AVESSA Magazine - Future & Present Past | Jun/22 - Year III - Vol 20-A

June 2022 Year III, Vol. 20-A

FUTURE & PRESENT PAST

IN THIS ISSUE

CHARLENE PARSONS LIUBOV LAVRENIUK CHANTALLE LITVAK ALEJANDRO BARZAGA CAROLINA RINCHERE

WE ARE ON YOUR SIDE W E A R E C AT E G O R I C A L LY A G A I N S T T H E R U S S I A N M I L I TA RY A C T I O N S I N U K R A I N E AV E S S A H A S B E E N O B S E R V I N G W I T H G R E AT S A D N E S S T H E T R A G I C S I T U AT I O N I N U K R A I N E A N D W I S H E S T O E X P R E S S O U R S U P P O RT A N D S O L I D A R I T Y T O A L L T H O S E S E V E R E LY A F F E C T E D B Y T H I S WA R .

OUR FIRST CONCERN IS THE SAFETY OF ALL THE PEOPLE WHO W E R E U N W I L L I N G LY I M PA C T E D A N D H U RT B Y T H I S U N P R O V O K E D A G G R E S S I O N . P O L I T I C S I S D I V I S I V E B Y D E F I N I T I O N , B U T W E AT AV E S S A C A N N O T S TA N D B Y W I T H O U T A C K N O W L E D G I N G T H E C O U R A G E O U S P O S I T I O N TA K E N B Y T H E P E O P L E O F U K R A I N E T O F I G H T A G A I N S T T H I S U N J U S T I F I E D A S S A U LT O N T H E I R S O V E R E I G N T Y.

W E W I L L B E S U P P O RT I N G FA S H I O N B R A N D S F R O M U K R A I N E T H R O U G H O U R M E D I A C H A N N E L S AT N O C O S T, P L E A S E C O N TA C T U S I N F O @ AV E S S A . C O M

СКАЖИ НІ ВІЙНІ

E XCL U SIVELY AVAILABLE AT AVESSABAZAAR.C OM

B A L I AW E A R . C O M | @ B A L I AW E A R

LUISAPONTEATELIER.COM @LUISAPONTEATELIER

5 W 37TH ST, SUITE 531 NEW YORK CITY, NY 10018 +1 (646) 205-3023

1350 E SUNRISE BLVD, SUITE 107 FORT LAUDERDALE, FL 33304 +1 (954) 524-2743

POSCHEMODELS.COM | AGENCY@POSCHEMODELS.COM

KRELWEAR.COM | @KRELWEAR

www.ku-den.jp

D O P E TAV I O , S T U D M U F F I N N Y C A N D O T H E R A R T I S T S A R E AVA I L A B L E AT

PAT R I C I A F I E L D . C O M

JUNE/2022 028

OBJECTS OF DESIRE

by Carlos Marrero 030

THE COLLECTIVE SPIRIT

by Mena Lombard | featuring Miami International University 042

ONCE UPON A KIMONO

by Karo Delgobbo | featuring Kuden 052

C H A R L E N E PA R S O N S

story by Mena Lombard | styled by Juanita Crary 070

22.02/2022

by Liubov Lavreniuk 082

W H E N T H E O R D I N A R Y WA S N O T E N O U G H

featuring Chantalle Litvak 092

B E AU T Y T H R O U G H C H AO S

by Alfonso de Hoyos-Acosta 102

THE PROMISE

by Ibtissam El Azami | featuring Alejandro Bárzaga 112

IN HER MOMENT

featuring Carolina Rinchere 122

W H E N D R E A M A N D DAY U N I T E

by Virginia Mayer 130

Z O D I AC : CA N C E R

by Manish Arora

P H OTO C R E D I T S C H A R L E N E PA R S O N S A N D H E R H U S B A N D VA N P H OTO G R A P H Y: F L ÁV I O I RYO DA

EDITOR’S LETTER

A

re we born with talent, or can it be developed throughout time with dedication? While some might say that individuals are born with talent.

At the same time, skills are developed through a lifetime of education, training, mentorship, and/ or experience; I think we also need to consider how we measure success. I f ind success a challenging metric to be quantif ied. I’ve learned that it needs to be put into context in terms of objective and time.

Perhaps we want to successfully prepare a dish for a family reunion next week, f inish a half-marathon in the next six months, or pay off a house mortgage in the next ten upcoming years. I’ve provided consulting to one of the world’s largest investment companies in my previous life, and they used to say that pain plus reflection equals evolution. Basically, companies need to improve constantly, and no matter what the transformation is, things will not be perfect. It is paramount to learn from your mistakes to improve continually. And transformations often take a long time, so companies also set up maturity models. Objectives, targets, and successes are taken into context based on

O N T H E C OV E R C H A R L E N E PA R S O N S P H OTO G R A P H Y: F L ÁV I O I RYO DA

where you are at that moment. That’s because if analyzed purely by themselves, outcomes sometimes might not make much sense, but when put into context, good enough can be a measure of acceptable success at many times.Did six out of ten people like that dish you’ve prepared based on your limited experience? Did you have to make constant stops while running that halfmarathon? Did you miss payments or ref inance your mortgage due to a job loss until the total payoff? In this issue, we talk about Leadership, and I cannot fathom what Mrs. Parsons had to go through during her career. Whatever she did, I imagine it wasn’t always perfect, but she was undoubtedly highly successful by any measure. And like any human, I also have an objective; I constantly try my best, and I fail multiple times because it wasn’t good or fast enough with my limited resources at this moment, at this level of company maturity. We fall, rise, learn and continue our journey because it is made of pure and sincere passion. I wish I could develop a tiny little grain of Mrs. Parsons’ talent and Leadership to be successful.

FLÁVIO IRYODA Editor-in-Chief

The same creativity that sets you apart can make you part of our creative community. And if you are passionate about Fashion, Miami International University of Art & Design is the place to be.

We'll help you turn your love of Fashion into the pursuit of a career that loves you back.

THE EDUCATION IS HANDS-ON. THE FUTURE IS WIDE OPEN.

We offer a range of associate and bachelor's degree programs including Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising & Accessory Design. You'll learn by doing-applying the same talent, tools, and techniques used in the industry

Where will your passion take you? Find out.

WWW.MYMIU.EDU AIMIUinternational@aii.edu 1.305.428.5903 Miami International University of Art & Design is one of The Art Institutes, a system of schools throughout the United States. Programs, credential levels, technology, and scheduling options vary by school and are subject to change. Not all programs are available to residents of all U.S. states. 1501 Biscayne Blvd., Ste. 100, Miami, FL 33132. © 2021.

The Arts Institutes International LLC. All rights reserved.

OUR TEAM OF MENA LOMBARD

ALFONSO DE HOYOS

JUANITA CRARY

@menalombard

@dehoyosa

@juaniavi

Fashion Designer and Professor, Mena believes that fashion completely transcends the surface and the most important is how one feels rather than anything else. Fashion is really about how empowered one becomes by it. She channels vibrant flares of vintage fashion and dreams of contemporary twists, inspired by her own life and travels.

Recovering from an obsession with Italiandesigned menswear, Alfonso decided to take a deeper look into women’s fashion to see how our relationship among clothing, society, and business has changed. Educated as an economist with an MBA, he travels between Chicago, Miami, and Mexico on a search to see what happens next to fashion.

Fashion Stylist, Journalist, and fashion Professor with 15 years of experience. Juanita has worked for Rolling Stone South America, GQ Mexico, and multiple Colombian magazines. Her current soundtrack plays The Sisters of Mercy and her go-to garment will always be a motorcycle jacket even if it’s impossible to wear one all year round in Miami.

CARLOS MARRERO

NATASHA TABUNOVA

FLÁVIO IRYODA

@camarrero

@beyond.the

@flavio.iryoda

Widely recognized for his tongue-in-cheek and informed critiques of the fashion, beauty and entertainment industry, Carlos is a seasoned fashion illustrator, host of TRENDENCIAS and fashion designer of Marrero Collection - a compilation of alluring statement pieces designed for the fashionista looking for unique fashion items.

Natasha has been surrounded by art since her early years in Belarus, creating art and fashion since her early years with limited resources, zero knowledge, and much energy and passion. Her dream to become a Costume Designer came to life after graduation. She believes fashion is an endless field for playing games, especially if you like breaking rules.

“I’m here to confuse, not to explain”, once said the poet. With a peculiar taste of the unexpected and tendency to break clichés, Flávio believes there are no boundaries to express fashion through photography. Uncertainty, confusion and unease drives his desires to create curiosity (or disgust) for those who experience his work.

contributors LIUBOV LAVRENIUK

Dedicated Entrepreneur from Ukraine. Experienced tutor and Successful Business Owner emphasizing up-to-date methods, the importance of high quality and targeted content. Motivated professional bringing a 12-year career in small business ownership. Business development and education area worker who quickly masters new concepts and technologies. A happy mother.

MANISH ARORA

VIRGINIA MAYER

KARO DELGOBBO

@doloritassufrida

@karodelgobbo

Upon learning writers are artists, Virginia wrote a novel called Polaroids and a bunch of stories and opinion pieces published in Colombia, thus becoming an author. She now writes shows with her duo, teaches creative writing and lives with her cat Mandela in Key Biscayne while she falls in love with Miami.

A true fashion passionate, Karo is a fashion runway coordinator, fashion buyer, fashion producer, magazine editor and entrepreneur. She approaches fashion in an innovative manner, where luxury brands are mixed with everyday basic pieces, transforming into a fresh, bold and powerful statement, fulfilling one’s heart and soul.

CHANTALLE LITVAK

IBTISSAM EL AZAMI

@manishastrologer

@beyond.the

@theburnoutbrand

Renowned KP Astrologer, Numerologist, Tarot Reader Vastu Consultant. He has been rendering professional advice to clients with a high degree of success. He has been conferred with the title of Jyotish Varahamihir and Jyotish Aryabhatt.

Manish has been writing monthly astrological columns for 40+ international magazines.

Fashion designer, she likes to express all her feelings and emotions through her color and textures designs. Using her designs to improve someone’s day is her goal. Chantalle’s desire is to not only help conserve the Earth but also to demonstrate that we can still create beautiful clothes by giving older fabric and textiles a new second life.

Ibtissam, aka Azami or The Burn Out Brand in make-up artistry, is a fashion make-up artist, content and copywriter, and a social media manager.

Her attention for detail allows for unique works of art, focused on finesse and graphic shapes. After the conquest of Paris and London, she is now in Rome, where she lets the sun inspire her day in and day out.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Flávio Iryoda EDITORS

Associate Producers Natasha Tabunova

Fashion Stories Mena Lombard

Karo Delgobbo

Alfonso de Hoyos-Acosta

Carlos Pardo

Ibtissam El Azami Virginia Mayer

Reviewer Alfonso de Hoyos-Acosta

Fashion Styling Juanita Crary Karo Delgobbo

Art Director Luiz Camargo

Erika Ishibashi Product Carlos Marrero

Intern Chantalle Litvak

Cinema Christen Gates Wall Travel Tamara Almeida

Sales Flávio Iryoda

Zodiac Manish Arora

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CONSUMER SERVICES

AVESSA Magazine is a bi-monthly digital and print on-demand publication focused on fashion, lifestyle and empowerment for the independent and contemporary woman. Founded in early 2019 with main operations in Miami, FL (Brickell) and a wide network of collaborators distributed across the globe.

PUBLISHER

AVESSA Media Group LLC Brickell - Miami, FL 33130 United States of America

A PROUD MEMBER OF

© 2022 AVESSA Media Group LLC, a Florida limited liability corporation. All rights reserved.

The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavor to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act on such information without appropriate professional advice after a through examination of the particular situation.

OBJECTS OF DESIRE

DIOR MISSDIOR B1U Yellow Butterfly Sunglasses. The style stands out with a sophisticated 1950s-inspired butterfly shape, offering a new take on the hallmark branched construction. $470 / dior.com

SUMMER LOVIN’ Eight Summer Must Haves For 2022

BY CARLOS MARRERO

SUMMER STRAW BUCKET HAT Raffaello Bettini straw bucket hat with dented crown and downturned brim. Made in Italy. $250 / neimanmarcus.com

SOL DE JANEIRO Brazilian Bum Bum Cream. A visibly firming body cream with an irresistible pistachio, salted caramel, and vanilla scent. It’s ALL about body joy and taking care of ourselves head-to-toe, which is why Brazil has the smallest bikinis and best-fitting jeans. $48 / soldejaneiro.com

PLATFORM ANKLE STRAP SANDAL Circus by Sam Edelman. These chunky lavender platforms belong with a Juicy Couture tracksuit, once upon a 2000.

Thankfully, they’re back on trend for 2022. $59 / nordstrom.com

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THE GUNCLE BY STEVEN ROWLEY A National Bestseller. An NPR Book of the Year. From the bestselling author of Lily and the Octopus and The Editor comes a warm and deeply funny novel about a once-famous gay sitcom star whose unexpected family tragedy leaves him with his niece and nephew for the summer. Paperback $15 / amazon.com

IMAGE SKINCARE Skincare PREVENTION Daily Matte Moisturizer Oil-Free SPF 30 (3.2 oz.) Sun protection in a matte finish that’s perfect for oily and acne-prone skin types.

Developed with microsponge technology, it helps absorb excess oil and provides your skin with a seamless, shine-free finish. $50 / dermstore.com

CURL QUEEN Royal Nectar Hair Oil. Hair care starts at the scalp. This CBD infused treatment is rich with Chebe powder and Black Cumin Seed Oil used by Kings and Queens of ancient Egypt as a revered beauty secret; it encourages hair growth and strengthens the follicles. $52 / curlqueenofficial.com

RAFFIA TOTE BAG This PRADA tote bag with a soft, deconstructed design is made of raffia, a material of natural origin imbued with a summery mood. $1,690 / prada.com

RUNWAY REPORTER

THE

COLLECTIVE

SPIRIT 30

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BY MENA LOMBARD On Thursday, April 14th, Miami International University of Art & Design (MIU) held its annual Style Runway Show for women and menswear. “Every spring, MIU produces the fashion show and networking event to highlight and showcase the work of our students,” said Nestor Camacho, Fashion Design Lead Faculty at MIU. More than twenty fashion design students utilizing their creativity and culture, showed us their looks on this catwalk. Overall, forty-three different designs were presented with an explosion of glamour and color which also transmitted a sense of joy after being locked up

by Covid-19. Multiple designs in this runway veered to stylish experimentations on shape with beautiful fabrics and consistently top-notch tailoring. Menswear was a notable standout in the show, as was the focus on sustainable fashion and separates.

But before we review any specific details, we must address the immediate question that comes up after any fantastic show such as this one: “What were the trends in the MIU Fashion Show?”.

P H O G R AP H Y S I M O N S O O N G / F L ÁV I O I RYO DA S P E C I AL T H AN K S POSCHE MODELS T H E WA L K C O L L E C T I V E

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RUNWAY REPORTER

A L E JA N D RO B Á R Z AG A C O L L E C T I O N AWA R D W I N N E R

In this case, the MIU students wisely focused on macrotrends. The students told us their individual stories through the direction the fashion industry is moving towards. Overall, we have all seen that fashion is more colorful, vibrant, and glamorous after the pandemic but is still conscious of presenting more genderfluid and environmentally sustainable options. The MIU Fashion Show students paid attention to these

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macro trends while exploring their unique views on dresses, pantsuits, and gender-fluid menswear. The show highlighted this new generation’s creativity which is grounded in the idea that no matter where you go, you should still be glamorous while conscious of critical social issues and comfort. The designs also provided a series of vibrant and saturated colors which only reemphasized the joy of being beautiful again.

A L E JA N D R A Y U JA

A N G E L I QU E SALCEDO

FASHION IS MORE COLORFUL, VIBRANT, AND GLAMOROUS AFTER THE PANDEMIC BUT IS STILL CONSCIOUS OF PRESENTING MORE GENDERFLUID AND ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE OPTIONS J O R DA N RAFN

K AT H E R I N E M O L I NA

CARMEN C A R R E T E RO

CHRISTIAN TZU

C H A N TA L L E L I T VA K

G R E G O RY FLESH

K E N YA G U E VA R A

L AU R A GOMEZ

RUNWAY REPORTER

PAU L I NA C Z A JA AV E S S A E D I TO R I A L AWA R D W I N N E R

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CHRISTIAN TZUL

J O R DA N RAFN

P E D RO MELENDEZ

TAY L O R C RO S L E Y

K E N YA G U E VA R A

K AT H E R I N E M O L I NA

One of the show’s strong points was menswear.

Designers experimented with more gender-fluid shapes while still portraying a strong, powerful vibe.

The students explored and redefined the shapes and fabrics that men can wear through beautiful separates. One particular design was reminiscent of a traditional Pathani suit from South Asian culture.

Carolina Rinchere, the designer, created an outfit comprised of a tunic, trousers, and a vest that utilized multiple shades of watery blues and beautiful browns. Her clever tailoring presented an elegant outfit that either sex could wear while maintaining a level of elegance perfect for the runway. Other designers created detailed jackets combined with tights, trousers, and shorts. These designers playfully created their menswear with varied fabrics such as denim, metallic material, lace, and intricate textures. This emphasis on menswear separates allowed the looks to be fashionable, upscale, and wearable. MIU should continue encouraging its students to create such innovative looks for men, which is sometimes glossed over in the fashion industry.

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RUNWAY REPORTER

CA

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LIN

A R INC

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SHA MIN

E RV A B EN IT

NIE

LE

GO

RD

ON

EZ

VA L E

SIM

ON

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I NA

PEN

AR

AN

DA

T AY

PED

RO

ME

LEN

VIV

DE

IAN

Z

A H EN

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UE

Z

LO

MANY DESIGNERS IN THE SHOW WERE ADAMANT IN DEMONSTRATING THEIR ENVIRONMENTAL CONSCIOUSNESS, WHICH MEANT CREATING PRODUCTS THAT MINIMIZE THE HARM TO OUR PLANET

R C R

OS

LEY

Womenswear also had solid points of view. Overall, sustainable fashion continued to make a presence.

Chantalle Litvak, another student, presented a variety of outfits that focused on sustainable products. Her patchwork pantsuit was a glorious explosion of color and fabrics that highlighted the upcycled materials but still made a cohesive chic outfit. Many designers in the show were adamant in demonstrating their environmental consciousness, which meant creating products that minimize the harm to our planet. Chantalle and her fellow designers practice what they preach by making sustainable fashion through upcycling (creating new apparel from an old outfit), recycling, and using wholly natural dyes.

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RUNWAY REPORTER

C A RO L I NA R I N C H E R E AVA N T- G A R D E A N D M E N S W E A R AWA R D W I N N E R

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In the end, though, glamor was vital to the overall show. And it was exemplified by Alejandro Barzaga. Alejandro’s ideas combine his Mexican and Cuban heritage as his garments hint at the Mesoamerican glyphs found in ancient sculptures and architecture. His designs also break down conventional norms. For example, one design showcases a new take on the beloved trench coat featuring a circular cutout and belts draped on the hips in a combination of black wool and gorgeous ruby-red fabric.

You can see in Alejandro’s designs a sense of rebellion or disobedience to traditional styles.

Many other designers provided fabulous outfits that celebrated being beautiful and a sense of freedom. Their experimentation using cutouts, draping, architectural shapes, and good tailoring highlight the wealth of talent that MIU teaches, supports, and will soon provide to the rest of the world.

O N T H I S PAG E U P P E R R I G H T A N D L E F T: A L E J A N D R O B Á R Z AG A L OW E R R I G H T A N D L E F T: C H A N TA L L E L I T VA K

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N OW AVAI L AB L E AT AV E S S AB AZAAR.C O M

STYLING

KIMONO

Once upon a THE TRADITIONAL JAPANESE GARMENT gets A NEW SPIN with CONTEMPORARY and MINIMALISTIC DESIGN, SHOWING ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES by TURNING IT down, STYLING it UP, to BECOME YOUR NEW VERSATILE PIECE with MUCH SOCIAL DESIGN, HOPE, and FEELING; THROUGH the DELICATE HANDS of LOCAL TRADITIONAL SEWING CULTURE. Styling KARO DELGOBBO Kimono by KUDEN 42

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P H OTO C R E D I T S K I M O N O : K U D E N BY TA K A H I R O S ATO, AVA I L A B L E AT AV E S S A B A Z A A R .C O M FA S H I O N S T Y L I S T: K A R O D E L G O B B O P H OTO G R A P H E R : L U I S A P O N T E M O D E L : C A M I L A W I S N I E WS K I M A K E - U P : M I L I R OT T J E R P R O D U C T I O N A S S I S TA N T: A L F O N S O D E H OYO S - AC O S TA

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STYLING

CITY VIBES P R AC T I C A L , E L E G A N T, A N D STRIKING, THE MODERN KIMONO CAN BE USED T H R O U G H O U T YO U R B U S Y DAY, A N D I T ’ S A L S O R E A DY F O R T H E N I G H T. J U S T T H R OW I T O N , I N C A S E YO U A R E N OT C O M I N G B AC K HOME.

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STYLING

T H E B E AU T Y O F M OV E M E N T W I T H T H E FA B R I C H A N G I N G U N D E R T H E A R M S , A N Y AC T I O N YO U D O O R TA K E L O O K S G R AC E F U L A N D E L E G A N T. T H E K I M O N O, A L R E A DY B E A U T I F U L , B E C O M E S E V E N M O R E B E A U T I F U L BY T H E AC T I O N S P E O P L E TA K E W H I L E W E A R I N G I T.

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STYLING

E T H I CAL FA S H I O N C U S TO M E R S T H E M S E L V E S C O N T I N U E TO WA S T E FA S H I O N . B R A N D S M A K E I M M E N S E C A S H F L OWS

BY Q U I C K L Y S AT I S F Y I N G C U S TO M E R D E M A N D S AT T H E L OW E S T C O S T TO M A K E A P R O F I T. IN 2013, THE R ANA PLAZA BUILDING IN B A N G L A D E S H C O L L A P S E D, K I L L I N G 1 , 1 3 4 WO R K E R S A N D I N J U R I N G A P P R OX I M AT E L Y 2,500. SOME OF THE REASONS INCLUDED T H E A D D I T I O N O F M O R E F L O O R S A B OV E T H E O R I G I N A L P E R M I T W I T H S U B S TA N DA R D C O N S T R U C T I O N M AT E R I A L S , OV E R L OA D O F T H E B U I L D I N G S T R U C T U R E , V I B R AT I O N O F H E AV Y M AC H I N E RY, A N D D U B I O U S P R AC T I C E S F R O M OW N E R S W H O M A N U FAC T U R E D A P PA R E L F O R M A N Y I M P O RTA N T B R A N D S , I N C L U D I N G B E N E T TO N , P R A DA , G U C C I , A N D V E R S AC E .

A L L O F T H AT TO S AT I S F Y T H E C O N T I N U O U S D E M A N D S O F FA S T FA S H I O N A N D L OW- C O S T C L OT H I N G .

M A S S P R O D U C T I O N I S U N A B L E TO PAY FA I R F E E S TO S E W I N G FAC TO R I E S , S O T H E Y M OV E TO L OW E R M A R K E T S W I T H T H E I N T E N T I O N O F E M P L OY I N G P E R S O N N E L AT T H E L OW E S T WAG E S .

T H E Y A L S O M A S S - D I S P O S E P R O D U C T S TO K E E P T H E B R A N D ’ S VA L U E A N D C O N T I N U E W I T H T H E M O N O P O L Y O F P R O F I T.

I DON’T WANT TO WEAR CLOTHES THAT WERE MADE BY THE SACRIFICE OF SOMEONE K U D E N WA S R E B O R N A S A N E T H I C A L B R A N D T H AT T H I N K S T H O R O U G H L Y A B O U T T H E WO R K E N V I R O N M E N T A N D T H E P E O P L E I N VO L V E D I N OUR PRODUCTION. T H E N A M E “ K U D E N ” C O M E S F R O M “ T E L L TO S O M E O N E BY M O U T H , T E AC H A N D I N S T R U C T. ” T H E R E A R E M A N Y WAY S TO T H I N K A N D A P P R OAC H B E I N G E T H I C A L , S O W E C A N A L S O S AY T H E R E I S N O E X AC T A N S W E R .

S O W E M U S T C O N T I N U E TO L E A R N , R E F L E C T O N W H AT I S M O R A L , A N D P U T I T I N TO P R AC T I C E .

- - K U D E N BY TAK AH I RO S ATO

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Natural materials and responsible manufacturing meet a strong, classic and modern identity.

pisla.co

FEATURE STORY

CHARLENE

PARSONS “LEADERSHIP IS NOT ABOUT YOU;

IT’S ABOUT INVESTING IN THE GROWTH OF OTHERS.” KEN BLANCHARD

STORY BY MENA LOMBARD S T Y L E D B Y J U A N I TA C R A RY

PHOTOGRAPHY HAIR AND MAKE-UP P R O D U C T I O N A S S I S TA N T S

LARRY BARNARD S I LVA N A AV I G N O N I N ATA S H A TA B U N O VA ALEJANDRO BÁRZAGA

SPECIAL THANKS

N I C K M O N C A D A , T H E M I A M I B I LT O M O R E H O T E L , G U S TAV O C A D I L E , L U I S A P O N T E , N E S T O R C A M A C H O , OSCAR LOPEZ, STEPHANIE DICKSTEIN, A N D A L L T H E M I U S T U D E N T S A N D G R A D U AT E S W H O S H A R E D W I T H U S H O W M R S . PA R S O N S I N F L U E N C E D T H E M .

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PA N T S A N D J AC K E T S E BA S T I AN G R E Y A L L I G ATO R B R O O C H S TA S H WAR D RO B E BY DAN N Y S AN T I AG O

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J AC K E T L A S S U R E ÑA S

There are those who lead. There are others who empower. Some inspire.

These role models are regular people who, at their core, lie a never-ending source of connection, understanding, and compassion that sets them apart from the rest of the mortals. When you woke up and got ready to take on your day this morning, did you consider the possibility that it might be the first morning of the rest of your life?

Probably not. That morning back in 2018, I didn’t either. I was scheduled to have a 30-minute interview with the head of the Fashion Department at the Miami International University of Art and Design (MIU) for a position as an adjunct faculty member. I don’t remember driving over there, what I was wearing, or even waiting for that meeting. But I will never forget every second of my first encounter with her because meeting Mrs. Parsons changed my life.

As soon as I entered her office, I immediately felt at home because it was a place of a woman who undeniably loved fashion. The Chanel and Vogue books behind her desk, the runway pictures on the wall, and the papers and sketches scattered over her desk turned that space into heaven. I remember seeing her beautiful smile and realizing how she looked straight at me with her piercing blue eyes. I recall not resisting feeling captivated by that beautiful woman who exuded sophistication with an effortless Carolina-Herrera vibe. I sat down and saw my resume on top of her keyboard, and with her first comment, I realized that she had read it before meeting with me.

I had an instant feeling that I was sitting across a woman who would not speak unless she knew what she was talking about. I was right.

It is April 14th, 2022, and today is a big day for all of us that are part of MIU. The University is holding its yearly Style Runway Show, a very important event for everyone that is part of the Fashion Department at the school. I am sitting across from Mrs. Parsons at fashion designer Gustavo Cadile’s Miami apartment.

A fantastic mural decorates the wall behind me, and a breathtaking view of the Miami Bay area provides the perfect setting for a time to chat.

“How are you, Mrs. Parsons?”

“I am doing great, dear… I just renewed my driver’s license. What an experience! They ask you for a bunch of documents, and you have to have everything original, and I don’t have anything, so this guy says to me, ‘do you have your original marriage license?’ and I say, ‘no, it is in the Smithsonian’!”.

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I could not help my burst of laughter. I am sitting across a fashion industry legend and renowned educator, and she is almost oblivious of all that she has achieved and all the lives she has changed throughout the years.

Charlene Parsons was born and raised in Cumberland, a little town in Maryland, located 90 miles from DC and 90 miles from Pittsburg. She moved to Florida following her husband, who got a scholarship to play football at the University of Miami.

“I had taken fashion merchandising classes in Baltimore, Maryland, and when I moved here, I started working at Burdines and was with Burdines until I went with the school.”

“How did you end up in Burdines?”

“I moved to Coral Gables, and don’t forget; I was from a tiny town.

So, one day I got on the bus looking for Jordan Marsh, but the bus dropped me off at Burdines, so I had to work there because that was the only place I could find that I could get from Coral Gables! As corny as it sounds, this is the absolute truth. So, I stayed there, became a model, worked in the fashion department, and then moved to the school.”

“Why fashion?”

“Why fashion? Well, I studied to be a dental hygienist, got tired of looking into mouths, and decided to smile on my own and do fashion! I always loved fashion.”

Mrs. Parsons built the Fashion Department at MIU from the ground up. Miami International University, previously known as the International Fine Arts College, was funded by Edward and Anna Lee Porter in 1965.

In the beginning, the school offered Fashion Merchandising, and in the year 1988, they opened the Fashion

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Design major. Her leadership and work at the University have spanned for decades and have influenced countless students who are now successful players in the fashion industry.

Mrs. Parsons is the wind behind the wings of many fashion designers who have dressed numerous celebrities like Catherine Zeta-Jones, Eva Longoria, and Laverne Cox. Her force and determination paved the way for many generations of designers, and everything she did, fought for, and built, was all for the students and with them in mind.

“In those years, I was so fortunate… when I needed a scholarship, I would knock on Edward Porter’s door and say ‘Edward, I have somebody in my office that is so talented, I have to have a scholarship’, and he would say ‘all right, I think I gave you a few already’ and I would say ‘uhm… not that many!’… ‘And you know what?” she continues, “all the kids he gave scholarships to were all successful, and they all remembered him. All those kids were incredible. And I still hear from them; I still keep in touch with so many of them”.

You can see it in her eyes and hear it in her voice; she lights up when she talks about her students. Mrs. Parsons is an institution in her own right, having influenced and encouraged countless souls throughout the years. She mastered the art of moving human intellects and emotions in the most elegant and effortless way. She has the incredible ability to spot strengths and bases the development of young talent through it. With every step she makes, she gives people the incentive to succeed, and with every word she speaks, she gives them the strength to overcome any obstacles. She is the embodiment of a remarkable woman.

“IF I WERE TO DESCRIBE MRS. PARSONS IN ONE SENTENCE, I WOULD SAY THAT SHE IS SOMEONE WHO TRULY CARES. SHE ALWAYS HAD THESE GESTURES; AT THE END OF FASHION SHOWS SHE WOULD PUT A HANDWRITTEN NOTE INSIDE MY MAILBOX THANKING ME FOR MY WORK WITH THE STUDENTS. SHE NEVER FORGOT A BIRTHDAY, SHE NEVER FORGOT A CHRISTMAS TIME, SHE ALWAYS MADE SURE SHE MADE YOU FEEL THAT SHE CARED, BECAUSE SHE GENUINELY DID. WE USED TO GO TO NEW YORK FOR THE CFDA MEETINGS WITH ALL THE UNIVERSITIES OF THE UNITED STATES; LIKE FIT, PARSONS, AND DREXEL… AND BEING WITH HER YOU COULD SEE THAT ALL THESE PEOPLE KNEW WHO SHE WAS, AND WHEN YOU GOT THERE, SHE WOULD INTRODUCE YOU TO EVERYBODY, AND SHE WOULD SPEAK HIGHLY OF YOU TO THEM THAT IS THE KIND OF PERSON SHE IS… GENEROUS AND CARING.” NESTOR CAMACHO FASHION DESIGN LEAD FACULTY M I A M I I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I V E R S I T Y O F A RT & D E S I G N

S H I RT LISU VEGA J AC K E T J U L I AN C H AN G SUNGLASSES FENDI

FASHION STORY FEATURE

J AC K E T PAB L O B O RG E S N E C K P L AT E LISU VEGA BROOCH S TA S H WAR D RO B E BY DAN N Y S AN T I AG O SUNGLASSES GUCCI

The delicacy of Mrs. Parsons’ voice is the perfect match to the beauty of her face.

No wonder she was a model for Burdines for so long. “Burdines hired me first as a model because in those days, all stores had their own models and their own identity; it was how things were done. Working as a model, I started helping the Fashion Director with all the fashion coordinating and so I began working under her”. Mrs. Parsons modeled, assisted in coordinating all things fashion for Burdines, and became a speaker for the shows, specializing in fashion trends.

“How did you get involved in trends?”

“Well, I loved tracking trends and looking at what people had on… I mean, even today, when we were downstairs, I thought, ‘to live here, you must have a dog so you can walk the dog and look at what everyone is wearing!’… I also read a lot, I read every day, and if I went to New York, or Paris, or whatever, I walked and walked, looking at trends and what was in the stores”. Her pores exude the passion she feels for this trade. “And then you can almost judge, like the other night watching the Oscars, everybody had red on, so you knew red was going to be one of the biggest things coming in the stores; there were a couple of other colors as well but red… everybody that came up you would go ‘here comes another red dress’ (laughs)… I used to have the students watch all those award shows and ask them what looks they liked and what designers were worn”.

LUIS APONTE Becoming Burdines’ Fashion Director’s E D U C AT O R A N D M I U G R A D U AT E right hand opened the door to her life as an educator. Her boss was friends with Mr. and Mrs. Porter, who founded and owned the school. The Porters fell in love with Mrs. Parsons and her vast knowledge of the fashion business and industry, so they offered her a position. She began working at the University taking over the Fashion Merchandising program and making it one of the best in the country. When the school opened the Fashion Design Major, it became the molding force of many successful fashion designers. “When I first started, the Porters were very trusting people, and they gave me complete freedom to manage the fashion program. They told me, ‘Hire the best and you will be fine,’ and so that is what I did… we always had and still have the best teachers”. She beams with pride when she talks about the faculty at the University. I have witnessed firsthand how she was always available to her staff and trusted the people she hired. Always direct and to the point, she is a person who knows how to make her point across without talking down to anyone. She is a true team player, a generous leader, and loyal beyond words.

“MRS. PARSONS IS A ROCK IN THE FLORIDA FASHION INDUSTRY. IT IS SO MUCH FUN TO GO OUT WITH HER BECAUSE SHE GETS STOPPED EVERYWHERE, SHE IS LIKE A CELEBRITY. EVEN WITH THE MASK ON SHE COULD NOT HIDE… AND EVERYONE THAT STOPS HER, OR CALLS HER, SHE REMEMBERS. SHE WILL REMEMBER YOU, YOUR NAME, AND YOUR STORY. IT IS REMARKABLE” FASHION DESIGNER,

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“As a person who worked with you, that is something that stuck with me because you don’t see that amount of trust.”

“I guess no,” she said, looking away “you don’t see it, but as I said, I took it from the Porters; they were incredible. Phenomenal. They believed in the students so much, they believed in the students traveling because they thought that it was part of growing up, part of learning, and part of the experience. They were remarkable”.

Mrs. Parsons took on the fashion program at the University while she continued modeling for important fashion brands. “For several years, I still freelanced and did fashion shows; I walked the Christian Dior shows in the US. One day I got a call from Paris saying, ‘there is a contest, and we would like to know if your students would be interested’, and I said, ‘of course!’… It was the Christian Dior people that put the school’s name in”. That simple phone call was the beginning of what many MIU graduates call ‘the best experience of their life’. “For the first five or eight years, we were the only school along with FIT to represent the US in Paris. Seventeen countries competed, and each country sent ten students, and they had some of the top designers of Paris judging. After a while, the other schools caught on and wanted to be a part of it, so we had to have a contest in the US first, and the winners of that contest would fly to Paris and compete in the show that would take place in the Louvre… even though we were always in there I still didn’t like it (laughs)… I don’t like to share; I was an only child (laughs)”. And she adds, “We made it every year.

We traveled for 24 years. So, a lot of our top designers went, a lot of teachers went, it was great, you can imagine. It was incredible”.

Mrs. Parsons thinks a good education should provide students with two elements: knowledge and experience. She believed and took pride in bringing instructors who knew their craft and the industry so that they could pass all their theoretical and practical knowledge to the next generation of fashion professionals. She made sure the school organized fashion shows to showcase the work of its students, even though the shows were not a part of the curriculum. That is how the yearly Style

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“I THINK THAT WHAT WE SEE IS A REFLECTION OF THE INDUSTRY AND A REFLECTION OF OUR TIMES… AND ALSO, I SEE THAT A LOT OF FASHION ISN’T VERY GLAMOROUS ANYMORE LIKE IT USED TO BE… I THINK THE ‘CELEBRITISM’ – IF THAT IS A WORD – HAS TAKEN OVER”

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“MRS. PARSONS IS SOMEONE WHO SPENT DECADES MOTIVATING STUDENTS AND MAKING THEM FALL IN LOVE WITH FASHION. SHE SUCCEEDED IN MAKING THEM UNDERSTAND THAT FASHION REQUIRES COMMITMENT, STRUCTURE, WORK, TRAINING, DEDICATION, AND HIGH STANDARDS. IT IS OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO FOLLOW WHAT SHE STARTED, TO CONTINUE HER WORK AND LEGACY. WITH EACH EXPERIENCE AND SUCCESS, I STILL THINK, ‘WHEN I TELL THIS TO MRS. PARSONS, I KNOW SHE WILL BE PROUD OF ME.’ I WANT TO MAKE HER PROUD. WE ALL DO.”

Runway Show came to life. She arranged everything regarding the show through the contacts she had in the industry and took it upon her to put together every piece of the fashion show puzzle; making sure she organized a professional event that would provide the students the thrill, exposure, and experience of a real runway show. Mrs. Parsons thrived putting these events together, choosing the music, assisting with fittings, and making sure she cast the right models for each look.

And the day of the fashion show, she was the first to arrive and was J U A N I TA FASHION STYLIST not afraid of getting down and getting dirty to get things done.

“What would you have today in place of the traveling you used to have? How would you create something similar that could offer such a big opportunity and such a huge experience to the students?”

“I think the internships are the ones that can do that because when students go out into the industry, that gives them

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encouragement and confidence.

We started having internships long ago, and we still have them today.

They are so important because they get to see the real world, good or bad… it is not always fun and beautiful, but they get to see it. They see it all”.

“Do you think fashion education is hurting just like the fashion industry is hurting because of fast fashion?”

“I think for sure. I think that what we see is a reflection of the industry and a reflection of our times… And also, I see that a lot of CRARY A N D E D U C AT O R fashion isn’t very glamorous anymore like it used to be… I think the ‘celebritism’ – if that is a word – has taken over. Nowadays if you can get a celebrity to walk down the runway is like, ‘Oh my God!’ were before, none of the buyers would care who was walking the runway, they were there to buy the clothes … I would like to see more focus on the quality instead of on the quantity”.

J AC K E T S H AN TAL L L ACAYO BROOCH S TA S H WAR D RO B E BY DAN N Y S AN T I AG O SUNGLASSES FENDI

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SCARF BÁR Z AG A D R E S S A N D B E LT S E BA S T I AN G R E Y

“Where do you think this change should start?”

“That is a good question. I think the designers themselves are going to have to change the way they go back and almost regulate fashion”.

“When teachers, students, or graduates talk about you, they mention how inspired they were and still are by you. What do you think you did to inspire them?”

“Well, I think for the students, it was to back them up and give them encouragement.

Just to give them that encouragement or that confidence. And then for the teachers, I loved just bouncing ideas off of them, or have them come to me and say, ‘Oh my God, you should see what this student is doing…’ (looking at me, she says) You did that all the time.”

“What do you think the other people think about Mrs. Parsons?”

“I don’t really know … But like (looking at me again), I remember when I met you, and you told me what you wanted to do and your enthusiasm, just the way you wanted to show me the things you’ve done, I mean, I thought that was incredible, you know?”

It is funny to see how I want her to talk about herself, and instead, she chooses to talk about me. And she does this not only because she is absolutely humble but also because she is always focusing on others and not on herself. To her, others are incredible. She has the ability to see how great someone already is, and she has the unique superpower to see the hidden greatness that has yet to blossom.

“How would you define a good leader?”

“I think the encouragement….”

“Do you consider yourself a leader?”

“I don’t know… I knew I had to be a leader.

I don’t know if I was good one or not (laughs).

I just knew I had to be a leader.”

“What are you most proud of?”

“Well… I am happy and proud that we got chosen as one of the top seven fashion schools.

Because that took quite a lot. I am proud of all

“I AM PROUD TO HAVE BEEN ABLE TO INTRODUCE OUR STUDENTS TO WELLKNOWN DESIGNERS. I AM MOST PROUD OF HAVING SAID ‘YES’ SO MANY TIMES, EVEN WHEN I DIDN’T KNOW HOW WE WOULD BE ABLE TO DO WHAT I WAS SAYING YES TO.”

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“I ALWAYS HEAR FROM EVERYONE ‘BE HERE NOW, BE PRESENT, IN THE MOMENT’. I HEARD PEOPLE SAYING IT, BUT I HAVE NEVER EXPERIENCED SOMEONE DOING IT IN THE WAY SHE DOES IT. WHEN YOU TALK TO MRS. PARSONS, SHE IS PRESENT; SHE IS WITH YOU, AND SHE WILL LISTEN. IT CAN BE THE CRAZIEST DAY, BUT IF YOU NEED HER TO LISTEN TO YOU, SHE WILL BECAUSE SHE WANTS TO BE PRESENT. BECAUSE SHE CARES FOR WHAT YOU HAVE TO SAY. SHE GENUINELY CARES.” OSCAR LOPEZ FA S H I O N D E PA RT M E N T C H A I R , M I A M I I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I V E R S I T Y O F A RT & D E S I G N

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ON THE LEFT C OAT M E NA L O M BAR D SUNGLASSES GUCCI

the traveling we did with the students and teachers. I feel very proud of being part of the Hispanic Designers – although I don’t speak a word of it – (laughs) I was part of it with Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera… I am proud to have been able to introduce our students to well-known designers.

I am most proud of having said ‘yes’ so many times, even when I didn’t know how we would be able to do what I was saying yes to. I am very proud of that”.

She pauses for a second, and starts smiling as she remembers, and continues, “Thank God people knew of us, and then, they would call and say, ‘do you want to do this?’ and my answer was always ‘yes’, while I was already trying to figure out how we were going to do it (laughs). Like the chocolate contest, making clothes out of chocolate, we did that! And then Goya, which we are still doing. They came to us because they saw what we had done with the chocolate on TV, so they wanted to do something similar. One thing just kind of trickled to the next; we just said ‘yes’ a lot! I remember with Goya, that was big and tough, but they loved it!... We had rice and beans all over the floor!

You couldn’t walk anywhere!” (laughs) Whoever knows Mrs. Parsons can vouch that she is humble to a fault. She is quick to see the accomplishments of others and is so proud of what those around her are able to achieve. But when it comes to her own achievements, she does not focus on them.

Instead, she focuses on being grateful for having the opportunity and thankful for the help she got along the way.

“I was fortunate… I had so many

people helping me; I never did it alone.

I loved it!” she said with a warm smile.

“What is next for Mrs. Parsons?”

“Well… working with my grandchildren, I have three. I also said that at one point I was going to write a book… we’ll see. And then talking to the graduates, keeping in touch”.

“So, in a way, you want to continue the legacy.”

“I want to continue. I want to help the graduates, hear from them, or let them bounce ideas off of me. Keep in touch with the teachers, which I do, so I think that’s it. I’ve enjoyed this so much. Of course, there were days where you would tear your hair off, but all we did was always for the students, so I always enjoyed it very much”. She pauses and looks at me with her piercing blue eyes, and smiling says, “So, let’s go to the show. It will be my first show in forty-plus years, the first that I am going as a guest, not as an organizer, can you imagine?”

It is hard to imagine. Mrs. Parsons’ influence and presence is still very much present in every corner of the University. She is not only the creator of MIU’s Fashion Department; she is still the heart of it because we are all working hard to continue what she started. We all want to make her proud.

We want to honor every time she was supportive, understanding, loyal, pushy, witty, strict, and compassionate. Because truth be told, we would do anything for her. She inspires that.

Like I said before, there are those who lead. There are others who empower. Some inspire. And a very few of them do it all. Like Mrs. Parsons.

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22.02/2022

BY LIUBOV LAVRENIUK

“On June 22 At four o’clock sharp Kyiv was bombed, And we were told The War has started…”

T H E 2 2 J U N E S O N G , C O M P O S E D BY JERZY PETERSBURSK

P H OTO C O U RT E S Y L I U B OV L AV R E N I U K

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Said a famous soviet song, written in June 1941, about the invasion of the Soviet Union. Russians love dates and symbolism. On the 22nd of February 2022, they stepped on the territory of my country in Donetsk and Luhansk, which were occupied territories back then. And it has come… the day of the attack! The outskirts of Kyiv were among the first to be hit. It was about 5 a.m. on the 24th of February when rockets started exploding all over Ukraine.

It also happened in the town of Brovary, which was very close to one of the biggest airports in the country and the capital of Ukraine, the town where I lived and where important military and infrastructure facilities were located. Earth started shaking from heavy explosions; sounds of shootings and shelling were clearly heard in the neighborhood. Russian troops invaded Ukraine near Kharkiv, Kherson, Chernihiv, and Sumy through Russia, Belarus, and the Russian-occupied Crimea.

Long time before… I had a strange feeling that I had to get rid of everything I wouldn't be able to take care of and settle all remaining matters.

There was a feeling that you want to get back to simple things, like your natural hair color or bare nails, and get rid of the stuff you don't wear or so many unnecessary things or relationships that don't let you breathe or else. It was such a stupid thing to think about, but it seemed so important back then. Just a feeling!

A few weeks before, as I have an international affairs background, History is my passion, and because I am also a psychologist and love analyzing everything, I had been fol-

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lowing the foreign officials on Twitter for some time before the invasion and was aware of even the date. It was strange, but during a moment like that, you don't really realize what kind of disaster is over you…

It's just a feeling that there's nothing ahead of you and nothing really matters. A week before, I offered my husband to pack the bags and set off on a trip to safety, but like many others, he said it wouldn't happen, and if it did, we would have enough time to escape. I couldn't sleep at night, and there was a strict plan in my mind about how I was going to cross the bridge over the Dnipro river just in time to avoid the traffic jams, but I didn't even think of where we would go. And I couldn't even imagine that it was possible that rockets would hit my native town and cause that damage. Four days before the invasion, I had no doubt that we had to pack our stuff and forward it by mail to have enough room in the car for my dearest people and pets.

But still, we couldn't believe it could happen at the moment like that, so we didn't leave then.

A few days before… Anyway, I persuaded my husband to take our dog to the village where my Mom lived, and every evening we checked that our car was refueled with diesel.

We also arranged all the necessary documents and started packing our things. It was challenging to pack my own as it hurt so much, so I delayed and arranged for everybody else except for mine. My suitcase was the last to be packed. I was standing there in front of my wardrobe and couldn't take a thing. In the end, I just grabbed some of my favorites

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and forgot about everything else. There had been three sleepless nights before we had to leave our home. The last one was the most difficult, and five minutes before the attack, we had fallen asleep, as we were extremely exhausted. And there it came - the moment you exist before and after.

In approximately half an hour, we woke up to the sound of explosions and crashing noise.

The last news I had heard before I fell asleep was that there were loads of enemy troops along the border of my country. I woke up in a completely new world from the explosions on the outskirts of Kyiv. We realized what was going on just in a few minutes. Then, my phone started ringing. It was my friend, and she was whispering, "That's war, war has started! Let's do something… Are you leaving? Take us with you!" She lived nearby with a boyfriend and her son, who is also my godson. I felt completely confused and couldn't think clearly. So I asked her to give me a few minutes to think it over. I had a perfect plan to take my Mom from the village with us, and I persuaded her to pack her "anxious suitcase." But she refused to leave at the very last moment, and we had no time to think. We grabbed our cat, who had never been outside before, jumped into the car, and set off. My friend was waiting on the roadside. We picked them up and moved on.

Everybody was quiet and didn't say a word.

There was tension in the air, as nobody was aware of what would be happening next. I was thinking about my son, who was luckily far from me. We had just returned from Warsaw, where he studies, a few weeks before that day.

I couldn't stop thinking of those few days we spent together. "Will I see him again? Will I ever return home?" I thought.

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We passed the bridges in silence and saw vast queues of cars ahead of us. It was cramped at petrol stations, and we were passing by clusters of vehicles, the owners of which were trying to fill them with fuel. Some cars were simply left on the roadside, and hundreds or maybe thousands of people were going along the road. They were elderly carrying their bags, students holding their laptops, and little children hugging their favorite toys.

Many had heavy rucksacks, suitcases on wheels - they decided to leave the city, and nobody knew for how long.

A siren howled over the city again, and the rumble of explosions from the outskirts was heard. Everything was already different — long lines in shops and banks. But there was no panic, no hysteria. It was so quiet, but there was tension in the air. It all looked like the end of the world.

It took us approximately eight hours to leave Kyiv because of traffic jams and crowds of people. It seemed that time and life stopped in that traffic jam. We decided to turn to a country road as there was a better chance to move on there. However, we were stuck as well. On the right, we could hear sounds of enemy helicopters trying to occupy the airport in Gostomel, where our Mriya was. Mriya means "dream," and it was the Ukrainian most famous transport plane, which could carry the bulkiest and heaviest loads all over the world. It was something to be proud of. Now it's gone! Planes flew over us, and we had no idea if they were ours or what was happening there. I just held my breath and tried not to think about it. I couldn't stop my tears; I couldn't stop crying all my way from home. Finally, after eight hours of tension, we were on our way. But where? Nobody knew. We didn't even think about it.

Away from war!

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There was one more traffic jam where we were stuck near the city of Khmelnytskyi. We spent twelve hours in a car almost without moving ahead, having just a short sleep of approximately a few hours. At night, it felt like we were a target, as lights went off in all neighboring towns and the other cities we were passing by. And all that jam was lit like a Christmas tree in that darkness. In the afternoon of the next day, we were in the Carpathians at our friend's house and stayed there for one night.

It was the first time we stopped, had a meal, talked to someone who was our friend and had a night of sleep. Our poor cat was so scared that it hid behind the fireplace, and we had to disassemble it and take the cat out of there, as it was too hot for the poor thing. We had nowhere to go, and at that moment, I realized I had to find a place to live. I went outside. Beautiful mountains were surrounding us, but there was no time to admire, and I called my friend who lived in the furthest town from my home. When I asked her to help me find shelter or a flat to

rent, she immediately asked me to come and stay with them.

They were a family of four: my friend, Liana, her husband, and two sons. That was a new chapter of our journey.

So, I had my new temporary home. I had everything I needed.

My friend turned on the heating on the second floor; we had a room, bed, and meals. One more family was supposed to arrive and get shelter at my friend's the next day. Oh Gosh, what a wonderful host she is! An incredible family of extraordinarily hardworking and warmhearted young people, winemakers.

First two weeks, I couldn't stop thinking of my Mom and dog, who stayed there under everyday shelling. She spent three weeks in the cellar going outside only for a while to feed the dogs and take a breath. Her story is another one! She survived rocket shelling, bombings, tank battles, and more. There was no mobile connection, internet, or even electricity sometimes. So, she called once a day, and it was driving me crazy. I felt a need to be busy, so I started to weave nets for the military. After a while, as there was a need to treat me by doing

something meaningful, we arranged a first aid course. I am a tutor but didn't feel enough energy to talk to my students, so I decided to join the Red Cross as a volunteer.

Usually, I had a late shift that lasted five hours. Incredible people came across me on the way. People who had left their routine lives, classes, and families to help those stuck on the border and didn't lose hope of fleeing the war. The place where I worked was called Luzhanka.

They were people from Kharkiv, the city on fire after heavy shelling. And women who were driving their cars cramped with children and the elderly. It was easy to recognize them, as they all looked quite similar, pale and thin, almost shadows. They all repeated the same words "Kharkiv is such a beautiful city, such a beautiful city… Forty blocks of flats are on fire!" They were traveling for a few days and didn't want to eat anything except for just some tea.

A family from Kharkiv.

Two elderly women: a mother, a daughter, and a man. They were in a green van. The older woman was seriously ill and needed to

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be examined, and some treatment was necessary. We found a doctor, a local young girl, who brought the medicine herself.

The doctor spoke Ukrainian, but the sick woman didn't understand her, as she spoke Russian. Many people in Kharkiv spoke Russian. She looked terrified. The health care worker asked her the name and age to examine the memory and the patient's condition, but the woman couldn't say for sure. Her pressure was tested, and she got good care. After all this, tears appeared in her eyes, and she said, "Girls, I will speak only Ukrainian from now on, I promise." The doctor and I looked at each other, and we could not hold back our tears.

A man from Odessa. He came up to me one night and asked where the border was. I pointed at the bar. It was surprising to hear a question like that.

When I took a brief look at him, I saw a handsome young boy with shoulder-length hair wearing a light jacket with a broken zipper and no hat - and it was a cold February, but it seemed as if he didn't feel any of that. He was also holding a small rucksack.

"What is your name?" I asked.

He told me his name was Nikita, his elder brother was drafted into the army, and his parents were in Germany. I offered him some

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tea, a sandwich, and a blanket as he couldn't remember when he had last eaten. He was walking as all the trains were cramped. He repeated the exact words again and again "I am so ashamed!" I offered to sit by the fire as it was freezing cold, and he told me he didn't want to leave; he wanted to go to the army, similar to his brother. ​​I told him that it was God's will for our people to travel around the world because their mission was to survive and carry our culture and save our DNA for future generations. He asked if he could stay there for a while and didn't leave for quite some time. There were so many other stories that I could write forever. ​​Meanwhile, the enemy approached Kyiv and tried to break through the defense. All cities of Ukraine came under constant fire. Russian troops approached and stood 15 kilometers from my hometown. The beautiful city of Mariupol in the south of my country was wiped off the surface of the Earth. Thousands were deported or killed, and mothers were separated from their children. The dead were buried in mass graves. It seemed that this could not be a reality.

Sirens sounded in every town in Ukraine along with tears every night.

And then it was spring. I started tutoring again. I had my friends' support; we arranged my Mom's way to safety; there was a long and challenging way for my dog to get to us. But that's another story to be told.

I had my new office arranged by my friends in the room I was staying in. Every evening we gathered, watched the news, and lived our wonderful family life. I told them the stories of my students fleeing war and stories from Luzhanka; my husband helped in the vineyards. My friend volunteered as well, and many men were drafted into the army every day.

Two months passed, and I realized it was time to go home.

This situation could not last forever, and hopefully, the enemy was driven away from the capital and my hometown. Although there was still the danger of rocket shelling, it was time for me to go back to reality. The way home was long. Terrible damage, ruined houses, broken military equipment, and destroyed roads. In Kyiv, there wasn't any fuel, or there was a lack of it.

Prices were extremely high for the food. But it was our home, and we had to cope with all this somehow. It is our new life, and it's just about to begin.

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P H OTO C R E D I T S FA S H I O N D E S I G N E R : C H A N TA L L E L I T VA K FA S H I O N S T Y L I N G : N ATA S H A TA B U N OVA H A I R & M A K E - U P : M I L I R OT T J E R M O D E L S : M A R I A C A R L OTA FA R I A ( “ L A M AC A” ) , D I E G O S M O K P H OTO G R A P H E R : F L ÁV I O I RYO DA

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WHEN THE ORDINARY WAS NOT ENOUGH FEATURING CHANTALLE LITVAK

With hyper-dynamic presence, much passion, and determination, Chantalle targets women and men who want to express joy to the world with bold colors and styles that are flirtatious, contemporary, and, at the same time, elegant. Her ethos of environmental sustainability has Chantalle constantly on the lookout to give second chances to fabrics, colors, and people.

SHE DECIDED TO BE THE CHANGE JUNE 2022 |

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B OT H S I D E S N OW A G O R G E O U S M U LT I F L OW E R E D S K I RT E M B R O I D E R E D I N J OY F U L SUMMER SHADES OF SALMON PINK, TURQUOISE, AND GREEN. BASED ON C H A N TA L L E ’ S E T H O S , B OT H O U T F I T S C A N B E U S E D O N T H E B E AC H O R GIVEN SECOND CHANCES A S R E S O RT W E A R F O R P O O L S I D E R E S TA U R A N T S O R LOUNGES.

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T H E E N D L E S S S E ARC H F O R I N S P I R AT I O N I N S P I R E D BY E X P L O R I N G W H AT P R O D U C E S H A P P I N E S S , W H AT C R E AT E S B OT H T H E P O S I T I V E A N D N E G AT I V E A S P E C T S O F J OY. T H E C A P E D E S I G N I S A TR ANSLUCENT TURQUOISE WITH AN ELEGANT BLUE-ON-BLUE TEXTURE M ATC H I N G A P L AY F U L B I K I N I T H AT H I N T S AT S TA R F I S H A N D S E A F OA M .

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L I F E S T Y L E I N M OT I O N C R E AT E D TO S H OW H OW G A R M E N T S C A N S U P P O RT A M A N ’ S AC T I V E L I F E S T Y L E

BY C R E AT I N G S E PA R AT E S T H AT H I G H L I G H T T H E M A L E P H Y S I Q U E A N D AT H L E T I C I S M .

T H E TO P WA S I N G E N I O U S L Y M A D E W I T H A C U TO U T A N D SAFETY PINS LINKING THE S H I RT. T H E FA B R I C F L OWS B E A U T I F U L L Y W I T H M OV E M E N T, A N D I T S WAT E RY B L U E A N D G R E E N M AT E R I A L I S M ATC H E D W I T H L O O S E B L AC K T R O U S E R S T H AT P R OV I D E A R E F I N E D A N D RELAXED LOOK.

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V E R S AT I L E AN D FA S H I O NAB L E THE MEN’S ROBE IS DESIGNED TO B E U S E D F O R M U LT I P L E O C C A S I O N S , B OT H F O R M A L AND INFORMAL, WHILE STILL M A I N TA I N I N G A FA S H I O N A B L E OUTLOOK. THE ROBE’S L U X U R I O U S FA B R I C S PA R K L E S W I T H M U LT I - C O L O R E D S T R I P E S EXPRESSING ELEGANCE YET L I G H T E N O U G H TO H AV E A M O R E P L AY F U L AT T I T U D E . I N T H I S C A S E , I T I S PA I R E D W I T H C A S U A L WHITE TROUSERS, WHICH ONLY H E L P E D TO E M P H A S I Z E T H E ROBE’S GLITTERING SHADES OF PINK, GREEN AND BLUE.

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G O O D F O R YO U T H E S K I RT A N D TO P W E R E MADE WITH CLEVERLY REUSED A N D R E C YC L E D FA B R I C S , W H I C H S I M U LTA N E O U S L Y EXUDED ELEGANCE AND E T H I C A L B E H AV I O R .

T H E S E PA R AT E S K I RT I S E XC E P T I O N A L L Y F L E X I B L E S I N C E I T C A N B E WO R N I N M U LT I P L E WAY S T H AT CONSISTENTLY HIGHLIGHT THE PINK-CUT OUT PEEKING O U T O N T H E B OT TO M A N D THE SPLIT SIDE, WHICH CAN BE OPENED OR CLOSED DEPENDING ON THE MOOD OF THE OCCASION.

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F O S T E R / R E AL I Z E C H AN G E C H A N TA L L E WA S FA S C I N AT E D TO P L AY W I T H R E M A I N S A N D L E F TOV E R FA B R I C S A N D T R A N S F O R M T H E PA N T S A N D B L O U S E I N TO T H E S E U N I Q U E A N D I N N OVAT I V E P I E C E S .

T H E U P C YC L E D G A R M E N T S W E R E M A D E TO E M P H A S I Z E T H AT S U S TA I N A B L E C O N S U M E R I S M IS ETHICAL AND CAN ALSO BE B E A U T I F U L . S H E WA N T E D TO M I X T E X T U R E S S U C H A S D E N I M , L AC E , A N D FA B R I C PAT T E R N S W I T H F L O R A , FA U N A , A N D V I B R A N T C O L O R S TO MAKE THESE GARMENTS BEAUTIFUL A N D J OYO U S .

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Y T H U G A U E B RO S. H T AO D H L C OU RE G U H S UT LON O C TA E G ITH T E W RE ?

T S EAR W P H OTO C R E D I T S STYLING: JEAN PIERRE GODINEAUX

FA S H I O N : I N D I E T R U E BY C A S S A N D R A YO U N G S , D E E S E R R E T S H O E S : VA L E M B R U N

M A K E - U P : M AC A R E N A DA R S I E H A I R : YA S M I N

M O D E L : W I O L A G A I DA

A S S I S TA N T: J O N G AC E L A

P H OTO G R A P H E R : F L ÁV I O I RYO DA

L O C AT I O N H O S T: YA S M I N D O M I N I C A N STYLIST

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SO FON

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DE

TA COS A YOS HO

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Does Avant-Garde fashion lead the industry through its edgy innovation and its desire to slyly spit on conservative convention? This assertion is based on the idea that there is a single traditional high-fashion point of view that sits in glorious and jealous judgment of anything that reeks of chaos. Is there truthfully a tiny band of daring creative pioneers, huddled in some corner of the cultural world somewhere, who surreptitiously create break-through fashion for the hungry and desperate masses? Probably not. Shockingly, there are divergent interpretations of what the Avant-Garde style is and what is its purpose. There are skeptics in the fashion world who sneer at the term AvantGarde and contemptuously peer at these self-proclaimed designers as subversive maniacs pitching hideous clothes to the sheep. But one must admit the skeptics may have a point; not so long ago, there was an outpouring of hysterical adoration for Vetement’s DHL T-shirt, which allowed anyone with 185 British pounds to look like a manual laborer. There is a charm in seeing elitists salivate over a garment so prosaic and easily attainable on the DHL website. You have to wonder if Georgian-born 34-year-old Gvasalia was belly laughing as Vetement’s name skyrocketed to the top of the fashion heap. However, you also must admire their ability to pinpoint that indelible need to laugh at fashion while still being an intricate part of it.

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NOT EVERY AVANT-GARDE ARTIST WILL SUCCEED, AND MANY WILL CREATE CRINGE-WORTHY CRAP. BUT WE WOULD NEVER DISSUADE THESE BRAVE ARTISTS FROM GIVING UP. Nonetheless, artistic designers who yearn to be considered “Avant-Garde” are constantly attempting to find a new way to define beauty, a new way to use fabric, or even a new way to mock an elitist and primarily middle- and upper-class aesthetic. In our opinion at Avessa? That is leadership. Not every Avant-Garde artist will succeed, and many will create cringeworthy crap. But we would never dissuade these brave artists from giving up. For this editorial, Avessa wanted to highlight the sub-genre Avante-Garde streetwear.

This style is typically bold fashion, artistic, and extravagant. This genre is aligned with “street culture,” which is rebellious and emphasizes strength and power. It requires quite a bit of courage to achieve Avant-Garde streetwear as it experiments with contrasts in shapes, volumes, fabrics, and colors to give way to unique silhouettes. Skeptics believe that Avant-Garde translates to a rejection of mainstream beauty conventions such as displayed in haute couture and is often seen as “antifashion.”

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In truth, Avant-Garde is a philosophy that encourages trial and error and whose goals yearn to break the accepted mold of beauty. Are all these designs beautiful? No. But that is not the point; Avant-garde designers are not ahead of trends—they’re immune to them. Avessa wanted to explore the idea of combining unique fashion combinations in decidedly unattractive locations. At least in the conventional sense. Some may consider garbage and rat poop gorgeous, but I contend the majority do not. These beautiful clothes, accessories, and model showed that beauty can be unconventional and can still shine, even viewed through the dirty tin cans.

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THE

PROMISE

BY IBTISSAM EL AZAMI | FEATURING ALEJANDRO BÁRZAGA

HAS THE WORD ‘LEADER’ TRIGGERED THAT CRYPTIC, MIXED FEELING INSIDE YOU? NO ONE WANTS TO FEEL LIKE A FOLLOWER - WE ALL LIKE TO THINK THAT WE ARE ABLE TO MAKE OUR OWN CHOICES. BUT FEW WANT THE RESPONSIBILITY THAT COMES WITH BRINGING MINDS TOGETHER.

FASHION DESIGNER & ARTIST: ALEJANDRO BÁRZAGA MODEL: KATELYN PEREZ MODELING AGENCY: POSCHE MODELS HAIR & MAKE-UP: MILI ROTTJER PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS: CHANTALLE LITVAK, MAILE CASTANEDA PHOTOGRAPHY: FLÁVIO IRYODA

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MAKING OUR OWN CHOICES IS ONE OF THE HARDEST THINGS TO DO IN TODAY’S WORLD. AND FROM A PERSONALITY PERSPECTIVE, ONE CAN ARGUE THAT NOT ONE PERSON ON EARTH HAS THEIR OWN PERSONALITY, AS HAVING YOUR OWN PERSONALITY WOULD REQUIRE NEVER HAVING MET ANY OTHER HUMAN BEING NOR SUFFERED THE INFLUENCE OF CONSCIOUS AND VOCAL SURROUNDINGS. YET, TO BE EFFECTIVE, LEADERSHIP REQUIRES A CERTAIN TYPE OF MENTAL STRENGTH AND DETACHMENT. Leadership is one of those big words that mean so much and so little at the same time. One of those concepts like happiness, acceptance, and self-esteem that we could write volumes about without ever reaching the end of it. One of those kaleidoscope words with a chameleon skin depending on the mindset and the culture. It would be actually difficult to nail down what leadership means to perfection, as it’s interesting to note that different types of cultures trigger different types of leadership. It enhances an independence of sorts that is probably only existent in certain people, a detachment not only from other human beings but also from the leader’s ego.

This is not my goal to touch base with political leadership here - rather, I want to question what we feel within the endeavor for personal leadership and growth. The rapport between politics and getting on top of ourselves to keep our feet on the ground might be tighter than we think, when you bring the macro vision to a personal level. Think of it this way: while in some countries, you would need one leader backed by parties, in others, it is of the utmost importance that the oldest members of the society get the responsibility of power, due to their old-age wisdom. In

yet other cultures, it is the power of the whole community as one that makes leadership that much more effective, dressing democracy with yet another meaning. So what about leadership when it comes to yourself? Is effective leadership coming from a mashup of your surroundings digested and made yours, or does it come from stripping yourself from exterior influences to go back to a raw mindset? And how do they influence the way you succeed? So much goes into being your own leader. Being your own goal-getter, fighting for and against yourself when you don’t want to get up in the morning because you’re the one to structure your own days, and you have to bring yourself in a place to be as efficient as possible - because time is limited. Effective leadership comes from a place of love, care, and promise. It has nothing to do with professionalism in its early stages. Rather, leadership is understanding - like any healthy relationship would be. Although it does call for sacrifices, leadership at its core is taking the time to process the why’s of what you are going through as you’re paving the way for your true self, and maybe others’.

Whenever you choose to embark on a new line of business, do so with all the deep hope you can fit in your heart. As Martin Luther King said, you need to take the first few steps in faith - you don’t have to see the whole staircase. But you know how it feels. You are able to lead the way for a few weeks, maybe a few months with inconsistent results. It feels down, down, down, a little bit high, then higher, then down, then higher, and success is never quite linear.

You have to sacrifice lots in order for success to knock on the door. And I do believe that success and leadership won’t knock on your door unless you are perfectly aware upfront of the puzzle pieces that need to be put together. I am not talking about knowing all about the outcome - what

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fun would it be? I am talking about enjoying the process of discipline, for anyone looking to make it in life has to rule over themselves before they can claim some kind of power in society.

There’s a certain comfort to be found in times when you meet likeminded people, creators, and self-leaders who go through the exact same situations you’re going through, whether the small joys or the big despair moments. It’s all about being the leader of yourself, whether you’re at the beginning or in the middle of it all. As a freelance writer, ex-fashion makeup artist, and self-employed full-time blogger, I’ve experienced many of the ups and downs that leadership brings about.

Funnily enough, being a leader means in no way that you will always have answers to all and any situation. What it means, on the other hand, is that you have been gifted with the mental ability to navigate uncertain waters, whether it comes to believing in the not-yet-real or reacting to worldly relationships. Even if you cannot always control the outcome, what you’re putting out there is worth believing in - in being a leader, you are making connections with human beings as well as virtual universes.

AS A LEADER, YOU NEED TO KEEP UP WITH THE PROMISE THAT YOU’VE MADE: THE PROMISE IS ALWAYS TO BETTER THE WORLD, AND LEAD ON A PATH OF GREATNESS AND HAPPINESS There are lots of degrees to the promise you make to yourself and others when you take on the leader role. It induces a feeling of compassion, understanding, and motivation. Above all, whoever becomes a leader instantly becomes the go-to trusted figure, the grounded soul, and the visionary who possesses the knowledge of all possible events. Even if that might not always be the case, as no one possesses such knowledge, it is largely expected from the leader to be flawless and faultless.

As a leader, you need to keep up with the promise that you’ve made, whether it be targeted at yourself, close people who have chosen you as a trusted representative or colleague, or society in general. The promise is always to better the world, and lead on a path of greatness and happiness.

When people choose a representative, they are looking for someone to make them happier every step of the way, all the way down the road. It’s a human matter, a matter of bettering the current situation - always and forever.

Many leaders use their power for their own gratification. An interesting way to look at it, however, bases itself on a selfless, almost philosophical

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level, for the greater good. How do you know when the greater good is reached? That is when most of the population is happy. Transposed to a personal level, leading yourself from a place of love, in an epicurean way, allows you to make painfully difficult decisions short term for your future greater good. It has nothing to do with bringing attention onto yourself from the outer world and everything to do with making pure decisions that you need to trust to reach bigger and better goals. Money has nothing to do with it. Fame and success have nothing to do with it. Staying true to pure intentions bring about limitless happiness, while fame and money stacks are by-products of well-led leadership. Similarly, beating adversity comes from a place of love. When I talk about adversity, I am talking about yourself. No adversary is greater than your ego and the little voice that tells you that you can’t do it. What makes a leader especially attractive is the value of their ideas, full of compassion and understanding for themselves and their people. There needs to be a balance between set tasks and possibilities, and between vision and integrity. Being focused on one specific goal helps you master your leadership skills more effectively.

Much like horses who cannot see except in front of themselves as they’re wearing blinkers, so you need to think once you have drawn a vision for yourself. It might be boring, but consistency can only be achieved once you let go of all the superficial.

And if you are set out on the path to being a leader, that’s the best way to achieve it. Of course, you’re going to keep your passions, your family, and your friends, but having definitive goals will help you understand who and what belongs in your circle - and your growth. For as you grow as a person, you will grow as a leader. And that growth will help pour back into relationships, thus making society a better place for all. The notion of regret cannot be detached from the concept of leadership. This position inherently forces responsibility, and responsibility comes from making choices.

The tough part is to make pondered decisions, even though you will not know whether the choice is the right one or not, for only once the deed is done, can the effectiveness of a choice be known. Take in your surroundings, but remain detached enough to avoid superficial influences and still be free enough to figure out where you are in the process of dominating yourself.

For leadership, it is also acceptable when it works and when it doesn’t. It is being especially understanding and reactive when it comes to steering the wheel in another direction - even if your ego is not happy about it. This is a position that demands acknowledging when mistakes are made, no matter how difficult it can be. Leadership is forgetting about yourself and serving all. When all is said and done, I believe that a leader is - they don’t become. And to be fair, no true leader can be called such if they’re only in it for the feeling of success. Being a leader - of yourself or a greater ecosystem - doesn’t translate only to sacrifice. Rather, there are layers to passion and vision that most are not able to see. Leadership is not about power over a group of people - it is about power over your ego. Ego. The one thing that can possibly make you forget is that the ultimate goal is to better life for all. If you keep in mind to make human choices and set love-oriented goals, then your vision of leadership can only be effective.

BEING A LEADER DOESN’T TRANSLATE ONLY TO SACRIFICE. RATHER, THERE ARE LAYERS TO PASSION AND VISION THAT MOST ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE. LEADERSHIP IS NOT ABOUT POWER OVER A GROUP OF PEOPLE - IT IS ABOUT POWER OVER YOUR EGO.

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IN HER MOMENT FEATURING CAROLINA RINCHERE “DISPLACED” FW23 COLLECTION

P H OTO C R E D I T S FA S H I O N D E S I G N E R CAROLINA RINCHERE FA S H I O N S T Y L I S T J U A N I TA C R A RY H A I R & M A K E - U P A RT I S T VA L E N T I N A TA B A R E S MODEL ANIKA CHARLES M O D E L I N G AG E N C Y NEXT LEVEL P H OTO G R A P H E R F L ÁV I O I RYO DA SPECIAL THANKS N E S TO R C A M AC H O S A U L K A P I L I VS K Y M I A M I I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I V E R S I T Y O F A RT & D E S I G N

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A catastrophic earthquake tore down half of Haiti in 2010 that Carolina experienced herself. Many people died, got injured, were left homeless, lived in tent camps, and still do today.

This collection is an emotional reflection of what happened. Collapsed buildings and tents will influence the silhouettes of the garments, which are incredibly voluminous. The chosen colors express mixed feelings. Carolina expects this collection’s theme has a relatable purpose that all can identify with at some point. It represents an intersecting point between painful memories and the ability to move on from them. Carolina definitely delivers a comforting emotion to all that can experience her garments. When available later in the year, 25% of the proceeds will help the recent earthquake victims in south Haiti.

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I N I T I AL E T H O S BY CARO L I NA R I N C H E R E I WA S B O R N A N D R A I S E D I N H A I T I , A N D M O S T O F M Y A N C E S TO R S A R E F R O M C O N G O, A F R I C A . M Y C O U N T RY H A S A L WAY S H A D A S TO RY O F C ATA S T R O P H E , P O L I T I C A L U N R E S T, P R E C A R I O U S H O U S I N G , A N D P OV E RT Y. T H E L AC K O F P O L I T I C A L I N S TA B I L I T Y H A S L E D TO L O S S A N D PA I N . E L E V E N Y E A R S AG O, A N AT U R A L DISASTER SCARRED ME. BUILDINGS, HOUSES, AND SCHOOLS WERE S E V E R E L Y DA M AG E D. S O M A N Y P E O P L E D I E D A N D G OT I N J U R E D. L U C K I L Y, M Y FA M I L Y A N D I W E R E S A F E . U N F O RT U N AT E L Y, I L O S T A L OT O F F R I E N D S . T H E E X P E R I E N C E H A S K N O C K E D M E TO T H E GROUND AND CONSUMED MY LIFE FOR MANY YEARS. LOOKING B AC K , I R E A L I Z E T H AT T H O S E H O R R I F I C M E M O R I E S A R E S T I L L PA I N F U L . I ’ V E N E V E R B E E N TO T H E R A P Y, B U T I C A N E X P R E S S M Y F E E L I N G S T H R O U G H O U T M Y D E S I G N S . T H E B L O O DY R E D C O L O R WA S A L L I C O U L D S E E T H AT DAY. W E W E R E S L E E P I N G I N C A M P I N G TENTS BECAUSE OUR HOMES WEREN’T SAFE ANYMORE. T H I S T R AG E DY H A S B E E N A PA RT O F M Y L I F E E X P E R I E N C E S , A N D I T I N S P I R E S M E A S A D E S I G N E R , A RT I S I N F L U E N T I A L . I W I L L R E C R E AT E W H AT I F E LT A N D E X P E R I E N C E D TO H E L P T H O S E I N T E N S E F E E L I N G S A N D S E N S AT I O N S A S S O C I AT E D W I T H F E A R A N D A N X I E T Y D I S A P P E A R . I T W I L L C H A L L E N G E M E TO G E T O U T O F M Y S H E L L A N D L I B E R AT E M Y C R E AT I V E M I N D. I H AV E A L WAY S B E E N A F R A I D A B O U T T H E Q U A L I T Y O F M Y T H I N K I N G , A N D I H AV E T H E O P P O RT U N I T Y TO L E T I T O U T T H R O U G H M Y D R AW I N G S .

C A N U N E X P E C T E D T R AG I C E V E N T S A R O U N D U S B E P E R C E I V E D A S P U N I S H M E N T F R O M G O D F O R B A D B E H AV I O R , L AC K O F B E L I E F , K A R M A , O R R A N D O M H A P P E N I N G S ? W E M AY N E V E R K N OW W H Y T R AG E DY H A P P E N S . M Y WO R K I S A B O U T F I N D I N G B E A U T Y I N DA R K N E S S , C R E AT I N G A S C E N A R I O W H E R E P E O P L E C A N M OV E O N , A N D L E A R N I N G TO L E T G O O F PA S T H U RT S .

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T H E BAL A S FA M I LY F O U N DAT I O N F O R C H I L D R E N @ U M F F C W H E N AVA I L A B L E , 2 5 % O F A L L P R O C E E D S W I L L G O TOWA R D S H E L P I N G T H E V I C T I M S O F S O U T H E R N H A I T I ’ S M O S T R E C E N T E A RT H Q U A K E S .

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WHEN DREAM AND DAY UNITE 122

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BY VIRGINIA MAYER I used to say, “el amor de mi vida viene en burro”, which means, “the love of my life is on its way, riding a donkey,” hence the delay (it sounds funny in Spanish, I swear). Every time I had a chance to make a wish, I would basically beg for a love story. It is said in Colombia that to have a fulfilling life; you’re supposed to plant a tree, have a child, and publish a book. I have already published my first novel, planted a garden (which counts as a tree), and decided never to be a mother, so - at least in my own version of Colombian terms - I was doing just fine.

I always felt like I hadn’t really fallen in love because I like to think real love is reciprocated.

I thought I was in love with a lover I had for a few years, but he was never interested in me outside of our beds, which hurt badly. Don’t. Don’t fall in love with a lover. You’re just supposed to have sex, not fall in love.

I kept meeting frog after frog after frog. And every encounter was so pathetic and mediocre that I began to think that love wasn’t for me, that maybe I wasn’t built to love and be loved. I was desperate. I really was. I felt as though I needed

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that love story I ached so bad for. But it just wasn’t happening. I used to dream of falling in love while fucking, so every time I had a good fuck, I’d wonder if that could be the love of my life. I put myself in a very vulnerable position and allowed my heart to get broken over and over again. I wasted too many tears (I swear I did not waste any time whatsoever).

I was on Tinder for the ten years it’s been around, but all I met were dogs, pigs, and frogs. Nothing worth keeping, really. But I never lost hope because I thought it was impossible that they would all be so lame. After all, my cousin met her husband and father of her child there (even though she’d rather deny that detail). I thought there was hope. So, I kept swiping left and right (mostly left). After nine years living in Bogotá, I spent almost a year in Miami, where I hoped things would be different.

I met a bunch of guys on Tinder, but it was all the same.

Again, nothing special. I kind of assumed love would never arrive. I had to get used to the idea, and very soon, I stopped aching for it. But something had changed in

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me. I understood that I was the problem and realized I had to make a change in myself for things to start changing as well. I didn’t need a love story; I desired it. It’s very different. There’s an abyss between both concepts. So, I stopped daydreaming about it and stopped making wishes about it. I thought I have a wonderful life; I have the privilege of doing exactly what I wanted to do; And? I have a very fulfilling life. I am also surrounded by love.

I don’t lack love. So, I finally breathed profoundly and relaxed about the arrival of the love of my life. I was sure I didn’t need it; I just wanted it. And it would be just fine if I didn’t get it. After all, I am my most outstanding company.

That was my great lesson. There’s always plenty of love around because love has many forms and shapes.

There isn’t just one kind of love. I treasure the love my closest friends and family give me. I feel loved. Deeply loved. As soon as I understood that, then I could relax.

In the meantime, I decided to listen to my aunt (and therapist), who’s always told me about her college friend who wrote a list describing exactly how she wanted the love of her life and ended up meeting him just like she wished for. So, at night, as soon as I got in bed, I started thinking about who I wanted: I want a pretty face to stare at while fucking. I want an intelligent, cultured, intellectual, and educated guy with a Masters or a Ph.D. (my aunt said you need to be specific). He is a hardworking guy, passionate about what he does. I want a guy that loves music and will show me new genres and artists. A guy who will lust after me and explore and enjoy every inch of skin on every single corner, crease, and wrinkle of my body. Someone from my same social status (I’m not talking about money. This may sound like classism, and, yes, it is, but at 43 years old, I no longer fool myself by pretending that things can work with a guy from a very different background. Believe me; I’ve tried). I want someone who won’t be a slave to his addictions, someone who will lift me instead of dragging

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me down. Someone that I can learn from and someone who is willing to learn from me. A guy that can make me laugh and cry tears of joy.

Someone who won’t be pretentious. A guy with his own sense of style. Someone that will make me proud… And then I’d fall asleep.

Almost immediately after my list was finalized in my mind, I met a guy who came close. But? He never really decided what he wanted with me. One week he would be all about us being lovers, and the next one, he didn’t want me anymore. So, one day I finally told him never to contact me again and went back on Tinder.

I needed to replace his penis with a new one. It was all about that… really.

Eventually, I matched with this very cute, skinny guy with a baby face, sexy wrinkles on the sides of his eyes, a white shirt, and a guitar. His bio said he couldn’t stand grammatical errors and had Pink Floyd and Pat Metheny songs as his favorite.

I thought This was interesting! We started chatting just like I yearned

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for. He was challenging, funny, intelligent, engaging, and curious, and we began exchanging songs almost immediately…

This isn’t the kind of story I tend to publish. This one has a happy ending. We fell in love. And how do I know I’m in love? A friend once told me there’s no way I can be in love if the following three things don’t happen: I need to admire, respect, and desire that person. And I am right there. Oh, I am.

We are together now, and I am at peace. He is every single thing I wished for, just as I imagined him.

And he keeps surprising me. I love myself more since I’ve been with him because I’ve also started to see myself through his eyes. His sweet, sweet eyes. I feel fortunate.

We’ve got the power. Each one of us does. We allow others to hurt us. And we’ve got the power to stop that too. I did. I was so desperate and needy that, if I managed, you could too. I promise. Love is all around, and I really hope you get what you desire.

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ZODIAC

CANCER 21 JUNE – 22 JULY

BY MANISH ARORA

You have a strong interest in broadening your mental experiences in general and finding expression of your personality through them. Your vision is all the more realistic now, but pleasingly so. You work steadily and determinedly towards your goals. Authority figures and elders tend to look favourably upon you. You’ll be after true intimacy on all levels, and you won’t stop until you have it. By the month end, quantity in the relationship department will get replaced with quality, and this process involves time, soul-searching, frustration, and eventual fulfilment. Favorable Dates: June 1, 2, 10, 11, 19, 20. Favorable Colors: White & Blue.

LEO 23 JULY – 22 AUGUST

You are forced to begin seeing others as individuals, and to improve the manner in which you relate to and with them. Relationships are seen now as serious matters! Responsibilities to partners, the need to compromise, and the realities of the needs of others become clear. You are more attracted to unusual ideas, fields, and concepts.

Exposure to new ideas open up new worlds to you. Working hard at self-improvement ultimately leads to replacing your old spirit with a regenerated one. Appreciation for your efforts is forthcoming now. Favorable Dates: June 2, 4, 11, 13, 20, 22. Favorable Colors: Red & Green.

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VIRGO 23 AUGUST – 22 SEPTEMBER

This month marks a new phase in your life, when you will take your appearance much more seriously, and begin working as hard as possible. New relationships, career changes, financial revamps and health concerns are in for this month. Stirring in you is the desire to make radical changes to the manner in which you go after you want in life.The best advice for increasing your earning power now is to nurture your future-oriented talents. You are now treated to a realistic look at what you have built and achieved. Favorable Dates: June 1, 2, 10, 11, 19, 20. Favorable Colors: White & Yellow.

LIBRA 23 SEPTEMBER – 22 OCTOBER

It’s time to start fresh with regards to how you go about satisfying your needs for security and comfort, as well as to take charge of your life by taking the necessary steps to make yourself feel good and secure. Getting in touch with your needs for personal stability is important, as the positive effects in so doing will come back into your intimate life. You may also be just as inclined to splurge on yourself, plumping up your nest. Monetary problems from the past may clear up during this period. Favorable Dates: June 1, 3, 10, 12, 19, 21. Favorable Colors: White & Blue.

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ZODIAC

SCORPIO 23 OCTOBER – 21 NOVEMBER

You feel considerably more free to be yourself, and others tend to accept you more readily. Exposure to new ideas open up new worlds to you. You might need to guard against becoming too full of yourself or overly self-interested. You could experience some distinct mood swings. There is also a risk of overindulgence and other forms of extreme behaviour. You tend to be more helpful to others and spiritually inclined now. A healthy perspective on your life helps to keep everyday stresses from getting to you too much. Favorable Dates: June 3, 5, 12, 12, 19, 21. Favorable Colors: White & Blue.

SAGITTARIUS 22 NOVEMBER -21 DECEMBER

You become more attuned to the subtleties in your environment and in everyday activities. You absorb the mood of those around you quite easily now. This transit can add a mysterious aura to the way you project yourself to others. It is time for building a solid foundation. Understand that moderation right now is necessary for your spiritual growth and your physical body as well. The need to re-structure and re-organize your life will become glaringly apparent. You feel considerably more free to be yourself, and others tend to accept you more readily. Favorable Dates: June 5, 7, 14, 16, 23, 25.

Favorable Colors: Green & Grey.

CAPRICORN 22 DECEMBER – 19 JANUARY

You are likely to be more sensitive to what seem like outer world pressures that force you to examine some of your deepest desires and attachments. These include your sexual relationships, your finances and your need for control. The last week of the month brings powerful intuition for work, the chance to turn losses into gains, and opportunities to deal with past problems. Don’t

forget to take a break from monotony in work. To keep your love alive and kicking, expect the unexpected at all times, and try to go with the flow. Favorable Dates: June 2, 7, 11, 16, 20, 25. Favorable Colors: Green & Blue.

AQUARIUS 20 JANUARY – 18 FEBRUARY

A more free-spirited and faithful attitude towards life is with you in this month. Your intuition is heightened to possibly even uncanny levels. You enjoy an increasing feeling of hope, optimism, and spiritual protection.

You are building your resources, getting your finances straightened out, and learning a great deal about what makes you, and the people around you, tick. You are willingly taking the lead and others have your best interests at heart. A lover or partner is paying a lot of attention to you, and it feels fabulous. Favorable Dates: June 2, 6, 11, 15, 20, 24.

Favorable Colors : Green & Red.

PISCES 19 FEBRUARY – 20 MARCH

You are noticed and recognized for your natural talents on the job, and you could be busy re-investing money into your career. Some of you will be making money from esoteric endeavours or through work behind the scenes. Watching out for scams or risky speculative investments has been necessary and continues to be a concern this month. You will take expert financial advice or deal with financial people. It’s important to control your spending and focus on accumulation. The goal is to finish in a better position than you started at pocket level. Favorable Dates: June 3, 8, 12, 17, 21, 26. Favorable Colors: Blue & White.

ARIES 21 MARCH – 19 APRIL

Your sights are set high, but several circumstances help to bring you back down to earth. You can successfully combine practical matters

and more fanciful ones this month.

Career offers come now, and money owed to you could also arrive. This is the perfect time to move your love life into a new area and forget traditional ideas you might have about love and commitment. Unusual alternatives like speed dating, online relationships, and other rulebreaking experiments will make you glad. Passionate romance without any strings or expectations might be the answer. Favorable Dates: June 4, 5, 13, 14, 22, 23. Favorable Colors: Yellow & Grey.

TAURUS 20 APRIL – 20 MAY

This is an important period for managing your mind, body and spirit. If a crucial health issue is already on your agenda, keep life simple by working patiently with financial realities. A healthy perspective on your life helps to keep everyday stresses from getting to you too much. You’ll be in for some testing tussles and tumultuous attractions, and it may be that others will initiate the interaction or move in close to press a point. Someone from your past may contact you, possibly seeking a recommendation or renewed partnership. Favorable Dates: June 3, 8, 12, 17, 21, 26. Favorable Colors: Yellow & Blue.

GEMINI 21 MAY – 20 JUNE

You will be one step closer to knowing where you are headed, and you will have re-built faith in yourself.

Ideally, you adopt a more mature attitude towards adventure and facing the unknown. You’ll have a new attitude toward your co-workers and will find ways to squeeze extra work out of anyone. Tiredness and boredom might dampen your spirits for which you ought to take occasional retreats. A good balance between food, exercise and work shall see you in the pink of your health soon. Favorable Dates: June 3, 9, 12, 18, 21.

Favorable Colors: White & Grey.

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