Red Hot Monde Magazine October/November 2025 Editor's Choice Edition

HOUSE of HILFIGER

Personal Message from Our Editor-in-Chief

Exclusive Interview with Dee & Tommy Hilfiger

The 2025 San Francisco Fall Show Opens Its 43rd Year in Spectacular Fashion "Paradise Found"

INTERVIEW

Grace in Motion The Art of Living, Leading and Loving with Purpose

STYLE GUIDE

Your Go-To Source for Fashion Trends, Tips, and Style Inspiration

TRENDING

Ecstatic Spa: Where Innovation Meets Holistic Beauty

BEAUTY

From Glam to Gore: Best Makeup Finds for a Spooky-Chic Halloween EVENTS VIP Cocktail Reception: Keep Tahoe Blue x Oscar de la Renta Fashion Show

Jason Ma: Single Family

This month, Red Hot Monde Magazine invites you into the world of timeless design, effortless glamour, and creative partnership through our cover story with Dee and Tommy Hilfiger — the ultimate American style duo redefining “Classic Cool” in their new book, Hilfiger Homes. Shot by Douglas Friedman, the feature opens the doors to their art-filled sanctuaries in New York, Palm Beach, and Mustique, where each home tells a story of elegance, heritage, and personal reinvention. “A house is always a work in progress, just like life,” Tommy reflects — and indeed, every space the Hilfigers touch captures that evolving dialogue between nostalgia and modernity. From The Plaza’s Old Hollywood allure to the bold green interiors of Coral House, their signature mix of fashion, art, and architecture proves that true design is a lifestyle — one that celebrates individuality, craftsmanship, and creative curiosity. As autumn unfolds, we turn our lens closer to home at the San Francisco Fall Show, a celebration of fine art, antiques, and timeless craftsmanship. This year’s theme, Paradise Found, resonates deeply — a reminder that beauty and imagination can transform any space into a sanctuary of inspiration. In our Beauty & Style pages, we explore the art of witchy glam with bewitching Halloween makeup looks that fuse cinematic drama with wearable chic — because every woman deserves to feel like a spellbinding masterpiece. Also inside: exclusive interviews with fascinating visionaries shaping the worlds of fashion, business, and design, along with upcoming highlights from our event calendar that promise to keep your season anything but ordinary. Here’s to an October of bold color, creative expression, and living beautifully — wherever your story unfolds.

A LetterFromTh e Ed i t

IRYNA VOSKERICIAN

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

We bridge the gap between artists, community, and commerce through our creative networks. By promoting talent and visual literacy, we strive to create a more just, ethical and inclusive world. We support emerging and unrepresented artists by providing them with opportunities to showcase their work and helping them grow their careers. Additionally, we maintain close relationships with mid-career artists and provide them with opportunities to advance their careers through various activities and visibility.

WWW.REDHOTMONDE.COM

IRYNA VOSKERICIAN Editor-in-Chief

Publisher RED HOT MONDE MAGAZINE

Editorial Designer MUHAMAD ZIDAN MUHARWAN Managing Editor FRANCE VILLEGAS

Website Administrator SUKHVEER SINGH

COVER

Cover Models DEE & TOMMY HILFIGER

Photographer DOUGLAS FRIEDMAN

CONTRIBUTORS

DREW ALTIZER, MAHELLY,FERREIRA, ELENA CASSADY, LUMINAIRE, NATALIE SCHRIK, CINCORO, H.E. AMBASSADOR DAME DIDI WONG, DORINE, DEVLIN SHAND, FRANCE VILLEGAS, VICTORIA’S SECRET, IRINA MIR, MICHAEL MELTSER, MOHAMMAD HASHAM, JASON MA, GFOIS, KATYA RICH,ANASTASIA BAIBORODINA.

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Red Hot Monde Magazine is synonymous with affluence, heritage and the best of the best. Based in San Francisco, CA. Red Hot Monde is the unique platform for the most opulent and educated readers. Its audience has a shared appreciation for stylish excellence, quality, exclusivity, and culture. The most successful people rely on our brand to discover the products and experiences, and connect to them on a personal level through ideas and opinions we share in insightful interviews with the creators. Advertisers: If you have a product or service to sell, Red Hot Monde Magazine provides year long advertising programs with access to our highly trafficked website www.redhotmonde.com geared specifically to the fashion lifestyle industry. Please contact us pr@redhotmonde.com with subject “Advertising Proposal” and include your print-ready advertisement. Please allow up to 3-business days for review.

DEE & TOMMY HILFIGER

HOUSE HILFIGER of

Photographer DOUGLAS FRIEDMAN

THE LIFE AT THE TOP NYC Plaza

THE PLAZA

Transforming two top-floor units—turret included—into a glamorous 6,000-square-foot duplex.

Designed with Cindy Rinfret, it mixed old-world luxury and modern art, featuring Warhols, a Picasso, and a whimsical mural by Eloise illustrator Hilary Knight. With its French bistro kitchen and views over Central Park, it was a vibrant, personal home that captured the Hilfigers’ style and spirit.

TH BRAND

Tommy, you’ve built one of the most recognizable brands in the world. What do you think has kept Tommy Hilfiger relevant through so many cultural shifts?

Tommy: I’ve always believed that reinvention is part of staying timeless. From the start, the brand has been rooted in classic American style — but we’ve never been afraid to reimagine it through the lens of each generation. Staying curious, listening to culture, and collaborating with people who inspire me have kept the brand fresh while staying true to its DNA.

Classic American cool” has been your signature. How would you define that idea in 2025 and beyond?

Tommy: Classic American cool is about confidence, individuality, and optimism. It’s timeless, but always evolving. Today, it means taking those preppy, sporty, and heritage influences and reinterpreting them in a way that feels effortless and inclusive.

"A

HOUSE IS ALWAYS A WORK IN PROGRESS, JUST LIKE LIFE."

DO BRAND

The fashion industry has changed more in the last five years than in the previous fifty. What innovations excite you most about where the industry is heading?

Tommy: Technology is opening new doors for creativity — from digital design and AI to immersive retail and personalization. What excites me most is how innovation can bring people closer to the brand experience, making fashion more connected and accessible than ever before.

As Creative Director of Judith Leiber Couture, how do you continue to evolve such an iconic brand while honoring its legacy?

Dee: Judith Leiber is synonymous with craftsmanship, artistry, and glamour — so every design begins with that foundation. My goal has been to keep that spirit alive while bringing a modern perspective to it. I love blending the brand’s timeless elegance with a touch of playfulness, creating pieces that feel collectible but also contemporary for today’s woman.

Mrs. H for QVC has quickly become known for bringing effortless, accessible luxury into everyday life. What inspired you to create the collection, and how does it reflect your personal approach to style and design?

Dee: Mrs. H was born out of a desire to make beautiful, well-designed pieces for the home accessible to everyone. I’ve always believed that luxury isn’t defined by price — it’s about creating an environment that feels inviting, polished, and personal.

ON DESIGN, ART & HILFIGER HOMES

Hilfiger Homes reveals a deeply personal side of you and Dee. What do you hope readers discover about your lives through the lens of design?

A tranquil Caribbean retreat built in the early 1990s. Blending British Colonial elegance with relaxed island style, the six-acre estate features coral-stone architecture, palm-filled gardens, and sweeping views of turquoise seas—reflecting Tommy’s love for symmetry, privacy, and timeless design.

BEACH HOUSE

PALM BEACH HOUSE

PALM BEACH

Coral

HOUSE

OCEAN TO LAKE , A CLASSIC WITH A TWIST

CORAL HOUSE

Tommy and Dee Hilfiger’s Coral House on Palm Beach was their most challenging project yet. They wanted one home that combined the space of their Greenwich estate with the beachfront of their Miami house. After searching, they found a neglected 1970 John L. Volk mansion spanning ocean to lake—a rare Palm Beach gem.

Tommy: I hope people see that our homes are reflections of our story — where we’ve been, what we love, and how we live. They’re not about perfection; they’re about personality. Every room tells a story of curiosity and creativity.

Dee: Each home captures a chapter of our lives together. It’s about creating spaces that feel warm, inviting, and filled with meaning — places that celebrate family, art, and the memories we make along the way.

You’ve designed clothes that shape identity — and now, spaces that shape experience. How do fashion and interiors connect for you creatively?

Tommy: Design is design — whether it’s a jacket or a living room, it’s about balance, detail, and storytelling. The same principles apply: proportion, color, and emotion.

Many of your homes, like Villa Deniz or Round Hill, blend nostalgia with modern flair. How do you achieve that sense of timelessness?

Tommy: I love mixing eras — a vintage piece next to something modern creates energy. It’s about contrast and curation. Nostalgia adds warmth; modernity keeps it alive.

Dee: For us, it’s about harmony. We both love history and glamour, but we also want comfort and ease. When those elements come together naturally, the result feels timeless.

Dee, you and Tommy clearly share a creative wavelength. What’s the secret to working — and designing — together so seamlessly?

Dee: We trust each other’s instincts. We have different perspectives, but they complement one another. Tommy loves bold ideas; I love refining the details. Together, we find a balance that feels authentic to both of us.

Tommy: Dee has incredible taste — she brings elegance and intuition to everything she touches. We share the same vision: to make life beautiful, but never too serious.

SAN FRANCISCO FALL SHOW

The San Francisco Fall Show celebrates design, craftsmanship, and collecting. What inspired you to take part this year?

"I LOVED LIVING THERE. IT WAS A VERY SPECIAL, EXCITING TIME IN OUR LIVES."

Tommy: Design has always been part of our DNA, and I’ve admired the San Francisco Fall Show for its focus on craftsmanship and creativity. With Hilfiger Homes, this felt like the perfect moment to celebrate that intersection between fashion and interiors.

The show’s theme, Paradise Found, feels serendipitous given your book’s lush, worldly aesthetic. How do you personally define paradise — in design and in life?

Dee: Paradise, to me, is a place where you feel completely at ease — surrounded by beauty, love, and most of all, family. It can be a home, a moment, or even a feeling.

Tommy: For me, paradise is wherever Dee and I are creating together — whether that’s a home, a collection, or a new idea.

What message do you hope to leave with visitors — whether they’re collectors, creators, or simply lovers of great design?

Dee: That great design tells a story. Whether it’s fashion, art, or interiors, it’s about passion and personality.

Coral

HOUSE

OCEAN TO LAKE , A CLASSIC WITH A TWIST PALM BEACH

CORAL HOUSE

Over three years, designer Cindy Rinfret and landscape architects Nievera Williams restored it with coral stone from the Dominican Republic and pecky cypress ceilings, creating a timeless yet modern Palm Beach feel. Inside, art by Warhol and Picasso complement elegant, relaxed interiors—“grand, but casual,” as Rinfret describes, echoing Tommy’s signature style.

PALM BEACH

VILLA

Maria

A FIRST FORAY, A CALMING INTERLUDE

After the bold Villa Deniz, Tommy and Dee Hilfiger’s Villa Maria in Palm Beach marked a calm new chapter. Designed with Martyn Lawrence Bullard, the Mediterranean-style home featured bright, cream tones, wicker accents, and modern art. Once dark and formal, it became airy and relaxed—blending old Palm Beach glamour with easy, modern comfort overlooking Lake Worth.

VILLA MARIA

DECOR

THE 2025 SAN FRANCISCO FALL SHOW

OPENS ITS 43RD YEAR IN SPECTACULAR FASHION "Paradise Found"

THE43RD SAN FRANCISCO FALL2025SHOW

Spectacular Fashion

There are few nights that capture San Francisco’s creative pulse quite like the Opening Night Gala of the San Francisco Fall Show. On October 15, the city’s style set descended upon the Fort Mason Festival Pavilion for an evening that shimmered with imagination, artistry, and unabashed glamour.

This year marked the show’s 43rd anniversary, themed “Paradise Found,” and it delivered nothing short of visual poetry. Fort Mason

Confidence of West Coast Glamour

It was a reminder that San Francisco knows how to do glamour — not loud or ostentatious, but thoughtful, layered, and entirely its own.

The

Hilfigers Bring a Spark of Modern Glamour

At the heart of the evening were Honorary Co-Chairs Dee and Tommy Hilfiger, whose arrival signaled the perfect meeting of fashion and philanthropy. Dee — luminous in a floor-length emerald gown — and Tommy — effortlessly polished — moved through the crowd with genuine warmth, chatting with friends and design enthusiasts alike. Their presence felt like a bridge between worlds: East Coast legacy meets West Coast creative energy. Together with Suzanne Tucker, they welcomed an illustrious crowd that included Yurie & Carl Pascarella, Diane B. Wilsey, and designer Zac Posen, accompanied by Vanessa Getty, who stunned in Gap Studio — a quietly powerful statement from Posen’s new creative direction at Gap Inc. and Old Navy.

A Feast of Fashion and Fantasy

If the décor was a conversation starter, the fashion was a fullblown dialogue. Guests embraced the Paradise Found theme with audacity — feathers, sequins, florals, and sculptural silhouettes that turned the pavilion into a living runway. Emerald and malachite ruled the night, punctuated by glimmers of gold and deep tropical hues.

Where Beauty Gives Back

Beyond the spectacle, the Fall Show remains anchored in purpose. A portion of the Show's legendary Opening Night Gala on October 15 benefits the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco: the largest public arts institution in the city of San Francisco comprising the de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park and the Legion of Honor in Lincoln Park.

CREDITS 1. Kentshire FFrench gold and diamond snake bracelet, circa 1890. 2. Barry Lawrence Ruderman Aquatint of the Carolina Parakeet from the First Edition of John James Audubon’s Birds of America, London, 1827. 3. Kentshire French polychrome enamel butterfly brooch, circa 1880.

CREDITS

Photographer Drew Altizer, Mahelly Ferreira, Natalie Schrik, and Devlin Shand for Drew Altizer Photography

Media Contact Vera Vandenbosch vera@tuckerandmarks.com

Design as a State of Mind

The show’s celebrated Designer Vignettes once again took center stage, and this year, they were more transportive than ever. Curated under the discerning eye of Show Chair Suzanne Tucker, the spaces became portals — each a designer’s interpretation of paradise.

Global Treasures, Timeless

Stories

Dealers and exhibitors filled the pavilion with treasures worthy oftheir own passport stamps: Japanese lacquer chests, Art Deco jewelry in emerald and onyx, and 19th-century European antiques that looked as though they’d just stepped out of a collector’s dream.

Desert Dreams and Venetian Whispers

One room glowed with sun-drenched rattan and vintage palm fronds, evoking old Hollywood’s desert retreats. Another shimmered with Murano glass, Venetian mirrors, and lacquered objets, creating a dialogue between eras — where European opulence met contemporary edge. Guests lingered, taking in every detail, from the hand-painted chinoiserie walls to the sculptural lighting that bathed the floor in amber.

As the final glasses of champagne were raised and the last notes of music drifted over the Bay, one thing was clear: paradise isn’t just a place. It’s a feeling — one the San Francisco Fall Show has mastered for more than four decades.

Grace in Motion

The Art of Living, Leading and Loving with Purpose

You were born in Hong Kong, educated in England and France, earned your BA in Communications at Boston University, worked for Vera Wang, lived in Boston, New York, and Los Angeles, and now reside in Fort Lauderdale. How have these cross-cultural experiences shaped your identity as a woman and as an entrepreneur?

My life has been a masterclass in contrast, blending East and West, elegance and grit, tradition and transformation. Being born in Hong Kong taught me

discipline, humility, and family values. My education in England and France refined my appreciation for culture and global perspective, while my studies at Boston University grounded me in the art of communication, the bridge that connects all worlds. Working for Vera Wang revealed that creativity and precision can coexist beautifully, and launching my own yoga brand, Charakas by Didi, reminded me that entrepreneurship is both a calling and a crucible.

Today, as I lead from Fort Lauderdale, I carry all those experiences within me. They have

made me bold, willing to disrupt norms and speak truth even when it is uncomfortable. These journeys have shaped me into a woman who believes that real power is not about control but about courage, compassion, and the willingness to use your voice to inspire and uplift others.

You balance multiple high-level roles as a businesswoman, mother of four, producer, and speaker. What do you believe is the most misunderstood part of your day-to-day life?

The biggest misconception is that I am everywhere all the time. People assume that because I lead companies, produce films, speak on global stages, and attend high-profile events, I must somehow be present for every detail in my children’s lives too. The truth is, I am not a helicopter mother, and I say that with love and intention. I grew up in boarding school, and that experience taught me independence, resilience, and the ability to think for myself. I want my children to have the same freedom to make decisions, build friendships, and learn who they are without me hovering over every moment.

hat people do not always see is how deeply connected I am to them emotionally. Our family communicates on a level that is raw, honest, and loving. I may not be at every one of their friends’ birthday parties, sports games, or school pickups, but I am always present in their hearts and in their growth. My children know they can come to me for truth, not just comfort. That emotional intelligence is the heartbeat of our home.

What people may not realize is that balance does not mean perfection. It means being fully present wherever you are. Some days I am on stage inspiring others, and other days I am in yoga pants helping with homework or cooking dinner. Both are equally valuable. I have learned that you do not have to do everything at once to have it all, you simply need to show up as your authentic self in each moment. That is the real beauty behind my life, my work, and even my style.

From working in interior design to investing in film and education, your path has been anything but linear. When you reflect on your journey, do you see a common thread that ties all your ventures together?

Every chapter of my life has reflected confidence, creation, connection, and cashflow. Whether it was interior design, film production, philanthropy, or education, my intention has always been the same: to build beauty with purpose and to bring people together through impact. I do not see my path as fragmented. I see it as an evolution of service.

Working with design taught me how to curate energy and environment. Producing films allowed me to amplify stories that matter. Investing in education gave me the opportunity to shape futures. Each experience has deepened my understanding that business is not

just about profit. It is about people. The true return on investment is always measured in lives touched and hearts moved.

At my core, I am an artist and a strategist. I love to build. I love to inspire. And I believe in leaving every space, every project, and every person better than I found them.

As a serial entrepreneur and investor, what do you look for when deciding which projects or people to support?

For me, the foundation of any investment is energy and intention. I look for people who are competent and confident. They must have integrity in their words and actions. They are likeable with organizational, time management, social, and street savvy skills. They take stress in strides. I invest in people first, ideas second. A brilliant business model means nothing if it is not led by someone with heart, resilience, specialized knowledge, self-awareness.

When I sit across from a founder, I listen to how they speak. Do they want to change the world or just be seen in it?

I believe entrepreneurship is a spiritual practice that reveals your courage, your alignment, and your willingness to grow. The people I choose to partner with are those who lead with light and understand that success without significance is hollow.

How do you define leadership, and how has that definition evolved throughout your career?

Leadership to me is the ability to inspire movement without demanding it. Early in my career, I believed leadership was about direction and discipline. Over time, I have learned that true leadership is about connection and compassion. It is knowing when to speak and when to listen, when to lead from the front and when to empower others to take the stage.

I am not a leader who rules, but I can be bossy with intention and direction. It is up to the person I am working with

to take direction without offense. When you are a leader, you must also know how to follow. Every great achievement in my life has been the result of collaboration, trust, and mutual respect. The world does not need louder leaders. It needs wiser ones, people who understand that influence is a privilege and leadership begins with love. You are known for mentoring women around the world. What do you believe women most need to hear right now?

Women are their own worst enemies. We must start by building each other up and not compete with one another. Then together we rise. I love to lift other women up. If they are beautiful, I do tell them. In the moments when I recognize what could be embarrassing and without shaming, I would quietly share “your zipper is down, you have food in your teeth, you have a crumb on your lip.”. The world conditions us to compete, compare, and constantly strive, but I believe our greatest power comes from kindness and the desire to see the goodness in others.

remind women that strength and softness can coexist. You can be powerful and gentle, ambitious and nurturing, bold and kind. Those are not contradictions. They are your balance. When women embrace their wholeness, they become unstoppable forces of change. My mission is to help them rise with grace.

You have been described as a disruptor in both business and philanthropy. How do you stay innovative while remaining true to your values?

Innovation without integrity has no soul. I never want to create for the sake of disruption. My approach to innovation begins with one simple question: does this bring more peace into the world.

Being called a disruptor is an honor to me because it means I am willing to question what others accept as normal. I love the challenge of redefining what success looks like. Success to me is not about accumulation but illumination. It is about having the courage to walk into rooms that were not built for you and still carry grace, elegance, and conviction.

You are both an entrepreneur and a philanthropist. How do you integrate business success with giving back?

For me, the two are inseparable. Business is the engine and philanthropy is the purpose. One fuels the other and together they create sustainable change. I have always believed that abundance is meant to flow, not accumulate. When your heart and your business are aligned, giving becomes

a natural extension of who you are, not an afterthought.

Every venture I am part of has a thread of service woven into it. Whether it is empowering women, mentoring youth, or supporting global peace initiatives, giving back keeps me grounded. It gives me peace.

As a global ambassador and advocate for peace, what does impact mean to you on a personal level?

Impact to me is not measured by the size of the stage or the number of followers. It is measured by the quiet moments when someone says, because of you, I believed I could. That is what matters most. Real impact begins with intention and consistency. You cannot change the world overnight, but you can plant seeds every day that will grow long after you are gone.

As a global peace ambassador, I see impact as both a responsibility and a privilege. My goal is to bring humanity into leadership and compassion into power. Every handshake, every eye contact, every project, and every speech is an opportunity to uplift someone. Impact is not about being seen, it is about helping others to be seen and valued for who they are.

You often speak about collaboration over competition. How does that philosophy play into your global work?

It is important to join with other humans to make something come true. That is collaboration. There is time when you meet people who are difficult. Then you ask yourself why do I find them difficult? Is this something I need to work on in myself? I love the challenge of turning someone from foe to a friend. That doesn’t mean we need to be best friend with everyone. True collaboration is knowing yourself well enough to know who to surround yourself with. Once you find your collaborators that is when the magic can happen. Side note: A little competition is good for us. It motivates us to achieve greatness.

You have met and worked with leaders from many cultures and faiths. What have those encounters taught you about unity?

Meeting leaders from around the world has taught me that unity is not about sameness. It is about respect. We may speak different languages, but kindness and sincerity are understood universally. Every faith, every culture, and every nation holds its own rules, beauty and wisdom. When we approach one another with curiosity instead of judgment, we build bridges that cannot easily be broken. In the most difficult situations, we can learn to agree to disagree.

FINANCIER

PHILANTHROPIST

Unity begins when we stop focusing on what separates us and magnifying what we have in common. I have seen firsthand that love, compassion, and empathy are not bound by geography. They are the universal language of humanity.

In your opinion, what is the most powerful form of philanthropy?

The most powerful form of philanthropy is not money, it is mentorship. Writing a check can change circumstances, but giving your time, wisdom, and heart can change generations. When you invest in people, you invest in ripple effects that extend far beyond what you can see.

SPEAKING COACH

WOMEN ECONOMIC FORUM'S "WOMEN OF THE DECADE" AWARD

Philanthropy is not about the size of your bank account. It is about the size of your heart. Anyone can be a philanthropist. I believe generosity should be a lifestyle, not an event. The most powerful giving always begins from gratitude.

You have achieved remarkable success. How do you personally define legacy?

Legacy is not about what I leave behind. It is about who I lift while I am here. For me, legacy lives in the people I inspire, the men and women I empower, and the children I raise or otherwise.

Legacy is love I left in others, the systems I have created with companies, the movies I produced that can be watched for years to come. It could be as simple as the “Didiisms” such as: ‘your vibe attracts your tribe’, ‘you are your own best friend’, and ‘you have got to spend to receive because money is energy and it needs to flow’.

What do you wish more people understood about influence?

Many people mistake influence for visibility, but true influence is about authenticity. It is not about getting attention. It is about living your most authentic self. With my fashion choices, activities I choose to do, with the countries I travel to, or as simple as the energy I carry, people see it and are influenced by it. Influence is an inexplicable feeling. When people look to you for guidance or inspiration, you are being trusted to plant the right seeds into their universe, which will bring them fun, hope, and joy. That trust must never be taken lightly.

You often mentor young women who are chasing big dreams. What advice do you give them about overcoming fear and doubt?

Like Nike says, “Just do it.” Action dissolves fear. Every great achievement begins with a single brave step forward. What is one lesson that success has taught you about yourself?

Success has taught me that peace is the ultimate currency. When I was younger, I thought success meant doing more. Now I understand it means being more, more present, more grateful, more aligned with who I truly am.

The higher you climb, the quieter your soul must become. The world will always measure success by what you gain, but I measure it by what I can give while staying true to myself. I no longer chase validation. That shift has been the most liberating success of all. Your style has become part of your identity. What does fashion mean to you personally?

Fashion is my love language. It speaks before I ever open my mouth. I see it as a reflection of self-respect, for the room I am in, and for the energy I wish to create. It is how I express who I am without needing to say a word. I have always believed that the way you present yourself to the world reflects the respect you hold for yourself and for the moment you are in.

I want to thank my parents for being the catalyst in introducing me to fashion, for they are both very stylish themselves. At an early age I was taught to dress well. My mother would encourage me to read lots of fashion magazines to educate myself with style, and my father taught me to always be presentable. I love mixing luxury labels with everyday streetwear. It is important to dress for your body type and understand your proportions correctly. Fashion is storytelling without words. Every look reflects a different layer of my life as a woman who embraces femininity and elegance. Every look I wear says, “This is me, today.” Not to impress, but to express.

You often speak about spirituality and alignment. What role does faith play in your everyday life?

When I think of the word faith, I do not necessarily see it only through a religious lens. Faith to me is a deep belief, a knowing that the universe is always unfolding in divine timing. It is the quiet confidence that everything will come together exactly as it should. When you live with faith, you stop forcing outcomes and start trusting the process. Faith is my anchor in an ever-changing world. It keeps me grounded, centered, and graceful when life insists on throwing curveballs in heels. It is present for me every minute of the day. I am constantly in conversation with God, thanking Him for my life, for my lessons, and for the people who are part of my journey.

Each morning begins with gratitude and quiet reflection. I call it my daily spiritual skincare: cleanse the cha-

H.E. AMBASSADOR DAME DIDI WONG

Born in Hong Kong and educated in England and France, Dame Didi Wong is an award-winning international keynote speaker, angel investor, film & TV producer, business coach, and philanthropist based in the United States. Honored by the Women Economic Forum as “Woman of the Decade for Entrepreneurship and Venture Capital,” she has shared global stages including the United Nations and the Think and Grow Rich Legacy World Tour. Her production credits include collaborations with icons such as Larry King, Al Pacino, and Robert Kiyosaki, and her documentary Impact has won multiple international film awards. Recognized by Oprah Magazine as a “Woman Who Means Business,” Dame Didi continues to champion women entrepreneurs through The Yes Academy, her mentorship program focused on confidence, communication, and business growth.

A devoted philanthropist, she serves as President of the Women Economic Forum Los Angeles and Executive Ambassador for the Reef Life and Andrea Bocelli Foundations. She also co-founded the Minard Wong Foundation, supporting global causes in education, mental health, and peacebuilding. Despite her many roles, she considers her greatest achievement managing life as a mother of four — all with grace, gratitude, and an unshakable smile.

os, tone your thoughts, moisturize your soul. Faith allows me to lead with peace, not pressure. It reminds me that I am guided, protected, and called to use my light for good.

What does a typical day in your life look like when you are not traveling or on stage?

A typical day begins with opening my eyes in gratitude, a quiet moment of inner acknowledgment before the world begins to move. I wake my children and get them ready for school, and the car ride together has become

one of my favorite parts of the day. It is where we talk, laugh, play games, and have those meaningful little conversations that matter most. I ask them about their schedules and schoolwork, not to manage them, but to help them develop independence and awareness of their own responsibilities.

After school drop-off, my day flows between yoga or kickboxing, piano lessons, and a series of Zoom or in-person meetings that may include investment reviews, new deals, film production, philanthropic projects, scheduling, or travel coordination. I thrive on variety, but I protect my peace fiercely and have learned the art of saying no. My time is precious, and I have become very intentional about where and with whom I spend it.

Evenings belong to my children. That

time is sacred. I unwind early and prioritize rest because I know that to give my best, I must first protect my energy. Finally, what brings you the greatest joy in life right now?

Because I recently finalized my divorce, I am embracing a brand-new sense of freedom, the freedom to live my purpose and rediscover joy in every corner of my life. These past few months, I have been waking up with more peace than ever before, grateful for the clarity and calm that this new chapter has brought.

My children, of course, are my constant source of joy. I am endlessly blessed to have four beautiful souls, some little and some not so little, whom I get to cuddle, laugh with, and love every single day. They keep my heart grounded and full.

I also find joy in the simple, beautiful details of life: staying consistent in my fitness routine, savoring every meal I prepare, chatting with my dearest girlfriends who are my lifeline, playing the piano and exploring new chord progressions, or singing my heart out to my favorite playlist during long drives. I find joy in travel, in building the next chapter of my career, and in seeing the fruits of years of hard work finally bloom. I even find joy in completing little house projects, binge-watching great shows, shopping for shoes that make me smile, and holding hope that my next King will find me when the time is right.

Joy, to me, is no longer something I chase. It is something I choose every single day. And right now, I can honestly say, I am happy.

The Events

B&B ITALIA, ARCLINEA AND MAXALTO

An Evening Where Art, Design, and Luxury Converge

A Night of Italian Excellence

Luminaire and B&B Italia celebrated a new chapter of Italian excellence in Los Angeles with an unforgettable evening that unveiled Ian Rayer Smith’s monumental exhibition – marking the official launch of the B&B Italia Group partnership at Luminaire Los Angeles.

Where Art Meets Design

Luminaire Showroom

8840 Beverly Blvd, West Hollywood, CA

Held within Luminaire’s sophisticated Beverly Boulevard showroom, the evening brought together architects, “Welcome Cocktail” Wednesday, September 10th

designers, artists, and tastemakers to experience a world where art, design, and culture intertwine. The event signified more than an opening—it was a declaration of shared values between two design pioneers committed to innovation, beauty, and emotional resonance.

AT LUMINAIRE, WE HAVE ALWAYS CHAMPIONED DESIGN

AS A TRANSFORMATIVE FORCE.

Stefano Cazzaniga

Guests were welcomed to discover B&B Italia, Maxalto, Arclinea, and B&B Italia Outdoor collections reinterpreted in Luminaire’s immersive two-level space—a stage designed to elevate contemporary living and celebrate the craftsmanship that defines Italian design.

“At Luminaire, we have always championed design as a transformative force,” said Stefano Cazzaniga, CEO of Luminaire. “It is with pride that we welcome back B&B Italia, Arclinea, Maxalto, and Azucena after many years. These brands embody the highest expressions of craftsmanship and innovation, and their return marks a defining moment for us.”

CONTACT

For more Information visit luminaire.com and Follow us on Instagram @luminaire

Photographer Elena Cassadi @cassadycreation

“Los Angeles represents much more than a market for us—it is a cultural laboratory where architecture, art, and lifestyle intersect,” added Demetrio Apolloni, CEO of B&B Italia Group. “This partnership allows us to create a space that resonates with the spirit of this city.”

Heritage Meets Innovation

About The Collaboration Luminaire and B&B

This renewed partnership between Luminaire & B&B Italia strengthens both brands’ shared commitment to advancing design culture in the United States. With a presence spanning over 80 countries and 10 flagship stores—including New York, Miami, Chicago, and now Los Angeles—B&B Italia continues its global expansion leading up to its 60th anniversary in 2026. Founded in 1974, Luminaire has long served as a bridge between Italy’s most visionary brands and North American audiences, blending commerce with culture to create experiences that transcend expectations. Together, Luminaire and B&B Italia reaffirm Los Angeles as a global destination where heritage and innovation converge to shape the future of design.

An Evening of Indulgence and Connection

Complementing the artistic atmosphere, Cincoro Tequila elevated the evening with an elegant bar experience, paired with Petrossian’s exquisite caviar service—adding a layer of indulgence to a night defined by creativity and connection.

About Luminaire Where Design Becomes Experience

Luminaire is more than a furniture showroom. It is an interactive design research center, a playground for the soul, an esplanade for discovery. With design services that guide and inspire from the spark of an idea to final installation, events and exhibitions that open minds to the transformative power of good design, and resources like a carefully curated selection of books that reimagine a way of life worth exploring, Luminaire remains a leading pioneer in thoughtful elucidations on form and function, bringing an enlightened sense of luxury to six locations in Miami, Chicago, and California, and globally as Interni in London, Milan, and Dubai.

The Events

B&B ITALIA, ARCLINEA AND MAXALTO

LUMINAIRE WELCOME

A highlight of the evening was the presence and partnership of Cincoro Tequila, the ultra-luxury spirits brand co-founded by basketball legend Michael Jordan and Jeanie Buss, owner and president of the Los Angeles Lakers. Their involvement added a distinct touch of prestige and sophistication to the event, perfectly aligning with its atmosphere of excellence and artistry. As one of the event’s most valued partners, Cincoro not only elevated the evening’s spirit but also symbolized the seamless blend of luxury, legacy, and innovation that defined the affair.

An Evening of Icons and Innovators

Key Note Attendees

The event brought together an extraordinary assembly of distinguished guests from the worlds of art, design, and culture. Among them was Ian Rayer-Smith, the celebrated British artist whose works are part of the LVMH collection with Tiffany & Co., alongside Mandy Raffat of Tag Front Architects, renowned for designing exceptional residences for some of the world’s most recognized figures. Also in attendance were Mark

Levine of Dollar Club, a leading real estate developer, and Gulla Jónsdóttir, the acclaimed interior designer known for her sculptural, poetic approach to space.

Adding to the evening’s glamour were Karla Gordy Bristol, television host and cultural advocate, and Ellen Hargitay, actress and stepmother of the iconic Mariska Hargitay. Their presence, together with a select circle of designers, architects, and creative visionaries, made the event a true celebration of artistry, influence, and collaboration.

A RICH AND DELICIOUS TEQUILA CELEBRATING THOSE REACHING FOR GREATNESS.

CONTACT

For more Information visit cincoro.com and Follow us on Instagram @cincoro Photographer Elena Cassadi @cassadycreation

Cincoro

A Toast to Legacy and Luxury

LOOK FOR THE AND START SHOPPING!

REFINEMENT

1. TOTEME

Belted Suede Tote TOTEME’s suede tote exudes quiet luxury with its curved bucket shape, tonal belt detail, and effortlessly spacious interior elegance.

$1,300.00

2. PRADA Soft Sound Medium Suede Shoulder Bag Inspired by vintage work bags, this suede piece softens structure with feminine details, archival clasp, and effortless shoulder-worn sophistication.

$4,300.00

3. BALENCIAGA Rodeo Medium Suede Shoulder Bag Balenciaga’s Rodeo bag channels vintage briefcase charm with chocolate suede, slouchy elegance, silver hardware, and effortless everyday sophistication.

$4,450.00

4. ALAÏA Le Click Small Nubuck Shoulder Alaïa’s Le Click bag mirrors the Guggenheim’s curves in Italian nubuck, accented with gold hardware, refined lines, and understated allure.

$2,900.00

1. JIL SANDER

Eldorado Small Python-Embossed

Leather Hobo Bag Jil Sander’s Eldorado hobo in pythonembossed calfskin captures sleek Italian craftsmanship with its curved form, magnetic closure, and modern edge.

$2,050.00

2. KHAITE

Cate Bag Framed and refined, this top-handle bag stuns with sculptural precision and an 18-karat gold kiss-lock clasp elegance.

$4,800.00

3. JACQUEMUS

The Pochette Small Embellished Snake-Effect Leather Clutch Jacquemus’ The Pochette turns take-out chic into luxury—crafted in snake-effect leather with sculptural silver accents and playful sophisti cation.

$1,090.00

4. CHLOÉ

Medium Spin Tote Crafted in Italy from supple leather or suede, this B Corp–certified tote pairs refined structure with conscious craftsmanship and timeless versatility. $1,950.00

SHRUNKEN STATEMENT

PROOF THAT THE MODERN WOMAN CARRIES CONFIDENCE, NOT CLUTTER.

1. SAINT LAURENT

Mini Sac Bijou Bag

Saint Laurent’s Mini Sac Bijou exudes refined minimalism with sleek leather, satin lining, and a discreet magnetic top closure.

$1,850.00

2. THE ROW

Sylvia Bag Italian-crafted in smooth calfskin, this structured clutch shines with gold hardware, a hinged frame, and a detachable chain strap.

$3,700.00

3. PRADA

Embellished Satin

Minaudiere Prada’s embellished satin minaudière dazzles with vintage allure—kiss-lock frame, rolled handle, and detachable chain for versatile evening elegance.

$4,500.00

4. SIMONE ROCHA

Micro Egg Clutch

Simone Rocha’s egg-shaped mini bag gleams with a pearlized finish, blending sculptural charm, whimsy, and versatile crossbody sophistication.

$613.00

1. VALENTINO GARAVANI

Vain Leather Shoulder Bag

Valentino Garavani’s Vain bag nods to vintage vanity cases with sculptural curves, supple leather, gold VLogo detailing, and modern allure.

$3,450.00

2. SAINT LAURENT

Gaby Tote Bag

Saint Laurent’s Gaby tote in blush pink embodies quiet elegance with sleek lines, zip closure, and versatile top-handle styling.

$2,085.00

3. JACQUEMUS

The Pochette Small Embellished Snake-Effect Leather Clutch Jacquemus’ The Pochette turns take-out chic into luxury—crafted in snake-effect leather with sculptural silver accents and playful sophistication.

$1,090.00

4. BOTTEGA VENETA

Intrecciato Leather Convertible Vanity Case Handwoven in Italy, this structured leather vanity case transitions effortlessly from travel to daily chic with its removable crossbody strap.

$2,850.00

LOGOS SOFTENED, HARDWARE POLISHED — NOSTALGIA GETS A MINIMALIST COUTURE MAKEOVER.

1. LOUIS VUITTON

Express MM Louis Vuitton’s Express MM in hazelnut suede reimagines archival elegance with Monogram trims, gold accents, and versatile, cityready sophistication.

$4,500.00

2. MCQUEEN Farringdon Medium Bag Italian-made in supple leather or suede, this structured tote features sleek buckles, a zip closure, and polished everyday sophistication.

$2,690.00

3. BALENCIAGA Women's Le City Bag Small in Army Green Crafted in Italy from Arena Storico lambskin, this Balenciaga icon features braided handles, brass accents, and effortlessly timeless allure.

$2,450.00

4. CHLOÉ Kerala Leather Shoulder Bag Chloé’s Kerala bag blends artisanal charm and whimsy, crafted in vegetable-tanned leather with gold accents and playful detachable charms.

$4,606.00

1. VALENTINO GARAVANI

Viva Superstar

Crochet Raffia

Large Tote Bag

Crafted in Italy from Arena Storico lambskin, this Balenciaga icon features braided handles, brass accents, and effortlessly timeless allure.

$2,600.00

2. THE ROW

Marlo 14 TexTured-Leather Tote

Crafted in Italy from Arena Storico lambskin, this Balenciaga icon features braided handles, brass accents, and effortlessly timeless allure.

$3,800.00

3. IL BISONTE

Le Laudi Leather Tote Bag Il Bisonte’s Le Laudi tote embodies understated Italian luxury, crafted in rich leather with timeless structure and everyday sophistication. $695.00

4. LOEWE x Paula’s Ibiza

Medium Anagram

Striped Basket Tote Bag in Straw

Loewe’s striped straw basket tote channels effortless coastal elegance with leather trims, Anagram detail, and dual-handle versatility. $1,350.00 EACH

DESIGNED FOR MOVEMENT, BUILT FOR STYLE — THE ESSENTIAL BAG FOR THE WOMAN IN MOTION

1. DEMELLIER

Vancouver Leather Shoulder Bag DeMellier’s sleek black leather bag blends vintage minimalism with modern edge, featuring signature arrow hardware and versatile crossbody styling.

$535.00

2. GUCCI

Horsebit 1955 Lizard Mini Bag Gucci’s Horsebit 1955 mini bag exudes timeless luxury in lizard leather, finished with signature gold hardware and an elegant chain strap.

$8,000.00

3. THE ROW

Sofia Leather Shoulder Bag Italian-made in supple leather or suede, this structured tote features sleek buckles, a zip closure, and polished everyday sophistication.

$3,750.00

4. BURBERRY

Small Rocking Horse Burberry’s saddle bag merges equestrian elegance with modern polish, crafted in grainy calf leather with a signature pivoting ‘b’ clasp and versatility.

$2,450.00

1. CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

Loubi54 Clutch Bag in Bengali-Print

Leather Christian Louboutin’s Loubi54 clutch exudes fierce elegance in Bengali-print calf leather with a curved flap, red interior, and detachable chain.

$1,690.00

2. BOTTEGA VENETA

Apple Knot Patent

Leather Clutch Bag

Bottega Veneta’s intrecciato patent leather Apple clutch captivates with sculptural whimsy, a glossy finish, and signature Italian artistry.

$6,300.00

3. VALENTINO GARAVANI

Vain Small VLOGO

Leather Clutch Bag

Valentino Garavani’s Vain clutch embodies modern romance in smooth leather with the iconic VLogo, magnetic flap, and convertible chain strap.

$3,100.00

4. SAINT LAURENT

Midnight Large

Pochette Clutch Bag in Leather Saint Laurent’s Midnight pochette in soft calfskin exudes sleek Parisian glamour with a kiss-lock frame, stowable chain, and refined minimalism.

$2,150.00

WINGS REBORN

INSIDE Victoria’s Secret’s MOST INCLUSIVE SHOW YET

Diversity took center stage as Victoria’s Secret unveiled its most inclusive runway yet. From curve icons Ashley Graham, Paloma Elsesser, and Precious Lee, to athlete stars Angel Reese and Suni Lee, and a glowing Jasmine Tookes opening the show pregnant — the message was clear: every body deserves wings.

Iconic models Anok Yai, Alex Consani, and Yumi Nu joined legends Gigi & Bella Hadid, Adriana Lima, and Candice Swanepoel, uniting generations on one powerful stage.

With performances by Missy Elliott, Karol G, Madison Beer, and TWICE, the night proved that this wasn’t just a comeback — it was a statement. Redefining sexy — inclusive, powerful, and proudly real.

Dr. Brei’s doctoral studies at the prestigious University of Toronto’s Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry department encompassed both water and microbiome research. With this robust research insight and deep perspective into the microbial world, Dr. Brei established a uniquely powerful foundation for her skin care research. Today, Dr. Brei lives in Toronto Canada with her husband and two children. NuVsio Minerals Support a Healthy Skin Microbiome by providing a ‘Second Skin’ protective layer against Environmental stressors, toxins and pollution.

Let's work together to create a personalized approach that nurtures you skin and brings out its true brilliance/.

itavonnIerehW o n MeetsHolistic Beauty

At Ecstatic Spa, beauty becomes transformation. Blending advanced technology with mindful care, Ecstatic Spa redefines what it means to achieve radiant, youthful skin - naturally and sustainably. Celebrated for its Hollywood-loved microcurrent facials, Ecstatic Spa has become a destination for those who seek sculpted, glowing, camera-ready skin. Using the acclaimed NeurotriS dynamic-intelligence microcurrent system- a favorite among icons like Madonna, Paris Hilton , Jenifer Lopes - these treatments deliver visible lift, contour, and renewed energy without needles or downtime. Each facial at Ecstatic Spa is a fully personalized experience. The spa’s advanced anti-aging treatments feature FDA-approved exosomes, Cold Plasma therapy, MicroCurrent Face Lift , HydraFacial, and luxurious Italian peels, working in perfect synergy to stimulate collagen, smooth fine lines, and restore the skin’s firmness and youthful elasticity.

Where Science, Soul, and Beauty Meet

At the heart of every session lies the art of touch. The spa’s signature face sculpting and buccal massage techniques not only tone and lift but also activate natural lymphatic drainage—bringing harmony and definition to facial features. Each movement is both technical and intuitive, transforming the treatment into a rejuvenating ritual for skin and soul.

Founded by Irina Mir, a licensed master aesthetician with over 12 years of experience in Beverly Hills, where the first Ecstatic Spa location was born, the brand continues to lead in modern, non-invasive beauty. Today, Ecstatic Spa stands as a symbol of transformation - merging clinical precision, mindful care, and vibrational healing to help clients look radiant, feel confident, and embody timeless beauty.

Rooted in both innovation and intuition, Ecstatic Spa incorporates the healing frequencies of SoundHealing, turning each visit into a multisensory experience that nourishes the skin while soothing the nervous system. Gentle vibrations and harmonic resonance help release tension, support energetic balance, and deepen relaxation—allowing true beauty to emerge from within.

FROM GLAM TO GORE ✽

1

PERFECT BASE

To make your makeup last all night, start with a primer: Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer — locks makeup in place while keeping skin fresh & NYX Pore Filler — smooths the skin for a flawless, clean canvas.

2

BOLD SHADOWS

For Halloween, vibrant shades are a must: BY BEAUTY BAY Bright Matte 42 Colour Palette — an explosion of color from brights to deep, dark tones & NYX Ultimate Shadow Palette ( Smokey) — budget-friendly but superpigmented.

3

GLITTER & GLOW

No Halloween look is complete without sparkle and shimmer: Urban Decay Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliner — perfect for dramatic, sparkling lines & Lemonhead LA Spacepaste Glitter — celestial shine on eyelids or cheekbones.

STATEMENT LIPS

From blood-red to deep black, bold lips are always on trend: MAC Retro Matte Lipstick (Ruby Woo) classic vampy red & Star Velour Liquid Lipstick (Weirdo) — the ultimate rich black shade.

SPECIAL EFFECTS

If you want to add some “wow” factor, SFX products are your best friend: Mehron Liquid Latex — create realistic wounds and textures, Ben Nye Nose & Scar Wax — perfect for scars and dimensional effects & Mehron Paradise AQ Face & Body Paint — water-based face and body paint in a vibrant range of shades, ideal for intricate designs.

FOR THE BRAVE

If you want to add some “wow” factor, SFX products are your best friend: Fake Blood by Mehron or Kryolan — for dra matic, lifelike effects & Decay All Nighter Setting Spray — keeps your look intact through parties, dancing, and happy tears.

✽ BEST MAKEUP FINDS FOR A SPOOKY-CHIC HALLOWEEN

Halloween is the one day of the year when makeup becomes true art. It’s the perfect opportunity to step outside your usual looks and play with textures, colors, and effects. The key is choosing products that bring your vision to life, whether that’s an elegant “vampy glam” or full-on horror-inspired special effects. In the end, it all comes down to your choice: be a glamorous witch with bold red lips, or transform into a zombie with torn scars. Let your imagination run wild, and the right products will help bring even the boldest ideas to life!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Katya Rich is a licensed cosmetologist, beauty expert, hairstylist, and awardwinning makeup artist. She is a regular participant in Fashion Weeks in New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Katya is the founder and lead artist of Rich Beauty Studio in San Francisco. For more information, visit katyarich.com and follow her on Instagram @katya.rich.makeup

VIPCOCKTAIL RECEPTION

Notable Attendees

J. Riccardo Benavides (Event Producer),

Barbara Brown (Committee), Heidi Cary (Committee), Jessica Hickingbotham (Committee), Lindsay McConnon (Committee), Jennifer Brandenburg (Committee), Jane Mudge (Committee), Laura Kim (Co-Creative Director, Oscar de la Renta), Fernando Garcia (Co-Creative Director, Oscar de la Renta) & Eliza Bolen (Executive Vice President, Oscar de la Renta)

Keep Tahoe Blue x Oscar de la Renta Fashion Show

The League to Save Lake Tahoe presented its annual benefit fashion show and luncheon featuring the global launch of the Oscar de la Renta Pre-Spring 2026 collection, designed by Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia. The annual fashion show and luncheon tradition dates back to 1969 when models walked barefoot down a plywood runway, showcasing designer Bill Blass’s collection to 100 guests as they enjoyed box lunches, seated on picnic benches on the shores of beautiful Lake Tahoe. In 1999, Bill Blass handed the baton to the legendary Oscar de la Renta. Now in its 56 year, the fashion show has evolved into a widely anticipated fundraiser for the League to Save Lake Tahoe, resulting in over $27 million raised that has powered the League’s decades of successful work to keep Tahoe swimmable, hikeable, skiable, and enjoyable for all.

THE EVENT WAS HELD AT THE SCHUMACHER FAMILY ESTATE ON LAKE TAHOE’S SHORELINE, AND RAISED $1.4 MILLION, CONTINUING A TRADITION LAUNCHED IN 1969.

The Funds

The funds raised during the premiere of Oscar de le Renta’s Pre-Spring 2026 collection will support the League to Save Lake Tahoe’s 68-year mission to protect the health and beauty of the Lake Tahoe Basin so it can be

enjoyed today and for generations to come. Thanks to the invaluable partnership with Oscar de la Renta, this annual event has united fashion and environmental conservation to Keep Tahoe Blue.

Drew Altizer and Natalie Schrik of Drew Altizer Photography

Photo Credit

Single Family Offices & UHNWI Investors

As seen through the insights of Jason Ma, Founder, CEO & Chief Mentor, ThreeEQ The Rise of Smart Direct AI/Tech Investing

The Talent Factor— and the Investor Imagination Gap

ROUGHLY 90% OF A STARTUP’S SUCCESS COMES FROM ITS FOUNDERS AND EARLY KEY TEAMMATES. EVEN SOPHISTICATED CAPITAL OFTEN UNDERESTIMATES THIS.

At Red Hot Monde Magazine, we explore how visionary wealth leaders are shaping the future of innovation and impact. Few voices capture this intersection of entrepreneurial intelligence, family office strategy, and frontier technology as powerfully as Jason Ma—Founder, CEO & Chief Mentor of ThreeEQ, a trusted advisor to single family office (SFO) principals, ultra high net worth (UHNW) families, rising Next Gens, and a global speaker.

Fixed Mindset vs. Visionary Growth Mindset

Ma distinguishes the fixed mindset—linear, precedent-bound, and fear-driven—from the visionary growth mindset, characterized by humility, curiosity, imagination, and adaptability. He recounts mentoring a young founder who identified a high-potential AI venture dismissed by institutions. Within a few years, it became a unicorn—proving that conviction and imagination often outpace consensus.

As a former mentor at the Thiel Fellowship (which has produced multiple young centimillionaires and billionaires), Ma recognizes early the intangibles that differentiate exceptional founders— and investors.

WHEN THE RIGHT CAPITAL MEETS THE RIGHT MINDSET, SKILLSETS, AND VISION, NON LINEAR OUTCOMES BECOME POSSIBLE.

Jason Ma

In a reflection that’s resonating across the global venture ecosystem, Ma recalls a conversation between legendary investor Vinod Khosla and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, where Khosla remarked that “90% of VCs add no value to startups and 70% even harm them.”

Provocative as it sounds, this truth mirrors Ma’s decades of experience in global Silicon Valley: too many investors rely on pattern-matching and herd behavior, overlooking the human and nonlinear forces that drive genuine company-building.

Visionary talent, grit, and leadership—not spreadsheets—are the true determinants of success. Yet, Ma cautions, even seasoned investors fall prey to ego, fear, flawed assumptions, or fixed mindsets—barriers that quietly erode their capacity for transformational impact, MOIC, and ROI.

He recalls a favorite line from Roelof Botha, Managing Partner at Sequoia Capital: “My biggest mistake as an investor is the failure of my imagination.”

Years ago, Ma and Botha sat together as judges at a Stanford student entrepreneurship panel. That reflection, Ma says, “reminds us that imagination—often dismissed in modeling—is actually essential to frontier investing.”

The New Frontier of Private Capital

A Shift Among Family Offices and UHNWI Investors

In his speaking and business engagements with single family office (SFO) principals and CIOs worldwide, Ma observes a clear evolution:

“More entrepreneurial investors are moving from being passive LPs in VC funds to pursuing smart, direct investments in AI/tech ventures— from early stages onward.”

This shift, Ma explains, stems from structural limitations and frustrations with traditional VC fund models—most funds underperform relevant benchmarks, restrict flexibility with 7–10+ year lockups, and charge management fees regardless of outcomes. Many follow the herd, chasing crowded categories, overplayed geographies, and familiar themes instead of frontier opportunities.

As a result, an increasing number of single family offices (SFOs) and UHNWIs are recognizing that they no longer need to accept these limitations. Instead, they are embracing a more dynamic approach—smart direct investing in high-impact ventures, where they can back exceptional founders and teams directly, retain strategic control, and align their investments with both long-term values and strategic objectives, often realizing greater returns within shorter timeframes.

While many investors still diversify by allocating to select established or emerging VC funds, the most forward-thinking family offices and private investors are increasingly choosing direct, high-impact opportunities that allow them to engage more deeply with founders, CEOs, and meaningfully shape outcomes.

IT’S NOT ABOUT CHASING SHINY TRENDS. IT’S ABOUT THOUGHTFUL ENGAGEMENT— INVESTING IN SOLUTIONS THAT MATTER, EMPOWERING EXTRAORDINARY TALENT, AND BRINGING A HUMAN DIMENSION TO INNOVATION.

Jason Ma

Follow me on LinkedIn @jasonma

From

Smart Direct AI/Tech Investing: A Mindset Advantage

While single family offices and UHNW families prioritize wealth preservation and growth, the smartest entrepreneurial investors no longer settle for passive allocation. They are strategic co-builders—partners who engage and shape value creation alongside founders.

These visionary investors are:

• Investing with patient capital and clear purpose

• Collaborating with trusted operators and advisors

• Concentrating on fewer, higher-quality investments

• Mentoring Next Gen leaders to think critically, act boldly, and lead wisely

This approach demands courage and discernment, but its rewards extend far beyond capital gain—to legacy, influence, and lasting contribution.

For Ma, direct investing isn’t opportunistic—it’s strategic and deeply mindset-driven. The best SFO principals/CIOs and UHNWI investors combine conviction, discernment, and fluency in emerging tech frontiers. He highlights four core advantages:

• Closer relationships with founders and senior executives

• Alignment with personal values and objectives

• More control over deal terms, entry timing, and exposure

• Early access to category-defining innovations before the market crowds in

We are entering a new era in which AI-native companies are not merely reshaping industries—they are creating entirely new categories. The convergence of compute power, capital efficiency,

and global tech talent now enables lean, high-output teams to scale billion-dollar enterprises faster—and with cleaner cap tables—than ever before.

For those with the foresight and discernment to navigate this evolving terrain, the potential rewards can be exponential—100x to hundreds of x MOIC, or even higher in exceptional cases.

Ma believes that high-margin growth and high-MOIC opportunities are especially

found in impactful, well-executed new categories within Applied AI—a core segment and layer of the broader AI solution stack and ecosystem. This ecosystem also encompasses enabling layers such as Edge AI, Cloud AI, and the underlying compute infrastructure, including GPUs and data centers.

These are precisely the types of opportunities that some traditional VC firms, institutional family offices, and gatekeepers still overlook—or dismiss too early.

Smart, Strategic, and Human

Many family offices remain constrained by outdated structures, but the pioneers are redefining wealth and influence for the AI age. For those ready to lead, smart direct AI/tech investing is more than a trend—it’s a generational inflection point.

Ma’s philosophy calls investors to think boldly, act wisely, and invest not only in technology—but in imagination itself.

THE ULTIMATE MEN'S ART, FASHION & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE AUTHORITY.

Where Legacy Meets Leadership

Cannes once again proved that its allure extends far beyond cinema and couture. This season, the Riviera became the stage for a gathering of global influence — the Global Family Office Investment Summit, held at the JW Marriott Cannes.

Bringing together over 250 of the world’s most prominent family offices, investors, and entrepreneurs, the summit — now in its 27th edition — reaffirmed its standing as one of the world’s most distinguished private gatherings for wealth and leadership.

A CONVERGENCE OF MINDS AND GENERATIONS

Under the theme “Connecting Minds & Creating the Future,” the summit became a meeting ground for legacy and innovation. Over two days of high-level discussions, keynotes, and intimate conversations, participants explored the evolving landscape of global wealth — from sustainability and philanthropy to women’s leadership and generational continuity.

What made this year’s edition remarkable wasn’t only its scale, but its sense of intimacy. Many of the most meaningful exchanges took place beyond the stage — on terraces overlooking the Côte d’Azur, where the Mediterranean breeze carried ideas, reflections, and the quiet confidence of shared purpose.

HIGHLIGHTS AND TAKEAWAYS

Among the sessions that drew the most attention was “Women: The Architects of Tomorrow’s World,” a powerful conversation that celebrated the rising influence of female investors and leaders reshaping global finance through empathy and inclusion.

Equally compelling was “Blueprint 2030 – Exponential Technologies & the 100× Opportunity,” which explored how innovation, AI, and sustainability intersect to secure the next generation’s future. The closing panel, “Top International Family Offices & Iconic Investors Share Their Best Proprietary Ideas,” offered rare insights into the private strategies driving tomorrow’s global investment trends.

The Events

recurring theme throughout was capital with conscience — a recognition that wealth today carries a deeper responsibility. From education and healthcare to green infrastructure and social entrepreneurship, family offices are redefining success not just by return, but by relevance.

CANNES: THE PERFECT SETTING

Hosted under the patronage of Hadi Al Alawi, Mohamed Al Ali, and Anthony Ritossa, and supported by Thomas de Pariente, Deputy Mayor of Cannes, the summit reflected both gravitas and Riviera grace.

Beyond the program, evening receptions and private dinners brought the spirit of Cannes to life — elegant, warm, and inclusive. There was an unspoken understanding among guests that the summit’s real value lies not in competition, but in connection — in how global influence can become a force for collective good.

REFLECTIONS FROM THE GRESHAM INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION GALA DINNER – CANNES

The summit concluded with a glittering Gala Dinner, curated by the Gresham International Foundation, which transformed the Riviera evening into a celebration of diplomacy, leadership, and shared humanity.

THE MOST INFLUENTIAL GATHERING OF PRIVATE WEALTH IN THE USA FOR 2025

In a room filled with royal dignitaries, investors, and philanthropists, the true highlight wasn’t the grandeur — it was the purpose that filled the air. Between heartfelt conversations and moments of recognition, guests were reminded that even in the most resplendent ballrooms, the most powerful accessory will always have a purpose.

The evening honored global figures whose impact extends beyond business into the realms of peace, innovation, and social progress. Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to:

• Hadi Al Alawi Chairman, Al Hayat Group (Kingdom of Bahrain)

• H.E. Ambassador Dame Didi Wong UN Global Peace Ambassador (USA)

• Khalid Al Zayani Honorary Chairman, Al Zayani Investments (Kingdom of Bahrain)

• Mohamed Al Ali CEO, Al Ali Holdings (UAE)

• H.H. Sheikha Jawaher Bint Khalifa Al Khalifa (UAE)

Special recognition was given to Thomas de Pariente, Deputy Mayor of Cannes, whose presence embodied the city’s grace and commitment to international collaboration.

Among the distinguished guests of honor were royal personas, diplomats, and thought leaders from around the world, each representing a unique vision for progress and partnership.

And for many, an unforgettable highlight was the appearance of Her Majesty Queen Diambi Kabatusuila Tshiyoyo Muata, Queen of the Democratic Republic of Congo — a radiant symbol of leadership and compassion.

In his closing remarks, Anthony Ritossa reflected on the evening’s significance — a night where business, diplomacy, and philanthropy converged, proving that the future of wealth lies in collaboration, conscience, and community.

The Events

LEGACY BEYOND WEALTH

As the summit came to its close, one sentiment lingered among guests: that true wealth lies not in accumulation, but in impact.

The Global Family Office Investment Summit once again underscored that legacy is not defined by what one keeps, but by what one builds for others. In a world rapidly redefining success through purpose and sustainability, Cannes stood as a luminous reminder — that when influence meets intention, leadership transcends generations.

The GFOIS/ CANNES

It is with immense pride that we welcome you to the 27th Global Family Office Investment Summit in Cannes.

This event represents not just a meeting of global capital but a fusion of forward-thinking leaders dedicated to uncovering groundbreaking investment opportunities.

From blockchain and digital assets to fintech, Web3, healthcare, real estate, venture capital, private equity, and co-investments, we will explore a diverse range of transformative topics. Together, we are here to shape a sustainable and innovative future, setting the stage for growth and success for generations ahead.

www.gfois.com/cannes

EARLY LIFE & INSPIRATIONS

Mohammad, let’s start at the beginning — where did you grow up, and what was life like for you as a child?

I was born in Karachi, Pakistan, and immigrated to Canada when I was nine years old. I spent my formative years growing up in Toronto, surrounded by vibrant culture and excellent education. In April 2015, I relocated to the San Francisco Bay Area. Childhood in North America was a wonderful experience—rich in opportunity, diversity, and learning.

Was finance always the career path you envisioned, or did you stumble into it along the way?

I once stood at a crossroads between two very different careers: medicine and accounting. For a long time, I was set on becoming a doctor—

CAREER & EXPERTISE

You hold three highly respected designations — CPA, CA, and CMA. What kept you motivated through that intense journey?

I wanted to get Management and Leadership experience, that’s why I did CMA (Certified Management Accountant). However, my passion was in public accounting, therefore, I did Chartered Accountant (CA) from Canada, and CPA, when I moved to the US.

With over 17 years in capital markets and IPO services, what’s the most memorable challenge you’ve faced, and how did you turn it into a success?

My first IPO in 2018 was a major turning point—it was a high-stakes project where I led a team of ten. That experience became a defining milestone, one I embraced by diving deep, mastering the process, and delivering strong results. Fast forward to today, I’ve worked on 70 IPOs and now lead the Capital Markets and IPO practice, helping companies navigate one of the most transformative moments in their journey.

until a conversation with a family friend opened my eyes to the world of finance. That moment changed everything. I chose the path of a Chartered Accountant, and seventeen years after starting university, I’m proud to be a Partner at CohnReznick, leading our Capital Markets & IPO practice.

Who or what had the biggest influence on shaping your ambition and drive in those early years?

My father, along with visionary entrepreneurs like Steve Jobs, has been one of my greatest influences. Creativity has always been at the core of who I am—accounting was never the destination, just the launchpad. From the beginning, my ambition was to evolve beyond the numbers and become a 360-degree entrepreneur. Today, that vision is alive and thriving as I lead Aureum Leaders Circle, one of the fastest-growing, high-caliber communities of business leaders.

From auditing to consulting and now leadership, how has your perspective on financial markets evolved?

While accounting is a strong foundation, it can be quite narrow in scope. As a leader now heading the Capital Markets practice, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with people and companies across a wide range of industries—gaining insight into broader business practices and how different teams operate. Interviewing with the New York Stock Exchange was a pivotal moment that opened many doors, including my membership with the Forbes Finance Council. But the journey to this point wasn’t easy—it demanded resilience, grit, and unwavering perseverance.

You’ve worked on everything from IPOs to SPACs — what excites you most about the current state of global capital markets?

What excites me most is the opportunity to collaborate with people and companies across the globe—not just in the U.S. This global exposure brings fresh perspectives, diverse insights, and opens the door to incredible opportunities.

FOUNDING CAPITAL MARKETS & VISION

What was the spark behind creating Capital Markets, and what gap did you see that needed to be filled?

Working in the capital markets has given me the opportunity to collaborate with companies of all sizes—from emerging startups to global enterprises. My experience with SPACs (Special Purpose Acquisition Companies) has been especially rewarding, allowing me

to partner with sponsors who lead some of the world’s most influential institutions. I’ve always believed that capital markets need more than just accountants—they need strategic advisors. That’s the role I’ve embraced: not only guiding clients through complex accounting challenges, but also helping them connect with investors, identify growth opportunities, and build lasting relationships.

How do you balance being both a Partner at CohnReznick and a Founder building a community-driven venture?

The community integrates into the Partner life. It helps me build a network of great minds, and is more of a Social Goodwill initiative for me. I have set up great teams that work for me on clients, and I have done the same for Community, where I have great people working with me and assisting me on the growth. Therefore, it all comes down to managing and leading the right way. Being a leader requires strategy and creative thinking.

What’s your long-term vision for Capital Markets — where do you see it five years from now?

I believe that the Capital Markets will thrive, we do see the life is back for Capital Markets. AI, semiconductor and crypto definitely has changed the type of companies that are going public. We are seeing a lot of non-traditional companies going public, and some that shouldn’t really be public are public. It’s definitely exciting times.

LEADERSHIP & COMMUNITY

In your view, what does authentic leadership look like today?

Authentic leader always cares about its people, community, customers and has a strong vision. A good leader always strives to achieve good results, not just for himself, but for the people that he serves. Therefore, it’s important to have wisdom, perseverance and humility in a good leader.

You speak a lot about diversity and growth — why are those values so essential in leadership circles?

FOUNDERFUEL DINNER – HOLIDAY SPECIAL

December 4 marks the FounderFuel Dinner — can you share the story behind this event and what makes this holiday edition unique?

Aureum Leaders Circle was established in May 2025 with a mission to unite top-tier Founders, C-Suite executives, and Investors in a high-caliber, invite-only community. Our inaugural FounderFuel dinner took place on August 14th, marking the beginning of a powerful movement. We host large-scale gatherings quarterly, and our upcoming FounderFuel dinner on December 4th—timed perfectly with the holiday season—is designed to celebrate excellence with the best in class. Attendees will be joining us from across the globe, including Spain, Switzerland, and the Middle East, making it a truly international platform.

I believe in the power of working with diverse individuals—because talent exists in everyone, often just waiting to be unlocked. When we create space for people to grow, whether they bring a broad skill set or a single unique strength, we help them step into their full potential. To me, true leadership is about lifting others as you rise. It’s not just about personal growth—it's about growing together and building something greater through shared success.

Can you share a few words about your new COO and her role within the Aureum Leaders Circle?

Beyond the glamour and music, what’s the one thing you hope every guest walks away with from that night?

My goal is for every attendee to leave with lasting memories and a genuine sense of connection— so much so that they’re inspired to share their experience and look forward to the next event. It’s all about crafting meaningful moments and building relationships that go beyond the room. When you focus on experience and connection, business and deal flow naturally follow.

Finally, as we look ahead into the new year, what’s your personal mission — both as a leader and as a founder — going into 2026?

Julie Amelie Real recently joined us as COO, and she truly embodies the essence of Aureum — purpose-driven leadership grounded in humanity. With a background spanning advertising, business development, and entrepreneurship, she bridges strategy and execution, guiding our community’s growth with authenticity, structure, and lasting impact.

My personal mission is to grow this community into a space where people feel deeply connected, empowered, and united—while also experiencing meaningful economic returns. We're building a robust membership model designed to foster engagement and expand access to high-impact events that strengthen those connections. As an invite-only network of exceptional leaders, our goal is to ensure every member feels they’re receiving far more value than they invested. Ultimately, it’s about creating lifelong memories and helping one another thrive, both personally and professionally.

is the brand name under which CohnReznick LLP and CohnReznick Advisory LLC and their respective affiliates operate in an alternative practice structure in accordance with regulations and professional standards. CohnReznick LLP, a licensed CPA firm, provides attest services and CohnReznick Advisory LLC, not a licensed CPA firm, provides tax and business consulting services.

"CohnReznick"

ANASTASIA BAIBORODINA

THE CRYPTO QUEEN WHO TURNS VISION INTO POWER

A PIONEER BEYOND THE BUZZWORD

Long before “Bitcoin” became a household name, Anastasia Baiborodina had already stepped into the future. In 2013, she bought her first BTC at $300 — a move that today stands as a symbol of rare foresight. From that moment, her career has been defined by trailblazing choices, fearless decisions, and a vision that keeps her steps ahead of the curve.

FROM LAWMAKER TO MARKET SHAPER

Her legacy extends far beyond trading charts. As President of the All-Ukrainian Association of Cryptocurrency and Blockchain, Anastasia helped draft the very first cryptocurrency bill in her country — shaping the legal foundations of a market that was still in its infancy. Few can claim to have influenced both policy and practice with such precision.

TRADING WITH A MISSION

Today, Anastasia leads with equal parts discipline and innovation. She balances cryptocurrency and CFD trading with a powerhouse team of analysts and traders. Together, they create strategies, design trading robots, and build investment portfolios — a world where precision meets profit.

THE SCHOOL THAT OPENS DOORS

But her most ambitious project is one that looks outward: Trading School from Scratch.

PROVES THAT ANYONE CAN LEARN TRADING. EXPLAINS COMPLEX TOPICS SIMPLY AND MOTIVATES YOU TO TAKE ACTION.

Anastasia Baiborodina

Created for those who want to step into investments without fear, the school is a gateway to empowerment. Short, sharp 30-minute lessons. Real trade examples.

Practical assignments. Continuous mentorship. A structure designed to replace confusion with confidence.

“The market is not chaos. It is discipline, strategy, and the ability to see opportunities,” Anastasia shares. “I want every student of my school to feel the taste of freedom and financial independence.”

A MOVEMENT, NOT JUST A CAREER

CONTACT For more Information visit cryptoqueen.space and Follow on Instagram @crypto.queen777 & @anastasia.personagrata

What began as a personal journey now unites hundreds: traders, analysts, investors, and students. More than just building wealth, Anastasia is redefining what financial independence can look like. For her, the mission is clear: to make trading accessible, structured, and profitable for anyone bold enough to begin.