Breaking Fashion Boundaries: Miami Designer Alessandra Durand Set to Redefine Fashion at Miami Swim

VOL.8 NO.4

JULIE ANN GARRIDO My Yoga Journey

APRIL 2024

Person of the Month: FOUNDER | Jay Shapiro Luxury Chamber Media Group jay@southflorida.in Fashion Editor | Juliana LaBonte juliana@southflorida.in Travel Editor | Christina Ricci Business Editor | Cindy Ragan

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Joe Freer, Frank LoRe Jr, Roger Craft PHOTOGRAPHERS David Zam, Ilmar Saar, Robert Bauman, Victoria Bihyn ADVERTISING PleaseAdvertise@gmail.com

Ross Mandell “The Boss of Wall Street”

Unique online yoga platform offers lifeline for menopausal women A unique online platform, My Yoga Journey, has been launched by Yourself Yoga for Menopause to provide yoga exclusively for women in menopause who prefer a natural solution to help alleviate their symptoms.

Founded by menopause yoga expert, Julie Ann Garrido, who is one of only 600 yoga teachers worldwide with specialist menopause yoga accreditation, My Yoga Journey, offers a lifeline to menopausal women who are looking to practice yoga for menopause, but are unable to access classes locally.

In addition to yoga classes that are categorized according to menopause symptoms My Yoga Journey, which is available via an App, sets itself apart with its unique 7-stage Journey. Incorporating guided practice calendars, tutorials for key yoga poses, and a menopause symptom tracker, this simple yet structured 'journey' helps women to navigate menopause yoga and at the same time alleviate their symptoms too.

The success of My Yoga Journey is nothing short of astonishing. As well as introducing menopause yoga to countless women worldwide who have significantly improved their symptoms, it has helped many transform lives as a result of their new-found confidence and energy.

Julie Ann Garrido explains: "Menopause Yoga is probably one of the world's best kept secrets. Not only is it an effective solution for alleviating menopause symptoms, but it is also more powerful than most other solutions but with no need for pills or potions.

"Yoga has the power to ease most of the physical, mental, and emotional symptoms that menopause brings from age 40 onwards, yet many medics and menopause specialists remain ignorant to this. Therefore, my mission is simple: I want every woman to know that there is an alternative solution for menopause. Not every woman can take synthetic hormones and neither do all women want to take medications, so at last there is an effective natural solution to help," she adds.

Whilst there are countless styles of yoga available these days, not all are suitable for menopause. Menopause yoga, also known as yoga for menopause, is designed to support women through the transition from perimenopause into menopause and post-menopause.

By incorporating a mix of yoga styles including Slow Flow Yoga, Yin Yoga, Restorative Yoga, and Yoga Nidra, menopause yoga is able to address a wide range of physical, mental, and emotional changes that this phase of life can bring.

In addition, menopause yoga can specifically target symptoms such as anxiety, hot flushes, joint pain, brain fog, low moods, poor sleep, and many more. Overall, menopause yoga promotes wellbeing and enhances the overall quality of life during this key stage.

Typically, 'less is more' at this stage of key stage of life. Therefore, knowing that most menopausal women can't physically manage a standard one-hour yoga class or don't have the time, and that menopause symptoms can be better managed by breaking down that one hour into four 15 minute yoga sequences per week, My Yoga Journey comes packed with short sequences and beginner-friendly content that can be practiced by every woman at any stage of menopause either from home or whilst on the go. ffi: yourselfyoga.com

Breaking Fashion Boundaries: Miami Designer Alessandra Durand Set to Redefine Fashion at Miami Swim Week with Kene Kaya's Peruvian Amazon-inspired Collection!

Local Miami designer Alessandra Durand prepares to captivate audiences during her upcoming show at Miami Swim Week The Shows with her brand Kene Kaya, promising a groundbreaking showcase that promises to transcend conventional expectations on May 30. In a departure from the traditional aesthetics of Miami Swim Week, Alessandra Durand's elegant collection promises to transport spectators to the lush depths of the Peruvian Amazon. Drawing inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of the Shipibo-Conibo tribe, the collection showcases mesmerizing print and embroidered textile artwork crafted by indigenous artists and artisans from the heart of the Amazon rainforest..

Attendees can expect to be immersed in a world of vibrant colors, intricate geometric patterns, and captivating imagery depicting the wildlife and nature of the Amazon. Alessandra Durand's designs fuse elegance with cultural reverence, offering a stunning array of swim and resort wear that celebrates the talent of indigenous Peruvian artists.

"I believe fashion has the power to be an agent of change," says Alessandra Durand, whose passion for social entrepreneurship and cultural preservation has been the driving force behind her visionary creations. "With this collection, I aim to not only showcase the exquisite artwork of Shipibo artists but also to honor the culture, traditions and heritage of indigenous communities in Peru."

Alessandra Durand's journey into fashion has been shaped by her upbringing and unique personal experiences. Born to Peruvian parents dedicated to social justice and humanitarian causes, Alessandra's background in International Development during her studies at Oxford University and Stanford ignited her fascination with alternative economic models and social entrepreneurship in solving humanity’s most pressing needs. Visiting a slum in Lima known as Cantagallo, where a collective of Shipibo-Conibo artists live, she witnessed the challenges of talented artists who cannot share their work and handicrafts beyond the streets of Lima.

Having spent eight years as a business consultant advising Fortune 500 companies around the world, Alessandra was inspired to channel her love for fashion during her travels into a platform for social change. By collaborating closely with indigenous artists in Peru, she has created a collection that not only pushes the boundaries of design but also amplifies the voices of marginalized communities. "What sets my collections apart is the fusion of contemporary design with traditional art forms," explains Alessandra.

"I believe in fashion's potential to drive positive change, and I am committed to using my brand as a platform to showcase the work of indigenous artists and their communities to global markets."

Don't miss this opportunity to witness this special convergence of art, fashion, and culture at Miami Swim Week The Shows. Join us on May 30 at 9:00 PM for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Peruvian Amazon with Kene Kaya by Alessandra Durand. For more about her brand, Kene Kaya, see: https://www.kenekaya.com

Wonder Woman Honoree & Brain Tumor Survivor Victoria Vesce to Host the Inaugural Women’s Fashion & Design Week powered by The Wonder Woman Initiative Renowned lifestyle, fashion & travel influencer and entrepreneur, Victoria Vesce, is set to host the highly anticipated Women's Fashion & Design Week, powered by The Wonder Woman Initiative, on Saturday, March 9 2024. This exclusive event promises to be a celebration of creativity, style, and empowerment in the world of women's fashion.

To drive positive change beyond the confines of fashion, inspiring individuals and communities to embrace their innate creative power. Women's Fashion and Design Week (WFDW) is the embodiment of this mission, shattering industry boundaries as it merges creativity with social responsibility Event Details:

● Date: Saturday, March 9 2024 ● Venue: The Betsy Hotel, 1440 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139 ● Time: 5:30pm WFDW is more than just another show. It's a groundbreaking platform for change makers to tell their stories through fashion, creativity, and powerful discussions. We champion social progress and empower women through the transformative power of design, impacting not just today but generations to come.

Victoria Vesce, known for her impeccable sense of style and influence, expressed her excitement about hosting the Women's Fashion & Design Week. “Hosting the Wonder Woman Initiative fashion show is not just about celebrating style, but als the strength, empowerment, and resilience that every woman embodies on her unique journey” says Vesce.

In addition to the runway shows, the Women's Fashion & Design Week will include a unique design workshop and gifting opportunity at the Lotus House Miami women’s shelter, a panel discussion at Miami Dade College and a Women of Influence luxurious brunch. The event serves as a platform for designers, change makers, thought leaders and entrepreneurs to connect with industry professionals and fashion enthusiasts alike.

Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to connect with Victoria Vesce and be inspired by her extraordinary resilience. To schedule an interview and to attend please contact: kosi@kosiharrispr.com.

About Victoria Vesce: Diagnosed with rare brain tumor in 2017, Victoria voluntarily participated in a study that has helped numerous patients overcome similar conditions. Today, she inspires others with her journey of self-love and health advocacy, reminding us to embrace our authentic selves in a world of pressures.

Rising Performers Dazzle at 2024 NSAL Star Maker Awards Gala Yaacov Heller Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award

Connie Francis and Yaacov Heller

Sue and Yaacov Heller

Tinka and Scott Grody and Christine Lynn

The National Society of Arts and Letters of Florida (NSAL) bestowed internationally renowned artist Yaacov Heller with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the recent NSAL’s Star Maker Awards Gala at Royal Palm Yacht and Country Club in Boca Raton. In an evening of many highlights, a pinnacle moment was when legendary singer Connie Francis presented the award to her dear friend, followed by Heller’s heartfelt acceptance speech. The glittering event supports the Boca Ratonbased nonprofit’s mission of providing scholarships, competitions, and mentoring for local performing and visual artists. The Gala features performances by NSAL scholarship recipients and competition winners, along with a sumptuous dining experience. Event Chairs were Alyce Erickson and Shari Upbin, with Arlene Herson, the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, serving as Honorary Chair.

“The Star Maker Awards Gala is a stellar gathering of the area’s foremost arts advocates,” stated Kirsten Stephenson, President of NSAL of Florida. “Each year, we are delighted to witness the incredible young talent that our fundraisers’ support, while paying homage to a cultural icon. NSAL of Florida is extremely grateful to the event sponsors including the Grand Supreme Benefactors Jay and Marilyn Weinberg and Marquee Benefactors the L&N Andreas Foundation and the E.M. Lynn Foundation.”

The Star Maker Awards Gala is the nonprofit’s flagship fundraiser and an acclaimed showcase for rising local talent.

Performers include scholarship and competition winners from both the high school and collegiate levels, who dazzled the guests with their artistry and grace.

The event attracted a who’s who of Boca Raton’s philanthropic and cultural leaders, who came to honor their friend and monumental talent, Yaacov Heller.

“Yaacov Heller is an artistic visionary, whose critically acclaimed work has touched the hearts of international luminaries,” said Shari Upbin. “In addition to being a world-renowned painter, sculptor, and jewelry maker, Yaacov is also an extraordinary supporter of NSAL and a vital advocate for young talent in the arts. We are thrilled to be honoring him at this year’s Star Maker Award Gala.”

Heller has been rated among the world’s most accomplished sculptors and top silversmiths. His work has been used to convey messages of hope, tolerance, acceptance, remembrance, and peace through the interpretation of the human form and spirit while holding to his personal unwavering commitment to artistic quality. Throughout his sixty-year career, he has been commissioned to create historically significant works for presidents, kings and queens, heads of state and other dignitaries and celebrities. Ronald Reagan, Gerald Ford, George Bush, Bill Clinton, Margaret Thatcher, Henry Kissinger, Hosni Mubarak, Benjamin Netanyahu, Shimon Peres, Jacque Chirac, Yitzhak Rabin, and Anwar Sadat are among the many world leaders who have owned pieces bearing the artist’s signature. His works are found in presidential libraries and museums worldwide.

To learn how you can help foster the dreams of young artists, please visit www.nsalflorida.org.

Monsoon Chocolates Releases Springtime Collection Blackberry Pâte de Fruit: Monsoon's Blackberry Pâte de Fruit is a symphony of flavor and texture. Each bite unveils the intense essence of ripe blackberries, captured perfectly in the form of a delicate fruit geleé. The vibrant hue of the pâte de fruit hints at the richness within, while its smooth, melt-in-yourmouth texture leaves a lasting impression.

Milk and Honey Lemon Poppy: A harmonious blend of creamy milk chocolate, delicate honey, zesty lemon, and the subtle crunch of poppy seeds, Monsoon's Milk and Honey Lemon Poppy truffle is a revelation in flavor pairing. The sweetness of the milk chocolate is elevated by the floral notes of honey, while the bright acidity of lemon adds a refreshing contrast. Each bite is punctuated by the earthy poppy seeds, adding depth and complexity to this enchanting confection.

Almond Apricot Caramel: Monsoon's Almond Apricot Caramel is a decadent indulgence that marries the nuttiness of almonds with the sweet tanginess of apricots, enveloped in velvety caramel. The first bite reveals the rich, buttery caramel, infused with the essence of toasted almonds and punctuated by pockets of succulent apricot. The juxtaposition of textures – the creamy caramel, crunchy almonds, and chewy apricots – creates a sensory experience that is nothing short of divine.

Blueberry Lavender Caramel: Monsoon's Blueberry Lavender Caramel is a masterclass in flavor innovation. The sweet-tartness of blueberries is complemented by the floral aroma of lavender, all wrapped in luscious caramel.

Barrel Aged Dark Chocolate: Monsoon's Del Bac Barrel Aged Dark Chocolate is beyond amazing and should be sold in EVERY cigar lounge in America!!!.

Mother’s Day Foodie Gift Ideas - 2024 Johnson's Popcorn: Taste of the New Jersey Shore Bring the delicious taste of the New Jersey Shore boardwalk directly to Mom with Johnson's Popcorn. Since 1940, their mouthwatering caramelcoated popcorn has held a special place in the hearts of many. Created through meticulous air-popping and hand-churning in copper kettles, each batch guarantees exceptional quality and taste. Choose from a variety of gift options, including seasonal tubs, tins, and party favors, filled with the delicious sweet and savory popcorn varieties made fresh at the Ocean City boardwalk storefront. Featuring flavors like Caramel Corn, Salty-n-Sandy, Cheddar, Peanut Crunch, Butter, Chocolate Drizzle, Platinum, and Tri-Flavor, there's a favorite for every popcorn aficionado. Gluten-free. Ships nationwide. Check out their entire line of popcorn and other sweet treats from the shore at Johnson's Popcorn at https://www.johnsonspopcorn.com.

Birdie’s Pimento Cheese: Southern Tradition The South is known for its traditional pimento cheese, which is a popular and much-beloved staple! Birdie's Pimento Cheese is a premium cheese handmade in small batches using rich and tangy cheddar cheese combined with delectable flavors mom will love! Birdie's Pimento Cheese is a versatile ingredient that can enhance the taste of your favorite dishes and take them to the next level. Perfect for sandwiches, mac and cheese, or use it as a dip with crackers and pretzels. Birdie's Pimento Cheese is made in Southern Virginia by a woman-owned business using whole ingredients and spices. Using hand-shredded cheese, Birdie’s ensures the highest quality for their customers. It comes in a variety of flavors like Cream Cheese + Black Pepper, Classic, Garlic Parmesan, Jalapeño, Smoked Gouda + Roasted Red Pepper, and seasonal varieties.

Gluten-free. Visit https://www.birdiespimentocheese.com

Ronda’s Fine Foods: Premium Dips/Spreads/Sauces Mom will embark on a premium culinary adventure with Ronda's Fine Foods and their latest offering, Muhammara, alongside the timeless favorite, Romesco. Muhammara is a new addition to their award-winning line of dips/ sauces/ spreads. Having its roots in Aleppo, Syria, and it is made from a blend of premium pomegranate, walnuts, roasted red peppers, Aleppo peppers, sumac, and pure olive oil. Its balance of smoky sweetness and nutty undertones set it apart, making it perfect for charcuterie, mezze, appetizers, or prepared meals. Ronda's Romesco stands as a delicious, piquant dip made from California almonds, roasted red peppers, tomatoes, garlic, and fine olive oil, seasoned with premium tasty spices. Available at www.rondasfinefoods.com, Amazon, and select premium retailers nationwide.

ZOA Energy Announces Sponsorship of UFC Professional Mixed Martial Arts Fighter, Themba Gorimbo

ZOA Energy, the better-for-you energy drink company, is proud to announce its partnership with UFC professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter Themba "The Answer" Gorimbo. Gorimbo is the first Zimbabwean fighter to win in the Octagon at UFC Vegas 73 and a passionate philanthropist who embodies the values of ZOA Energy.

Just as ZOA is designed to ignite bold action and inspire others to reach maximum potential, Gorimbo is committed to bettering the lives of those around him. Before his first UFC victory in May 2023, Gorimbo had $7 in his bank account; following the win, he auctioned off his fight uniform and used the funds to build a well for the people in his village in Zimbabwe. The selfless gesture caught the attention of ZOA Co-founder and Chief Energy Officer Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, who surprised Gorimbo with a new house in Miami and an in-person visit that has inspired an enduring friendship.

"Themba is a prime example of who we want on our team at ZOA Energy to activate the world's potential and inspire others," said ZOA Co-founder and Chief Energy Officer Dwayne Johnson. "As many know from My Seven Bucks Story, I have been in a similar situation to Themba. I was moved by his actions after his first career win— of all the ways he could have celebrated, he chose to pay it forward. As soon as I heard, I knew I needed to book a flight to meet him in person and shake his hand. Themba is as much of a powerhouse in the ring as he is in the community, and that's the kind of character and maximum performance we fuel at ZOA Energy."

The ZOA Energy team stands behind Themba Gorimbo in his upcoming Ultimate Fighting Championship Fight Night against Pete Rodriguez on February 3, and will celebrate his fighting spirit throughout the year. As part of the sponsorship, Gorimbo will appear in ZOA Energy's social media, point of sale in-store and additional marketing efforts.

"The universe works in mysterious ways! After I won my last UFC fight, I posted my bank statement which was close to seven bucks, which somehow, Dwayne Johnson saw and reposted on his account because it reminded him of his own journey and time in his life when he only had seven bucks. A week later I got a call from him," said Themba Gorimbo, professional MMA fighter. "I'm blown away by how quickly our friendship has evolved and by his constant support including with this incredible partnership with ZOA Energy. Through this partnership and in everything that I do, my goal is to better myself and the lives of those around me. I am both humbled and proud to be in a position to enact change and inspire others as a ZOA Energy ambassador and a professional MMA fighter."

Ragan & Associates’ Cindy Ragan Speaks at FICPA Conference

Cindy Ragan is a Professor of Economics at Broward College and the leading expert in the genre of CPA mergers. Her speech: “Recent Valuation Trends of CPA Firms“ Received a 4.9 performance review based on feedback from the FICPA.

ACHIEVE THE BEST BENEFITS OF COLLAGEN WITH FULL BODY IMPACT’S LIQUID COLLAGEN PROTEIN SUPPLEMENT Transform how the body absorbs collagen with Full Body Impact’s gold edition hydrolyzed liquid collagen enhanced with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C It’s time to truly feel and see the impact of more radiant skin, stronger hair, nails and bones, and healthier joints with Full Body Impact’s Gold Edition Hydrolyzed Liquid Collagen Protein Supplement. After 14 years of supplying collagen in the medical arena only, Full Body Impact has finally formulated a clinically proven, hydrolyzed liquid collagen for the consumer market. This bottle of liquid gold has a nearly 100% absorption rate in just 15 minutes that makes a noticeable difference in how the body looks and feels with collagen’s many benefits.

“Through my years in medical supply sales, I had the pleasure of working with a company that produced some of the best, medicalgrade liquid collagen I’ve seen in the field. From this product, we created Full Body Impact – enhanced by natural ingredients, plus hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. It’s a fast-absorbing formula that works wonders in boosting collagen in the body faster and more effectively than most,” said Founder, Clay Peterson.

Full Body Impact’s mission is to help people feel and look healthier and happier by delivering a high-impact supplement that supports their belief that what we put into our bodies matter. Within 15 minutes, the collagen supplement floods the system to boost collagen production for a myriad of benefits from hair to toes. Each Full Body Impact supplement helps:

Achieve youthful, radiant skin and reduce the appearance of cellulite Promote hair and nail growth and strength Support joints and bones Balance gut health Post-workout recovery Promote lean muscle mass

Full Body Impact’s Gold Edition Hydrolyzed Liquid Collagen Protein Supplement contains 16 grams of protein and 2.5 grams of arginine in each serving. It is naturally flavored with apple and contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin C for added benefits and to deliver ongoing support for youthful skin, healthier hair, and lubricated joints with every sip.

Full Body Impact collagen supplements are all made in the US and are free from dairy, gluten, soy, sugar, artificial colors and sweeteners. To learn more about the brand and its products, visit them online.

The fast-absorbing Gold Edition Hydrolyzed Liquid Collagen Protein Supplements are available at FullBodyCollagenProtein.com

Exclusive Interview with Dr. Julie King Sprouting from your roots, how did you go from being a celebrity musician to a psychologist?

In 2012 I was invited to hold research on the impact of music on cognitive behavior of the human brain in Singularity University, NASA. I was always curious and wanted to understand why my audience cries when I sing. When I saw the emotional response and projection of neural activity that my song “Forgiveness” evoked in ten different subjects, something clicked inside of me. It was the turning point in my career’s journey.

I wanted to understand the relation between human biomechanics, energy fields, and chakra systems, and how they affect the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of humanity. I realized that there was a deeper calling inside of me than simply entertaining, that there was a bigger mission hidden beneath it all.

While producing music and working on my previous album “Soldier”, I stepped on to the journey of self healing, and began attending to my childhood wounds. I got into life coaching, neurolinguistics, NLP, Reiki. I got myself two mentors in conscious breathwork and went into deep shadow work. Day by day, month by month, I began excavating layers of trauma, depression, anxiety, stress. While touring over seas, I would lead conscious breathing and sound healing workshops and seminars. I have been a guest speaker in different festivals such as Rebirthing, Global International Conference, in Germany, Breathe for Life, in Sweden, Breath Festival, in Mexico, and a guest for the Awake TV with Kathleen Riley By the time I realized that my life was leading me to become what I am today, I was already doing it. Before I knew it I had 15 certifications in different holistic modalities under my belt, became a Transcendental Vedic Psychologist and helped thousands of clients.

You mentioned breathwork as your main anti-aging device. How does breathing keep you youthful; besides the obvious?

Besides natural process of time taking over the human body stress is the main problem of aging. With an expert facilitator in one conscious breathwork session it is possible to release decades of stress, trauma, anxiety, phobias, fears, which you can’t do in a luxury spa, sports, or medical presider. During conscious breathwork different type of toxins elevate from the body. Conscious breathing naturally oxidizes the blood, relaxes the parasympathetic nerve, calms the nervous system, removes years of stress, layers of trauma, and the body naturally rejuvenates. I called my company Breath Works Miracles because conscious breathing does just that, works miracles. Conscious breathwork is going to be the number one holistic modality for relaxation, rejuvenation, and restoration passing yoga in no time.

How does music contribute to the overall well-being of your clients?

Music has been used as a healing modality for centuries. What we know now is that specific frequencies of sound can tune the human body, relax, the mind, calm the nervous system, and create a safe heaven. By simple humming, chanting, singing, the human body can elevate it’s vibration and attract a different type of life. When our nervous system is calm and our mind is still, we live a more conscious life, we are more aware of our surroundings. We live in the present moment, here and now. This is why I combined these two incredible holistic modalities of conscious breathwork, sound healing with combination of 15 other modalities and created my own signature program Rise Up and Reclaim Your Life.

How did you end up in South Florida?

One of my dreams has always been to live near the ocean. A dear friend of mine from college invited me to visit him and his fiancé during the pandemic. When I came to Miami I was suppose to stay only for a week, I extended my trip for two more weeks as I fell in love with South Florida. I love waking up in the morning and going to the beach to watch the sunrise, to meditate, to swim in the ocean, and to gather my strength from nature. I got inspired and started writing music again.

Are there any causes or social issues that you're passionate about and actively support?

I’m passionate about helping people with transforming their trauma so they can live a purposeful and powerful life. Majority of people suffer from depression, anxiety, stress, and trauma. Some people don’t even know they suffer based on limited believes, social conditioning, their up bringing, and various individual circumstance. In my signature program Rise Up and Reclaim Your Life, I create personalized blueprint for my clients to overcome these obstacles which aligns them with their higher purpose so they can stand in their full power and thrive.

Can you share any advice for aspiring individuals who hope to achieve success and recognition in their field?

Embrace your authenticity. Find that which set’s your soul on fire and you can thrive.

You can Book a free Freedom break through sessions with me today by visiting my website. During the session we will assess your biggest challenge and lay out a personal mini-plan. If it’s a fit to do more work together, I’m committed to helping you create a program that will elevate your mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional pains.

So you can Rise Up and Reclaim your life be recognized in your field and achieve great success like thousands of my clients before you.

Do you think that AI will be a positive force in your industry?

Yes and no. AI can provide a ton amounts of information ranging from spirituality, mental health, and psychology. It can track mental health patterns, guide you into a meditation, and provide various resources. It can give you a list of practices, tools, and suggest what you should do in order to feel better. However, what AI can not do is understand the complexity of human emotions. It can not help an individual through a traumatic event of grief, assault, loss of business, and serious life circumstances that make your whole life crash in front of your eyes. AI is unable to create a safe, nurturing, sacred space for you to heal. It will just suggest you seek professional help and send you to an expert like myself, a doctor, piece officer, or an attorney. And same goes with the music industry. Yes, music producers rely on technology, new sounds, new programs, and different new plug ins, but there is stills something about a life instrument sound that is produced by a human. An instrument plays through the soul of a person, that can not be replaced by mechanics.

Have there been any particular mentors or role models who have significantly influenced your career?

There is a whole list of people that have influenced my life, ranging from world renowned composers like Daniel Catan, Walter Afanasieff, Bernardo Feldman, to life coaches like Sage Levine, and Tony Robbins. I was greatly influenced by Masaro Emoto a scientist who held twenty years of research on hidden messages in the water.

After reading his book I stopped using foul language and became very conscious of the energy behind the words that I speak, how I think, and the type of music I compose.

What goals or aspirations do you have for the next few years As I am getting ready to release my 7th album with my new group Shakti Theater, I have set new goals for myself. My new goal is to take my transcendental psychology practice to a corporate level and work with executives of big corporations. I want to hold retreats over seas and create a spiritual sanctuary where my clients can regain their strength, rejuvenate, get inspired and create content which will help make the World a better place. My dream is to continue contributing tools and effective techniques that will help my clients live a powerful and purposeful life. It all begins from a powerful mindset and understanding that anything and everything is possible.

Photography by Victoria Bihyn - Makeup & Hair - Kateryna Cherkasenko