeling or satisfaction.”

Given how naturally confident Bernardeschi and Ciardi — and their daughters — are in front of the camera, it was easy to forget that they are a young family trying to grow roots in a foreign city. But Bernardeschi is determined to do just that. Bernardeschi quickly assumed a leading role on Toronto FC, and his charm and outgoing personality have resonated with Torontonians and Major League Soccer fans across North America. During our interview, Bernardeschi insisted on speaking English, fully embracing his new life in Toronto, and wanting to immerse himself in the culture. He even brought his English teacher to the set to ensure he put his best foot forward. So far, the transition has gone smoothly. As Bernardeschi explains, “I’m grateful that since I arrived my teammates, my coach, and MLS gave me a warm welcome. Therefore, it’s been very easy since the very first instant. I appreciated the warm welcome as it’s not easy to have such a big change in my life, to arrive here as a new player, in a new country — it was almost like a dream. I received a lot of help from my teammates and that made me feel right at home from the very first instant. They could have easily not offered me such a warm welcome.”

Besides welcoming the birth of their daughters and moving to a new country, the past few years have seen one other big change for Bernardeschi and Ciardi. After nearly seven years together, in

OUR SOULS WERE TIED BEFORE EVERYTHING ELSE. OVER TIME, OUR RELATIONSHIP GREW AND ALL THE REST WAS BORN. IT WAS A MEETING OF SOULS”

— Ciardi

ON VERONICA: DRESS – MARK BELFORD EARRINGS – ROGER VIVIER

July, 2020, they finally tied the knot. The marriage took place in Carrara Cathedral, in the city of Bernardeschi’s birth. Celebrating his marriage in a cathedral in his birth city was not a thing that happened casually or by chance — Bernadeschi considers faith to be the most important aspect of his life. “Since I was a child, faith has always been an important point of reference because I grew up in a family that is very religious. My mom is very religious and I’ve always felt a strong sense of faith. Over the years, I’ve followed a lot of the signs that I have received through my faith and they’ve led me on the right path. I felt protected whenever it was time to make some very important or difficult choices in my life. Faith has always helped me overcome difficult situations. My wish is that I’m able to transfer faith to my daughters. Obviously, this will be their choice when they come of age, but for now I’ll do my best. I have a strong opinion that faith is extremely important in one’s life.”

As if it wasn’t obvious that their relationship was just meant to be, Veronica and Federico’s wedding day happened to fall just two days after Bernardeschi and the Italian national team won the Euro 2020 championship, with Bernardeschi scoring a critical shootout goal against England in

— Bernardeschi

the final. “It was my wife’s birthday and two days prior we had won the European Championship, so we had a huge party,” says Bernardeschi, recalling his memorable month with a smile. “We combined the celebrations a bit. I won the European Championship on July 11th. On July 13th, we got married. I’m very proud of both.”

Carrara is just as proud of its soccer-playing son, with 5,000 locals assembling spontaneously outside of the cathedral to wish the newlyweds a life of health and happiness. As Ciardi and Bernardeschi stepped into their “Novelli sposi” (Just Married) matte black flatback, one lucky fan got close enough to ask the newly wedded bride how she felt. Her response? “They deserved to win”!

Another thing Bernardeschi is proud of is how he and his family had the courage to leave home and start a new chapter of their lives in Toronto to support his dreams. “I love Toronto. It’s my new home.” And, without question, Bernardeschi has embodied the Canadian spirit in embracing Toronto and giving us a view into his life, faith and family. Toronto FC is lucky to have him and Toronto is lucky to have the whole family. It will be enjoyable watching them grow here — on and off the pitch.

ON FEDERICO: BOXERS - DOLCE & GABBANA

ON VERONICA: BODYSUIT - FORTNIGHT LINGERIE

I HAVE A STRONG OPINION THAT FAITH IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT IN ONE’S LIFE”

‘‘

with Federico Bernardeschi

Q: What is your favourite childhood memory?

A: The first emotions or sensations of playing soccer are the unforgettable emotions that I carry within myself. Those were very special memories.

Q: What is your morning routine?

A: I have a very disciplined morning routine. You have to if you are a professional athlete. I get up early, brush my teeth, get dressed, and have a hearty breakfast because I knows the type of day that I have ahead. I try to eat healthy as much as possible, with all the nutrition that can help me face the day, because breakfast is the most important meal of the day, as it fuels you. Then I go to train.

Q: How many hours do you train?

A: Three to four hours a day in the morning with the team, then, in the afternoon, when I come home, I continue to train on specific points that I want to improve on. Spectators may only see us play once or twice a week, but believe me, it’s a full-time job.

Q: What’s the best goal you’ve ever scored?

A: The first goal was my penalty goal when I was playing with Fiorentina against Borussia Mönchengladbach.

My second most memorable goal is the first goal I made for Juventus. To score for that team, with all of its magnificent history, was extremely special.

Q: How do you get excited and prepare yourself before a match?

A: I get mentally relaxed by listening to music, to rock, reggae or rap. I try to concentrate on the game and focus on the things that I’m capable of doing, almost like a visualization. Prior to the game, I picture myself and what I’m capable of doing and then try to repeat that on the field, basically trying to mentally prepare what the team needs. I find that visualizing what I need to do when the moment comes helps me execute in that moment.

Q: What qualities do you identify in your children?

A: This is an interesting question. Veronica and I hope to give them the right qualities. The one thing that I do notice is that they’re very sensitive, and we’re very proud of that. Being sensitive in today’s world brings you a sense of empathy for others.

Q: What’s the one thing you do that annoys Veronica?

A: How long do we have? I wish there was only one thing that made her annoyed, but there are so many. I’m a joker. I like to play jokes on her all day long. I like to make her laugh, but when I tickle her she hates it the most because she’s extremely ticklish.

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: I’m really not sure. I lost count. As I said, I’m passionate about fashion and I like to dress well, and obviously shoes are a big part of the whole look. I believe a

well-dressed gentleman is a well-dressed gentleman from head to toe.

Q: What is your definition of success?

A: For me, success is when you feel well about yourself, as in an all-around feeling of well-being. It’s important that I work and that I have hobbies; however, the most important thing is the feeling of well-being, loving oneself, doing good to others, and being well aware of the kind of man that you are. If you have a good feeling of well-being, this is the biggest success that one can reach and it has a far-reaching impact on all areas of your life.

Q: What is your definition of la dolce vita?

A: The sweet life is my family. Without a doubt they are the most important thing to me. When you have family and everything revolves around the family, there is no better joy, feeling or satisfaction.

Q: What is the greatest achievement of your life?

A: If we’re talking about at the level of sportsmanship or in my soccer career, there is no question it’s the victory in last year’s European Cup. To defeat England on its home field of historic Wembley Stadium, with everyone there rooting against us, that was the greatest achievement in my sporting career. If we’re talking about the “real” world, or my personal success or accomplishments, without question it would be my daughters.

Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

A: The best piece of advice that I’ve received is from someone very dear to me, and it would be to follow my path, and to create it for myself.

@fbernardeschi

@missciardi

In

SUSTAINABLE SOUTH FLORIDA STYLE

WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER

The design of this family home underscores Strang’s ongoing exploration of regional modernism by adapting site-specific and climatespecific considerations. For example, to honour the surrounding terrain, Strang designed the home around existing oak trees, making it feel both timeless and at one with nature.

The sleek and contemporary design includes vertical “fins” that address shading and privacy concerns. The firm utilized a passive design approach to help reduce the home’s energy footprint with a solar panel array on the roof.

The Strang team even incorporated engineered systems focused on innovative wellness technologies. For example, the design emphasized cross ventilation throughout, and the home’s lighting design works in response to circadian rhythms, with the option to be programmed, while a mechanical water system treats and enhances the quality of the local water supply.

There is more to South Florida than just the subtropical climate. The unmistakable style, music and culture all combine to make the Greater Miami Area, from booming Fort Lauderdale in the north, through the commerce of downtown, to the swagger of South Beach and the laid-back vibe of the Florida Keys, one of the largest and most vibrant metropolitan areas in North America.

Given the region’s location, interconnected waterways and climate, the environment plays

a major role in architecture and design, as evidenced by Strang Design’s recent completion of an 8,125-square-foot residence sited along the Tarpon Bend Canal in Fort Lauderdale. This award-winning, stunning showcase reflects Strang Design’s deep commitment to sustainability with a design philosophy it dubs “Environmental Modernism.” The Florida firm’s newest project also reflects the full scope of its services – architecture, interior design, decorating and landscape – while incorporating numerous sustainable design moves.

As an architectural, interior-design and landscape-design firm founded by Max Strang in 1998, the company has been globally recognized for pushing projects beyond necessity in a world where architecture becomes art, and this Fort Lauderdale home is a prime example of utilizing its location within a grove of oak trees to fuse form with function. As in Strang Design’s numerous other residential projects, the home is impressive, stylish, well-crafted and simply beautiful in its appearance and living flow. Once again, Strang Design has delivered strongly in advancing the principles of environmental modernism in an extraordinary location.

Strang Design was working in an area it knows well with this latest triumph, given its Florida base and offices in Miami and Sarasota. While it is deeply connected to Florida, it has also created projects across the Caribbean, Colorado, the Bahamas,

Strang Design’s newest project in Fort Lauderdale demonstrates how sustainable living can be both stylish and beautiful

honouring its location and surrounding terrain, the home is set amongst a grove of existing oak trees

Exterior vertical fins incorporated into the design provide shading and privacy, and offer framed views

‘‘ ‘‘

A FAMILY HOME CONNECTED TO THE WATER, THE SKY AND THE TREES

The design of the client’s recording studio required strong collaboration between various consultants to ensure a “note perfect” environment

the Dominion Republic, the Florida Keys and the United Arab Emirates.

The team is focused on a common thread in its work – the enduring intrigue of modernism – and was recently recognized as 2022 Firm of the Year by the Miami Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA).

It was the latest award for Max Strang, who for more than 20 years has demonstrated a commitment to creating high-quality designs with a focus on academic and professional engagement. Elevated to the AIA National Council of Fellows in 2016, Strang has won dozens of awards, including 2022 AIA Miami Architect of the Year, 2019 Florida Medal of Honour for Design and the 2013 AIA Miami Silver Medal for Design.

Max Strang has been published in more than 200 magazines, news interviews and books and has produced two firm monographs, the most recent being Subtropic, the Architecture of [STRANG], which reflects and illustrates the concepts of environmental modernism showcased in his work. Strang calls the Fort Lauderdale home “a family home connected to the water, the sky and the trees.”

Living and working in South Florida, Strang and his team of talented professionals see first-hand and understand fully the impact climate change will have on residential and urban development in the coming decades, with their iconic designs thoughtfully integrating South Florida’s subtropical climate. As the recent Hurricane Ian showed quite devastatingly in Florida, as ocean temperatures rise, storms are increasing in velocity and duration. This all must be calculated into practical, thoughtful, yet attractive design.

For some reason, the image of utilizing “sustainability” in architecture and design does not evoke something attractive or beautiful in the quality of materials. That is a mistake. As Strang Design has so clearly demonstrated with this impressive residential project in Fort Lauderdale, a home can be both beautiful and sustainable – and that is a message we all need to learn, accept and, perhaps most importantly, embrace.

MIAMI EDITORIAL

A statement tub and sculptural pendant highlight the primary bathroom, with views of the surrounding landscape

A custom-made table seating up to 10 is the focal point of a sleek, clean and contemporary open-plan kitchen and dining area

A built-in library highlights this comfortable and cozy lounge space abutting the music room

FUNDING MAKES THE DIFFERENCE

Private donors and fundraising events such as Diwali – A Night to Shine lead to groundbreaking medical research from Toronto’s University Health Network

WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER | INTERVIEWS BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

Deciding to donate to or support a charitable cause, initiative or research effort is an intensely personal decision based on many factors, but a primary concern is that your contribution is doing what it was intended to do and, most importantly, is making the maximum impact possible. For most medical researchers, private donations make all the difference to their being able to continue their work, which in some cases leads to groundbreaking advances.

Such is the case at the Krembil Brain Institute and Toronto Rehab at Toronto’s University Health Network (UHN), one of the leading such facilities in North America. It, like so many other medical institutions, is populated by brilliant doctors doing important work to further the cause of science.

While hospitals are funded by the provincial government, that funding is to deliver care, not research. The critical research in health care is provided by the scientists, and the funding for

the scientists’ salaries depends on private donors and fundraising initiatives, which allow research to survive and thrive in the face of today’s health care challenges.

This year the Krembil Brain Institute and Toronto Rehab at UHN were the beneficiaries of the funds raised by UHN Foundation’s annual Diwali – A Night to Shine Gala, which since its inception in 2011 has raised more than $11.5 million for programs at UHN, including the Toronto General Hospital Research Institute,

Dr. Mojgan Hodaie, engineer Milos Popovic, Dr. Gelareh Zadeh and Dr. Michael Fehlings (left to right) are just four of the several hundred medical researchers, scientists and doctors within Toronto’s University Health Network completing groundbreaking medical advances funded by private donations and special events

emergency care, cardiac care, diabetes, transplant and vision research.

The Diwali A Night to Shine Gala is an evening filled with dynamic performances and exquisite cuisine and is one of the most highly anticipated events of Toronto’s social season. Through music, food and entertainment the event continues to celebrate India’s culture, traditions and legacy.

The event is incredibly important to the beneficiaries this year, Krembil Brain Institute and Toronto Rehab at UHN, and doctors such as Mojgan Hodaie, a neurosurgeon and scientist at Krembil Brain Institute, recognize the deep impact evenings such as this can have on the Institute and its groundbreaking work.

Dr. Hodaie specializes in brain imaging, with an active research lab focusing on the role of structural MRI techniques, and she fully appreciates the crucial role fundraising plays in the reality of today’s medical research.

“Fundraising is crucial because much of what we do involves high risk/high reward questions, meaning no one has really asked them before,” says Dr. Hodaie in an interview with Dolce. “We are breaking the mould by asking some very unusual questions, and donor contributions in fact become critical so that we can develop the infrastructure to allow us to carry out the research. And our patients appreciate so much that they have a centre that they can come to and be looked after. It’s also a way for them to remain engaged and be participants in this research.”

The Krembil Brain Institute is doing worldleading research and is fortunate to have doctors such as Gelareh Zadeh on its faculty, not only as a neurosurgeon and scientist, but also as medical director of the Krembil Brain Institute. Her clinical practice focuses on skull-base neurooncology, with a dedicated general brain tumour clinic and many multidisciplinary clinics that she has established. Her specialty is rare brain tumours, where she is dedicated to the goal of advancing surgical clinical trials.

“These are unstudied tumours and by definition quite rare because the instances are so low, two or three in a million,” says Dr. Zadeh. “So we must identify patterns so we know how to treat them.

— Dr. Mojgan Hodaie

We need to be able to use that signature unique to each tumour in order to determine the individual outcome or treatment available or, potentially, avoid surgery.”

Funds secured through private donations or raised by events such as the Diwali – A Night to Shine Gala are the lifeblood for the important work being undertaken by medical researchers around the world. Illustrative of the deep expertise of the brilliant minds affiliated with University Health Network is Milos Popovic, who came to the medical research field from the aerospace industry, never intending to become an academic, but instead putting his training as a biomedical engineer to work.

Popovic is the director of KITE, which stands for Knowledge, Innovation, Talent, Everywhere, the research arm of the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute of UHN. Among his many fields of expertise are functional electrical stimulation, brain-machine interfaces, assistive technology, robotics and signal processing.

People who have a stroke or a spinal cord injury may be profoundly disabled afterwards. Perhaps for about 10 per cent it’s very minor, though, sadly, approximately 10 per cent pass away. Of the remaining large group, about half suffer profound effects, such as losing the ability to use hands, legs or speech. Coming up with a technical solution to restore physical functions is what attracted Popovic.

“What I have discovered is that you do not need an assisted device,” says Popovic about his work. “But you can bring the technology where you stimulate the muscles in the arms or legs, and by repetitively doing tasks such as reaching objects and manipulating them, you start reprogramming the brain and spinal cord, and after about 40 to 60 hours of therapy, the patient, who may have been paralyzed, will be able to grasp objects. Similar technologies are now being developed to restore locomotion, or walking.”

The real miracle of the human body is how everything is connected and how, after injury, recovery is possible. One of those dedicated to repair and regeneration is Dr. Michael Fehlings, a spine surgeon and scientist at Krembil Brain Institute and KITE, whose research is so directly

helped by funds raised by philanthropy and events such as the Diwali Gala.

“I became interested in spinal cord injury because I was struck by how severe the impact was of spinal cord injuries and also brain injuries,” Dr. Fehlings told Dolce. “I thought if I could figure out how to enhance the recovery, repair and regeneration after injury, those results would be applicable to the management of a broad variety of patients in neuroscience, including for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, ALS, traumatic brain injuries and strokes.”

Some of the award-winning Dr. Fehlings’ research has resulted in discoveries and treatments that have become standard clinical practice around the world and have been published in leading medical journals such as The Lancet . One of the most groundbreaking is his work on new advancements regarding spine stem cells, which is currently in late-stage, pre-clinical experimentation. Here he deals with engineered neural stem cells, which are the building blocks from which the brain and spinal cord develop.

“What’s cool is that we can generate customized neural stem cells for an individual we don’t need to go to fetal tissue or embryos,” says Dr. Fehlings. “We can take any cell from a person and reprogram those to make neural stem cells, which are specific to the region or nervous system, and genetically engineer them with control switches to turn on and off various genes that will then modify the environment.”

How did you spend YOUR day today?

Speaking with Dr. Zadeh, Dr. Hodaie, Dr. Fehlings and Milos Popovic can be intimidating, but it is also inspiring and wondrous. It may seem like a simple act to write a cheque, or an enjoyable occasion to attend a splendid evening of entertainment such as Diwali – A Night to Shine, but when you give it some deeper thought, simple and enjoyable acts of support can mean so much to those on the front lines at places like UHN, who continue to push research boundaries while impacting so many lives in such a meaningful and positive way.

FUNDRAISING IS CRUCIAL BECAUSE MUCH OF WHAT WE DO INVOLVES HIGH RISK/HIGH REWARD QUESTIONS, MEANING NO ONE HAS REALLY ASKED THEM BEFORE

‘‘

‘‘

THE FIRM APPROACHING CANADIAN FAMILIES AS MORE THAN NUMBERS

PHOTO COURTESY OF MNP

Kerry Smith is a partner within MNP’s Professional Services team and National Leader of Family Office Services

MNP has been helping businesses across the country reach their goals since 1958

When Kerry Smith finished his first accounting course, the idea of it as a job didn’t pique his interest. He couldn’t understand why someone would want to sit at a desk all day working with numbers.

However, after spending time at university looking at what an accountant actually does, perceiving the role of a chartered accountant as a business doctor who looks beyond the numbers, and seeing the personal relationships accountants forge with clients in helping their businesses become stronger and better positioned, a new world opened up to him.

Today, Smith is a partner on MNP’s Professional Services team and the National Leader in Family Office Services for the firm, offering Canadian families a comprehensive suite of services so they can reach their family and business goals. As well as being a chartered professional accountant and attaining a Trust and Estate Practitioner designation in 2020, he presents at conferences and seminars on financial and tax planning.

It might not be a career he ever set out to do, but now it’s one he couldn’t imagine changing. “We work with a lot of small- to medium-sized businesses across Canada, offering advice, but taking it one step further in regards to holistic planning,” Smith says. “We take the business side of their life and marry that with the personal side to see what the full picture looks like for clients as both a family and a business.”

Because of the range of families he works with, and their differing complexities and nuances, Smith is someone who leads with compassion, taking a personal approach to what he does so he can navigate its issues sensitively and with attention to emotion.

To draw a parallel, he offers the example of vacation homes. “A lot of Canadians focus on the taxation issues around that, and transferring it through generations,” he explains. “But there’s a whole emotional connection to that, too. When you look at assets a family has, cash is easy because it’s a dollar figure and you can divide that evenly. When you look at a place where memories have been made as a family, and you decide where that goes, it gets complicated.”

A large part of how he deals with these challenges, and indeed his work as a whole, is driven by the ethics MNP has put in place. He shares how, in operating as a family office, he and the team took a step back to truly analyze what it means to be a solution for its clients.

In doing so, they came up with three core pillars, or driving principles, that work in harmony with each other. The first, comprehensive financial planning, focuses on a client’s need to understand where they are today and will be in the future. The second, wealth planning, comes after the success of that initial financial planning. The third, family governance and stewardship, deals with ensuring the smooth transition of that successful business to future generations.

is a team effort. When Smith sees a win, it’s all the team’s win. “When I think of my team and success, I think of everyone feeling like they’ve achieved personal growth,” he says. “When they feel they’ve progressed in their careers and personal lives and taken one step forward, that, to me, is success.”

Alongside this, Smith has a personal mantra of wanting to help people. If he can understand the pain or dilemmas families are going through, and offer solutions that empower them in the process, he’s going to go home happy.

For any client looking to put governance in place or start a family transition, he’ll typically start with interviews, talking to the first generation of wealth creators, their children and any other key stakeholders. “The idea is to gather all of this data about concerns, issues, wishes, thoughts and ideas, and then bring it all together and come back to the table as a family to discuss.”

He knows it’s tough and a lengthy process, but he has also encountered the positive results. “I work with families of all types of backgrounds, from all walks of life, and see first-hand how wealth and business can impact them,” he explains. “You get to a point in a relationship with a client where they’re not just asking you accounting and tax questions, but life questions. That’s pretty cool kudos.”

It’s for this reason that, when asked what his piece of advice would be for business owners today, he’s quick to answer with conversation.

By sticking to these pillars and keeping them front and centre in all aspects of work, he and the rest of the MNP team can move forward in what they do. “Keeping your culture to its core values is always the hardest part, and we’ve done a fantastic job of doing that,” Smith notes. “Since I’ve joined the firm we’ve tripled in size, but MNP still feels like it did when I started.”

He’s also quick in declaring that everything

“It’s about looking inwards and saying, ‘What’s my plan?’” Smith says. “If you can sit down with your advisor and say what you’d like to happen with your business and with your family, that’s when we, as a firm, can take that vision and make it a reality.”

www.mnp.ca @mnpllp

Kerry Smith is MNP’s National Leader of Family Office Services, committed to helping families across the country navigate sensitive challenges to meet their personal and business goals

WE TAKE THE BUSINESS SIDE OF THEIR LIFE AND MARRY THAT WITH THE PERSONAL SIDE TO SEE WHAT THE FULL PICTURE LOOKS LIKE FOR CLIENTS AS BOTH A FAMILY AND A BUSINESS

STRENGTH OF CHARACTER

From seeing the worst in humanity to the fi nest in life, legendary broker Elise Kalles of Harvey Kalles Real Estate has used both experiences to shape her character, philanthropy and strong family values

PHOTO BY JESSE MILNS

Elise Kalles’s influence, footprint and position of prominence in the luxury real estate market are dominant and without question, now selling some of the world’s most prestigious properties

In every major city, there always seem to be people who are recognized as sitting at the top of their chosen profession. When it comes to high-end luxury real estate in Toronto, that person is the much-admired and venerable Elise Kalles of Harvey Kalles Real Estate Ltd.

In North America’s fourth largest city, her influence and footprint in the luxury real estate market are dominant and without question. Her position of prominence in her profession is even more impressive when you discover that she was not born into a life of privilege. Old-school values and hard work still shape her determination and work ethic after 40 years at the top of her craft.

Elise Kalles’ remarkable life story begins with her birth in Poland as the Second World War broke out, as harsh an environment as anyone can imagine. Following the war, together with her mother and two brothers, the family settled in France before immigrating to Toronto in 1951 when she was just 13 years old. Being a child and survivor of the Holocaust instils an inner drive and passion to survive unlike any other. With steely determination, she quickly learned the language and thrived in school. Eight years later, she met the love of her life, her cherished Harvey, at a wedding reception.

She and Harvey married, and in a few short years were the proud parents to Corinne, Shawna and Michael. Harvey continued to work at the small but growing real estate company that still bears his name. While staying at home raising their children, Elise began to design maternity clothes, which she sold to many of Toronto’s socialites. This was a very busy enterprise during the baby boom of the 1960s, when beautiful -looking maternity wear was hard to come by.

During this time, Elise began to establish some lifelong friendships with the clients who purchased her clothing. When she later joined Harvey and started selling real estate, these relationships helped build her early client base. Her first sale was a mansion in prestigious Forest Hill that sold for more than $1 million. This was an unheardof amount in those days, causing a newspaper reporter to call Elise and ask, “Was it an entire building or just a house?”

In Toronto’s premium neighbourhoods of Forest Hill, Rosedale, Yorkville, the Annex or the Bridle Path, there is a certain cachet associated with having a listing with Harvey Kalles Real Estate Prospective purchasers know immediately that the home will be of the finest quality in design, features and location.

It is also considered prestigious to have Elise Kalles’ name associated with your listing. Over the

years, she has become synonymous with luxury and quality. She has been a multi-million-dollar producer for more than 40 years with ongoing referrals and repeat business. Her stellar reputation has attracted clients from around the world, with some homes being listed at more than $20 million.

“I’ve been selling homes for three generations and it feels great to have my clients still trust me. It’s important to nurture these relationships over the years. You have to really care and show respect for people’s decisions. Buying a house is a very big step and usually the largest investment someone will make. It’s not like buying an airline ticket online. This year is a perfect example of why it is important to be guided by someone with expertise and knowledge. The real estate market goes in cycles. This [volatile market] too, shall pass.”

“I care greatly about my clients, especially the younger generation who must grapple with

high interest rates and a changing market. I now work with many of my clients’ children and grandchildren, and I am very aware that every dollar counts. It’s more of a responsibility selling a home to a first-time buyer than selling a

20-million-dollar home to a client who is trading up and buying his “forever” home.”

Over the decades, the real estate company that Elise and Harvey started has grown to new heights guided by the strong, charismatic leadership of their son, Michael. His industry knowledge, integrity and brilliant business expertise has ensured that the company continues to excel as an industry leader. Now with seven offices in southern Ontario and 300 sales agents, the numbers from 2021 are staggering … a sales volume of $4.5 billion with an average sales price of $1.83 million.

Harvey and Elise’s esteemed position in the industry was recognized by winning a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 22nd Annual Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate Conference. The honour is given to members who set an example for the global real estate industry and display excellence throughout their career.

Elise was also the company’s first inductee in Who’s Who is Luxury Real Estate Billionaire’s Club, recognizing the remarkable achievement of having sold over a billion dollars of real estate over the years. This is truly an award-winning career!

Harvey Kalles Real Estate is a multigenerational family business with two of Harvey and Elise’s children, Corinne and Michael, and their grandson Jake, working within the company.

Just eight years after immigrating from France, Elise met and married the love of her life, her beloved Harvey

PHOTO BY BRIAN MOSOFF

AS IN OTHER SERVICE INDUSTRIES, REAL ESTATE IS A PROFESSION THAT RUNS ON RELATIONSHIPS AND TRUST. I AM HONOURED THAT I AM NOW ENTRUSTED IN BUYING AND SELLING HOMES FOR THE THIRD GENERATION OF MY CLIENTS’ FAMILIES

1. Harvey Kalles Real Estate has expert knowledge of the high-end luxury condominium market, which makes up a significant portion of the Toronto market. 2. Some of Elise Kalles listings include higher-end estate homes worth as much as $20 million. 3. In Toronto’s finer neighbourhoods such as Forest Hill and Rosedale there is a certain cachet to having a Harvey Kalles Real Estate sign on your property. 4. Harvey and Elise Kalles stand proudly and happily with children (left to right) Corinne, Shawna and Michael.

Elise never really expected that to happen, but as she looks back, says she should have seen it coming.

“Michael was a natural,” recalls Elise. “As the youngest, I would drive him to school in the morning and then head to a listing. As I would put him to bed, he would ask me, ‘Are you going out on a showing or an offer?’ And the following morning as I made him breakfast, he would always ask, ‘Well, what happened?’”

Elise’s daughter Corinne followed in her mother’s footsteps and is committed to continuing the Kalles legacy in real estate. Elise recalls a recent event where she and Corinne met a mutual client from a shared listing. Elise asked him how things were going, and before she could say another word, the client replied, “Elise, I’ve always liked you and I trust you, but I LOVE Corinne!” Elise and Harvey’s other daughter, Shawna, chose not to enter the real estate field but instead became a successful psychometrist. As I said to Harvey the other day, “I don’t remember being such great parents that we deserve such great kids.”

Real estate seems to be one of those industries where success is solely defined by numbers. While average sales prices, number of sales or listings are important, they certainly do not define success in the lives of Elise and Harvey Kalles. The family is widely respected and recognized for their considerable philanthropic work. It is a core value within the entire company that giving back to the community is a priority. The Kalles family and the entire sales team are committed to helping others.

Amongst the many organizations they support are Save A Child’s Heart, Out of the Cold, Daily Bread Food Bank, UJA, Starlight Children’s Foundation, CAMH, Covenant House, Habitat for Humanity, as well as a number of health care facilities such as: Sunnybrook Hospital, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Mount Sinai Hospital, Baycrest Centre and SickKids Foundation.

“We feel it is our duty to give back to the community and we hold many charities close to our heart, especially Sick Kids Hospital,” she says. “Providing funds for cancer research is also very important to us, as my son-in-law died from pancreatic cancer.” Such commitment, support and involvement in charitable works is a testament to the strength of character and generosity of both Elise and Harvey Kalles.

Life’s experiences shape us all. From arriving as a war-traumatized youth in a strange country, to listing and selling some of the city’s most prestigious properties, Elise Kalles is the very definition of perseverance, diligence, dignity and a strength of character that the rest of us can only watch with admiration.

Elise Kalles | Broker

Harvey Kalles Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage 416-441-2888 elisekalles@harveykalles.com www.elisekalles.com

@elise.kalles

harvey

’

who ’ s

& elise

congratulations harvey & elise kalles

kalles

congratulations harvey & elise kalles

who in real estate achievement award

winners

at the who ’ s who in luxury real estate ’ s 22nd annual fall conference, hundreds of luxury brokers from across the globe convened upon toronto ’ s royal york hotel to recognize the industry ’ s best the event culminated with a lifetime achievement award presented to elise and harvey kalles this honour is given to members who set an example for the global real estate industry and display excellence throughout their career

who ’ s who in luxury real estate lifetime achievement award winners at the who ’ s who in luxury real estate ’ s 22nd annual fall conference, hundreds of luxury brokers from across the globe convened upon toronto ’ s royal york hotel to recognize the industry ’ s best. the event culminated with a lifetime achievement award presented to elise and harvey kalles. this honour members global display their

the who ’ s who in luxury real ’ s 22nd annual fall conference, of luxury from across the globe convened upon toronto ’ s royal york to recognize the industry ’ s the event culminated with a lifetime achievement presented to harvey kalles. honour is given to members who set an example for the real estate industry and display excellence throughout career .

who in luxury real estate lifetime achievement award winners

WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER | INTERVIEW BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

Though shoemaking was in his family history, Aldo Bensadoun did not intend to enter the industry, but once he did, he ensured his company was reflective of his nature and a testament to his character

If you were a clever enough child a couple of generations ago, you may have paid very close attention to what your parents and grandparents did for a living. If what they did captured your attention, you had loving, close mentors and if you studied their work, it may have resulted in a tailor-made career based on their example. You never know if just being around something will plant a subconscious seed that may flourish later in life, a seed you can drawn upon unexpectedly.

That may be more difficult these days when old-school professions may not translate to the digital world, but it was certainly beneficial to a young Aldo Bensadoun, who was born in Morocco to French parents who had immigrated to Fez and owned two shoe stores. Aldo was one of those clever kids who observed and asked the right questions, which, he says, by serendipity launched him on an unparalleled retailing career. Bensadoun’s ALDO Group today operates nearly 1,500 stores in more than 110 countries and is celebrating 50 successful years in business.

“I learned hard work from my parents, as the stores were open very long hours and my father sometimes would not be home until 10 o’clock at night and my mother came home at five or six o’clock to do the cooking,” recalls the wise and affable Bensadoun in a recent interview with Dolce. “I learned discipline from my parents, I learned resilience, I learned to not show off, I learned to share and I learned philanthropy from my parents.”

Those early days in an international city such as Fez also taught Bensadoun something else. “The majority of the population of Morocco was Muslim and we were sort of like ex-pats, so what I learned and saw from my parents was tremendous co-operation and even love between the various segments of the population, no matter their colour or religion, as our house was full of people of different religions. So, there was a lot of diversity,” says Bensadoun.

His parents returned to France and

Shoe and

giant ALDO Group has grown to operate in more than 100 countries over its 50 years, but it was started by Aldo Bensadoun as a company with a greater purpose

Bensadoun grew up in the south of France but after high school, headed to the United States to attend Cornell University in New York State on a scholarship. The culture shock of living in America during the 1960s was profound. “In France, we all had long hair in the 1960s, but at Cornell, all the kids had crewcuts!” he laughs.

But then, fate, as it so often does, stepped into his life when Bensadoun visited Montreal at the height of the Swinging Sixties. Montreal was at the height of its powers in that period, hosting the world at Expo 67, still the gold standard by which all international expositions are measured.

“I loved Montreal because, number one, they spoke French as well as English,” says Bensadoun. “There was a lot of diversity, there was a lot of fashion. People were beautiful and dressed in European fashion. It was so cosmopolitan and very advanced, really booming with so many tourists and languages spoken. It was a very vibrant city.”

That vibrancy convinced Bensadoun he had to be a part of it and he departed the Cornell crewcuts for the city that fascinated him and transferred to McGill University to complete his undergraduate studies. In those days, France had compulsory military service, and being a French citizen, Bensadoun served 18 months in the French army following his graduation from McGill, including a stint in officer’s school, where he taught economics.

Bensadoun began to work for a company as a market research analyst and enjoyed great success. At that time, despite his family’s history, he never envisioned a future in retailing, much less the footwear industry. One day his employer sent him on an assignment. One of their clients was having a packaging problem, so they sent Bensadoun off to solve the problem at this particular company.

Of course, there are a million industries in the world and millions more companies, but this company was, you guessed it, a shoe company.

“I feel it was serendipity in the sense that my grandfather was a cobbler in Algeria and my father was a shoe retailer,” says Bensadoun. “I went to this company and I solved its packaging problem. They were so happy with my solution they immediately offered me a job at triple the salary I was making.”

He spent seven years with his new employer, observing and learning, not just the shoe and footwear business, but retailing in general and, most specifically, the secrets of efficient manufacturing, design and getting product onto store shelves. This education and acquired knowledge led him to start his own company in 1972. However, the company Bensadoun had in mind was not going to be defined by profits and the bottom line. The company was to be reflective of Bensadoun’s nature and a testament to his character.

“I wanted to make sure that the company I was

going to create had a very strong purpose and that purpose was to make the world a little gentler,” says Bensadoun. “So, my star that I would always look at in building that company was that through its actions that company would make the world gentler, by having people around me and with me who would have the same values of love, respect and integrity. These were the building blocks of the company, which would make the world a better place for society in general.”

Yes, a company must be profitable in order to be successful, but there is no reason a business cannot also be noble. “The idea was that everyone within the company should flourish, do well, reach their full potential and give back to make the world gentler,” says Bensadoun. “Today, with my son David as the CEO, it’s nice to see us continuing to do everything we can to help society and the people around us and we are still carrying those values and that purpose.”

Bensadoun launched the ALDO Group, branded as Aldo, in Montreal as a small shoe concession within the department store Le

so he could deal directly with European suppliers, without middlemen. The brand’s shoes are designed, produced and delivered within a matter of weeks, a process that ensures current styles and on-trend products at accessible prices. Its vertically integrated model allows Aldo to quickly turn around designs and cuts out middlemen on distribution and manufacturing. The majority of its stores are owned by the ALDO Group, while its international stores are franchised. It is these franchisees who carry forward as envoys of Bensadoun’s vision to make our world a gentler place.

“Here you have people from around the world working with us, of different colours of skin and religions, of different languages, but we all are using the same language as far as values are concerned,” says Bensadoun. “They take those values that they learn from us and they carry them back to their regions. It could be Africa, India, the Middle East, but you have those values of improving the world, of acting with love, respect and integrity being applied in Nigeria or

Château. With his business acumen, Bensadoun soon began to grow the business, opening the first free-standing Aldo store in Montreal in 1978, followed by stores in Quebec City, Ottawa and Winnipeg, and eventually across Canada, with expansion into the United States in 1993.

The first store outside of North America opened in Israel in 1995 and the brand expanded into Saudi Arabia in 2001, England in 2002, Singapore in 2003: today it operates under three retail banners: Aldo, Call It Spring and Globo. It also owns a wholesale division that oversees a private label and licensed-brand business which designs, produces and distributes footwear and handbags for major retailers. In every way and by every measure, Bensadoun is a self-made success story who has received both the Order of Canada and the Order of Quebec. A man, it should be pointed out, who taught himself Italian

Saudi Arabia or wherever you want. And we as a team here, we have to act with our morals in our dealings with all of these people.”

He may have founded a retailing behemoth, but Bensadoun is very much a gentle soul. He also started the Bensadoun School of Retail Management in order to give back to his retailing industry. “I believe every single citizen can have an effect on the community where they live and on the world in general,” he says.

Bensadoun is a prime example of that. His business may be footwear, but in so many other ways, from his personal values to his business philosophy to his considerable philanthropic efforts, Aldo Bensadoun has made, and continues to make, a difference from the ground up.

‘‘ ‘‘

www.aldoshoes.com @aldo_shoes

After 20 years, Marly Yazdani has returned to luxury real estate more informed and inspired than ever

MARLY YAZDANI: REDEFINING REAL ESTATE

The real estate agent opens up on coming back to property after 20 years, loving luxury and why her friends call her the boss lady

Marly Yazdani isn’t a newcomer to the world of real estate. Having obtained her licence in 2002, she’s something of a veteran. However, when the time came to grow her family, Marly felt inspired to cultivate another passion of hers: working as an entrepreneur.

With a reputation as a go-getter her entire life, she achieved her goal and became the owner of a highly successful restaurant franchise in Toronto. Through this shift in careers, her passion and fire for real estate never died. Her talent and superior knowledge in the industry was so undeniable that she continued to exclusively support her large circle of friends and family in achieving their real estate goals, while she continued to operate her business.

While her tenure in the hospitality industry has been very lucrative, Marly had always felt an unquestionable pull to return to real estate, full time. And when COVID hit, it was the sign she needed to reinstate her licence and get back to what she loved. “I’m excited to come back with a fresh perspective and start serving people on a much larger scale.”

Today, her experience comes together in helping people find luxury properties with Engel & Völkers. By combining her 20 years of expertise working in the market and her booming success as an entrepreneur, she’s making the dreams of many a reality.

“People are often hesitant to trust a real estate agent because they believe the agent is primarily focused on closing a sale. After years of working as a realtor and running my own business, I believe in a philosophy of transparency. It’s my honesty with my clients that creates the trust and foundation for a continued business relationship,” Yazdani shares.

“I attribute my success in the field to my extensive knowledge and pure love for it. My family tells me that whenever I talk about real estate, my face lights up. For me, luxury isn’t about fancy sofas. It’s about obtaining a home built with quality on a good piece of land. I love real estate. It makes me happy, it makes me fly, it makes me shine, it makes me passionate, it makes me helpful and it changes my life,” says Yazdani.

What also attracts Yazdani to her work is that she is, herself, a luxury consumer. “I’ve built some invaluable connections in the industry. I have the

knowledge when it comes to the most desirable areas and reputable builders and I know my numbers. I have a sharp understanding of how much clients will need to invest and what it will cost them. Knowledge and good taste are a good combination.”

But whether she’s operating her restaurant or working on behalf of her real estate clients, everything Yazdani does comes down to her love of people. “Offering the highest level of customer experience is my goal,” she shares. “I believe in building strong relationships through the quality of my work. I want my clients to receive the best service while working with me, and leave feeling confident in their investment and more educated about the market.”

Naturally, the world of real estate has changed in 20 years, and there are as many new challenges to face as there are opportunities. Having tracked those changes and stayed on top of the industry’s trends, Yazdani has re-entered the market and hit the ground running. “Your ability to negotiate is a soft skill and it depends on your inner strength, emotional intelligence, professional content and persuasion.”

When Marly engages with someone in her services, whether they’re a firsttime buyer or someone more established on the property ladder, she has a certain process she follows. “First, I want to make sure I understand their vision, and their thinking process,” she says.

“What someone thinks they want and what they can actually afford can be very diff erent. Once I help my clients get these two components aligned, I get to work. My speciality is finding properties for my clients where there is potential for strong capital appreciation. Finding people their dream home, and watching their investment grow, is exactly what led me back to the world of real estate.”

When she isn’t working, Marly is a social butterfly, hosting parties for her friends and family. She is a proud single mother of two brilliant teenagers and the favourite aunt to over 10 nieces and nephews. She is an avid traveller who enjoys her free time at her villa in Europe. Although life has not always been easy, every obstacle she’s faced has strengthened her and turned her into the powerhouse she is today.

Her friends refer to her as “the boss lady,” due to her highly organized work ethic, proactive approach to stressful situations and positive outlook towards both career and personal events. Dream until your dreams come true.

YOUR ABILITY TO NEGOTIATE IS A SOFT SKILL AND IT DEPENDS ON YOUR INNER STRENGTH, EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE, PROFESSIONAL CONTENT AND PERSUASION

As a lover of luxury herself, Yazdani is dedicated to giving her clients the best possible customer service

COGNAC: AN ORIGIN, A REGION, AN ESSENCE.

Grand Marnier is steeped in a rich and opulent history

WRITTEN BY ALEXANDRA AULICINO

Grand Marnier and Bisquit & Dubouché share a rich French heritage, which I had the privilege of learning more about while visiting Paris and the countryside of Cognac, France.

Community and celebration are just two of the words that are ingrained in my mind as I think about the incredible experience I had in France with Bisquit & Dubouché and Grand Marnier — unforgettable and educational, they’ll be memories that I will cherish forever.

From the first day in Paris where I learned about the Belle Époque, a period of prosperity and glamour in Europe, to the time I spent in the countryside, I quickly learned that cognac is more than just something you drink. It is something much bigger.

Both Grand Marnier and Bisquit & Dubouché have extremely rich and opulent histories that are intertwined with luxury French brands such as the Hôtel Ritz and Baccarat and connections to Parisian high life and a gilded age. While in Paris I had the pleasure of tasting classic cocktails including a classic Manhattan made with Bisquit & Dubouché as well as a Grand Margarita made with Grand Marnier. Paris, with its overwhelming atmosphere of luxury and opulence, set the stage perfectly for the rest of my trip.

We spent the majority of our trip in Cognac, tasting and discovering everything the region has to offer. The four-hour train ride from Paris to Cognac is over 500 kilometres, but it seemed to take no time at all, and the beautiful towns and landscapes passing by my window made me even more excited once I finally arrived in the town from which the spirit gets its name. Over the next two days I had the honour of visiting both the Grand Marnier and Bisquit & Dubouché distilleries and was able to see and learn more about their complex methods of distillation and production. And, of

course, there were tastings of both brands in a number of different variations, including delicious cocktails — which I can’t wait to recreate for myself.

I also had the opportunity to taste delectable food pairings that further highlighted the versatility and complexity of the beverages, with a simple bite of chocolate and sip of cognac being one of the best pairings you could ever imagine.

The region itself has a quaint and homey feel, with beautiful old buildings and stunning castles such as the Château de Bourg-Charente, the home of Grand Marnier, which I had the pleasure of

people, I was able to gain an understanding of the history and culture of Cognac — the region and the brand — that I did not have before. Understanding the modesty of the Cognac region means understanding how extraordinary it is that such an elegant spirit emerged from such a rustic setting.

The company that makes Grand Marnier was founded in 1827 by distiller Jean-Baptiste Lapostolle. In 1880, Louis-Alexandre MarnierLapostolle, with a goal to create the perfect, best and most exclusive liqueur France, blended cognac and a rare variety of West Indian oranges to produce Cordon Rouge — and voilà, their signature product and brand was born. The name “Grand Marnier” was bestowed by hotelier César Ritz, a friend of Louis-Alexander Marnier-Lapostolle, who is reputed to have said, “A grand name for a grand liqueur.”

Bisquit & Dubouché is a prestigious French cognac brand with over 200 years of history. Established in 1819 by Alexandre Bisquit and Adrien Dubouché, the brand has become known for its unique distillation method, which provides a distinct and superior product.

While in the Cognac region I had the privilege of meeting representatives from both Grand Marnier and Bisquit & Dubouché, who showed us around the distilleries and enjoyed dinners and tastings with us. During this time, I learned more about their personal histories and connections with the brand, which were rich in and of themselves.

visiting and even dining in. Contrasting with these architectural marvels is the sprawling landscape that surrounds them, its vineyards laden with the white grapes that will one day be transformed into cognac. What truly makes the region special is the kindness of those who live there. Everyone I encountered was truly proud and passionate about their work. Through my discussions with the local

Vincent Chappe is the Ambassadeur Global de la Maison Bisquit & Dubouché. Chappe is from Jarnac in the Cognac region, the same area from which Bisquit originates. Although Vincent himself has 40+ years in the cognac industry, he and his family have been in the spirits industry for generations, as wine growers, distillers, and packers of cognac, with some of his family even working in the distillery in which Bisquit is made today.

Embark with us on a trip to France, where we unravel the history, opulence and luxury of the country’s finest cognac

Patrick Leger is the Master Blender and Director of Operations at Grand Marnier and Bisquit & Dubouché Cognac

Grand Marnier was founded in 1827 by Baptiste Lapostolle. Its home is the stunning Château de BourgCharente in Cognac

Patrick Leger is the Director of Operations and Master Blender for both Grand Marnier and Bisquit & Dubouché Cognac. Just like Vincent, Patrick was born in the Cognac region into a family that has been involved in the cognac industry for generations.

A love of and appreciation for cognac were ingrained in both Mr. Chappe and Mr. Leger from childhood, and they both grew up with a respect for the land and the products they help produce today. When I spoke with them it was evident that their passion for the industry was unlike any other, as they recounted some of their memories of growing up in the region, working in the industry, and being part of the community.

Grand Marnier is the only premium liqueur to combine 51% French cognac with bitter orange essence. Together those two flavours marry, creating an exotic and luxurious liqueur with complexity and deliciousness that has stood the test of time. The brand’s product range includes Cordon Rouge, Cuvée LouisAlexandre, Cuvée Du Centenaire, Grande Cuvée Révélation and Grande Cuvée Quintessence.

Bisquit & Dubouché is known for its unique distillation process, one that allows the distillers to truly show off their mastery of the craft honed through years of experience, as they let aromas and flavours lead the way instead of having strict parameters. Only by tasting the products continuously are they able to choose the precisely right time that the cognac is ready, and when V.S.O.P., V.S., and X.O. are determined.

Cognac can only be made in the Cognac region of France, an area of less than 16 square kilometres, making it extremely exclusive, indeed. This is a region that is special for so many reasons, one of which is the sense of community. Although there are many competitors in the area, they all find a way to work together to improve the product and the land, and all respect the integrity and history of the products that they produce. Grand Marnier and Bisquit & Dubouché work together under the same brand now, yet Patrick says what makes the region as a whole special is its rigour in upholding the product’s reputation — to protect production quality, everyone works together, even with their competitors, who work and meet together in a group effort to find solutions, whether to raise the quality and improve the process or to tackle issues that may come up such as climate change. Vincent says, “The Cognac region is a village. It has about 1,800 people — we know each other and we are friends.”

One major feature of this is the appellation d’origine contrôlée (AOC), which identifies an agricultural product and where and how its production and processing are carried out. This

strictly controlled labelling helps to protect the production and the quality of the products, which, Patrick notes, are the subjects of many of their meetings.

So the producers are not only working together for the present, they are working together for the future. Vincent tells us that after planting the vines it takes four years before the first grapes are harvested. If you wish to mature cognac to an X.O. quality, “What you make this year will be for the next generation,” he says.

“What is interesting in the cognac category is that sometimes you are working for the future generation,” Patrick says. “We must build the stock

the older generation. Many young people once thought so, since these liqueurs reminded us of memories we had of our family members enjoying them, maybe just at holiday time or on special occasions. Although these spirits do have an air of luxury and costliness, there are different levels of the products that all can afford to enjoy. Starting off with a V.S. Cognac from Bisquit & Dubouché or a Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge is an easy and more accessible way for younger consumers to try them out.

One of my favourite memories from my time in France was visiting the cellar in the Château de Bourg-Charente. After an exquisite meal in the château’s dining room, Patrick Leger invited us into the cellar, which features beautiful original exposed brick, and demijohns of cognac from generations before. Sitting at the long wooden table, with candles flickering, we spoke about the history of Grand Marnier while tasting an extraordinary 93-year-old cognac. As Mr. Leger opened the demijohn from 1930, I knew this was going to be the most incredible cognac I had ever tasted, and it was.

Cocktails are the perfect entryway for those who haven’t had much experience with cognac or Grand Marnier: mix and match flavours to find your favourite. While at the Château de Bourg-Charente

and the history of the brand for the next generation. We need to respect the quality and to think about the future. So, one foot in the future and another one in history and this is what is interesting in Grand Marnier.”

The balance of savoir faire and innovation is the true pedigree of these brands. “We protect the tradition and respect the recipe, but we always have in mind the research and development for the future. We are learning every year because every harvest is different, so every year we learn more about the distillation. The climate is changing, so the wine is changing, the orange peels are changing, so we are always thinking about finding a solution to adapt and maintain our quality, every day,” Patrick says. Grand Marnier is looking to ride the sustainability wave of the Campari Group, with a strict objective to reduce water, energy, and carbon consumption. Bisquit & Dubouché is also looking to create more sustainable ways to produce heat for the distillery, such as utilizing the vapours produced by the distilling process for fuel, but making innovative changes such as these takes time. The Campari Group knows it will be a slow process, but they are committed to respecting the process of production while doing more for the environment.

Cognac and Grand Marnier are not just for

I had the incredible experience of creating cocktails such as the Grand Margarita and the Mai Tai, a great way to sample the product and a great arm workout! While with Bisquit & Dubouché we also had an incredible tasting experience — a drink called the Summit, the region’s classic cocktail made with cognac, lemonade, ginger root, lime peel and cucumber peel. Patrick recommends the Grand Tonic as the first cocktail you make at home with Grand Marnier, because it is the simplest and respects the product, or if you are a bit more advanced, try out the Grand Margarita, his (and my) favourite Grand Marnier cocktail. If you choose to drink V.S.O.P. or any cognac on the rocks, straight, or with a mixer such as a classic tonic or high-quality ginger ale, it will alter the taste, so to maximize the flavour it is often best to try the more aged Bisquit & Doubouché or Grand Marnier on their own or with an ice cube. But as Vincent says, “Enjoy it the way you wish.”

Although my time in France has come to an end, it has given me an understanding of what both brands represent, how special the region is and, well … how much I love cognac.

Enjoy your Grand Marnier and Bisquit & Dubouché this holiday season — and Santé!

Bisquit & Dubouché is known for having a unique distillation process

‘Tis the season to embrace the art of gift giving (including for oneself], starting with Dolce ’s picks for the upcoming season — from an aquamarine necklace to an über-chic coff ee machine

PRODUCED BY MICHELLE ZERILLO-SOSA | TEXT BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

FASHION GETAWAY

Let your imagination run wild and escape on a fantasy weekend filled with high fashion and mysterious regal landscapes

WRITTEN BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

Jacket, top and skirt: Prada

Turtleneck-pullover, dress and

boots: Louis Vuitton

Cape,

Gloves:

blouse, skirt and boots: Roberto Cavalli

Thomasine

Adding sparkle never looked better with this season’s embellishments, full of shimmer and anything that shines bright

DAZZLE THEM WITH BRILLIANCE

WRITTEN BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

Roman Inspired

Handcrafted in 1988, this vintage Buccellati necklace is inspired by the marble structure of the Ara Pacis in Rome, and features 436 rose-cut diamonds, totalling 95.43 carats, and 54 cultured pearls, all set in yellow gold.

www.buccellati.com

@buccellatimilan

Statement Ring

A one-of-a-kind design, Sylva & Cie’s Ten Table 18k yellow gold and sterling silver diamond ring shimmers across the room with its 7.33 carats of vintage European-cut white diamonds. www.modaoperandi.com

@sylvacie

Touch Wood

Inspired by the tradition of cultures “touching wood,” these Annoushka earrings are crafted in 18ct white gold from 170 individual brown and white diamonds, inspired by Russia’s elegant architectural onion domes.

www.annoushka.com

@annoushkajewellery

Onyx Heart

Sorellina’s Classic Heart: 18k yellow gold, diamond and onyx signet ring was created by New Yorkbased sisters Nicole and Kim Carosella, who combine vintage designs with whimsy to create indulgently modern pieces. www.modaoperandi.com

@sorellinajewelry

Dancing Diamonds

Buccellati’s Macri Giglio bracelet in yellow and white gold, is embellished with brilliant-cut diamonds set in tiny star-shaped rosettes, with small and shiny gold beads that echo both the opaque texture and the light of the diamonds. www.buccellati.com

@buccellatimilan

Crown Jewel

In 1919, Mario Buccellati launched his eponymous jewelry house, opening his first shop in Milan. The jeweler’s workmanship was in a class of its own, with designs like this diamond cocktail ring featuring yellow, white and pink gold set with fancy diamonds. www.buccellati.com

@buccellatimilan

Elizabeth Taylor

“JEWELRY HAS THE POWER TO BE THE ONE LITTLE THING THAT MAKES YOU FEEL UNIQUE”

TRAVEL

Thupten Choeling Monastery, Solu Khumbu, Eastern Nepal. One of the most sacred and important monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism outside of Tibet

SPIRITUAL TRENDS IN WELLNESS TRAVEL

WRITTEN BY RUBA RAHIM

I’ve never been one to take risks, I’ve never practised or been drawn to meditation, and the extent of any trekking I have ever done is leisurely walks in the ravines near my home. So, when an opportunity to spend one week in a remote village in the Nepalese Himalayas presented itself, my excitement surprised me. The itinerary promised travel along ancient paths, majestic views of some of the world’s highest peaks, visits to remote Buddhist monasteries, a wholesome mountain cuisine, and an immersion into a culture that is deeply rooted in tradition and respect for the natural world. The trip’s organizers sought “those who seek invigoration” and it felt as though they were speaking to me. But the itinerary details relayed other information, as well … meditations with monks, singing-bowl therapy, challenging high-altitude hiking through rocky terrain and in cold temperatures, and a recommendation to purchase an extensive insurance policy that covers rescue and evacuation. So, what was it about this particular trip that was calling to me?

Eight of the world’s 14 highest peaks are found in the Himalayas of Nepal, including Mount Everest. The name “Himalayas” comes from the Sanskrit word meaning “abode of snow,” but white is not the only colour that covers this landscape. There are lush green valleys and stretches of blue skies. Forests of rhododendrons bloom bright red in the spring. Buddhist monks are cloaked in maroon, Hindu sadhus are robed in orange, and prayer flags in primary colours are found strung along the mountains’ trails and peaks. Remote villages, temples, and monasteries are scattered throughout, some seemingly sitting atop the clouds. The people are resilient and strong, their harsh living conditions never hampering their will or spirit. They are peace-loving people who believe in doing good deeds. They respect the natural

environment in which they live and worship the mountains as their life-givers and protectors.

Sir Edmund Hillary’s successful summit of Mount Everest in 1953 is what brought Nepal to the attention of the world, spurring countless expeditions and the birth of a trekking industry that was mainly associated with low-budget adventurists who wished to conquer the peaks. The industry has since changed. Well-facilitated mountain lodges and higher-quality hotels now exist, and luxury travel companies offer trekking expeditions with teams of porters, guides, cooks

and wellness providers. Plentiful outdoor activities are possible now as well – mountain biking, rock climbing, river rafting and bird watching to name a few. And visitors can experience the practices of ancient cultures and traditions, and learn, share and give back.

Wellness tourism was a fast-growing industry in the decade before the pandemic, and despite recent disruptions, it is forecasted to grow as wellness takes on more importance for post-COVID consumers. However, while past wellness travel was centred on physical health,

The new trend in post-COVID travel centres around small group experiences, remote outdoor destinations, and wellness in the form of spirituality

Novice monks at Chiwong Monastery, perched on a cliff at an altitude of 2,900 meters, Solu Khumbu, Eastern Nepal

post-COVID travellers are now pursing wellness in the form of spirituality and nature-oriented experiences in remote destinations. They are avoiding commercial destinations and opting for small-group travel, because in post-COVID times connection is key to self-discovery and the ability to re-exist in the world. Travellers are seeking a remedy for the pain and stress of the past three years, and perhaps there is no destination that can better provide this today than the Himalayas, where nature is abundant and spirituality is omnipresent.

Luxury hospitality brands in the region are responding to the demand for low-volume, spiritual, transformative tourism. Ananda, the luxury retreat in the Himalayan foothills of India and a pioneer of holistic health and wellness, reopened this year with the launch of new wellness programs that prioritize mental and spiritual health. They have also integrated emotional healing therapy that focuses on the bhava, or emotional state of mind, which is well-described in Hindu and Buddhist scriptures. Programs are led by expert doctors and practitioners, skilled therapists, and yogis.

Six Senses Bhutan, a collection of five lodges scattered throughout Bhutan’s valleys, also reopened with a renewed focus on embracing their philosophy of wellness and self-discovery. Recognizing that guest values have changed, their new programs strive to restore the spirit and the mind through rare and meaningful experiences that take advantage of Bhutan’s spirituality, traditions and hospitality. Sunrise meditations, incredible hikes, ancient monastery visits, encounters with yak herders and other locals, and the opportunity to learn about monastic life are a few of the possibilities they offer their guests.

My own post-COVID rejuvenation began at The Happy House, a private rental chalet near the village of Phaplu, in the northeastern Himalayas of Nepal. The chalet was built by Ang Tawa Lama, a grandson of a prominent Sherpa family, and funded by Count Guido Monzino, an explorer who led the first Italian expedition to climb Mount Everest in 1973. His summit was an extravagant affair with 6,000 porters carrying everything from fine wines and cigars to pasta and risotto, silver cutlery to gambling tables, and even a leather sofa. The chalet was loved by Sir Edmund Hillary, who stayed there on his return visits to Phaplu while he devoted himself to helping the Sherpa people and supporting the construction of many schools and hospitals. Sir Edmund described the chalet as his favourite place on earth, his happy house.

During the Maoist revolution in 1996 the house was abandoned by the Lama family, who moved to Queens, New York. In 2017, Ang Tawa’s grandson, Ang Tshering, returned from the United States and restored the house to its traditional architectural style, opening it as a base for his new travel company, Beyul Experiences. He took from Sir Edmund’s description of the home and renamed it The Happy House. “I was always

being pulled back by the power that is believed to reside in the Himalayas. Being here, in Beyul, the spiritually charged sacred valleys of the Himalayas, one is instantly at peace. I see things more clearly when I am in the mountains, and I wanted to offer experiences in which both the visitor and the visited have a meaningful exchange, experiences that create a beyul in everyone’s lives,” says Ang.

I arrived at The Happy House to a tranquility radiating from the colourful flags strung along the entrance pathway between the soaring pine trees and fluttering in the mountain breeze. I would learn that these flags represent an ancient belief of carrying mantras through the wind into all-pervading space and to all sentient beings. I would also learn that everything here is steeped in meaning. Inside, I was awed by the intricate images on the walls, hand-painted in the monastic style of

Thangka painting, with depictions of deities, birds, flowers, rivers and spiritually significant events. The furniture is an eclectic mix of Nepalese and Western pieces, with sofas covered in warm-hued fabrics and overlaid with cashmere blankets. I was told that some of the Western pieces, including Count Monzino’s leather sofa, were left behind by some of the many explorers who passed through the chalet. I heard the firewood crackling in the warm glow of the fireplace and saw the one dining table in the room. The Happy House has only 10 guest rooms, and I understood that this would be an intimate and shared experience. There was no check-in, there were no formalities. The Happy House immediately felt like home.

It didn’t take me long to understand why I came here, why I gambled on an opportunity that I would have ignored at a previous time. I had embarked on a necessary journey that was both spiritual and physical. The treks to remote mountain monasteries were rejuvenating. The meditations with monks were deeply reflective. The three-day expedition to summit Pikey Peak was physically challenging. Passing sacred stone walls and old yak houses, taking in the mountain vistas and liberating my thoughts with laughing yoga in the clouds, I felt that something great was about to happen, and it did: as I stood on the summit, I thought to myself, “If I can do this, I can do anything.” A need within me had pushed me to take physical and spiritual risks, and by conquering my fears in both realms, I found myself. I returned to my family at The Happy House, a family of both staff and guests. We had hiked, cooked, eaten, sung and danced together. We had shared stories with each other. And nine of us who had arrived at The Happy House as strangers left as friends, ready to connect with ourselves and with the world again.

I WANTED TO

HOSPITALITY

A LOOK INSIDE THE EXTRAORDINARY WORLD OF RELAIS & CHÂTEAUX

WRITTEN BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

Whether you’re a mountain person, beach person, or more of an adventurer when it comes to vacationing, Relais & Châteaux’s exclusive properties offer a variety of experiences that cover everyone’s preferences.

Relais & Châteaux has over 580 unique hotels and restaurants throughout the world. Here, Dolce takes a look at four Relais & Châteaux properties, from North Carolina to Southern California, to learn more about their remarkable features and the incredible people behind them.

the brand continued to join with like-minded properties — those that showed a clear philosophy of excellent guest service, through both their culinary and hospitality traditions.

Q: What criteria does a boutique hotel/gourmet restaurant have to have in order to become a Relais & Châteaux property?

Old Edwards Inn

A: In 1954, Relais & Châteaux was a group of just eight hotels, all in France, on the getaway route between Paris and the French Riviera. From there,

A: For a boutique property Relais & Châteaux looks for exceptional service, with every operation centred around providing the best experience for their guests. Somewhere with a sense of place and authenticity. We look for true five-star hotels with beautiful rooms and outstanding culinary offerings. We are especially interested in properties that are committed to promoting local culture through programming and being active in their respective communities. And with that, of course, comes passionate owners. For gourmet restaurants, we look at the overall property, but the main draw is the chef — chefs who are dedicated to innovative ways of representing the history and culture of the food they serve, delivering gastronomic excellence, as well as a sense of place during the dining experience.

Q: What are some of R&C’s long-term plans when it comes to expansion? Currently, with 580 properties, how many more are you hoping to add?

A: We plan to expand as we have been, adding

members to our collection that align with our core values and commitments. Our hope is that our brand continues to grow, making more and more positive impacts across the globe, inspiring culinary, hospitality and sustainability achievements in every corner. By 2024, we plan to expand on our 2014 Manifesto, adding new benchmarks to reach regarding our members’ environmental footprint, protection of biodiversity and commitment to social responsibility.

Q: What does ladolcevita, the sweet life, mean to you?

A: We want our guests to get swept away in simple moments that arise naturally on our properties because they are in a place that is comforting to their needs. So, they can just relax into it, be themselves and let their experience evolve. Whether it’s a moment out at the orchard listening to local musicians or a moment by the fire in their guest cottage with a loved one, we want them to feel like they can just melt their cares away. As a service-oriented hotel, we monitor guests’ moods and work to customize their experiences around how they’re reacting to the property. That’s the sweet life, and that is what we strive every day to create at Old Edwards.

www.oldedwardshospitality.com @oldedwardsinn

Where will your next vacation be? If it’s a Relais & Châteaux property, prepare to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience

Richard Delany, Old Edwards Inn & Spa, North American President. Old Edwards Inn

Richard Delany, Old Edwards Inn & Spa, North American President

Q: How many R&C establishments were there by 1954?

Located on the scenic southwest plateau of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Old Edwards Inn and Spa cascades over several acres in downtown Highlands. The historic, European-style resort features a world-renowned spa, private golf at Old Edwards Club, and premium leisure amenities

Twin Farms

A: Twin Farms joined Relais & Châteaux in 2012, 10 years ago.

Q: Why are you proud to be a part of R&C?

A: At Twin Farms, we’re a passionate family. Our past, present and future guests, as well as our incredibly talented team, many of whom have been with us for extended periods, are all one family. Our family extends past our Vermont gates; in fact, it’s global. This comes from the global network of Relais & Châteaux aficionados, who are all connected through the Relais family. This is what makes me proud — that no matter which Relais & Châteaux member you visit, you will always feel like you are being welcomed back into your family’s home.

Q: What are the most unique features of your hotel?

A: It will be hard to keep this short, but let me try! First off, our culinary program is and always has been incredibly unique to us, and this is a core feature of Relais & Châteaux properties. Our beloved executive chef, Nathan Rich, is a master of gastronomic excellence. His menu-less approach means dining at the Farm is always full of surprise and delightful moments. We are lucky enough to have an incredibly vast estate where we can harvest our own produce.

John Graham, Managing Director

Q: What year did you become a part of the R&C organization?

Twin Farms is a unique country estate in Vermont, situated on over 120 hectares of wildflower meadows, hardwood forests, ancient gardens and private ponds

Twin Farms was built in a traditional Scandinavian style. Chalet amenities include luxurious whirlpools and stone fireplaces

NO MATTER WHICH RELAIS & CHÂTEAUX MEMBER YOU VISIT, YOU WILL ALWAYS FEEL LIKE YOU ARE BEING WELCOMED BACK INTO YOUR FAMILY’S HOME

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF TWIN FARMS

Secondly, the endless array of activities the Farm offers that change through the seasons. And we are continuously adding to our robust program menu. For example, we recently introduced mountain golf to the Farm. Our director of guest services, Alex Laflamme, who has been creating adventures at the Farm for over eight years now, has a strong passion for golf, so he conceptualized mountain golf and weaved it into our programming for guests. It’s not the first time he’s been creative, and it certainly won’t be the last! And on the culinary front, over the past few years we have more than doubled the number of private picnic sites. This has allowed us to activate the Farm in a more enhanced way, which remains a very unique element to Twin Farms.

Q: What do you love most about hospitality?

A: The way it connects people from all walks of life, from all corners of the world. Every region of the world has its own unique version of hospitality. The beauty of working in the industry is you get to experience those traditions everywhere you go. And, of course, the people you meet along the way.

Q: What does ladolcevita, the sweet life, mean to you?

A: La dolce vita means experiencing the magic of your surroundings. Whether it’s taking in a breathtaking view of the fall foliage or taking the time to savour every bite of a picnic, the sweet life is about slowing down — recognizing the beauty of every moment, no matter how simple.

Laura McIver, General Manager

Q: What year did you become a part of the R&C umbrella?

A: 2012

Q: Why are you proud to be a part of R&C?

A: Being associated with Relais & Châteaux means being among the best small hotels and exceptional restaurants in the world. The Relais & Châteaux member properties all provide a unique experience singular only to that property, and each one delivers on a promise of exceptional hospitality.

Q: What are the most unique features of your ranch?

Rancho Valencia blends luxury with the authentic spirit of relaxed Southern Californian living. Reminiscent of Spanishcolonial haciendas, the bungalow suites boast stunning craftsmanship, including hand-painted tiles and custom furnishings

Rancho Valencia

A wonderful getaway in all seasons and only 80 minutes from Montreal, a stay at Manoir Hovey comes with the promise of an abundance of fresh air in a scenic, unspoiled part of Quebec

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HOSPITALITY MEANS TAKING CARE OF ALL THE DETAILS SO OUR GUESTS DON’T EVER HAVE TO WORRY

A: We have the benefit of 45 acres of lush landscaping and individual casita-style guest rooms, each with an average of 1,000 square feet. We also are home to a world-class spa.

Q: What do you love most about hospitality?

A: Hospitality means taking care of all the details so our guests don’t ever have to worry. It’s all about taking the time to personalize each and every experience and show genuine care throughout each interaction, no matter how small.

Q: Are there any exciting things worth mentioning for 2023?

A: We are in the process of renovating and reconcepting our signature restaurant and hope to open doors in late summer 2023. Our chef’s garden is already planning for production and our chef is working closely with local family farms to provide anything we can’t produce on-site. It will be a very special new dining offering for our guests.

Q: What does ladolcevita, the sweet life, mean to you?

A: La dolce vita means embracing experiential living, saying yes more than saying no, and taking the time to enjoy wonderful adventures, food, wine and travel.

Stafford, Managing Director

Manoir Hovey

Q: What year did you become a part of the R&C umbrella?

A: 2008.

Q: Why are you proud to be a part of R&C?

A: As a family-operated estate, it’s an honour to

be an integral member of this prestigious hotel association that sets the world standard for excellence in hospitality with a philosophy to make the world a better place through cuisine and hospitality.

Q: What do you love most about hospitality?

A: Hospitality is very fulfilling for those who have a long-term vision and interest in the industry. I believe it is also more rewarding for those passionate about travel, food and culture. It is an industry that requires long hours and dedication and that rarely provides immediate results or financial reward in the short term. For those who elaborate a vision early on in their path, then work constantly towards realizing the dream, the sky is ultimately the limit. It is an incredible experience that connects one to so many interesting people

Jason

and experiences and I personally wouldn’t trade it for any other career.

Q: What do you love about the area you are located in?

A: Manoir Hovey is the jewel of beautiful North Hatley, one of Quebec’s most picturesque villages. It sits on the northern shore of Lake Massawippi, a skinny stretch of water ringed by unspoiled forest and the rolling farmland that is characteristic of the Eastern Townships region. Filled with large, century-old mansions and B&Bs, the town is a haven for artisans, artists, writers, theatre lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its antique shops, art galleries, golf courses, inns and summer theatre are widely supported by visitors and residents alike. Over the years, the Canadian establishment came to discover North Hatley, and many of the great houses built by southern families changed hands.

To this day, however, an American summer colony continues to return. Several little cafés, boutiques, antique shops and art galleries cater to these and other visitors, who inevitably fall in love with the village’s charm.

Q: Are there any exciting things worth mentioning for 2023?

A: New Spa Hovey in Quebec’s Eastern Townships. Manoir Hovey is setting out to become Canada’s next wellness destination with the addition of a new world-class spa. Opening summer 2023, the three-storey lakefront spa pavilion will feature six treatment rooms, a hammam, a Himalayan salt scrub shower, three relaxation rooms, an esthetician room for manicures and pedicures, and a “Tree House” concept featuring a dry sauna, Scandinavian hydrotherapy thermal experience

with a jacuzzi and cold plunge basin, and sitting area with a fireplace overlooking Lake Massawippi. The spa’s nature-inspired open-air pool deck and bar will showcase a four-season outdoor infinity pool, whirlpool, firepits, a pool cabana bar and outdoor lounge. The third floor will be dedicated to three new luxury guest suites with terraces offering optimal relaxation and unobstructed lake views.

Q: What does ladolcevita, the sweet life, mean to you?

A: Life is about special moments that then turn into cherished memories. As a third-generation hotelier, I enjoy seeing guests make new memories and love hearing their stories.

manoirhovey.com

@manoirhovey

AS A THIRD-GENERATION HOTELIER, I ENJOY SEEING GUESTS MAKE NEW MEMORIES AND LOVE HEARING THEIR STORIES

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Three revolving cylinders carved out within the wall segments reveal Aesop’s growing collection of aromas

INTERIORS

AESOP YORKVILLE: ECHOES OF A NEIGHBOURHOOD’S VICTORIAN PAST

WRITTEN BY ANASTASIIA HORBULOVA PHOTOS BY JOHN ALUNAN

In seeking new locations, Aesop’s first consideration is to work with what already exists. With their intention to weave themselves into the fabric of the place and add something of merit rather than impose a discordant presence, their consistent practice is to use a locally relevant design vocabulary.

The winner of the 2022 Best of Canada design award, Aesop’s latest signature store in Toronto, situated in storied, vibrant Yorkville, is designed in partnership with local studio Odami, Designline’s 2022 Designer of the Year. Unique Store Fixtures, North America’s leading millwork services company specializing in in-store displays and retailing environments, fabricated this stunning store. Combining traditional carpentry methods and state-of-the-art technology with proficiency, artistry and premium materials, Unique Store Fixtures helped to bring the designers’ vision to life by manufacturing interior millwork and displays at the new Aesop store.

“The design narrative for the project is based on some of the peculiarities of Yorkville. The smaller, more intimate scale compared to other parts of the downtown core and the abundance of beautiful Victorian houses in the surroundings were inspiration sources that we drew from,” says

The seating and counters are ruby red, while counters and sinks for testing skin and hair products are beige

Odami about the inspiration behind this project. “The driving idea was to create a store that feels inviting, domestic and uses Victorian elements, like the wood-turned spindles, in a contemporary way. The result is a space that feels modern yet warm and belongs to such a distinct place as Yorkville.”

“We manufactured the unique, custom woodbased components for this project with high attention to detail to execute the creative vision of the designers and bring it to life through the fabrication of our custom millwork,” says Ferro Corrente, COO of Unique Store Fixtures.

The award-winning design is anchored by a sense of warmth and sees traditional materials imagined anew. The walls and ceiling are painted in a rich ruby hue, whose dusky quality lends the space a restful intimacy. Closely packed rows of maple balusters – evocative of historical homes and porches found throughout Yorkville – form unconventional wainscoting that lines the room. A large basin stands in the centre, surrounded by opportunities for repose and respite, courtesy of cushioned benches and a dedicated tea station.

The geometry of the store is akin to that of a bustling town square: a large and open space with smaller enclaves around its perimeter. A cylindrical Fragrance Library is almost camouflaged in one

of the walls. Its doors rotate to reveal Aesop’s growing collection of unorthodox aromas, as well as an infusion chamber for items of clothing in need of a fragrant boost.

Despite the pandemic’s impact on the availability of materials and additional restrictions, the project was smooth. “We took on a complex project and had the peace of mind to know that we are working with highly qualified professionals that can take up a challenge. Unique Store Fixtures’ team puts great care into the work they do, and for us, as designers, it’s very important to know we are working with professionals who can bring our design vision to life,” says Odami about their successful collaboration with Unique Store Fixtures.

In this new tranquil Aesop store, clients can explore and select from a complete range of skin, hair and body-care products distinguished by botanical and laboratory-generated ingredients of the highest quality. The store’s trained consultants are able to offer advice about products best suited to individual needs.

www.uniquestorefixtures.com

@uniquestorefixtures

www.aesop.com @aesopskincare

Beautifully designed and crafted, the new Australian skin care brand’s signature store in vibrant Yorkville becomes a unique destination within the downtown core

PIONEERING THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY

WRITTEN BY ESTELLE ZENTIL

What comes to mind when you think of French beauty? Perhaps a red lip, Coco Chanel, or a je ne sais quoi style that somehow comes together perfectly. And although French beauty often equates with looking natural and effortless, it doesn’t mean that there isn’t a lot of effort put into it. It’s French beauty houses like Clarins that push the needle in the beauty world and offer incredible products for women all over the world, providing the key to obtaining that quintessential French beauty. Clarins was founded in 1954, when Jacques Courtin-Clarins opened his first spa on Rue Tronchet in Paris. Nearly 68 years later, Mr. Courtin’s sons Christian and Olivier Courtin carry on their father’s legacy by continuing to innovate in both the skin care and beauty spheres with its current product line. Formally trained as a plastic surgeon, Olivier Courtin understands what goes into creating an effective product on a scientific level. In 2007, myBlend, a Clarins line of skin care and cutting-edge esthetic technology, was launched. In May 2022 myBlend was relaunched under the aegis of Dr. Courtin, bringing with it a new way of experiencing beauty that is more comprehensive, more personalized, and more socially conscious, so that women no longer have to choose between effectiveness and clean beauty, technology and nature. In our exclusive interview with Dr. Courtin, we learn more about the latest relaunch of myBlend, his definition of quintessential French beauty, and his biggest health and beauty tips.

Q: What did you learn from your father, Jacques Courtin-Clarins, growing up?

A: I learned many things from my father. But if I should mention one, it would be that he taught me that if you want to see a project through to the end, you have to believe in it and act with conviction.

Q: How have you been able to successfully manage your father’s legacy since his first spa opening in 1954?

A: It may seem very simple, but I often try to imagine how he would act: his aim was always to do what was good for the company, and not for him. That helps me a lot.

Q: What do you love about working with your brother, Christian?

A: The most enjoyable side of our professional relationship is our good communication. Whatever the subject, even when we don’t agree, we talk about it until we agree about the decision to be made.

Q: Can you share a little bit about Clarins Research laboratories and what you do in your role as director?

A: I’m not the director of Clarins Research Laboratories anymore, but I’m involved with products, and science and research, with regular meetings with the teams.

Q: How does your background as a surgeon impact the products that come to market?

A: It has a large impact. Among them:

• No compromise between efficacy and respect for

the skin, and no limit on formula cost

• Obsession with proof of efficacy and investment in evaluation tools and R&D technology

• Respect for skin tolerance and microbiota

• Work and share with the best experts

• High interest in innovations such as new molecules and beauty tech

• Teamwork

Q: Can you share what makes you excited about the new formulation of myBlend?

A: I wanted to prove that my intuition was correct: the impact of lifestyle, emotions and environment on skin aging is even more important than aging itself. And the power of my [Peptides-complex]4P to act on signs of aging by stimulating natural mechanisms.

My philosophy of formulation is:

• Stimulate natural mechanisms of regeneration and act on sensorial receptors through a complex of peptides

• Reinforce natural skin defence with fermented turmeric extract plus marine-based prebiome

• Visible correction with the use of molecules (hyaluronic acid, retinol, vitamin C, glycolic acid).

Dr. Olivier Courtin, managing director of Clarins Group, shares the brand’s latest relaunch, myBlend

Dr. Olivier Courtin, managing director of Clarins Group

Q: Can you share what the vision was for the redesign of myBlend and a few key points on what makes it more cutting-edge?

A: My objective was to propose to women and men the most made-to-measure, efficient alternative to surgery thanks to the synergy of the best actual skin solution: non-invasive beauty tech (electrostimulation, electroporation, radio frequency, cryotherapy) and the power of touch and a highly concentrated formula. This powerful association offers instant and long-term results while being totally safe for the skin.

Beyond the spa experience, my objective was also to enable men and women to continue at home to take care of their skin with the same level of efficiency: the highly concentrated formula and the medical LED mask proposed in our spa are the same that we propose for use at home. This is the guarantee for beautiful skin in the long term.

Q: What makes myBlend stand out from the rest of the comprehensive beauty treatments offered at other spas?

A: With myBlend, we have a made-to-measure approach, with a combination of beauty tech and power of touch and high-performance cosmetics.

Q: As a brand, you’ve always embraced sustainability. Can you share why this is important to Clarins’ ethos?

A: It’s like going back to the first chapter of my father’s life with Clarins. We have always used plants; therefore, the preservation of nature was essential to him. Every action to preserve nature is part of the core values of Clarins.

Q: What are your top three best-selling products and why do you think they are such a success?

A: Double Serum, a very efficient product that meets the need of our clients; Super Restorative, a very efficient cream thanks to the action of Harungana; Tonic Body Treatment Oil, which works well for many women during their pregnancy and for other stages of life, as well.

Q: What message would you like to share with other global leaders in the beauty realm?

A: I don’t believe it’s my role to share a message with other global leaders.

Q: What is your secret to living well?

A: Scientific progress has shown that healthy eating is a pillar to living longer and in good health.

Q: If you had to describe Clarins using three words, what would they be?

A: Commitment, respect, efficiency.

Q: How would you define “quintessential French beauty”?

A: I think if one word could define it, it would be “simplicity.”

Q: Do you believe that America’s idea of beauty differs from Europe’s?

A: It may have been different in the past, but now we are witnessing a standardization through social networks.

Q: What are some of your biggest health and beauty tips?

A: It’s important to be physically active on a regular basis, eat healthy food, take pleasure in what you do and carry on social relationships.

Q: What do you think your father would think of your family business today?

A: I’m sure my father would be proud of what my brother and I and our daughters are accomplishing for Clarins.

Q: Why is it important for you to give back philanthropically?

The newly relaunched myBlend addresses the impact of modern lifestyles on beauty with a visionary and holistic approach to personalization and skin regeneration, whilst maintaining a commitment to the environment and sustainable practices

A: Like the respect for nature, it’s part of the core values of Clarins and my family.

Q: What are some of your business goals for the next five years?

A: One of our main business goals is to be, worldwide, among the three top companies in skin care, and among the six first in makeup.

Q: What does la dolce vita , the sweet life, mean to you?

A: For me, la dolce vita is synonymous with party. Sweet life to me is enjoying life.

www.clarins.ca my-blend.com @myblend @clarinsofficial

ELEGANCE IS AN ATTITUDE

Hollywood icon and international advocate for human rights, Jennifer Lawrence has partnered with luxury timepiece crafter Longines

WRITTEN BY MASSIMO SOSA

Academy Award-winning actress Jennifer Lawrence has partnered with Swiss watchmaker Longines as its newest Ambassador of Elegance.

The collaboration pays tribute to Lawrence’s long list of accolades matched with her ability to captivate large audiences with her down-toearth charm and witty persona. Best known for her work in the 2012 in The Hunger Games movie franchise, Lawrence took the world by storm with her portrayal of teen heroine Katniss Everdeen.

Longines’ CEO, Matthias Breschan, expressed his joy in having the actress join the brands vision. “Jennifer has the ability to imbue every character she plays with reality and authenticity, and offscreen, this translates into an elegance that is both natural and relatable. She is an inspiration to girls and women of all ages, and we are proud to welcome her to the Longines family.”

Lawrence has graced the silver screens many times, scoring leads in numerous motion pictures, making her one of the industry’s most loved

and reputable actresses. Not just a wild popular success, she has also won most of the industry’s top acting honours, including an Oscar, a Golden Globe, as well as BAFTA and Screen Actors Guild awards, and in 2013 was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world.

Lawrence has created a brand for herself that her audience admires: someone who brings fresh eyes to all the roles she takes on. Backed by her commitment to shedding light on important causes, as well as voicing opinions that matter, Lawrence has ensured that the world sees her as a messenger for real-life issues and not just as another run-ofthe-mill actress. With her empowering messages to the world and her bold presence in the media, Lawrence is what Longines considers to be the perfect addition to their family of ambassadors. Praising the watchmaker in anticipation of her collaboration, Lawrence shared, “Longines is rooted in a legacy of innovation and quality trusted by some of history’s greatest trailblazers. I am thrilled to join the Longines family and look forward to our partnership in the years ahead!”

Aside from earning her spot as a household name in contemporary features, like Silver Linings Playbook and American Hustle , Lawrence has proven herself to be more than just an actress by expanding into the realm of production. In 2018, Lawrence established Excellent Cadaver, her own production company, which most recently has released its latest film, Causeway. Proving once again that the actress is no stranger to voicing opinions and sharing messages with audiences, Lawrence actively participates as an advocates for important movements, like gender equality. The actor-turned-advocate currently sits as a board member for the organization Represent.us, a nonpartisan group working on passing powerful laws to stop corruption nationwide.

In recognition of the brand’s impact, Lawrence said, “Longines has long been synonymous with timeless elegance, which, to me, can be defined as a quiet powerfulness met with grace and confidence. And as a native Kentuckian, I’ve always associated Longines with the Derby and the embodiment of tradition.”

Continually inspired by Jennifer Lawrence, the Swiss watchmaker praises the actor’s unique take on elegance, her charm, compassion and empathy, which are reflected in all that she does both onand off-screen. She is a refreshing and authentic addition to the Longines family, and the brand is proud to welcome her talents into its lineup of Ambassadors of Elegance.

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Jennifer Lawrence models for Longines as their latest Ambassador of Elegance