Q1. 2024
THE LIFEST YLE CONNEC TION
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF E. Eaundre Skeete CONTRIBUTORS Marlon Bolasingh Nikki Caesar Sheena-Marie Joseph PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND DESIGN Caribbean Marketing Solutions Inc. (Barbados) Project Manager Allister Straker Layout & Design Dominic Skeete
www.jdvlifestyle.com — @jdvlifestylegroup
Choose Yourself - You deserve it!
THE LIFESTYLE CONNECTION — FIRST QUARTER 2024
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There is no greater time than the present to pause, reflect and honestly examine whether in the midst of all that’s going on around us, If we are truly putting ourselves first. From unrealistic expectations projected on us by others, to the personal and professional responsibilities that consistently consume our time and energy, it’s often easy to convince ourselves that the many sacrifices that we are forced to make on a daily basis are for the greater good, but, is it really? Choosing yourself does not make you selfish or in any way diminish your commitment to the obligations in your life. However, it equips you to be in a better position to show up for others and focus your attention on the things that make you happy and bring you joy. As we journey through life, let’s recommit to being more intentional about taking care of ourselves. Adopt a mindset of not denying yourself the things you deserve. Take a rest, book that much needed vacation, pursue your personal interests, spend quality time with those you love. Above all else - be unapologetic about choosing and putting yourself first because You deserve it!
Celebrate www.jdvlifestyle.com — @jdvlifestylegroup
La Joie de Vivre
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From exotic locations across the globe to immersive cultural or relaxing weekenders, we are delighted to announce our list of 2024 destinations. These member-only escapes have been designed to be more intimate curated experiences with a personal touch offering unique elements to meet the needs of the most discerning member. Say goodbye to the large Global Escapes and surrender yourself to a bespoke luxury experience with unparalleled attention to detail. Reserve your space today and join us for a truly memorable experience!
Enchanting Egypt CAIRO • SAQQARA • SHARM EL SHEIKH
APRIL 20TH - 27TH, 2024 Closing Date: February 1st, 2024 30 Members Maximum
BOOK NOW
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Enchanting Egypt Private Curated Experience Includes: Luxury Five Star Accommodations VIP Meet & Greet Round Trip Airport Transfers Transfers to all JDV Hosted Events Personal Concierge Service Welcome Reception Breakfast Daily Exclusive Immersive Experiences Select JDV Hosted Lunches & Dinners Specialty Events JDV Gives Back JDV Signature Experience: La Vie est Belle All Taxes & Fees Travel Insurance
THE LIFESTYLE CONNECTION — FIRST QUARTER 2024
From the banks of the Nile to the red seashores, this exclusive experience exceeds the expectations of the most discerning luxury traveler. From eclectic cuisine to a Nile River sunset sail on a felucca, you will be immersed into the cultural and archaeological wonders of Egypt. This intimate bespoke escape provides insider access to some of the Egypt’s greatest treasures and illuminates the history, diversity complemented by the warmth and hospitality of the Egyptian people. Experience Enchanting Egypt with JDV Lifestyle Group where the most extraordinary experience awaits!
Passions of Portugal www.jdvlifestyle.com — @jdvlifestylegroup
LISBON • SINTRA • PORTO
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This exclusive 7-night luxury experience is undeniably the most perfect escape for connoisseurs of wine, gastronomic experiences and cultural immersion. From the winding cobblestoned streets, picturesque seaside views from Lisbon’s soaring hilltops to the magic and mystery of Sintra known for its UNESCO World Heritage sites and the summer home for Portuguese royalty, you’ll be mesmerized by the wonders of this charming town that feels like you’ve stepped into a romantic fairytale. Discover Porto’s delectable cuisine as well as sample the finest wine in the traditional wine-houses to exclusive tasting houses, this escape requires you to pack your appetite and your passions, as you delight and discover Portugal’s best kept secrets.
JUNE 29TH - JULY 6TH, 2024 Closing Date: March 1st, 2024 25 Members Maximum Passions of Portugal Private Curated Experience Includes: Luxury Five Star Accommodations VIP Meet & Greet Round Trip Airport Transfers Transfers to all JDV Hosted Events Personal Concierge Service Welcome Reception Breakfast Daily Exclusive Immersive Experiences Select JDV Hosted Lunches & Dinners Specialty Events JDV Gives Back JDV Signature Experience: La Vie est Belle All Taxes & Fees Travel Insurance
BOOK NOW
Authentic Asia SINGAPORE • MALAYSIA
NOVEMBER 3RD - 11TH, 2024 Closing Date: June 1st, 2024 30 Members Maximum
BOOK NOW
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Authentic Asia Private Curated Experience Includes: Luxury Five Star Accommodations VIP Meet & Greet Round Trip Airport Transfers Round Trip Transfer between Singapore & Malaysia Transfers to all JDV Hosted Events Personal Concierge Service Welcome Reception Breakfast Daily Exclusive Immersive Experiences Select JDV Hosted Lunches & Dinners Specialty Events JDV Gives Back JDV Signature Experience: La Vie est Belle All Taxes & Fees Travel Insurance
THE LIFESTYLE CONNECTION — FIRST QUARTER 2024
Embark on a journey to two of Asia’s alluring destinations – Singapore and Maylasia. Designed to capture the true essence of Asia’s top cities with a touch of class, this awe-inspiring experience is meticulously crafted to offer you the ultimate in Luxury Travel. From savoring the delights of tantalizing cuisine and vibrant nightlife to indulgent spa treatments, remarkable history, immersive culture pursuits, this exclusive experience exemplifies why Singapore is often characterized as simply sensational and is guaranteed to leave you mesmerized by the magic of Malaysia!
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Berbere Spiced Meatballs and Fonio
THE LIFESTYLE CONNECTION — FIRST QUARTER 2024
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MEATBALLS 1 ½ cup panko bread crumb 1 pound ground beef 2 large egg, beaten 2 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper 4 garlic cloves, minced ¼ teaspoon grated nutmeg 2 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon turmeric 2 teaspoons paprika ½ teaspoon cayenne ½ teaspoon ground cloves ½ teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon chopped parsley 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro 1 tablespoon finely chopped scallion SAFFRON TOMATO SAUCE 4 tablespoons olive oil 1 ½ cups finely diced onion 4 garlic cloves, minced 2 tablespoons tomato paste 1 ½ diced tomatoes 2 piece cinnamon stick Small pinch saffron, crumbled Salt and pepper 3 cups chicken stock or sub water or veg stock FONIO 2 cup chicken stock or sub water of vegetable stock 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 tablespoon butter 1 cup fonio Arugula as needed 2 lemon
CHEF’S TABLE
CHEF JEROME GRANT
DIRECTIONS Sauce: Heat oil over medium-high heat in a wide, heavy bottomed saucepan. Add onion and cook without browning until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, tomato paste, diced tomato, cinnamon and saffron, and stir well to incorporate. Season generously with salt and pepper and allow to sizzle for 1 minute more. Add broth and simmer gently for 5 minutes. Meatballs: In a mixing bowl mix panko and ground beef. Add salt, pepper, garlic, nutmeg, ginger, turmeric, paprika, cayenne, cloves, coriander and cumin. Mix well with hands to distribute seasoning. Add 2 tablespoons each of parsley, cilantro and scallion, and knead for a minute. With hands, roll mixture into small round balls about the size of a quarter. Dust balls lightly with flour. Heat a few tablespoons of oil, or a quarter-inch depth, over medium-high heat and fry meatballs until barely browned, about 2 minutes per side. Drain and blot on paper towel. Simmer meatballs in saffron-tomato sauce, covered, over medium heat for about 20 minutes, until tender. Couscous: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add olive oil. Then add fonio and lightly toast. Add broth (or water), salt, butter, and bring to a boil. While stirring in the fonio. Once boiling cover tightly with a lid and remove from heat. Let the fonio steam for 5 minutes. Use a fork to fluff the fonio and break up any clumps. Serve warm. Arugula Salad: Dress with fresh lemon juice and olive oil. Season with salt + pepper.
Membership Matters: JDV It’s all about you!
We are intentional about who we recruit into our community and remain committed to curating a bespoke membership experience that attracts individuals who align with our core values and engender the attributes that have made us who we are today. Stay tuned for a special anniversary edition of “The Unveiling” - The Ultimate JDV Membership Experience. This upcoming global event will take you on a journey that encapsulates the true essence of who we are, the benefits of membership, and most importantly, the unwavering commitment that being a part of this family means, The common thread that inspires each experience, moment and possibility for us as an organization is never losing sight that in everything we do and the reason we exist is simply ensuring - it’s all about you!
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www.jdvlifestyle.com — @jdvlifestylegroup
Over the past few months, we’ve been evaluating our benefits, programs, events and experiences, and remain committed to continuously evaluating and enhancing our offerings and we’re confident that 2024 will be our best year yet! We are thrilled to see that so many of our members leverage some of the benefits associated with the organization, which extend far beyond joining us on a Global Escape, attending an event or participating in a JDV Gives Back opportunity. But, there is so much more that we believe you can take advantage of. With an extensive list of new benefits and the enhancement of some of our existing experiences, we will continue to expand our suite of benefits and ensure that you are both aware of and fully maximize all the benefits associated with membership.
THE LIFESTYLE CONNECTION — FIRST QUARTER 2024
As we celebrate another year, it’s important to take a moment to remind our JDV family that you are the reason we exist. Our goal as an organization was never to be the most popular or the largest lifestyle management company for people of color. On the contrary, it’s been our number one priority to demonstrate that we genuinely care about you, to consistently meet and exceed your expectations and most importantly to foster a community built on authenticity, trust and integrity. As a part of our global community committed to celebrating La Joie de Vivre, your passions, successes and endeavors both personal and professional are of paramount importance to all of us.
www.jdvlifestyle.com — @jdvlifestylegroup THE LIFESTYLE CONNECTION — FIRST QUARTER 2024
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Memories That Last a Lifetime! 2023 Global Escapes Highlights They say the best thing about travel is not finding your destination but getting lost in it and as we look back at our 2023 global escapes, we must concur.
CAMBODIA & VIETNAM
THE LIFESTYLE CONNECTION — FIRST QUARTER 2024
The Gems of Asia Private Curated Experience took us on a journey to two of Asia’s top destinations – Cambodia and Vietnam. From savoring delights of tantalizing cuisine to indulgent spa treatments, remarkable history, vibrant culture, and of course, the not to be missed picturesque beauty of Angkor Wat in Cambodia and Lang Co in Vietnam.
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www.jdvlifestyle.com — @jdvlifestylegroup
RWANDA
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Known as the land of a thousand hills, Rwanda’s stunning scenery and warm, friendly people offered us unique experiences in one of the most remarkable countries in the world. From visits to historical museums that inspire, to incredible gastronomic experiences served high above the flashing lights of the city below, Rwanda is indeed full of promise and wonder. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but no images can truly illuminate the indelible moments shared or tell the full story of how exploring Rwanda left us both emotional and enlightened.
POLO
THE LIFESTYLE CONNECTION — FIRST QUARTER 2024
The 2023 Polo Experience at Greenwich Polo Club welcomed approximately 350 key influencers, tastemakers, and decision makers across all spheres of the business, entertainment, media and technology sectors. The Experience combined luxury, exclusivity, gastronomy, and specialty concoctions to create the perfect blend of La Joie de Vivre for guests.
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NEW YEAR’S EVE
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Our JDV family celebrated La Vie Est Belle - New Year’s Eve edition at the JDV House in Union Square, New York City. Adorned in their finest attire, guests enjoyed specialty crafted signature cocktails and an exquisitely chef-curated cuisine while ringing in the new year
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Membership has its benefits At JDV, we are able to leverage our global connections to facilitate the sometimes tedious and time consuming processes associated with travel. Our personal concierge service is designed to serve you for some of our Global Escapes. As a JDV Member, consider this a completed task!
MEMBER FEATURE
GM: My career path first started with me taking up economics as a major back in college. I always had an affinity for the stock market and numbers to the point that after graduating college I directly went to work on Wall Street as a Stockbroker. After doing sales for a few years, I took a step back and decided to stay in the industry but to be a trader. I also had other roles in compliance and supervision for a couple different firms before the promotional opportunity presented itself at JPMorgan to lead a multi- billion-dollar team and market. In layman’s terms, my job is to help drive sales for the 20+ advisors that I have in the market that I cover which begins from stony brook to the north and Patchogue to the south all the way to the twin forks of Long Island (Montauk to the south fork and Greenport to the north fork)
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career path led you into your current role?
MONEY TALKS
Able to speak numbers with the best of them, George McFarlane (GM) has made a living working in the financial sector. George has provided guidance and has supported his clients, both from an institutional standpoint and a consumer-facing resource. His latest endeavor has him leading over 26 branches of JP Morgan Chase bank in his role as Market Director of Wealth (MDW) Financial Instruments of the Suffolk East market County territory. This American born Jamaican is a product of Queens, NY where he resides with his lovely wife Sonji and two beautiful twin daughters Malia and Marli. JDV recently caught up with George to get a quick snapshot into his day to day and what is up next for the McFarlane family. JDV: George, appreciate you for sitting down with us as we know how busy you are. Can you explain exactly what your job entails and what
JDV: When our leadership team has mentored in the past, we always advocate for mentees’ to break down what we deem to be “barriers” that may exist in the promotion or attainment process when it comes to employment. In some cases, the barriers that exist may be a higher education degree, certification of some sort or professional development seminar. What, if any, “higher education” have you attained in pursuit of your current job? GM: So for my role you need to be licensed in the securities industry. I currently have 9 licenses consisting of the series 4, 7, 9, 10, 24, 55, 63, 65 and 66. From day one I had to pass my series 7 by going through a 30-day crash course and then taking and passing the exam. After doing that, I had the opportunity to start cold calling to build a book of business back in my stockbroker days.... So yes those annoying calls that you sometimes get from people trying to sell you something like a product etc....That was me back in the day trying to call people with money and convince them to invest their money with me.. (people I’d never actually meet in life in person). One thing corporate America has taught me as a person of color, is that you need to be able to play their game. That means you have to have people “wearing your shirt”. What that means is that you have cheerleaders in executive roles that will think of you before opportunities get posted believing that you can be the right person for the job whether you’ve done it before or not due to your skills, acumen, etc. As a black man in corporate America, that’s super important considering how sometimes the media and outside world portrays us. For many of my roles including my current
one, I’ve had people that don’t look like me vouch for me to the people that matter, that I had the skills to be successful.
GM: Regarding my passions, the old saying is “work hard and play harder”. Whether it is Formula 1, basketball, travel, running marathons (which I’ve done 16 full 26.2 mile ones) or family time, a person is always going to make time for those things and people that matter to them in life. A lot of it comes down to time management and setting your schedule for what you desire to do and planning accordingly, etc. It’s also always been my belief in life to surround yourself with like-minded people that are doing the same positive things that you’re doing. Hence keeping positive energy and positive people around you and in your circle goes a long way. JDV: How does JDV fit amongst everything else that you have going on?
JDV: George, we really appreciate the time you have spent helping us introduce you to our community. Is there any advice you can offer for anyone looking to enter into your world from a career perspective and is there any support the JDV community can offer to you in your position as MDW? GM: One part of my role that I didn’t mention before is that I’m continuously recruiting and hiring individuals for my market. JDV can assist in that endeavor by letting me know when they come across individuals that have a desire to be in finance. Based on my experience with over
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GM: Being a member of JDV has helped me meet more like-minded individuals that I maybe would not have had the chance to connect with otherwise. Whether it’s been on a JDV trip, a JDV mixer or a JDV polo event, the group has so many members of different and similar backgrounds that are trying to do positive things to better themselves just like me which is important. Most people want to surround themselves with positive people and JDV is essential in my life helping me do that.
JDV: Truly appreciate the time spent during this amazing conversation George. Looking forward to being a part of whatever you have in store for your future!
THE LIFESTYLE CONNECTION — FIRST QUARTER 2024
JDV: On a more personal note, you happen to be a huge fan of Formula One racing, basketball and travel just to name a few of your hobbies that I am aware of. You are also very inclusive when it comes to meeting like-minded individuals that have some of the same interest when it comes to your circle. With such a busy work and personal schedule, how do you find time for some of your personal passions?
24+ years in the industry, I’m always looking to mentor younger people in the industry to speak about my experiences and how I’ve navigated corporate America to get to where I am today. For those looking to get into finance, my best advice would be to network with others as they can let you know of opportunities at the firms as well as give their insight of what it’s like working there as well. Knowing someone in a firm and getting their feedback goes a long way so that you know what you’re walking into when you decide to join a company.
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IT’S 6PM SOMEWHERE
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The ultimate cheers to life and a fitting part of any celebration, we are excited to launch our “It’s 6pm Somewhere” featured column. Each edition, we will feature recipes from top mixologists who have been selected as part the JDV Culinary Reserve collection. We pick the featured spirit, they create the cocktail recipe for you to make for your personal enjoyment or to add some sizzle to your next celebration. Featured Spirit: Rum (Our favorites are Zacapa, El Dorado 12yr, Mount Gay XO, Plantation Cut & Dry) Mixologist: Phillip “Casanova” Antoine Company: Casanova Liquid Artistry Email: cliquidartistry@gmail.com WhatsApp: 1(246) 269-4200
COLOUR CUT CLARITY Place ingredients into cocktail shaker with ice, shake vigourously to marry flavours. Strain over ice, apply a line of coconut flakes to surface. Serve elegantly. Tasting notes: The unique flavour of dried coconut merged with a fresh expression of citrus, all caressed by the warm of amaizing rum.
1.5oz Mount Gay XO rum 6 Fresh Mint Leaves 1oz Fresh Lime Juice .75oz Simple Syrup 3oz Grapefruit Soda Garnish- Lush Mint Cluster, Grapefruit Slice Place Rum,mint,lime and syrup into cocktail shaker with ice, shake vigourously and double strain over ice. Float with grapefruit soda, garnish and enjoy! Tasting notes: The infusion of two rum classics, creating a light , fragrant ,refreshing, citrus and effervescent creation.
1.5oz Zacapa No. 23 Rum 0.25oz Simple Syrup 1 Dash Aromatic Bitters 2 Dash Chocolate Bitters 1 Dash Orange bitters Garnish - Grapefruit Peel, Dark Chocolate
Combine Zacapa Rum, simple syrup and bitters into a mixing glass with ice. Stir elegantly to harmonize and chill ingredients. Strain into a double Old Fashioned glass onto large ice sphere or cube. Grate chocolate over libation, mist oils from grapefruit peel over surface. Tasting notes: Bold, clean, aromactic, timeless. The epitome of cocktail elegance, a twist to a classic.
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DARK & MELLOW
THE UPPER ECHELON
THE LIFESTYLE CONNECTION — FIRST QUARTER 2024
1.5oz Plantation Cut & Dry Dark rum ¾ Vanilla Infused Simple Syrup 1.5 oz Fresh Lime/Lemon Juice Garnish – Tosted Coconut Flakes
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