Toronto Waterfront Magazine 20th Anniversary Marquee Issue by towaterfrontmagazine

THE 2023

Waterfront AWARDS David Suzuki FIRES BACK

HOLIDAY

WINE PICKS David Miller

C40 CLIMATE ACTION

Intergenerational

MENTORING Film For

Peace Festival Max Jamali

BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST

■THE HEAT IS ON ■MENTAL HEALTH & YOU ■BILL KING & ALL THAT JAZZ ■REAL ESTATE & WEALTH ■SALVADOR DALI ■WHERE’S THE PARTY?

Suzanne AN INTIMATE CONVERSATION WITH

ROGERS UNITING FASHION WITH PURPOSE.

20TH ANNIVERSARY MARQUEE ISSUE

WATERFRONT-MAGAZINE.COM ■ $9.95

PUBLISHER'S NOTE

s John Lennon says in his song, ‘Woman’, “Women hold up half the sky.” Nowhere is this more evident than in Canada, and in the Greater Toronto Area. Whether it’s politics, business, entertainment or in the home, the contributions of women have made them outstanding leaders in our communities. Luminaries such as Bonnie Crombie, Suzanne Rogers, Catherine O’Hara, Bianca Andreescu, Barbara Amiel and many more have helped to transform the GTA and the world at large for the better. At Waterfront Media Group, we had the great pleasure to host the Waterfront Awards at The Toronto Region Board of Trade in celebration of the many women who have helped to light the way to a better future. This Gala event resulted in awards in 15 categories to powerhouse women, and a wonderful time was had by all. As a consequence, the Waterfront Media Group is publishing a glossy coffee-table book which will feature women of influence in the GTA who are helping to create the catalyst for change, showcasing the achievements of 100 such women in the face of adversity. These stories will inspire people to rise to the challenges one faces when bringing one’s dreams into reality. Because for women everywhere, the sky is the limit. Karim Mirshahi

20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

EDITOR'S NOTE

elcome to the 20th Anniversary Issue of Waterfront Magazine, a landmark event that signifies the remarkable contributions of writers, art directors, photographers, artists, editors and visionaries who have helped to put progressive issues on the table, and keep our community current on everything that is happening on the Waterfront. To celebrate this achievement, this issue is devoted to a wide array of topics certain to stimulate the mind and excite the imagination. We’re honouring the accomplishments of women, including Suzanne Rogers, a review of the prestigious Waterfront Awards and a number of contributions by talented women writers and artists. Environmental champions such as David Suzuki, David Miller and Al Sovani are all very persuasive in advocating for the stewardship of our home planet – Earth. Also featured, is a wide range of Arts & Entertainment topics by luminaries such as Jazz aficionado, Bill King, the Film for Peace Festival and Rachel Song, among others. Don’t forget to check out ‘Where’s the Party?’, our Tech and Business content, our Community and Lifestyle sections, and more. It all adds up to exceptional reading and informative insight for anyone who wants to connect with what’s going on in this vibrant neighbourhood. Read on! Ross Ulysses Munroe

WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

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MASTHEAD PUBLISHER Karim Mirshahi EXECUTIVE EDITOR Ross Ulysses Munroe ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Aida Memisevic EDITOR Virginia Munroe ASSOCIATE EDITORS Linda Montgomery, Darren Dobson, Sandra Creighton CREATIVE DIRECTION & DESIGN Justin Morgan CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kamila Bielecka, Sonia Dolar, Caroline Grenier,

Elise Houghton, Bill King, Catherine Maio, Francine Mbvoumbo, MPP Mary-Margaret McMahon, Aida Memisevic, David Miller, Karim Mirshahi, S.C. Modiste, Linda Montgomery, Virginia Munroe, Ross Ulysses Munroe, Shien Victoria Zutshi, Samantha Sannella, Tatevic Sarkisyan, Shannon Skinner, Marie Smith, Rachel Song, Al Sovani, David Suzuki, Dr. Monica Vermani, Mike Winterburn

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CONTENTS 1

DEAR ESTEEMED GUEST, SPECIAL FEATURE AWARDS 2023 GALA! WELCOME TO THE WATERFRONT 2023 EDITION COVER PHOTO: CHRIS NICHOLLS

Suzanne Rogers...12

Thank you for joining us this evening at the spectacular Toronto Region Board of Trade, as we recognize THE ENVIRONMENT the achievements of Women from theFinance Greater Toronto Area. Tonight's event is truly a celebration. & Climate Change...18 David Suzuki’s Paradigm Shift...20 E-Cars in Canada...22 The women being honoured here are doing outstanding work in their fields. David Miller on Climate Arsonists...24 Never has suchOther leadership been more imporant! Waterfronts...26 Hydrogen Power..28 The Heat Is On: Book Review...30

The Waterfront Awards Committee provides a series of screening processes to identify today’s most prolific personalities, focusing on these categories of success below:

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The Dali Exhibit...32 Arts & Culture, Author, Community Activism, Culinary Arts, BIPOC Festival...34 Entrepreneurship & Business, Environment, Fashion & Style, Once. I Missed Me...36 Film & Television, Music, Outstanding Innovator, PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRIS NICHOLLS Film For Peace FilmFest...38 King Talks Music...40 Philanthropy, Science & Technology,BillSports Health & Fitness, Urban Planning and Design, Pro>File: Elsa Hsieh...42 Rising Young Changemaker, Lifetime Achievement

Max Jamali Talks Art...44 Simon Says...46 From all of us on the Waterfront Awards Committee, we are grateful for the generous contributions A Song For Us: Film Review...48 Mrs. Asia: On the Waterfront...50 of our sponsors and our wonderful team of volunteers. And of course to you, our guest!

Thank you for joining us this evening! COMMUNITY

Publisher’s Note...5 Editor’s Note...6 The Waterfront Awards...54 Board ofatadvisors MPP McMahon the Beach...56 Ireland Park...58 MothersMirshahi to Daughters...60 Karim (Chair)

THE WATERFRONT AWARDS

Aida Memisevic (Co-chair) HEALTH & WELLBEING

Daniela Spirlac (Event Manager) 100 Powerhouse Women...62 Negin Valizadeh (Event Coordinator) Mental Health...64 Francine Mbvoumbo (Event Coordinator) Music for Healing...66 Peter Linseman Tropical (Entertainment and Music Coordinator) Pineapple Twist!...68 Walter Barubek (Marketing and Sponsorships Coordinator) Rosemary Ghiz (Volunteer Coordinator) Satie Narain-Simon (Volunteer Coordinator Assistant) BUSINESS & WEALTH Hanmin YunCollision (MediaConference...70 Relations Coordinator) Transitioning Tatevik Sarkisyan (PublicWealth...73 Relations Coordinator) Exploring the Future...74Assistant) Ksenia Sharova (Executive Sonia Dolar (Sponsorships Manager)

6 7

LIFESTYLE

Vanessa Lachman (Executive Producer, Fashion) Holiday Wine Picks...76 Mia MiazakiBaltic (Fashion Coordinator) Sea...78 Bita KanpouriTo(Executive Assistant, Fashion) The Dreamers...80 Where’s the Party?...82

Terence Lushington (Silent and Live Auctions and CoMC) Andrea Lo (CoMC)

20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

SUZANNE ROGERS Uniting Fashion With Purpose

AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

1 SPECIAL FEATURE

hen Suzanne's press agent confirmed the interview for this article would take place in Toronto at the home of Suzanne and Edward Rogers, I was excited. I was about to get a little sneak peek, behind the scenes of the Rogers empire. Who wouldn't be curious to see how one of the most affluent families in Canada lives. The house had an extra large driveway area, and the outer perimeter of trees made it feel like I was leaving the outside world and walking into a comforting, private oasis. I arrived at the front door and entered the beech wood foyer greeted by a smartly uniformed housekeeper. The house was different than I had imagined; it had much more of a homey, family-friendly atmosphere. I saw beautiful, prodigious furniture, expensive I'm sure, but more comfy than ostentatious. The feel inside the home was bright with happy colours and traditional decor, clearly influenced by Suzanne's style and feminine touch. The silver and blue dining room seated fourteen and was immediately to the left; here I was welcomed in to set up for the interview. Awaiting me were carefully placed dessert plates and three shiny silver trays with six different styles of cookies, including a selection of very quaint peach and lime green puffs. Suzanne walked in and introduced herself with a friendly smile, looking immaculate in her brightly coloured dress, perfectly executed make-up and her long blonde hair swept to the side. Soon afterwards, curious to see what was going on, Suzanne's husband Edward casually popped into the dining room.

Edward Rogers is the Chairman of Rogers Communications Inc. His father Ted Rogers was the visionary who started Rogers Cable TV in the 1960s. Edward, with an amiable smile explained he had just come from a workout, and to please excuse his casual dress. He was endearing, with a down to earth energy. We chatted a bit about fitness and Fit-bit tracking, and in those brief three minutes of conversation I thought to myself, these two seem like a good match. I liked them. As comfortable as Suzanne may now be with her role and status in this iconic, famous Canadian family, she was not born into wealth. Suzanne is proud of her humble beginnings, as a miner's daughter of Hungarian immigrants. Born in Elliot Lake, Ontario, tragic circumstances were a part of her young life when her biological father, Miklos, died in a mining accident when she was just an infant. A few years later Suzanne's mother met her step father Martin, and shortly after her sister was born. From her grandmother hiding photo albums, to a mysterious grave site visit, young Suzanne had a feeling something was different. “The first time I felt that my stepfather was not my real father was when I was very little, about four. My mother took me to his grave at Elliot Lake. She didn't say “He is your father”... she said, “There is 'somebody very special' here.” Suzanne was officially told about her ‘step’ father relationship when she was about eight years old. In the summers, Suzanne would visit her relatives in Hungary and her step-father's family in Romania. The relatives back home dealt first hand with communism; from waiting for hours in line for

WRITTEN BY

AIDA MEMISEVIC

WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

From her grandmother hiding photo albums, to a mysterious grave site visit, young Suzanne had a feeling something was different.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRIS NICHOLLS

20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

1 SPECIAL FEATURE—AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

Young Suzanne with Family at their European Deli (boy included is a friend) PHOTO COURTESY OF SUZANNE ROGERS

Four Generations: Suzanne with her Mother, Grandmother and Daughter (as a teen) PHOTO COURTESY OF SUZANNE ROGERS

Her parents worked long hours, and the family lived above the storefront.

bread, to being cautious with words - for fear of neighbours reporting to authorities. Suzanne remembers the sounds of late night announcements from the dictatorship on the single TV channel. “As a child these eastern European politics were part of my young life.” She heard stories about the Hungarian revolution, and how her then 13 year old father and his best friend left home with a loaf of bread, catching a bus headed to Austria. Prior to marrying her mother, Suzanne's step father lived in a rooming house, sacrificing and saving to buy a building in St. Thomas Ontario, where the family would open a European delicatessen. Her parents worked long hours, and the family lived above the storefront. This is where Suzanne spent much of her childhood, doing homework at the deli's back table and playing in the rear warehouse. Suzanne learned about a strong family work ethic, while customers marvelled at the adorable 10 year old who helped serve coffee. Their European deli was successful, but the family maintained humble means, with Salvation Army and 14

Goodwill being included as shopping outlets. However that didn't stop Suzanne from being creative and bold with her fashion style. Although teen Suzanne wasn't allowed to wear miniskirts or jeans, she was otherwise given reign to choose her own wardrobe, and she made the most of it. She was a confident child, who loved fashion and wasn't afraid to be daring with her choices. From outlandish bomber jackets to extreme zipper pants: “Fashion whispered in my life somehow.” Today, Suzanne is known as a Canadian fashion icon, not only for her personal style, but also as someone who organizes and participates in various fashion events and galas to help raise funds for charity. The Edward and Suzanne Rogers Foundation has assisted several organizations over the years. Suzanne spoke with particular passion about the organizations who support fragile children: “There are so many smaller charities that go unnoticed that I try to bring attention to, grassroots charities that really make an impact in so many people's lives.” Suzanne was ardent about using her name and influence to maximize charitable funding for the organizations she supports: “A cheque is just a cheque. If I can get an organization to get twenty cheques, then I think that is very impactful.” Their charitable foundation is also instrumental in supporting emerging fashion designers and educational programs with partners such as Toronto

Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson). One of Suzanne's big initiatives is “Suzanne Rogers Presents” - a prestigious charity gala that showcases the work of internationally renowned fashion designers. Suzanne shared with me her experience in flying to New York to launch the program and pitch the first designer to come on board. A fellow you may have heard of ... Oscar de la Renta. “I had a whole presentation. I was so nervous to meet this icon. I sat in that car and my entire body was covered in sweat ... I knew if I got him, that would have a huge impact for the charity and the city.” To date, the event series has raised close to 4 million dollars for charity. Although Suzanne grew up helping at the family deli, she also had stints throughout university as a Kelsey's waitress, nanny and a resort housekeeper. “I had jobs. I loved working... It was an independence for me.” She worked in a variety of roles as an executive assistant, within tech companies and as a junior producer for a commercial effects studio: “My first real job, I got $35,000 a year. I could afford my own apartment, and thought 'I made it!'. Nobody has a salary like this!” If she only knew what the future would hold. Suzanne and her husband Edward originally met as teenagers (she was his date for the prom!). “I married the man WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

I loved.” Marriage and family are very important to her, but Suzanne wasn't conventional. The couple dated on and off and she didn't feel the need to get married right away. “I had Chloe with my husband Edward in my twenties but we waited to get married.” It seems her daughter, now 26, was influenced by her mother's love of design. Chloe was accepted into the prestigious Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London, which led to starting her own fashion line. But as Suzanne was quick to mention: "She got into that school because she worked hard for it, not because I made a phone call.” About a decade later, Suzanne and Edward added two boys to the mix, Edward 18 and Jack 16. There was an emotional moment at one point in the interview when Suzanne talked about having an empty nest; her boys were getting older. The realization had recently hit her, and she was impassioned to spend as much time with the teens before they left for university. Suzanne's mother was a powerful influence on her: “I've always liked myself, because I had a mother who instilled confidence in me. My self esteem was never knocked down because of the mistakes I made.” As a mom Suzanne is hands on, there for her kids; although she does not believe in being a helicopter parent or being overly strict: “You are there to be a mother, a parent to guide them. I've always let them be independent... but was always supportive.” Suzanne describes herself as someone who has never forgotten her family and humble roots: “My work ethic started when I was 8 years old. I had to work for something if I wanted it. That was just the way I grew up.” She comments that her husband Edward also works very hard and that strong work ethic is just a part of the family dynamic: “You do have to work hard if you want to accomplish something. There is nobody lounging around my house. Everybody is doing something.” Outside of family, I was wondering who Suzanne hangs out with. I imagine it must be difficult at times, not knowing if people are being nice to you because of your wealth, status or last name. I admit I was curious about Suzanne's friendships - are all her friends rich? As I was trying to figure out a polite way to ask the question, she brought up the topic of friendships. Both she and Edward still have close friends from their university 20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

I had a whole presentation. I was so nervous to meet this icon.

Event "Suzanne Rogers Presents" with Oscar de la Renta - 2010 PHOTO COURTESY OF PETER BREGG

1 SPECIAL FEATURE—AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

Fashion whispered in my life somehow.

Suzanne and Jennifer in Paris, Two Moments in Time PHOTO COURTESY OF SUZANNE ROGERS

Rogers Family Photo - 2011 PHOTO COURTESY OF TERESA BARBIERI

days, and it was a hard: “No” - not all her friends are wealthy. “The majority of my friends I have known for 20 plus years. I love meeting new people. But the closest to me are people that have been in my life for decades.” Suzanne met her best friend Jennifer when they were in grade eight. When the young women were 18 Jennifer worked in Paris for a period of time as a nanny. She had her own tiny nanny suite and Suzanne came to visit her for a few weeks, where they would often go out to the clubs in Paris. With limited funds, the girls had to strategize their evenings; they either shared a meal, or took a cab ride home, they couldn't afford both. 16

There was a time when Suzanne and Jennifer tried to get into the Ritz Hotel lobby: “We were dressed up, but you could tell... maybe it was the fake plastic purses ... they didn't let us into the lobby of the Ritz. Then about 15 years ago during Fashion Week I took her and we stayed there. Amazing how my life had changed. But I was just as happy at 18 ... and appreciated both experiences.” Today as part of a well known, iconic family, everything you do can be under scrutiny. Suzanne admits she felt some vulnerable moments, especially at the beginning of her marriage. Her fatherin-law Ted Rogers, who she describes as: “a lovely man, kind and the best

father-in-law a girl could have” gave her some advice. Her fashion style and beauty often brought the attention of media and photographers. He said: “Be photographed for the work you do ... be the most important person in the room because of what you do, not because of what you wear.” I believe people are revealed through their actions and what they contribute, more than their words. One of the privileges of wealth brings the freedom to choose what you do with your time. To honour her father's grave and the other men who died in the mines, each year on April 28th, on the National Day of Mourning this miner's daughter makes the time to take a trip back home to Elliot Lake to visit Miners' Memorial Park. Perhaps this small but important act gives us a closer glimpse into the woman who is - Suzanne Rogers.■ Aida Memisevic is a TedX speaker, journalist and executive producer focusing on mindset and wellness based television shows, films and digital content. WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

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2 THE ENVIRONMENT—CLIMATE FINANCING

Climate Financing:

A crucial tool in the fight for climate change WRITTEN BY

AL SOVANI

2 THE ENVIRONMENT

“

oney is there and it’s no blah, blah, blah,”…. so said a confident Mark Carney, UN Special Envoy on Climate Action and Finance at the UN Climate Change Conference, COP26 (Dec. 2021) to the conference delegates in Glasgow, UK. Carney, a Canadian economist and banker who served as the Governor of the Bank of Canada (2008-2013) and the Governor of the Bank of England (2013-2020) brokered an agreement that tapped into a potential of $130 trillion in financial assistance from over 500 banks, agencies, multi-lateral organizations, NGOs, and private sector, globally representing approximately 40% of the world’s financial assets. This prompted the US climate Czar, John Kerry, to suggest that climate financing was the missing ingredient in climate action. He went on to say that this is the “only way we get where we need to go” with respect to attaining net-zero. Raising this kind of amount is no small feat – it was a watershed moment in the on-going fight for climate change. While it is clear that this amount may not be enough for the challenge ahead, the efforts of Carney & group are the turning point in climate financing. However, the most important task yet is to find ways to leverage and deploy the funds effectively, but the mechanism to do just that efficiently is lacking. Under the present climate financ-

ing ecosystem, the United Nations, through the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), is responsible for supervising transfers from developed to developing countries. This financing thus far has been raised mostly from public sources. Carney’s initiative has brought into the finance pool a larger mix of the private sector funds. Without a global financial structural change – a paradigm shift – we will continue to encounter massive problems in accelerating the climate fight. As we examine below the current financing ecosystem, the flaws will become apparent – flaws that will significantly hinder the climate crisis if allowed to remain unchecked. Currently, climate finance comes from many different sources. The public and private funds are split 80/20 respectively. This includes national or international, bilateral or multilateral sources. Additionally, there are also numerous types of financial instruments, some of the most common being: Green Bonds; Debt Swaps (for the development of mitigation & adaptation projects); Guarantees; Concessional Loans (which have longer repayment periods and lower interest rates; and Grants and Donations (that do not need to be repaid). Generally speaking, public funds are, by and large, deployed to adaptation strategies. Private funds look for projects that are bankable and as a result generally end up in mitigation projects. WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

PHOTO COURTESY OF FORDPIC, TORONTO, CANADA

There is generally a vague definition of the targets for the overall funds and the criteria for such deployment, for example: the $100 billion per year targeted to low-and middle- income countries (LMC’s) lack of accountability and enforcement mechanisms. It’s not surprising that these commitments were not met at Glasgow in 2021 and again at Sharm El-Sheik, Egypt in 2022. With rules as murky and open-ended as this, the immediate concern should be how the $130 trillion of commitment received should be deployed in a strategic, targeted and effective manner. There needs to be greater clarity around how progress toward such funding must be measured to enhance accountability. The LMC’s rightfully have argued that the UNFCCC climate financing regime should include only distributed funds, rather than committed ones in their overall accounting. Loan repayments and interest should be subtracted from the total financing figures to provide a more realistic and transparent picture of the actual flow of funds. For LMC’s, the fragmented climate finance landscape and complex bureaucratic processes are most defi20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

Stewards of climate finance must evolve the available tools... nitely undermining the benefit of adaptation support. Another glaring factor to note is that less than 5% of tracked financing comes from the private sector, indicating a need for private financers to prioritize adaptation. Analysis by the World Bank points to some key reasons why private sector actors tend to steer clear of adaptation finance. Among the reasons are lack of country-level data on climate risk and the consequent vulnerability needed by private investors to guide investment decision-making. Added to that is their inability to capture the full environmental and social benefits generated by adaptation investments, resulting in perceived low returns on investment. Even if the climate financing eco-system had all the funds to solve the climate crisis, it is quite clear that without

structural changes to institutions and financial tools, we would likely struggle to spend them effectively. To make progress against climate targets, climate commitments and project pipelines should be paired with structural solutions for organizations, financial tools, and local disbursements. Climate finance is not being disbursed fast enough to protect society’s future. For example, climate funds under the World Bank are disbursing funds for adaptation and mitigation at rates as low as 19% and 12%, respectively. Meanwhile, GHG emissions are projected to rebound and grow. To overcome the limitations of the current suite of financial tools and risk paradigms, stewards of climate finance must evolve the available tools and expand the aperture for considering and managing project risk. For climate adaptation projects, international entities should agree to consistent frameworks for calculating the cost of longer-term climate impacts. In addition, financial institutions can design and employ robust data and analytics platforms that inform financial models for climate projects. It is important to shift this paradigm from investing in individual resilience projects, like sea walls, to investing in resilient infrastructure. Climate fund administrators should integrate climate change adaptation by identifying the most critical infrastructure projects planned for development and defining and targeting the marginal cost of adaptation. This marginal cost of adaptation should then be matched with other sources of financing, based on the general obligation of financing principles. Indeed, the need for transparency, accountability and metrics to measure and report on these matters, is long overdue as climate financing is a very crucial factor in the fight to combat climate crisis. The challenge requires no less. The solution depends on it. Al Sovani is the bestselling author of ‘The Heat is On’, a recently-published treatise that deals with the challenges and solutions to the climate crisis we all face. He is also an entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and an educator who has worked on numerous environmental and clean tech projects.■ 19

2 THE ENVIRONMENT—DAVID SUZUKI

More than an energy shift,

We need a paradigm shift In the effort to limit and reverse the worsening impacts of global heating, the immediate goal is to quickly stop burning coal, oil and gas. That means rapidly shifting to renewable energy for electricity generation and transportation. WRITTEN BY

DAVID SUZUKI WITH CONTRIBUTIONS FROM SENIOR EDITOR AND WRITER IAN HANINGTON

ut simply switching from one source of energy to another and trading gas-powered cars, trucks and SUVs for electric ones won’t resolve the climate crisis — as important as those are. The interrelated environmental crises — deforestation, species extinction, climate change — are being driven by wasteful consumerism. Getting off fossil fuels poses more of a challenge if we continue to consume massive amounts of disposable products and energy. As Andrew Nikiforuk recently wrote in the Tyee, “Any imperfect solution to our current civilization-threatening predicament must include dialing down our energy consumption rather than coming up with high-tech visions that keep accelerating it.” That includes the energy and materials used to produce growing mountains of disposable products, from smartphones to cars to clothing. Almost everything we produce requires minerals and metals, which must be mined — including wind turbines and solar panels. If we continue to use electronic gizmos that must be replaced every year or two, and if we continue to insist that most people should have a couple of tonnes of metal, plastic and glass to move a hundred or so kilos of human, rather than building reliable transit systems and walkable communities, building out renewable energy might slow our descent but won’t save us from calamity. That isn’t an argument against renewable energy, which is absolutely necessary.

Coal, oil and gas are also mined, cause massive damage to air, water, land and climate and put all life at risk. But we can’t continue to thrive in a system that depends on constant growth on a finite planet — population growth, economic growth, ever-increasing consumption. We need unlimited sunlight and wind for energy, but we have to recognize that finite resources are required to utilize that energy. We’ve been misled into believing that endlessly chasing after more, bigger, shinier things will bring us satisfaction and happiness when, in fact, it’s often the opposite. Our Sisyphean struggle has left us tired and alienated, created massive inequality and pushed us toward ecological collapse. We need a paradigm shift. Getting by with less doesn’t mean living less satisfying lives. It’s a question of what we value. We’ve been indoctrinated into believing that wealth and power are the ultimate goals, but only a minuscule percentage of the growing human population truly benefits from that, and the “trickle down” economic theory has always been a hoax. If we truly valued the short time we each spend on this planet, we surely wouldn’t waste it to wreak misery and destruction in pursuit of elusive goals. We’d learn to find joy in family, friendship and nature, in learning and sharing. Working ourselves to exhaustion and jetting off to some increasingly crowded resort area for a couple of weeks to recover can’t be what life is about. Does WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

Getting along with less doesn't mean living less satisfying lives.

dining on burgers and steaks make us any happier than enjoying healthy plantbased foods? It certainly doesn’t make us healthier. Does staring at a tiny device all day make us feel any more connected and satisfied with our lives than actually getting together with real people in real time, or taking in the quiet beauty of nature? Industrialization, and especially car culture, were sold to us under false premises, fuelling a crisis that now threatens our survival. We’re not going to go back to the way things were, nor should we. But we can progress to better ways of living. That will require quitting fossil fuels as quickly as possible and shifting to renewable energy. But we must also learn to use less. Energy efficiency is part of that, but reducing what we use is critical, especially in the western world, where per capita energy consumption is many times higher than in other parts of the world. We’re capable of great technological innovation, but that alone isn’t enough to create a better world. As Nikiforuk writes, “In blunt terms we need an energy strategy that pointedly shrinks economic activity over time the same way chemotherapy effectively diminishes a cancerous tumor.” We might be surprised to find that our lives will improve if we do.■ 20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

2 THE ENVIRONMENT—ELECTRIC VEHICLES

The Future of

Electric Vehicles in Canada WRITTEN BY SONIA DOLAR

s the world moves ahead based on the implications of climate change, it becomes more challenging to balance an ever-improving standard of living with environmental concerns. Nowhere is this more apparent than the imperative of mass personal transportation which many believe started with Henry Ford’s, Black Model T. What is less known is that the Fritchle 100-Mile Electric Automobile debuted in 1904. The availability of inexpensive petroleum fuels made it hard for electric cars to compete. While the potential for electrification of personal transport promises to de-carbonize our daily commutes, the move to EVs is not without societal-level challenges. It is not surprising that with large 22

metropolitan centres China is the current leader in electric vehicle technology with approximately 60% of world sales, followed by Europe and then the US. Based on figures from Automotive News Canada, Canada currently lags behind other nations. In 2022 1 in 8 new vehicles here were being sold as either plug-in hybrid or fully electric. To meet Canada’s goal of 60% of all passenger vehicles sold being fully electric by 2030 and only sales of EV by 2035, there is significant work to be done, in the financial, societal and infrastructure aspects of vehicle electrification. To do this Canada must have a plan to transition into the future. Bill Harvey, founder of Spark Park, has noted that the move forward to electric vehicles requires infrastructure and there have been challenges obtaining hardware

for charging stations for EV. Also the move forward requires fundamental supply chain support and petroleum energy inputs to transition into this area. Beyond the infrastructure upgrades that are so frequently discussed with improving and de-carbonizing the grid, we need to address some key metrics. Unlike in the USA, in Canada, EV charging is based on time, and it may not represent the actual electrical usage as each vehicle is different. To understand the impact and potential road tax calculation, there needs to be a standardized measurement for gasoline fuel calibration. “Of course, each country will draw upon their specific geographic and cultural circumstances in order to achieve the best results,” according to the Senior Management Executive of Arpel, Carlos WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

Garibaldi of the Regional Association of Oil, Gas and Biofuels sector companies in Latin America and the Caribbean. As its name implies, transition doesn’t mean abrupt replacement. It entails having the necessary realism and pragmatism to find synergies and “quick wins” towards the decarbonization goals. Natural gas is thus an ideal transition fuel to fill the gap between energy demand and renewable and low emissions supply. In the spirit of lower emissions, Ontario is partnering with Volkswagen and the federal government in the manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries in St. Thomas. Major OEMS, Ford, GM and niche players like Stellantis are also producing EV batteries. A number of Li ion battery recycling facilities are being built around Canada and the USA. And the opportunities are remarkable, with great rewards waiting to be harvested in the supply chain all the way from the manufacturing phase to the recycling. There is great potential in commercial transportation fleets such as Airbus and Air France to decarbonize using hydrogen and natural gas for lower emissions, as well as manufacturing sectors such as in steel production in Hamilton using diversified energy. I recently attended CERAWeek Innovation Agora which is hosted by Daniel Yergin, author of “The Clash of Nations, The New Map, Energy, Climate and Oil” and VP of S&P Global. CERAWeek is known as the key event for not only energy pathways and solutions for the future but several transformational technology initiatives that bring together energy companies, innovators and academia - policy makers from every continent. Canada is blessed with great resources inside our own borders, but we are an energy-dependent nation even if that energy is produced domestically. One cannot easily think of a single industry where oil does not have a direct impact on GDP and in the material index of manufacturing, housing and construction and home goods. "The energy transition refers to the global energy sector shift from fossil-based systems of energy production and consumption including oil, natural gas and coal – to renewable energy sources like wind and solar, green and blue hydrogen as well as lithium-ion batteries.” S & P Global. 20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

The increasing penetration of renewable energy into the energy supply mix, the onset of electrification and improvements in energy storage are all key drivers of the energy transition. The Canadian federal budget of 2023 from the Pembina Institute reports that these initiatives make Canada competitive with the U.S. Witness the Inflation Reduction Act and Europe’s Green Deal Industrial Plan. There are new electric vehicle charging standards in the U.S. that stipulate that EV chargers must meet certain criteria. The Biden administration states that to receive federal funding, EV chargers must be American-made and appropriate for all electric vehicles. Tesla is basically the standard and is modifying high efficiency charging stations to these benchmarks. In Canada, these criteria are based on time used, and it may not represent the actual energy charged as each vehicle is different, and it must have a cost that is standardized for gasoline fuel calibration purposes. “The will to success is important, but what’s more important is the will to pre-

pare.” Albert Einstein While there is not enough space here to cover everything to be learned at the CERAWeek Agora, the takeaway is that EV is not the whole solution to the problem of decarbonization. We can start with EVs but even if Canada went all electric vehicles tomorrow without significant proactive policies like proper infrastructure to support this initiative for comfortable travel, the majority of vehicles on the road will have petroleum engines for years, even decades. Both large-scale transportation and manufacturing produce the biggest environmental benefits for society. Blue and Green hydrogen, renewable energy when compared to hydrocarbon technology, could turn captured CO2 into fuel. This would reduce the carbon footprint by CO2 sequestration, and it would ease the transition and reduce Canada's energy consumption footprint. As you plan your future, speak with your politicians and financial advisors about the ecosystem of technologies needed for decarbonizing Canada with an affordable and clean energy economy.■

PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVID MILLER

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2 THE ENVIRONMENT—DAVID MILLER

My Country Is On Fire We Know Who The Arsonists Are WRITTEN BY

DAVID MILLER, SUMMER 2023

anada is on fire, from coast to coast. As of June 8, nearly 4 million hectares had burned, 15 times the national average. In Quebec alone, 645,000 hectares have burned, which is nearly 500 times the average of the past decade. This is slated to become the worst fire season ever. It’s hard to overstate the impact. There are fires in nearly every Province thousands of kilometres apart. Smoke is blanketing North America - photographs of US East Coast cities a huge distance from the fires show them blanketed in a dark smoky haze as if they were back to the era of burning coal. Mass evacuations have occurred and homes and infrastructure destroyed. Factories, mines, electricity generation, oil and gas facilities shut down. The system is overwhelmed - in Quebec they are choosing which towns and villages to abandon to fire because there are not sufficient fire fighters, water bombers or pilots to address every one. Fire fighters from around the world are racing to Canada to help - from South Africa. From France. From the United States. This isn’t normal. It’s dangerous. Destructive. Impacting significantly on the human health of tens of millions of Canadians and Americans. It’s not normal - but it is climate change. The abnormal conditions - hot and dry before summer - that have led to these unprecedented wildfires are a result of changed weather resulting from global heating. And they are a forerunner of what is to come. It’s notable that these impacts are happening in Canada. A major oil and gas producer, we are one of the biggest

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emitters of greenhouse gases in the world. And despite the fact that our national government led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was elected on a platform of climate action, the oil and gas sector, our business press, and conservative politicians are all cheerleaders for more oil and gas production - not less. Various excuses are offered (China is worse, we are a small country, our oil is more ethical than Saudi Arabia’s) - none of which stand up to scrutiny. The latest argument, that gas is a transition fuel, is blatantly false. Studies show that methane leaks in the system mean that gas is as dirty as coal. The science is clear - we have to halve overall emissions by 2030, and Canada, like all countries, must do its part. Instead, we see well-financed opposition to even basic climate measures like the government’s carbon tax, and near daily proposals for new projects to exploit fossil fuels like gas. The latest craze is LNG, with proposals for new terminals to export to Europe and Asia getting serious discussion in political and business circles, seemingly oblivious to the fact that such projects - and the pipelines designed to feed them - cannot possibly happen if we are to prevent climate breakdown. Canada, and Canadians, has and have a special responsibility to act. We have benefitted from easy and cheap access to fossil fuels, and have created the emissions that are causing climate change - and environmental disasters like these fires. Will we? There is hope in that the vast majority of Canadians accept the science and demand action. There is hope in our cities, like Montreal, led by superb

Mayor Valérie Plante, who is not waiting for action and has taken the bold step of ensuring all new buildings will be carbon free, as of 2025. C40 cities like Montreal are showing the highest level of climate ambition and their mayors are uniting in action to confront the climate crisis and create a sustainable future where everyone can thrive. This is being done through science-based climate action and investment in resilient cities that are well-positioned to address the climate crisis. Now more than ever, as we watch our country burn and witness the impacts of climate breakdown hitting countless other cities globally, the need to invest in our cities is paramount. Immediate investment is needed to help cities adapt and protect residents with infrastructure that is resilient to extreme weather events. The benefits of such investments are clear: reducing emissions, creating good, green job opportunities, and building a healthier, more equitable and sustainable future for all. But there is also a rearguard action. Last month, the Alberta Conservatives narrowly won re-election, with exploiting oil and gas and denying the need to act against climate breakdown at the heart of their platform. Just a few days ago, Premier Danielle Smith was interviewed about the devastating wildfires in Alberta and she implied that they were the result of arson. In a way, she is right. And we know who the arsonists are. Former Mayor of Toronto, David Miller is the Managing Director of the C40 Centre for City Climate Policy and Economy.■ 25

2 THE ENVIRONMENT—OTHER WATERFRONTS

OTHER

WATERFRONTS WRITTEN BY SABRINA ROSSI

A photographer, designer, and traveler, Sabrina is passionate about seeing the world and learning through other cultures, people, and experiences. Her goal is to capture the beauty of other countries and inspire other people to travel the world. Find out more at www.sabrinarossi.ca.

Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan

Queenstown, New Zealand

Sydney, Australia

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Kaohsiung City, Taiwan

Budapest, Hungary

Rishikesh, India

Shanghai, China

Cape Town, South Africa

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2 THE ENVIRONMENT—LANDSCAPE OF HYDROGEN

The Global Energy Landscape of Hydrogen WRITTEN BY SONIA DOLAR

f hydrogen can power the sun, it can also provide the energy to drive our global economy. For the long-term investor who is willing and able to tolerate the risk, it has the potential to diversify investment portfolios in new ways and, over time, provide attractive rates of return in both the private and public capital markets. Hydrogen has another significant benefit—it is a clean, safe source of sustainable energy. Basic Chemistry Hydrogen is the most common element in the universe. More precisely known as dihydrogen, it is lighter than air. It is a flammable gas, which makes it combustible. It has been used in crude form for over a hundred years for heating, cooking and lighting. With the expansion of the chemical and petroleum industries after WWII, there was a surge in demand for pure hydrogen made chemically from hydrocarbon. It was the key to transforming heavy petroleum into high octane gasoline and an indispensable ingredient in fertilizer and plastics. New Forms of Energy Hydrogen have long been regarded as a potential energy source of the future, but its acceptance has been relatively slow until recently, with the inflow of substantial investment capital. Now hydrogen has become part of the transition to new forms of energy. It is being used to decarbonize and integrate renewable sources of energy, playing a significant role in the global economy as it makes a transition to renewable sources of energy.

Hydrogen has many potential uses, from transportation to power generation, and it can play a multi-faceted approach. No single solution will address all energy and environmental challenges—the key is integrating various technologies and strategies to achieve a sustainable and equitable energy future. Population Increases and Energy Poverty In January 2023, the world's population grew to 7,942,645,086, marking an increase of 0.94% from the start of the previous year. This is a burgeoning population growth, with an expected 4.3 births and 2.0 deaths every second. The situation has become more pronounced in China and India, resulting in significant increases in the demand for energy. With a large population but lower energy consumption and GDP per capita compared to China, India faces important choices for its energy policy. The same is true for China, Russia and the countries of the Middle East. Such policies have the potential to reshape the global energy landscape. Yet as the global population grows, more attention needs to be devoted to energy poverty and energy equity. The United Nations Mission for Sustainable Development Goal #7 is to ensure universal access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy services by 2030, with a goal of promoting clean energy sources and greater energy efficiency. This, in turn, will drive global economic growth while mitigating climate change. Collaborations, partnerships, and strategic alliances will play cru-

cial roles in shaping the energy future. Dr. Scott Tinker, a well-known energy expert, emphasizes that a crucial aspect of global energy policy debate is energy poverty, that is the ability of consumers to afford access to energy. This issue is often overlooked. In his series, The Future of Energy, he raises awareness of the importance of energy transit and economic growth. Energy poverty is experienced by six out of the current eight billion people. “Instead of focusing solely on what shouldn't be done, a constructive approach towards alleviating energy poverty could yield immediate, tangible benefits,” Tinker observes. There are different types of hydrogen: grey, blue green, pink and brown. ● Grey hydrogen is produced using the traditional method of steam methane reforming (SMR) from natural gas. It is the most common type of hydrogen produced globally. It is associated with a high environmental footprint because it releases significant carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions during production. Its color reflects its carbon-intensive nature. ● Blue hydrogen is also produced from natural gas through steam methane reforming (SMR), but it incorporates carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology to capture and store the CO2 emissions, preventing them from entering the atmosphere. Blue hydrogen is considered a lower-emission option compared to grey hydrogen. While not entirely emission-free, the captured carbon emissions make it more environWATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

mentally friendly. ● Green hydrogen is produced through electrolysis using renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power. It is considered the cleanest and most environmentally friendly form of hydrogen. It has the smallest environmental footprint as it produces no direct carbon emissions during production, making it environmentally sustainable. The color-coded classification of hydrogen reflects the carbon intensity of its production, with grey being the least environmentally friendly, blue being intermediate, and green being the most environmentally friendly. This color scheme helps consumers and policy makers easily identify the environmental impact of different hydrogen sources and encourages the adoption of cleaner hydrogen production methods. Infrastructure for hydrogen, whether it is refueling stations or transportation pipelines, is a significant challenge. As with any emerging technology, initial investment and development can be high and there is a need for both private sector innovation and public sector support. Regulation and Public Perception. It is essential to inform and educate the public about the benefits and challenges associated with hydrogen. Factual, unbiased education can lead to more informed decisions by both policymakers and the public. There is, of course, a compelling need for cost-effective production methods. This economic challenge can be addressed by technological advancements, economies of scale, and policy incentives. For hydrogen to 20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

be embraced globally, and especially by major economies, several issues need to be addressed: ● Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): As blue hydrogen relies on carbon capture, advances in CCS technologies are crucial. Efficient, scalable, and cost-effective CCS methods can enhance the viability of blue hydrogen. ● Market Development: Demand for hydrogen in various industries and transportation needs to be cultivated. Industries can be incentivized to switch to hydrogen-based processes that have already been implemented by university research like University of Toronto and McMaster. ● Cost Reduction: As with any new technology or energy source, costs will decline with economies of scale and technological advancements. However, strategic investments and collaborations will be important to this outcome. In the rapidly evolving landscape of hydrogen and carbon capture technologies, several noteworthy initiatives have emerged. ● Exxon is currently spearheading the creation of a large-scale low-carbon hydrogen production plant at its Baytown, Texas refining and petrochemical facility, indicating the industry's growing interest in hydrogen as a cleaner energy source. ● Air France has made strides in the development of sustainable jet fuels, underscoring the aviation sector's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint through alternative fuel sources. Archie Initiatives has introduced an innovative

Lifecycle carbon intensity model, showcased at CERAweek in Houston, with the impressive ability to capture data on 98% of global oil production, shedding light on carbon emissions within the energy sector. ● Saudi Aramco has also made substantial headway in carbon capture, aligning with the broader industry's focus on mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, the increasing popularity of fuel cells as clean energy technology is evident, with their potential applications ranging from transportation to stationary power generation. Notably, the Extreme E international FIA-sanctioned off-road racing series, set in Neom, Saudi Arabia, could potentially transition to become the world's first hydrogen-only race series, signaling hydrogen's growing significance in the motorsports industry and as a clean energy source on a global scale. These diverse initiatives collectively signify a growing recognition of the pivotal roles that hydrogen and carbon capture play in the transition toward sustainable and environmentally friendly energy solutions across various sectors and industries. The multifaceted potential of hydrogen stands as a bridge to a sustainable future. By transitioning from grey to more sustainable methods, hydrogen offers adaptability, allowing conversion to natural gas, thereby supporting both existing infrastructure and the vision of a decarbonized ecosystem. Its cost-effectiveness becomes particularly evident in sectors like shipping, paralleling efficiencies observed in industries such as steel production. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that while hydrogen holds immense promise, it is not an all-encompassing solution, especially when its costs could potentially eclipse GDP contributions. In synergy with renewables, such as solar, hydrogen can facilitate equilibrium between peak demand and off-peak production, integrating carbon utilization. Hydrogen holds significant promise as a part of the global energy solution. However, its success will hinge on technological innovation, strategic investments, informed policy-making, and global collaboration.■ 29

2 THE ENVIRONMENT—BOOK REVIEW

THE HEAT IS ON BOOK REVIEW WRITTEN BY ROSS & VIRGINIA MUNROE

e recently had the honour and privilege of editing Afzal (Al) Sovani’s comprehensive and timely treatise on the broader implications of the Climate Change crisis, and its possible solutions, for the Waterfront Media Group. Not only is this book extremely thorough and well-informed; it is an engaging and elucidating review of the current state of the issue on a global level, and avenues for contending with the threats to the survival of our civilization. While it is buttressed with extensive scientific evidence, it also makes the issues quite clear to lay people, rendering it a fascinating read. The thrust of the book encompasses a wide range of topics with regard to this pressing matter, including the latest science, obstacles to taking action, the economics of resolving the problem, 30

The Heat Is On is required reading for anyone who is concerned about the future of our home planet and the ways in which we are affecting it. The book is available on Amazon.com in both e-reader and soft cover version.

political realignment, and much more. What differentiates this book from any others on the subject is the author’s perspective with regard to the opportunities, both financial and environmentally that await us if we successfully address the challenges that face us now and in the years ahead. But, let there be no mistake. Mr. Sovani is brutally honest about the consequences if we don’t take action immediately. This necessitates dramatic changes to the way we operate, both politically, in business and in our personal lives. The fact is, it is not so much the technology that we are lacking – it is the

primitive state of our mindsets that is deficient. Nationalism, greed, indifference to the suffering of the poor worldwide, as well as short-sightedness to our own potentially bleak futures. Sooner or later these ghosts will come back to haunt us, by land, by air or by sea. Al Sovani is a consummate entrepreneur and lecturer. His experience in the Venture Capital area spans more than twenty years where his involvement in particular, with numerous joint venture projects in the environmental and cleantech space, has provided him with first-hand experience and knowledge in some of the core issues facing the industry and their probable solutions.■ WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

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20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

The Dali Exhibit at Brookfield Place

WRITTEN BY

SHIEN VICTORIA ZUTSHI

Salvador Dalí (1904-1989) was a Spanish surrealist artist known for his eccentricity and imaginative works, such as "The Persistence of Memory," featuring melting clocks.

stepped into the surreal world of Salvador Dali at the mesmerizing exhibit recently gracing the halls of Brookfield Place in Toronto. As I wandered through this first-ever exhibition in this space, I couldn't help but be captivated by the magical atmosphere that unfolded before my eyes. Brookfield Place, with its lofty ceilings and abundant natural light, proved to be the perfect setting for Dali's extraordinary works. Divided into three immersive rooms, the exhibit invited visitors on a journey through the realms of Dante's ‘Inferno’, as interpreted by the master of Surrealism himself. I found myself first witnessing Dali's Inferno, a vivid depiction of torment and anguish. The intensity of the artwork was palpable, as if I had been transported through a portal to another world. Moving on to Purgatory, the mood shifted, offering

glimpses of hope and redemption amidst the ethereal landscapes. Finally, I reached Paradise, a place where Dali's imagination knew no bounds. It was a whimsical playground, filled with bizarre creatures and fantastical landscapes that brought a smile to my face. I couldn't help but feel the joy and wonder that radiated from every stroke of Dali's brush. This exhibition not only showcased Dali's artistic genius but also highlighted the deep connection between Brookfield Place and the history and impact of his art and life. It offered a unique opportunity to step into the mind of a true visionary. I will be forever grateful for my unforgettable visit to this extraordinary exhibition in which I became lost in Salvador Dali’s wondrous worlds of Inferno, Purgatory and Paradise.■ WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

Painting: The Persistence of Memory Salvador Dali

Painting: Farinata or "Inferno" (credit: MutualArt), Salvador

Painting: Ecstasy or Paradise (credit: Eames Fine

Dali

Art), Salvador Dali

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3 ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

Painting: Purgatory (credit: Artsy) Salvador Dali

3 ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT—BIPOC FILM FESTIVAL

A Kinder, Gentler

Film Festival WRITTEN BY SC MODISTE

lmost three years ago, TWM’s publisher, Karim Mirshahi, produced the inaugural International BIPOC Film Festival that has the signs of being a world media movement. BIPOC is defined in North America as Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (for those reading folks who are wondering) and has given a group identity to numerous people of colour. BIPOC is also recognized by film funding agencies, festivals and broadcasters in response to the lack of diverse documentaries, dramatic films, and television programs shown in mainstream media produced by BIPOC creatives to tell their stories. I was honoured to be asked to judge and program the festival alongside a cohort of a strong team of film pros, film workers, and enthusiastic film buff volunteers who have both stamina and great vision to view and judge the nearly 400 entries in 2021 and almost 600 entries in 2022, the festival's second year. It was evident when screening the film entries that some of the filmmakers were not BIPOC but felt the festival was a good fit for their film, but it was also challenging to define BIPOC content and filmmakers outside of North America, Australia and European countries. Beyond the recognized BIPOC parameters in Canada or the United States, it seems that the BIPOC identity is self-defined by the people who experience racialization and exclusion everywhere in the world and that very often, class structures divide us, not our colour or ethnicities. The Toronto film entries celebrated the multicultural scene with ease ( hey, we are all here after all, and we get it), com34

edy, family values, coming of age, city and enlightening, comedic, honest, heartlife, and dating, but what was significant felt, political and whimsical; the filmin all of the entries were stories of survivmakers were grateful to be acknowledged ing poverty, family issues, immigration, for their work being publicly screened, gender issues, and injustice and those and film fest winners were delighted with story themes were replicated throughout their prize of recognition and future posall of the international entries as well. sibilities due to inclusion. Does BIPOC represent a kinder, gentler The BIPOC international film festival place that we can eventually dwell in? is a wonderful multicultural experience The festival maintains a mandate of a for audiences to see vivid landscapes and fifty-fifty ratio of male and female films stories told by the people of the place. to be screened, even though we received BIPOC people are telling BIPOC stories. almost 90 percent of the entries from The BIPOC International Film Festival male filmmakers. Just like the Oscars, 2023 will be touring North America.■ males dominate the international BIPOC film world as well as receiving producSC Modiste is a Creative Producer and tion funds. Media Artist as well as Programmer Portrait of Jeanell Hines The films over the past two festivals and Head Judge for The BIPOC are of exceptional quality, entertaining International Film Festival. WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

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3 ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT—PAINTING & POEM

ONCE.

I MISSED ME. So, I reached into my soul And pulled out the girl Who once lived on a farm In the middle of nowhere The girl who slept in the violets And the girl who wore pink dresses The child who climbed Mimosa trees And who just wanted to paint Her life away. Samantha Sannella July 2023

Tai Chi Sunrise by Phil Marion.

PHILMARION.MYPORTFOLIO.COM

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Completing essential legal documents such as your Powers of Attorney, your Will and leaving a legacy to the Alzheimer Society makes you our Super Hero. Why? Because you have the courage to protect what’s important to you and make the world a better place for all. You take care of your own well-being, provide for your family, protect your hardearned assets and help in the fight against dementia.

Find out how you can be our Super Hero by including the Alzheimer Society in your estate plans and joining our League Against Dementia. Call us at: 416-967-5900 Email us at: cbradley@alzon.ca Visit our website page: www.alzsuperhero.ca Charitable Registration # 11878 4842 RR0001 20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

3 ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT—FILM FOR PEACE

Film for Peace Festival WRITTEN BY SONIA DOLAR

e're thrilled to announce the Waterfront Magazine Film for Peace Festival 2023! Join us for a captivating cinematic experience, celebrating films that promote peace, unity and understanding. Explore a collection of powerful stories from around the world, showcasing the transformative power of film in advocating for peace and social harmony. Through the art of storytelling, our wonderful selection of films explores the complexities of peace and its absence. These thought-provoking movies touch on a range of themes, from inequalities in human life to issues like slavery, mental illness and political challenges. The human condition is beautifully depicted in these pictures, resonating with audiences form every corner of the world. In addition to these diverse films about peace, the Peace Film Festival also showcases thought provoking documentaries. One movie that inspired me recently was Switch, which explores the world of energy. This documentary featuring the work of Scott Tinker serves as an inspiring example of how films can unify people and spark change. 38

As the festival showcases, films feature diverse cultures and geographies, celebrating the beauty and unity that exists within our global community. These cinematic masterpieces serve as a powerful tool for unified fostering of a deeper understanding of life’s complexities ‘thoughtful moving stories we aim to inspire empathy and compassion, bridging the gaps between people and creating a collective desire for peace’. Join us at the Peace Film Festival. Movies are not merely entertainment but catalysts for positive change, igniting the flames of hope and understanding in the pursuit of a more harmonious world. FILM FOR PEACE: A GLOBAL CELEBRATION OF CINEMA. In a world where images and stories hold the power to bridge differences, the local "Film for Peace" festival stands tall as a beacon of unity. Held annually, this enchanting event has been attracting filmmakers from all corners of the world for several years, turning our small community into a global melting pot of ideas, stories and emotions. A MEETING POINT OF DIVERSE CULTURES. Despite its local roots, the festival has

never been limited by geographical constraints. Each year, the festival screen displays a kaleidoscope of cultures, languages and backgrounds, reflecting a world where borders are mere lines on a map. From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the quiet countryside of Tuscany, every film transports the audience on a unique journey, making every seat in the house a window seat to the world. DRIVEN BY A UNIVERSAL MESSAGE. The cornerstone of the festival is its commitment to the theme of peace. Films selected are not just cinematic masterpieces but are stories that resonate with the ideals of unity, understanding and harmony. Whether it's a tale of friendships across enemy lines or narratives that challenge divisive societal norms, every story showcased is a testament to the enduring spirit of humanity in the face of adversity. MORE THAN JUST FILMS. Beyond screenings, "Film for Peace" is a holistic experience. The sidelines of the festival come alive with workshops, panel discussions and networking sessions. Aspiring filmmakers rub shoulders with WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

Ukranian filmmakers produced a remarkable film in support of their country.

Events like 'Film for Peace' remind us of the threads of humanity that bind us all.

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seasoned professionals, exchange ideas, and often collaborate on future projects. Cultural exhibitions, musical performances, and gastronomic delights from around the world further enhance the festival's offering, ensuring a feast for the senses. A GROWING LEGACY. With each passing year, the "Film for Peace" festival has solidified its reputation as a must-attend event for cinema enthusiasts and professionals alike. The event not only offers a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work but also acts as a catalyst for social change. The ripple effect of the stories told, and connections made, continues to inspire audiences and participants long after the credits roll.

In a world that often seems divided, events like "Film for Peace" remind us of the threads of humanity that bind us all. It serves as a testament to the power of cinema – to inform, to challenge, and above all, to unite. As we await next year's edition, one can't help but feel a sense of anticipation and hope for what stories will be told and the connections that will be forged. Join us at the Peace Film Festival. Movies are not merely entertainment but catalysts for positive change, igniting the flames of hope and understanding in the pursuit of a more harmonious world. Save the date and immerse yourself in the magic of cinema that inspires positive change. Together, let's spread the message of peace through the universal language of film.■ 39

3 ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT—THE GREATEST GENERATION

Here’s to you, Tina and Celine!

The Greatest Generation WRITTEN BY BILL KING

WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

ere's to you, Tina and Celine! The Greatest Generation. Word came last week that Celine Dion cancelled her world tour because of a rare neurological disorder, Stiff Person Syndrome. A rush of sorrow and hurt overcame me. This followed Tina Turner's ill-timed passing. In November 2022, Roberta Flack revealed her ALS diagnosis, generally known as Lou Gehrig's disease, making it 'impossible to sing.' A shocker! Tina, Aretha, Donna Summer,

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Houston, Belafonte gone too soon. Those booming voices ushered us through our teenage years into adulthood. All spoke a language we could understand. Words shaped as notes. Poetic, infused with empathy and grace, rich in texture and boosted from a region of the soul, out of pain and inner conflict. As for the women, survivors of excruciating poverty, sexual assault, possessive arrangements, cruel managers, and industry hacks. Living back on a band bus. Overnights in seedy hotel rooms. Low pay, few good meals, all for a dollar and a song. True music warriors. Voices of this calibre couldn't rise to the same stature in today's music environment. That cut-and-paste mentality. A piece of this, a bit of that—loop it, then auto-tune. Run through an AI portal and spit out the next radio-driven hit. There's no there, there. No recognition for that youthful voice that soars and roars. Now caged and chopped at the mercy of a laptop producer. I hear traces of greatness, but rarely a showpiece. Lizzo reigns. H.E.R. Yebba, on the rise. Yet, those young Whitneys, Arethas, Donnas and others rely on church—gospel music for the freedom to be all they can be. That long stretch of music. The opportunity to extend oneself from a whisper to a shout. Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Tamela Mann, Kierra Sheard, Shirley Caesar, CeCe Winans, Koryn Hawthorne, Le 'Andre Johnson, Tori Kelly, Tremaine Hawkins. We usually reserve the term the Greatest Generation for those born between 1900 and 1920 who weathered the Great Depression and fought during World War 11. Yet in contemporary terms, for the most significant female vocalists, we are about to leave that generation behind - The Eva Cassidy, Franklins, and Turners. Tina Turner seemed immortal. The picture of athletic health. Streamlined legs that never stop beating a glorious pulse. Those who aspired to follow Tina Turner on stage and own their territory felt empowered by her stance, even though they had to share it with other prospects night after night. All moments, as such, are short-lived. Turner understood and, by age 42, reduced that shimmy down to a testifying stroll. That Mick Jagger corner to corner, arm slashing about, finger in your face thrust. That facial curve of confidence and authority. Tina was supposed to outlive us all. The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin,

sat at the open-faced piano, tilted her head, and closed her eyes, the lines crossing the forehead, staff lines of blank manuscript paper ready for octaves of soaring improvisation. Notes sourced from deep in the rib cage. Each song is an orchestral work with counterpoint and innovation scripted across her face. Donna Summer could sing a court summons and make you want to show up with or without a lawyer. Like the poet's jasmine, words held a fragrance that pulled at the senses.

The world stage may be the attraction, but it's the neighbourhood where the most action remains. Today’s female vocalists glimmer and fade away. Few will stick around long enough to hold our attention or keep us gobsmacked through the current two minutes of throwaway material. There won’t be another Yolanda Adams and nine minutes of Hallelujah glory. This brings me to Celine. To witness Celine Dion's medical complications impeding her success at the very top is saddening. The world stage may be the attraction, but it's the neighbourhood where the most action remains. The local venues are where friends gather and socialize. Players play and grow old as friends. The music endures, and the singers enter one at a time. No cut and chop. No expectations beyond giving it their best. The big moments are the small moments. Like Tina, Aretha, Whitney, Donna and others, time will pass us all by. Mark these years by celebrating the greatest singing generation ever. These women remain forever young. Here's to you, Celine!■ Bill King is a musician/broadcaster/ author and award winning photojournalist. Author of four music books and two volumes of black and white concert photography. 41

3 ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT—ELSA HSIEH

Composer, Conductor, Performer

Elsa Hsieh & Peace for All WRITTEN BY ROSS ULYSSES MUNROE

t was gratifying to work closely with Maestro Elsa Hsieh’s music in developing the lyrics for her moving song, ‘Peace for All’. This song transcends cultures to convey the essential human qualities of compassion, caring and kindness that are so important in the world today, given the dissonance that has been evident around the globe. Elsa studied both piano performance and teaching at Birmingham Conservatoire, UK. Among many other kudos, she was awarded 1st prize in the Wales Tystysgrif piano competition in 1988. Since then students from her own music studio have won scholarships in a number of music festivals in many locales. Having played to full houses, her ‘One Moment In Time’ concert events received high praise from legendary Mississauga Mayor Hazel McCallion and was presented with the Recognition of Music Contribution Award in 2004. Elsa has also been proffering her time conducting choirs and was selected as

the Mass Choir Conductor in the 2007 Toronto Evangelical Crusade. Elsa was the Awardee for both Absolutely Fabulous Women & Dancing Damsels in 2017 and is currently an Ambassador of Women of Diversity. Elsa also formed her Dolce De Soleil Music group which has performed in many multicultural events including Canada 150, multiple senior homes with fundraising charity concerts, the Hamilton Symphony Orchestra and was appointed as the Entertainment Director for the 2019 Federal Election Fund-raising Dinner Gala. Elsa Hsieh was the MC for the Beauty of Asia 10th Gala event as well as the Image Consultant working with past beauty winners. Her 2018 successful performance in a Markham Chinese Gala concert was highly praised by the Mayor of Markham and was broadcast on television around the globe. Her ‘Night of Stars’ concert reached a zenith for the instrumentalists, solo singers and band with a wide range of repertoires both in Chinese and diverse Western cultures.

Elsa Hsieh is the Music Director for the Xin Tian Di Culture Centre, the Jia Hua Culture Centre, Dolce De Soleil Music Children’s Choir, the Mississauga Chinese Choir and is President of the Signature Divine Group. Elsa is also a full-time realtor in Century 21 Green Realty with outstanding achievements. In addition to all of her concert events, Elsa was the finalist for the Mississauga Marty Award as established instrumentalist and her Dolce De Soleil Music was also the finalist for this emerging music group. Elsa was the 2019 Awardee for the Toronto Waterfront Outstanding Women Music Award and was also appointed as exclusive organizer for the International Legend Art Festival in 2020 by the Madrid Spain AsiaEurope Association. Her 2019 Oakville Appleby College Christmas Angels Concert event in support of the Salvation Army Toy Mountain campaign was very well received and donated more than 300 toys, via CTV news. Her 2022 Christmas Angels WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

PHOTO COURTESY OF IVAN HUANG

Concert has been live streamed by the Mississauga Salvation Army Community Church and also supported by the 36-people Salvation Army Temple band and Halton Region Police Choir, and in this instance they collected more than 400 toys for children in need. Their toy donation has been featured on OMNI TV and the CTV 2023 December 15 Distillery District Toy Donation. Elsa was the former TV host at Go Live Dolce De Soleil which interviewed many established musicians from different cultural backgrounds and inspirational speakers with millions of fans. Elsa is currently the Executive Music Director of the International Peace Festival and a former Peace Ambassador. She is also the Marketing and Music Director of the Santo Domingo Hollywood International Film Festival. Elsa Hsieh’s Dolce De Soleil Children’s Choir is touted to consist of the youngest peace advocates anywhere; they have 20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

been interviewed three times by the television show, Voice of Canada. Her 2023 String of Love Concert and Art Exhibit in Laureate College, Burlington had a great impact on local communities there and has been endorsed by multiple government officials. Elsa started her OneWorld Peace Association in 2022 and her composition ‘Peace for All’ with lyrics by this writer, has been chosen as the opening theme for the Peace Festival, and was arranged by the Grammy Award winning Film Musician - Nathan Wang’s Team member, Victor Tang. This song has been sung by many choirs and will be performed as a flash mob to raise the awareness of a voice for peace. Many awards and appreciation plaques have been received from Senators, MPs, MPPs and the United Nations in this regard. Elsa’s team has also been the special guest for the Sick Children’s Hospital

Fundraising concert, which raised $10,000.00 and has been supporting multiple senior home residences with their music performances. Dolce De Soleil has been invited to perform in the Mississauga Rotary RibFest, as well as the Port Credit BIA Port Street Market Summer Entertainment. Her upcoming events include the OneWorld Peace Event and the ‘Formosa Called’ in Mississauga City Hall. Elsa has led the Taiwanese Choir to Oxford County to celebrate Canada Day in honour of George Leslie MacKay. She gave a speech as Peace Ambassador in 2022. Elsa has been working diligently on multiculturalism via music and art. It certainly seems that with all her accomplishments that Elsa is helping to bring about Peace for All, in Canada and around the world.■

3 ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT—Q&A WITH MAX JAMALI

Q&A with

Max Jamali WRITTEN BY SAMANTHA SANNELLA

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ecently, I had the pleasure of meeting Max Jamali, a talented international artist. He embodies a vibrant, positive energy which is indicative in his work. Pieces are a mix of pop art, fashion, luxury and colour. Using icons such as famous faces, cartoons, jewels, lips and butterfly wings – he has created a visual feast that reminds me of sipping champagne while getting ready for a gala – a pleasure that anticipates another. Where are you from and how does that affect your work? I am originally from Iran and spent most of my teenage years in Dubai and moved to Canada when I was 17 years old. Spending my teenage years in Dubai certainly taught me how to think outside of the box and trust my imagination and instincts in my designs, branding and marketing. How long have you considered yourself an artist? Prior to being an artist, I was a Fashion Photographer for 10 years. I transitioned from a fashion photographer to an artist about 7 years ago. How has your practice changed over time? I am constantly working on innovative methods of layering materials and creating innovative designs. Currently, I am working on a new Ultra Luxurious Butterfly Design. The wings of the butterfly are going to be created with layers of Certified Diamond Powder and 15 carats of 1.3mm Diamonds, and its body will be created with Rubies and Emeralds. Wow! That sounds amazing. Do you have a specific piece that you created that you believe represents a significant, memorable period in your life? One that you are particularly proud of? To be honest with you, I love every single artwork I create. They each have a different meaning for

SUMME R 20 23

me. But about 5 years ago, I created my Mystery of Fashion series, which featured a geometric version of Kate Moss’s face with a photorealism technique. It was also layered with transparent, Diamond Dust covered Butterflies. This marks the introduction of butterflies to my brand, and it also symbolized my background in fashion photography. How is your art important to society? What message are you trying to convey? Today, the lack of positivity in the world is ubiquitous. I strive to counterbalance that by creating artwork that portrays positivity and joy, whether through butterflies, colours, words and overall design. What is integral to your work as an artist? Growth is an integral part of my practice as an artist. While I strive to introduce innovative ideas, I also create new brand partnerships and am expanding my work to more countries. What motivates you? I am motivated by creating new ideas and expanding my business brand – in unison together. I work on this early in the morning almost every single day. This is my daily motivation that keeps me constantly excited. What inspires you? I get my inspiration from design - from Architecture to Automotive and Watch design. I love seeing different materials and colours come together to represent an experience that creates a lasting effect on the audience. What can we expect to see in your future? As I mentioned earlier, I am very excited about introducing my Ultra Luxury Designs in 2023. I am also working on creating a Butterfly Projection Mapping Experience that I will introduce to the hospitality industry by the end of the year.■

3 ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT—SIMON SAYS

Simon Says

Backstraight Productions WRITTEN BY ROSS ULYSSES MUNROE

n upcoming TV series production by Backstraight Productions is in development here in Toronto by Producer Keith Murphy, slated for shooting in June of next year. Entitled Simon Says, the first season is comprised of six episodes, and is expected to appeal to pre-teens, teens

and adults in worldwide markets. Caught between the demands of mundane reality and his inner delusions of grandeur, Simon has a big problem. Everything is always going wrong. But what else could he expect as a misfit preteen at the tender age of 12 in this dark, comedic vision of adolescence. Simon undergoes his transformation

into manhood through the vagaries of his friends and authority figures, his imagined romances, his accidents and simple twists of fate. Keith Murphy was the Producer and Director of Photography on the hilarious short film “The Phone Call” with Writer, Director, Producer and Actor Allison Wilson-Forbes.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DANNY BAILEY

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He was Producer, Director of Photography and Co-Directed Nictophobia Films’ rendition of the Stephen King classic “The Man Who Loved Flowers”. This short is still touring the world in Stephen King film festivals. On the music video “Cupid” for artist Mel Monaco he wore the hat of Director, Producer and Director of Photography. This project was designed by Keith to be shot in one six hour period, and it was. He teamed up with Monaco again to create the Niagara Music awards "Best Music Video of the Year - Single Again”. Keith directed, produced and wrote the short film "Liam and May". This period piece set in Dublin, Ireland just prior to the start of WWII has been accepted into 16 Film Festivals around the world, most recently the 2022 Scotland International Festival of Cinema. “Liam & May has received 30 award nominations and won 16 awards, including "Best International Featurette" at the 2020 Idyllwild International Festival of Cinema, "Best Short Film" and "Best Director" at the 2020 Rollywood Film Festival in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. Among other luminaries, the television series features the talents of actor-singer-dancer, Andrea Allumay, as Simon’s drama teacher, who he has a serious crush on. Andrea’s credits cross all avenues of the entertainment industry including live concerts, film, television, theatre, music recordings, print and on-air commercials. 20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

Having toured internationally as Agnetha in the tribute concert ABBAMANIA, Andrea has been a featured soloist with symphony orchestras across North America as well as supporting acts such as Australia’s X-Factor winner DamiIm. She has also had the pleasure of singing for Andrew Lloyd Webber at the London Palladium as a Top 20 finalist in the CBC reality television series How do you Solve a Problem Like Maria? Now based in Australia, Andrea’s overseas roles include Glinda in Wicked, the one-woman musical Tell Me on a Sunday and she produced and co-starred in the

musical The Last Five Years . Other credits include Christine in Phantom of the Opera, Elle in Legally Blonde, Luisa in The Fantasticks, The Narrator in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Jill Tanner in Butterflies are Free and Delores in the premiere of the new play Prospect Terrace. As an associated production with Waterfront Media Group, the TV series Simon Says will be one of our marquee presentations, and readers will be treated to special events and access to Gala occasions. Stay tuned for more information….■ 47

3 ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT—A SONG FOR US

WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

FILM REVIEW

A SONG FOR US

Song For Us' is a film that follows the path of a British folk singer who reconnects with her long-lost lover. He is adrift and broken, a shadow of the folk singer that she partnered with as a young singing duo in Yorkville. Now she is compelled to help him, and in doing so, she uncovers a revelation. The movie journeys back to those days when there was hope for peace and change. ‘A Song for Us’ is a wonderfully unique film that will touch the hearts of many people who fondly remember the 1960s. It's a total take-you-back to another time, another mentality, a special era in our lives and in the world. …a recreation of Yorkville's Penny Farthing… The story is filmed with a dreamy quality that exactly captures the 60s feeling of being young, free, and seeking an alternative reality. Writer-director Peter Hitchcock revisits Toronto's renowned folk music scene. His artful recreation of coffeehouse culture portrays the joys and heartbreaks of young people seeking freedom outside of time, and outside of 20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

the speeding, globalizing world that's right out there. His then-and-now protagonists were young rebels with a make-peace mindset, making music and art, and making love. Through the eyes of the next generation, they show us the remembered heartbreak of freely loving and leaving. Toronto Island was and is still an alternative place to live, as downtown's Yorkville was once a counterculture hotspot. ‘A Song for Us’ seamlessly trips to an island of refuge, away from the big-city capitalist grind. The immediacy of the storytelling is beautifully enhanced with a blend of period Toronto documentary footage and Toronto Island scenes. Cozy little houses, lakeside paths and island shorelines contrast vividly with the looming city skyline. Excellent casting gives us singers and actors who both act and perform their own original folk music, including Keith McKie of the group Kensington Market. They capture the freedom, ideals, music of the period, as well as their caring for one another. Whether or not you ever had a chance to experience Yorkville's cafe culture,

WRITTEN BY

ELISE HOUGHTON

they will bring you there in memory or imagination. You'll visit a recreation of Yorkville's Penny Farthing, with its small checkered-cloth-covered tables. You'll be there for open mic, casual performances … beautifully done, totally evocative. You may even feel sad that those idealistic young people didn't change the world as much as they hoped, to create a freer, simpler more beautiful life on a bigger scale. ‘A Song For Us’ is creative and kindly and happy and sad and caring and questing, and beautifully time-out-of-time as those young people strove to be. Peter Hitchcock has captured it so, so well, an era, a place, and an aftermath and a resolution. Anyone with any nostalgia about those Yorkville days, or that era's folk music, or the wonderful freedom to just wander out of conventional life - not the case for today's 20-somethings - will have a chance to re-experience (or experience for the first time) what it felt like to live and sing and love in that unique time. Streaming in countries around the world, the film can be seen at Amazon Prime Video www.asongforus.com 49

3 ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT—RACHEL SONG

RACHEL SONG Making Waves In Hollywood

Getting picked out of the crowd while watching a fashion show, and then signing with a prestigious modelling agency at the age of 48 – it sounds like a Hollywood ending, but this is a real-life, new beginning for one Toronto woman. WRITTEN BY MIKE WINTERBURN

achel Song, a fixture on the Toronto Waterfront social scene with a condo by Sugar Beach, recently signed a three-year contract with Bounty Models, a Beverly Hills agency, and has been working out of Los Angeles. Her journey began in Toronto, in July 2022, when booking agent Sandra Napier picked her out of the crowd at a fashion show, signed her to a contract, and placed her on the runway for L’Oréal’s Redken brand. While her success is no surprise to anyone who has seen the fashionable Song at events around the city, she is defying the odds by making modelling her second career – unlike the teenagers who go straight into the industry. Song’s impressive resume includes a mix of responsibilities in journalism, trade promotion, government and special event planning – most notably with Toronto’s International Peace Festival. This range of experience gives Song a unique perspective on her newfound opportunities. The people skills she gained in past accomplishments appear to be helping her navigate the complicated world of Hollywood networking. Shortly after arriving in California, Song was selected to represent China, her birth country, in the

November 2023 Mrs. Asia USA pageant competition. As a house model for top fashion designer Michael Malone, she participated in a video shoot for his recent collection and shows at LA Fashion Week, last spring. Song believes that acting is the next step. In June she was cast as the lead in a Hollywood production short film. Waterfront Magazine recently caught up with Song – not an easy thing to do as she divides her time between Los Angeles, Toronto and Beijing – to learn more about her story. How did you come to be known by people in the fashion industry? I was scouted by a major booking agent in Toronto in July 2022 when I was in the audience at a fashion show. After I walked for The Vegan Fashion show last September, the show’s Director who is Founder of Hamilton Fashion Week became my fan. In fact, he recently nominated me for the Toronto Waterfront Awards fashion category. When I went to Hollywood for the first time last November, I met the industry’s number one photographer, Airic Lewis. He said I could be a Victoria

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3 ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT—RACHEL SONG

Q&A Secret or Sports Illustrated model. So, I moved to LA at the end of 2022. I became friends with America’s runway guru Parris Harris after I attended his fashion show audition, and now we’re developing a project together. Tell me about how your life before modeling prepared you for this experience? The entertainment industry in Hollywood is similar to a lot of career paths in Toronto where to be suc-

cessful you have to network and hustle all the time, dream big, and strongly believe in yourself. How complicated was it to start over in LA? For me, it was a no brainer to move to LA, since so many people in the industry said I have the right look to be a model and actress. I’m determined to be successful in everything I do, so Hollywood is the place to be for my new career. Describe your life on the West Coast. When I first came to Los Angeles County, I lived in Hollywood. Next, I plan to live in Universal City where all the big studios are. Since coming to LA, I’ve been networking all the time. In a short period of time, I’ve met lots of industry people who want to be my friend or work with me. As I become more popular in Hollywood circles, I’m getting lots of meetings. Is it difficult to make friends in LA? For me it’s easy and natural. People in Hollywood often told me I have a special energy they want to sur-

Rachel Song on set with fashion designer, Mike Malone. PHOTO COURTESY OF AIRIC LEWIS, NIRVANA STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD

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I am confident that if I can defy conventional wisdom to become a professional fashion model at age 48, I can achieve anything!”

round themselves with. I feel right at home with all the dreamers in LA, or as some people call it, La-La Land. Are the parties as glamorous as we all imagine? Yes, they are just like how those Hollywood movies depict them. What are your Mrs. China duties? As Mrs. China 2023, I have been invited to some of the most celebrated and glamorous events in the world, such as the Grammys and Sir Elton John’s annual Oscars bash. The most meaningful event was the City of Westminster’s Lunar New Year Parade in Orange County. It was my first public appearance as Mrs. China, and since it was a Chinese New Year celebration, I felt tremendous pride in my heritage. Looking ahead to the pageant on Nov. 18, there are so many things to prepare! Weekly rehearsals will start in September. Because I have work to do in Canada over the summer, I’ll move back to LA in the fall to prepare for the pageant full-time and walk for LA Fashion Week in October. If I win Mrs. Asia USA, I hope to one day compete in Mrs. Universe on behalf of Canada. How are you balancing your job in Toronto with your life in California? My life in Los Angeles added tremendous benefit to my work in Toronto with the International Peace Festival, as VP for Global Partnerships. I am determined to bring my new network in the celebrated LA arts circle to the festival. One early success is that the world-renowned multi-media artist Andre Miripolsky is working with us to make the 2023 International Peace Festival a great philanthropic affair. Dino Essraoulia, a Hollywood movie producer and Ryan Gosling’s business partner, wants to be involved. I will also bring LA fashion gurus to 20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOM PHAN

the GTA for this event. Look for the fusion of Toronto and Hollywood at the 2023 International Peace Festival! What is in store for your future? My next goal is to do more acting. I’ve signed with a Hollywood firm, Firestone Talent Management, as an actress and have been in talks with some well-known producers.■ 53

3 ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT—THE WATERFRONT AWARDS

Empowering Women

THE WATERFRONT AWARDS WRITTEN BY

VIRGINIA MUNROE

ounding Member, Co-Chair & MC of past Waterfront Awards, Aida Memisevic, shared how the event came into being. "Karim Mirshahi, Publisher of Waterfront Magazine" she said, "who has been an advocate for so many causes within the community, mentioned at a Waterfront Magazine meeting in 2017 that he thought we could find a way to support and empower women locally. “So as a team, and with his inspiration, we brainstormed and came up with a venue in which we could recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of extraordinary women in the Greater Toronto Area, an annual Gala event, with the proceeds going to worthy charities.” This is how the Waterfront Awards ceremony, first held in 2018, was born. The breadth of these awards illustrates the knowledge of and appreciation for the tremendous achievements of remarkable women in our community. 15 categories were decided upon. These include: Philanthropy Environment Science & Technology Community Activism Urban Planning & Design Health, Fitness & Sport Music Arts & Culture Culinary Arts Entrepreneurship & Business Film, Television & Digital Arts Authors Fashion & Style Outstanding Innovator And the most coveted and celebrated Award: The Waterfront Award for Outstanding Achievement! 54

Proceeds from the event go to several local charities that champion women.

This year, there are over 300 outstanding nominees in the various categories. Winners are selected, not by Waterfront Magazine, but by an independent third party jury. Past winners of the Waterfront Award for Outstanding Achievement have included Hazel McCallion and the Honourable Dr. Jean Augustine. 2023’s recipient is Broadcast Journalist, Susan Hay. WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

Mr. Mirshahi and the Waterfront Awards Executive team." Proceeds from the event go to several local charities that champion women. The 2023 Gala proceeds will support: Women in Governance, HART, Women's College Hospital, The Spark of Hope, Mothers to Daughters and Immigrant Women in Business.

Waterfront Awards is grateful for the support of over 50 high profile sponsors who contribute their time and resources to make these Gala evenings so memorable. In addition to the awards themselves, the evening featured a VIP reception, a gourmet dinner, silent auction, talented performers, an after party and a fashion show.

With the advent of the pandemic, the Waterfront Awards was forced to take a 3 year hiatus. We are extremely excited about its return in 2023. "It's not a task that is easy or without risk,” Ms. Memisevic adds. “The pressures of finding all the corporate sponsors and partners, and managing a large team of devoted volunteers require tremendous time and dedication from 20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

An Urban Beach Community

Like No Other WRITTEN BY

MPP MARY-MARGARET MCMAHON

4 COMMUNITY

s a member of the Provincial Parliament for Beaches-East York, I am proud to represent a riding that includes a unique and beloved urban beach retreat. A wide and beautiful curve of sand that curls the shore from Ashbridge’s Bay at the foot of Coxwell Avenue to Kew Beach; it beckons both locals and visitors alike. The Uber popular three-kilometer stretch along Lake Ontario in Toronto’s East End boasts a swimming beach listed as a Blue Flag Beach. That means the beach meets strict water quality and safety criteria. You can swim in this area of Lake Ontario and lifeguards are on duty during the summer months. Stand Up paddle boards, kayaks, and far off sailboats dot the horizon. Dogs aplenty, bird watching serenity, urban wildlife spotting, and even fishing, all make up what I love about our Beach. Ashbridge’s Bay is a fabulous vantage point to take in a sunset with the Toronto skyline in the background. With an accessible ramp to the water and a beach wheelchair that can be rented for free by calling 311 in Toronto and picked up at Woodbine Beach, we are striving to meet the needs of all. Accessibility is always top of mind as are the offerings to our youth and senior popWATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

4 COMMUNITY—MPP MCMAHON AT THE BEACH

ulation! On the other side of the historic wooden boardwalk (that runs the length of the beach, perfect for leisurely strolls) is The Woodbine Beach Bike Trail and part of the Martin Goodman Trail. While this is a multi-recreational thoroughfare, it’s mostly used by cyclists and runners. The entire Martin Goodman pathway stretches along the Toronto waterfront for almost 56 kilometres; a great local option is to ride your bike from Ashbridges Bay to the Balmy Beach Canoe Club. The most photographed and iconic landmark on the Beach is likely the Leuty lifeguard station. Over 100 years old, it became a protected structure under Ontario Heritage Act in 1993. You can practically hear decades of stories if you listen carefully. The Boardwalk first appeared in the 1850s. Early settlers in the Ashbridges Bay area built plank walkways between the cabins when mud and water made it hard for walking. The Leuty Boathouse was built in 1932. Today the Leuty Boat House is full of colour! In 2021, artists Jacquie Comrie and Chief Lady Bird were commissioned to fill the space with colour and happiness! In the 1940s the boathouse was originally much closer to the lake, and it was often used by the community as a dance hall. Colour makes us feel great and dancing makes us feel amazing! Kick up your heels and let yourself have fun in the boathouse! Foxtrot anyone? Close by is the Beach Skateboard Park. The connection between graffiti, street art and skateboarding goes back decades, and so when the city of Toronto installed a skate park in Ashbridges Bay Park, it only made sense to have some of the city’s best street artists give it some colour! The summer picture I’ve painted is warm and rich; however, it’s the winter months that truly offer warmth at Woodbine Beach! As City Councillor for Beaches-East York from 2010-2018, I visioned, advocated for, and was an integral part of the inception of Winter Stations in 2015. The installations along Woodbine Beach are constructed around the lifeguard stations and are on public display for 6 weeks in the winter months. They have had an immense impact on bringing people out not only during the cold months but additionally and recently during the most challenging times of the 20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

pandemic to fight isolation. Their role in our recovery period was so vital! As the Liberal critic for Tourism, Culture, and Sport, I want to see Winter Stations continue to enhance the effects of their attraction to bring together local, domestic, and global visitors. Winter stations on the beach are, and have always been, more than simply a tourism experience or event. They offer solace, beauty, and hope to so many and create amazing opportunities for artists and producers.

They are anticipated yearly, environmentally sustainable, and are positioned to flourish and evolve! How fitting that 2023’s Winter Stations' chosen theme was Radiance. Nothing will stop the positive ripple effect of these installations from emanating what is in our hearts and minds. We all want to celebrate gratitude for a world that is resilient and shines; on and off the beach. This is an experience like no other.■

It's the winter months that truly offer warmth at Woodbine Beach! 57

4 COMMUNITY—PAUSING ON THE WATERFRONT

Pausing On

The Waterfront WRITTEN BY SC MODISTE

y mother placed coins into the hands of the bronzed Irish pregnant woman when we came upon her at Little Ireland Park. The bronze sculpture, turned away from the black, stone ship that brought her, and accompanied by other sculptured Irish travelers diseased, tired and starved seeking refuge from across the Atlantic Ocean, shocks our sensibilities. 2017 marked the 170th anniversary of the worst year of the Famine (1847) and the 10th anniversary of the opening of Little Ireland Park. In 1847, 38,560 Irish men, women and children landed on the shores of Toronto. Some 1,186 died upon their arrival or shortly thereafter. They were reluctant travelers fleeing the Great Famine in Ireland, forcibly expelled by the landowners to the Americas in order to avoid having to house and feed them. The famine was the result of the Irish potato crop that was destroyed by blight in 1845. According to writer John Doyle,

“The 95 percent non-owners of the land (sic) were Irish tenant farmers, no better than slaves, living where little could grow except the nutritious potato.” The grain crop, from the plantations where they had worked, was exported to England. A million people died from the famine. Little Ireland Park pays tribute to those who died, to those who survived their Atlantic journey, and serves as a poignant reminder of the plight of migrants everywhere. The Irish memorial marks their final stop at Portland Quay, carrying the experience of death, birth and illness as well as their hopeful future in Canada. Recently in Manhattan, I visited The Ark of Return memorial installed in 2015 that overlooks the East River towards the docks of Long Island at the UN Headquarters. Inside the ark is a lone African man, inclined in a white, marble vessel, his hand open, seemingly to reach to the future, perhaps to a better future. Over four centuries, more than 18 million people were forcefully removed from Africa to the Americas (including the

Caribbean) and Europe. For those who survived the horrific middle passage, thousands of them would later perish as a result of the cruel and inhumane treatment from the appalling conditions in which they had to exist on the plantations. Unlike the figures at Little Ireland Park memorial, the lone figure is shackled forever. The Irish and the African people were both victims of the plantation states, pushed out of their homes, taken against their will, forced to work and, in addition, faced future hardships of racism and prejudice. Looking into the eyes of the sculpted travelers, one can reflect upon current television images of refugees who were either captured, enslaved or indentured all displaced from their homes. Accessing memorials, on already inspiring waterfronts, gives us a moment of pause in honour of people other than ourselves.■ SC Modiste is the granddaughter of African American and Irish immigrants.

Outside view, the Ark of Return by Rodney Leon Architects The United Nations, New York, New York

Inside view, the Ark of Return, by Rodney Leon Architects U.N. sculpture tribute to descendants of transatlantic slave trade

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20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

4 COMMUNITY—MOTHERS TO DAUGHTERS

Intergenerational Mentorship as a Game Changer WRITTEN BY FRANCINE MBVOUMBO

t feels like yesterday that I immigrated to Canada for school, a bilingual country like my birth home Cameroon, but with better opportunities. I was mentally prepared for this new chapter of my life. It was 2 years in the making, and I felt ready to make my parents proud for trusting and believing in me. That alone was fuel to embrace this new chapter of my life. Besides making friends my age in college, I built and nurtured relationships with older/experienced women I had met in the workplace and social settings, and they quickly turned into people I would go to for advice. In today's world, you call them mentors, a ubiquitous word I had no knowledge of back then. Looking back, I am grateful I stepped out of my comfort zone and made space to learn from them. The profound discussions and the wisdom they instilled in me motivated me to actively develop self-principles values such as empathy, kindness, confidence and continuous learning, to name a few. Around the same time, I noticed young women my age did not have a support system outside their immediate circle. It prompted me to reflect on my journey and decide to 60

raise awareness around this cause; it was a light bulb moment. After receiving guidance from women I look up to, to this day, I founded Mothers to Daughters. It is an organization curating intergenerational mentoring experiences for women and newcomers to Canada. We connect Baby Boomers, Gen Xers, Millennials and Gen Zers, with the common goal of transmitting knowledge from one generation to another regardless of race, cultural background, social constructs, and walks of life, to name a few. This community pays homage to my biological mother, who infused me with a great sense of selflessness and entrepreneurship. It also praises all the spiritual mothers, unrelated by blood to me, who invested a great deal of their time, love, wisdom and compassion in me to make me a leader. Through Mothers to Daughters, we wish to echo the spirit of togetherness, women empowerment, and lifelong learning across generations. We believe all women are mothers, daughters, or both. Mothers (Mentors) are experienced women who are available and feel empowered to give back personal, business and professional guidance to

younger or less- experienced women. Daughters (Mentees) on the other end, are younger women or newcomers to Canada, who are looking for personal, professional and business support outside of their immediate support system or additionally. Our two flagship programs - legacy building apprenticeship and guiding lights, are vessels through which we match a mother and a daughter to start a mentorship journey. We are currently in the middle of our second cohort, which will end at the end of July, and the testimonials we have received so far are inspiring and attest to the need to continue this work so dear to my heart. WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

We hope to create a tomorrow where women are represented in all fields, and occupy more leadership functions. 20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

I consider myself a daughter, a perpetual learner who steps out of her comfort zone and never ceases to seek guidance from her spiritual mothers. They are a rock to me, and this community is a reminder that they are valued, and their investment in others, such as myself, is meaningful and greatly appreciated. It has been 3 years since inception and I could not have carried out this work without the help of my family, friends, and the committed team of volunteers composed of advisors, Board of Directors and team members. It does take a village, and Mothers to Daughters is no exception. We hope to create a tomorrow where women are

represented in all fields, and occupy more leadership functions. To continue creating experiences tailored to bringing about that change, we welcome collaborations and the support of those whose hearts beat for women's empowerment to make a global impact.■ Francine Mbvoumbo is founder, Chair & President of Mothers to Daughters, one of five charities sponsored by Toronto Waterfront Magazine through its annual Waterfront Awards event. Other charities sponsored include Women in Governance, HART, Women’s College Hospital, The Spark of Hope and Immigrant Women in Business. 61

4 COMMUNITY—CELEBRATING WOMEN

For Women,

Who Hold Up Half The Sky Inspiring Stories of One Hundred Powerhouse Women

WRITTEN BY

VIRGINIA MUNROE

…your name and brand will be collectively promoted, including on other One Hundred Authors’ networks and their communities…

very woman has her story. Her own powerful recounting of the challenges and the struggles she has overcome to achieve fulfillment in her life. When shared with others, these narratives become a beacon that lights the way for other women. Waterfront Media Group invites you to share your experience in the second edition of our highly successful book series, ‘Powerful Success Stories’. This collection by one hundred women from a variety of backgrounds is both entertaining and uplifting. Each woman shares her unique history, offering gifts of empowerment and strength – inviting us to bring positive change into our lives at a time when so many in our world are fighting for basic freedom and equality, if not just to survive. The second edition of ‘Powerful Success Stories’ is a full colour 9”x12” hardcover book. Contributors will be photographed and filmed while being interviewed by our editors so as to inspire, motivate, and change the lives of others for the better. This landmark book will be published in the next few months to celebrate the accomplishments of women of influence who are helping to change the career trajectories of their sisters. As an author, you will leave your own unforgettable legacy. Your words will be remembered for many years to come. Women of all ages, and particularly the young, will learn from your challenges how to

navigate their own blueprints to success. It also serves as a highly effective marketing tool for clients and prospects, as well as a valuable gift to people you care about. Waterfront Media will invest a significant amount of time and resources to produce this book. • Editing up to 150,000 words or 300 pages in this book. • Book design with custom book cover, custom interior layout. • Worldwide distribution through a global book distribution network, including access to over 40,000 independent bookstores, online stores, chain stores, e-book retailers, libraries and universities. • Photography by our professional photographers, including author portraits and those for social media marketing. This book will reach many thousands of readers from around the world, marketed through a promotion strategy that led to the 1st volume becoming #1 on the Amazon bestseller list. Your name and brand will be collectively promoted, including on other One Hundred Authors’ networks and their communities. If you or someone you know is interested, we invite you as women who hold up half the sky, to contact us at: Waterfront Media Group Inc. 20 Bay Street, Suite 1100, Toronto, Ontario, M5J 2N8 info@waterfront-magazine.com phone: 647.770.7311■ WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

5 HEALTH&WELLBEING—HAPPINESS LOST

Why Happiness Postponed

Is Happiness Lost WRITTEN BY DR. MONICA VERMANI, C. PSYCH., CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST

5 HEALTH&WELLBEING

e’ll be happy when we land that dream job, find the perfect partner, move into our dream house, have enough money to retire... Many people place conditions on being happy, but the reality is that happiness is not about having, achieving, acquiring, or arriving. Happiness is a choice. And we can choose to be happy here and now! In The Top 5 Regrets of the Dying, author and palliative care nurse Bronnie Ware reports that the dying: “wish they’d let themselves be happier.” Why is it that we place so many conditions on our happiness? And why are we so intent on postponing happiness? When we were children, we greeted each day with a sense of adventure and excitement. We lived in the moment, fully alive and awake in the present. As anyone who spends time around young children will tell you, having a good time is always the number one priority! But somewhere along the way, by the time we’ve reached adulthood, we’ve lost our sense of happiness as a daily priority. We work hard, and we’re exhausted and depleted at the end of each day. We may not consciously decide to postpone our happiness, but nevertheless, it just seems to work out that we let ourselves down, day after day. Life takes place in the present… here and now. But we spend a great deal of time in our heads, reliving memories and regrets, or forecasting and dreading worst-case scenarios. When we ruminate, worry, and postpone our happiness, we put ourselves in a less-than-optimal holding pattern. We’re like passengers on an aircraft, disconnected from the world, with our happiness on hold. THE CASE FOR LIVING IN THE MOMENT When we start to live in the present, we let happiness in. Rather than ruminating over possible worst-case scenarios, we show up for ourselves. We begin to think more positively about our prospects and goals. And we become more aware and in tune with the people around us. SHOWING UP FOR YOURSELF Showing up for yourself means just that — taking

care of yourself, and standing up for yourself when life’s demands overwhelm and derail you. It means making healthy choices for yourself, and knowing when you need to take a break, or slow down. Showing up for yourself means learning to say no to a request that will drain you of your time and energy. It means taking care of yourself, knowing when you need help, and seeking out help when you need it. Showing up for yourself means making a conscious choice to be happy, not at some point in the future, but now. CHOOSE IT OR LOSE IT There’s no time like the present. In the present, we learn to trust and love ourselves, and to make choices that will positively impact our lives. Here and now, you can begin living your best life. Give yourself permission to be happy. We choose happiness in the present, or we lose it. Realize that you do not need to wait for your ideal life to be happy. Happiness is a choice, and you can choose to be happy now! HOW TO BE HAPPY NOW Happiness is something you can have every day, starting right here, and right now. Here are five steps you can take today to factor happiness into the equation of your life: LET GO of the negative opinions of yourself, your prospects, and other people REMOVE the conditions you place on yourself to be happy BRING AWARENESS to your thoughts throughout the day. When you find yourself ruminating or catastrophizing, pause, reflect, breathe deeply, and bring your attention back to the present BE kind and compassionate, not only to others but to yourself DO at least one thing you love and enjoy every day Dr. Monica Vermani is a Toronto-based clinical psychologist specializing in treating trauma, stress and mood & anxiety disorders, and a wellknown speaker and author on mental health and wellness. Her book, A Deeper Wellness, is available worldwide on Amazon. www.drmonicavermani.com.■ WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

PHOTO COURTESY OF AGNES KIESZ, PURE STUDIOS

20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

5 HEALTH&WELLBEING—MUSIC FOR HEALING

Music for Healing WRITTEN BY TATEVIK SARKISYAN

t is believed by both scientists and spiritual teachers that music has healing benefits. When asked how I meditate, I reply that I sing. The painter will draw. The martial artist will practice kata. The boxer will kick a punching bag. The swimmer will take laps in the pool. The dancer will choreograph and put on a show. What we do not realize is that many of those physical activities originate from ancient yoga. And meditation and healing can take different forms! Therapy can also take different forms! Why is music healing? Because the sound harmonizes our energy centers or chakras. It is believed that each note corresponds to the chakra it harmonizes. The entire uni-verse is a song. Music is the melody of the soul. It knows no cultural barriers and unites us all. It heals us. From Gregorian chants to yogic sounds, from organ church music to drum circles, from native Indian instruments to operatic music and modern day ballads, everything we hear heals us. All musical instruments including the human voice heal us! When we look at the scientific evidence we see that playing a musical instrument before the age of 7 years significantly affects the wiring of the brain, helping to develop more neuronal connections between the left and right sides of the brain, and making a child excel both at the sciences and the arts. It has a similar impact when introduced at a later age as well. In fact the neuroscientists confirm that playing an instrument is a better exercise for the brain than scientifically-developed brain games. High school students do better at math after taking music classes. And music therapy is used to sooth premature babies and help with memory for the elderly in nursing homes. There is even evidence that daily singing helps in recovery from breast cancer as singing can improve our immune response! Music also helps to develop our linguistic center making us better at communication and languages. So what happens when we sing? When we speak we only use the top one third of our lungs. When we sing we use our full lung capacity. What this means is that we are pumping oxygen to the brain and

…music is the greatest gift to humanity throughout history, and the best healing tool available to mankind… WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

Section Title | Title

…singing will indeed improve your memory and your sleep, calm your worries and keep you looking young…!

Tatevik Sarkisyan is a vocalist/ songwriter/ producer/ writer/ designer/ stylist/ art director/ health & business educator/ music & happiness coach based in Toronto. She is the author of the program “Living from the Soul Light”. 20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

body cells. We are oxygenating them. So if we want to stay sharp and look young we should sing! Using abdominal breathing just as we do in yoga promotes deep relaxation. If you are yawning during your singing classes it’s because your full body relaxes as it also bathes in the vibrations of the beautiful sounds you’re making. Singing will indeed improve your memory and your sleep, calm your worries and keep you looking young! It’s healthy for the heart and lungs and deep down to the cellular level. As an exercise and sleep improver it also contributes to developing new brain cells in the hypocampus. As a physical activity it will help move and unblock energy in our energy centres. Also since we are working directly with the throat energy center it will help improve thyroid health, empower us to express ourselves creatively and even prevent common colds. The vocal warm ups we do are coming from yoga and not only do they improve immunity, they harmonize us with all creation. When we sing our bodies also release endorphins, happiness hormones, so we enter into a state of ease and joy and doing that regularly helps bring more positive experiences into our daily lives! And when we are happy and smile we pass it on to others! Music is the best tool to develop connections with our fellow human beings! Not only is music the only activity that activates the entire brain but it also takes us away from our rational minds and activates the emotive part of the brain. And that’s the part responsible for our emotions, for our feelings, and connections with others. When we sing together or dance together or attend a concert or listen together to music we develop deeper connections with each other. We develop heart to heart bonds. It also helps to regulate our emotions. What can be more beautiful than music? Music is the greatest gift to humanity throughout history, and the best healing tool available to mankind. While love is the energy of the soul, music is the melody and the language of the soul. They go hand in hand as all music is created with love. In the beginning there was a word. And it turned into a song! And that song is the Uni-verse!■ 67

5 HEALTH&WELLBEING—SUPER POWER TIPS

SuperPower

Tips WRITTEN BY CAROLINE GRENIER

TROPICAL PINEAPPLE TWIST!

Pineapples bring that vacation vibe, as it's a tropical fruit grown in beautiful places we love to visit such as Costa Rica, Brazil and the Philippines. A perfect summer’s treat rich in health benefits and its high water content; between 85 and 90 percent of pineapple is water. Drinking one glass of pineapple juice can help you overcome fatigue and boosts your stamina to keep you hydrated the entire day and provide all the energy you need! Pineapple has serotonin which is a natural stress buster that keeps your hormones and nerves relaxed. Its nutritional factors are impressive as well, and you will soon discover more about bromelaine as the top nutrient. Pineapples are full of multiple B vitamins, high in vitamin A & C, manganese, calcium, copper, fiber and more. They have plenty of manganese which strengthens bones and connecting tissues that may also help prevent osteoporosis in post-menopausal women. One cup of fresh pineapple juice contains over 70% of the required daily dose of manganese. Kids, adults and elderly people should eat a few chunks of pineapple a day to keep their bodies strong. Pineapples are rich in nutrients and antioxidants that can boost your immune system and have the ability to prevent diseases that your body is prone to.

NATURAL BEAUTIFIER:

The older you get your skin begins to lose its glow and you begin to develop wrinkles. However, pineapple can make you look younger and delay cells from dying. Its rich source of antioxidants and vitamin C is said to treat acne, sun damage and uneven skin tone. Pineapple can also reduce black spots on your face. In order to achieve this, rub some pineapple over your black spots, keep it on your face for 5 minutes and wait till it fully dries. Then wash away with some water and you should see a difference. PHOTO COURTESY OF ANNE-MARIE MAY,

WELCOME ABOARD PHOTOGRAPHY

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STRENGTHEN & GROW HAIR:

Pineapple is said to be rich in vitamin C and can aid in hair growth! Pineapple has hair thickening properties that will make your hair strong and avoid hair fall. The enzymes present in this fruit have vital nutrients that can enrich your hair follicles. This will improve the thickness and elasticity of your hair. Pineapples also contain manganese, a mineral important in bone formation and vitamin C supports the formation of collagen in bones. Pineapples can promote the growth of bones in the young and strengthen bones in older people.

SPEEDS UP MUSCLE RECOVERY:

Pineapples have significant positive effects on muscle fatigue due to exercise. Bromelain was also found to reduce feelings of fatigue. Pineapples reduce muscle damage and improve recovery across consecutive days of workouts. Protect from muscle damage and inflammation and enjoy pineapples daily as it’s a great way to promote muscle recovery and a fun way to end your workouts with a tropical twist!

REDUCE INFLAMMATION & AID AFTER SURGERY:

Bromelain has been found to combat cancer and fight inflammation while boosting your immunity. Bromelain has been reported to have therapeutic effects on various inflammatory diseases. In fact, it has been discovered that Bromelain is as potent as any other anti-inflammatory drug without the side effects. Bromelain in pineapples may reduce the inflammation, swelling and discomfort that occur after surgery. Can aid recovery and significantly reduce pain. Bromelain may also break down cholesterol plaques, further promoting heart health.

REDUCES RISK OF BLOOD CLOTS:

Bromelain, being the major substance in pineapples, will reduce your risk of blood clots. Thus, you need to make this healthy fruit your good time pass snack. Bromelain helps reduce excessive coagulation of the blood. For frequent flyers, flight attendants, movers and other folks at risk for blood clots, pineapples should be your go-to snack! It can benefit your health in many possible ways, and so make it a point to consume this fruit very often.

TREAT & PREVENT COLD AND COUGH:

If you are suffering from a bad cold, then you need to make it a point to eat pineapple. This is because this healthy fruit contains Bromelain, which is an enzyme that has anti-inflammatory properties that can fight infections and kill bacteria. Eating it regularly can protect you from cough and cold. Again, it’s all about vitamin C and Bromelain which helps to reduce mucus build-up in the sinus cavities and respiratory tract. Also if you are exposed to seasonal allergies, incorporate pineapples into your diet, along with some extra Bromelain supplements to ease your condition. Pineapples are sweet, convenient, and simple to add to your diet. This fresh fruit is easy to find in many grocery stores and markets, even out of season. You can buy it canned, dehydrated, or frozen year-round. This superfruit is also a great healthy alternative for when you’re craving something sweet!■

Drinking one glass of pineapple juice can help you overcome fatigue and boosts your stamina to keep you hydrated the entire day and provide all the energy you need!

20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

Section Title | Title

Collision Conference

Attracts 36,000 —

Will it Stay or Go? WRITTEN BY LINDA MONTGOMERY

6 BUSINESS &WEALTH

PHOTO COURTESY OF WEB SUMMIT

he Collision conference The sprawling event took over the came to Exhibition Place entire Enercare Centre spilling over to in June attracting 36,000 the Beanfield Centre for registration and of the innovation glitterati 30 food vendor trucks lined up along from 118 countries, once Princes Boulevard. Inside the main again boosting the global gravitas of venue were over 20 stage areas and variToronto’s tech ecosystem and providous-sized exhibitor booths housing coming a lift to local business and tourism. panies and Canadian and international Heralded as one of the world’s biggest governments showcasing their homeand fastest growing tech conferences grown startup companies. that “buzzes with startup electricity”, it Speakers included high-profile foundfacilitates networking, partnerships and ers, corporate leaders, venture capitalfunding deals. The 4-day event included ists, UN goodwill ambassadors, climate a cavalcade of more than 500 speakers advocates, athletes and politicians. On that examined the role of tech in a wider the agenda were Toronto’s “Godfather world, with Artificial Intelligence (AI) as of AI”, Geoffrey Hinton, the founder this year’s topic du jour. There were 1490 of local language AI innovator Cohere, Startups, 865 Investors, 920 Journalists and speakers from Google’s DeepMind, as well as hundreds of side events in Amazon Web Services, Grammarly and Liberty Village, Distillery and Toronto many more. Media personalities — from Waterfront area venues. But a cloud hovTikTok influencers to journalists from ered over the conference about Toronto’sSydney, Wired, CBS, The Wall Street Journal, Australia future as Collision’s host city. and Vogue, led topic stream discussions WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

6 BUSINESS&WEALTH—COLLISION CONFERENCE

…Will Toronto’s new Mayor, Olivia Chow, pick up the torch…? like Future Societies, Auto/Tech, Venture Funding, Corporate Innovation, Content Makers, Women in Tech, Crypto, and The Planet. Scores of early-stage companies took advantage of discounted booth stands that changed every day, and the Startup pitch competition was won by Torontobased Syzl, a company that connects food makers to commercial kitchen spaces enabling new immigrants to quickly establish and scale a business. THE MATH OF “BIG TENT” GLOBAL EVENTS 2023 marked the end of an initial 3-year commitment to hold the con20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

ference in Toronto (in addition to two pandemic virtual years), and a one-year extension announced days before the event started, meaning 2024 could be the final year. Collision is owned by Web Summit, an Irish company that runs a portfolio of traveling tech conferences. In May, they told local tech publication BetaKit that Toronto is one of six North American cities currently competing for Collision and the more than $150 million in direct spending, $230 million of economic impact, and $40 million of tax revenue another three years could bring (based on Destination Toronto projections for 2023 year). “Big tent” global conferences can be big

business endeavors; organizers partner with governments for financial “offsets” — financial and in-kind support applied to their costs. Web Summit’s portfolio includes a flagship Web Summit event in Lisbon, Portugal, about twice the size of Collision attracting 70,000. They inked a 10-year deal with the Portuguese government back in 2018 for an estimated 3 billion Euros or $4.5 billion Cdn. of economic impact till 2028. Portugal currently provides 11 million Euros or $16 million Cdn. in annual offsets. As events get larger and more successful, the financial ask expands — Collision attendance has grown 44% since its 2019 debut. BetaKit reported that Collision currently receives $6.5 million Cdn. annually in offset contributions from the city and partners. They also reported in May that a new three-year agreement of over $40 million or $13 million per year could be on the table, reflecting what Web Summit was looking for, but no deal was ever announced. Recently some in the tech community have voiced concern about funneling public funds to a foreign group rather than focusing on home-grown tech events like Toronto’s Elevate or Startup Fest in Montreal. Toronto’s former mayor was known to be a champion of the tech industry who brought the parties and funding to the table for Collision to come to Toronto and was helping to ensure that it stays — leaving office abruptly at a critical time no doubt put a wrench in the renewal process. Will Toronto’s new Mayor, Olivia Chow, pick up the torch ensuring 2025 marks the start of another three years of Collision in Toronto? We shall see in the coming weeks.■ Linda Montgomery is a tech industry executive and a Toronto Waterfront resident. 71

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6 BUSINESS&WEALTH—WEALTH MANAGEMENT

TRANSITIONING WEALTH:

HOW READY IS YOUR FAMILY? BY IG WEALTH MANAGEMENT / ESTATE PLANNING

id you know that many Canadians are not adequately prepared to pass on or inherit family wealth? This is often due to a lack of communication and planning. The good news is that it’s never too early or too late to start. Planning helps you identify tax saving opportunities, mitigate potential financial gaps and maximize your current lifestyle. Here are 10 actions you can begin to take today.

1. Clearly define what legacy planning means to you. Having conversations with your parents or children about topics like death and inheritance can be uncomfortable. To help family members feel more invested in the outcome, it helps to approach this as a values- and goals-based conversation, rather than simply talking about the details of a will. Initiating these conversations from a values-based and aspirational tone often helps ease into the heavier topics. 2. Prepare now for the unexpected. Our needs change over time, and the financial well-being of loved ones can be impacted across generations. Whether for yourself or your parents, it’s important to keep your family informed and ensure you have the right risk protection plan in place. This might include long-term care financial planning or life insurance strategies. 3. Think about your family structure. The way you shape your legacy will largely depend on the structure of your family. Every family has different dynamics, and a well-structured estate plan is unique to each family situation. For example, estate planning for blended families can be considerably more complex. Another important consideration is beneficiaries with special needs. 4. Ensure your estate is passed on in the most tax effective manner. Speak to a tax expert to ensure that your estate will be structured in a way that results in the highest after-tax result. Keep in mind that each province or territory has different tax considerations that will impact your decisions. 5. Take care with special assets like family businesses and vacation properties. Depending on your family structure, when dividing up an estate, some assets may be more appealing to one recipient than another and more complex to share. Ensure everyone is clear on your decisions and reasons, including tax implications and responsibilities. 6. Address personal items with sentimental value. Value isn’t always defined by dollars. Often there are items that hold great sentimental value, such as family heirlooms, jewelry, artwork, or furniture. It’s important to communicate your intentions with these items as well, rather than assume what loved ones may or may not want to inherit.

8. Plan charitable giving carefully to maximize the tax benefits. How will charitable giving benefit your overall estate? A carefully constructed giving plan helps create a legacy that expresses your values and the causes you care about, while also reducing your income tax liability. 9. Identify important roles. Choosing a personal representative (sometimes referred to as an “executor/executrix,” “liquidator” or “estate trustee” depending on where you live) is a critical decision during the estate planning process. Other important roles include power of attorney, trustee, guardian if you have young children, and caregiving roles for elderly parents or family members with disabilities. 10. Address financial literacy early. Many parents are concerned with their children’s ability to manage their inheritance, even adult children. These conversations will include many financial terms that some family members, especially younger children, may not understand. If you also need additional guidance on a topic, your IG Consultant has access to a variety of educational resources to support you, including the Money and Youth program, a partnership between IG and The Canadian Foundation for Economic Education. Contact Catherine Miao to request a copy of IG’s interactive Intergenerational Guidebook.

Catherine Miao CFP, CPCA, RRC Division Manager Tel. 416.838.1258 E-mail. catherine.miao@ig.ca Investors Group Securities Inc.

7. Consider a trust. If a beneficiary is still relatively young or is someone requiring oversight in managing a large amount of money, talk to a tax and estate expert on how best to structure the inheritance so it is used appropriately. Written and published by IG Wealth Management as a general source of information only, based on the CRA information believed to be accurate as of the date of publishing. Not intended as a solicitation to buy or sell specific investments, or to provide tax, legal or investment advice. Seek advice on up to date withholding rules and rates and on your specific circumstances from an IG Consultant. Trademarks, including IG Wealth Management and IG Private Wealth Management are owned by IGM Financial Inc. and licensed to its subsidiary corporations.

6 BUSINESS&WEALTH—MARS VILLAGE

Exploring the Future WRITTEN BY KARIM MIRSHAHI

he dream of humanity inhabiting other planets has been a subject of fascination for generations, capturing the imaginations of scientists, artists and visionaries alike. In recent years, this dream has taken significant steps towards becoming a reality, thanks to the pioneering efforts of individuals like CEO Dennis Wang and his groundbreaking project, Mars Village. A DIVERSE AND ACCOMPLISHED BACKGROUND. With over 30 years of professional experience spanning government, international trade, logistics, investment, and management, Dennis Wang's career is a tapestry woven with success and ambition. His educational journey mirrors his diverse expertise, with an EMBA from Beijing University in China, an M.B.A. from Maastrichit School of Management in the Netherlands, and a B.A. in Engineering from WuHan University of Technology in China. WANG'S JOURNEY TO CANADA IN 2000 marked the beginning of a series of cutting-edge ventures that would come to define his legacy. CATALYZING INNOVATION THROUGH ENTREPRENEURSHIP. Dennis Wang's influence reaches across industries, manifested in his group of dynamic companies that span logistics, winemaking, and even interplanetary exploration.

DB SHIPPING CANADA & USA INC: Under Wang's guidance, this logistics and freight forwarding powerhouse has transcended borders, facilitating global trade and connectivity. [Link: www. dbshipping.com] MALETA & ST. HENRY ESTATE WINERY INC.: In the serene landscapes of NiagaraOn-The-Lake, Wang's foray into vine planting & winemaking included famous Icewine, embodied by Maleta & St. Henry Estate Winery. This venture marries the art of viticulture with Wang's flair for creating holistic experiences. [Link: www.maletawinery.ca] MARS VILLAGE FOOD SUPPLY CHAIN: Envisioned as a franchise restaurant, this establishment embodies Wang's commitment to innovation and sustainability in the realm of food supply chains. [Link: www.marsvillagefood.com] MARS VILLAGE BUILDING MATERIALS SUPPLY CHAIN: A manifestation of Wang's dedication to the environment, this online platform connects DIY enthusiasts with environmentally friendly building materials, enhancing sustainability at every step. [Link: www.marsvillagehouse.com] MARS VILLAGE - A VISION BEYOND BOUNDARIES. Wang's most awe-inspiring project, Mars

Village, is set to reshape our concept of habitation and exploration. Positioned as an international high technology zone in Canada, Mars Village is envisioned as a comprehensive ecological community similar to Silicon Valley in the United States. This visionary endeavor includes elements that span innovative catering and food systems, green and sustainable energy solutions, a science center fostering childhood curiosity, a futuristic city tied to Mars exploration dreams, a hub for advanced technologies, an educational institution paralleling "Stanford" university, upscale accommodations, wineries, golf courses, and rejuvenating resorts. Through Mars Village, Dennis Wang weaves together a tapestry of boundless imagination, shared opportunities, and social responsibility. INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY AND SUSTAINABLE LIVING. One of the key aspects that sets Mars Village apart is its commitment to innovative technology and sustainable living practices. Wang and his team have been collaborating with experts from various fields to design cutting-edge solutions for energy generation, waste management, food production, and more. These technologies not only address the challenges of surviving on Mars but also have the potential to revolutionize sustainable living practices on Earth. Harnessing solar energy, developing closed-loop recycling systems, and cultivating crops in controlled environments are just a few examples of the ingenious WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

solutions being developed for Mars Village. Wang's dedication to minimizing the ecological footprint of the settlement reflects his broader commitment to responsible stewardship of the cosmos. At Mars Village, the innovative approach to sustenance involves being a primary supplier of food, eliminating intermediaries and directly importing essential provisions from the source. With a focus on importing only the highest quality and healthiest foods, the settlement is set to establish direct relationships with suppliers, ensuring that the journey from farm to table is efficient and uncompromising. By bypassing intermediaries, Mars Village guarantees a direct channel for fresh, nutritious food, enabling a thriving community built on the foundation of holistic well-being. COLLABORATION AND DIVERSITY. One of the standout features of Mars 20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

Village is its emphasis on collaboration and diversity. Wang envisions the settlement as a melting pot of cultures, disciplines, and perspectives, fostering an environment of cross-disciplinary exchange that fuels innovation. Scientists from different fields, artists seeking new inspirations, and individuals from all walks of life will find a home in Mars Village, united by their shared passion for exploration. Wang's belief in the power of diversity stems from his own background as a global entrepreneur, having built successful ventures across various industries. He understands that the convergence of different ideas and approaches is often the birthplace of groundbreaking discoveries. A LEGACY OF TRANSFORMATION. Dennis Wang's Mars Village isn't just a futuristic concept; it's a tangible project with a clear roadmap and milestones. As the project gains momentum, it's evident

that Wang's leadership and commitment to his vision are driving its success. His ability to rally a diverse team of experts, secure necessary funding, and navigate complex logistical challenges underscores his status as a true trailblazer. As we gaze towards the stars and imagine the possibilities of life beyond Earth, Mars Village stands as a testament to the potential of human ambition, innovation and cooperation. Under the guidance of CEO Dennis Wang, this interplanetary endeavor challenges us to rethink what is possible and reminds us that the sky is not the limit— it's just the beginning.■ To learn more about Mars Village, visit [Link: www.marsvillage.ca]or call 416 277-2328. Email: double_bridge@ hotmail.com

7 LIFESTYLE—HOLIDAY WINE PICKS

Canada's Fastest-Rising Wine Star's Holiday Picks WRITTEN BY

MARIE SMITH

PHOTO BY

SANDRA-LEE LAYDEN

7 LIFESTYLE

hen Waterfront Magazine asked me to introduce Sommelier and Media Personality Renee Sferrazza and get her thoughts on best beverages for the season, I was thrilled to do it. I have worked on a few projects with Renee over recent months and have come to realize that it is possible to have great wine knowledge & talent AND humility in the same package. You can get to know her and wines better on the “Liquid Pleasures” channel on YouTube, where one fan (@Amandaloveslife421) summed her up beautifully with one comment: “Gotta love Renee! She’s so lovely and takes the pomp and circumstance out of the equation, which I adore.” As a Court of the Master Sommeliers Certified Sommelier, your first instinct might be to stand back a bit to see exactly where Renee lands on the pretentious scale. But there is no need; kind, fun loving Renee has made wine her life’s work! She’s also a qualified and experienced bartender, loves people and lives in a gorgeous townhouse near Trinity Bellwoods in Toronto with her life partner and her dog, Togo. I met up with her there, where she warmly greeted me, offering me, of course, a delicious glass of wine. After some dog-love and a friendly catch-up, we got down to the business at hand. Q: Renée, you are really exposing different wines on so many platforms, what’s the best way to get your take on great bottles? Renée: Well, you can find my work in a lot of places, to name a few I’m a regular on two morning shows in Canada, I will now be a regular contributor to Waterfront (what a great magazine!) but probably the best way is a YouTube channel I appear on regularly called Liquid Pleasures. The team there does great work and knows how to promote! I’m really proud of the work I’m doing there. Q: I want you to fill my wine rack with exactly what I need this season to cover everything, can you do it? Renée: The first wine I will comment on is the one I poured you, and I honestly don’t think you can do the Holiday season without a good rosé! This is the Lucy's Block 2022 Rosé

by Quails' Gate made from a block of vines named after the grandmother of the winery owner, Lucy Mary Whitworth, and is a blend of Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier from South Kelowna. I’ll talk more about this winery later, but this wine is driven by popping red berry fruit notes in the glass and accentuated by a fresh and inviting flavour. It’s a little celebration in a glass which I would definitely serve as a cocktail / sipping wine. For a sparkling wine that is a memorable gift, I usually look to adjacent sparkling wine regions that don't always get the attention they deserve. This means you are getting two things with a bottle of bubbles: a great deal and something with great care and intention in its craftsmanship. Another style of traditional method bubbly I live for is Franciacorta. From the Lombardy region of Italy, Franciacorta is sunnier in the glass than Champagne and more textural than Cava. I always gravitate towards the Ca' del Bosco Cuvée Prestige Extra Brut Franciacorta, usually out at the end of the year. Next, I would say that you should always have an easy-drinking red and a white over the holidays, and I am a big fan of doing complementary wines for moments like these. If you serve them simultaneously, you have a complete story to tell with two bottles. Bourgogne, aka Burgundy, is a region in France that always delivers, even for the entry-level wines. The wines from this famed French region are based on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. In the region's northern reaches, in Chablis, you will find an expression of Chardonnay that is bright, mineral-driven and filled with brightness. The William WATERFRON T MAGAZ INE

You don't have to look far to find great and impressive wines.

Fevre Petit Chablis is an excellent introduction to the brilliant and lively wines of Chablis. It is great with nibbles and bites or just all on its own. Southbound in Bourgogne proper is where you will find red wine made with Pinot Noir that can range in expression up to the Grand Cru classifications. But a good Pinot for the region, to show typicity on the whole, is the Albert Bichot Bourgogne Pinot Noir AOC. This wine has berry fruit and purple flower aromas intermingling with twiggy and earthen notes. This is a great complement to a Thanksgiving feast. These wines are approachable as we treat ourselves and loved ones for the holidays. These are bottles that you could grab a half-case of to keep on hand, depending on how much entertaining you do. Next, you really need to have those wines to impress, whether it’s your boss, your in-laws, or your wine-loving friends. Contrary to some assumptions, we make some impressive wines in Canada, so you don't have to look far to find great and impressive wines and here are two that I highly recommend. They are a fabulous example of the deliciousness made on the sloped and lake-facing vineyards of Kelowna in BC's Okanagan wine region. They have

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great variety of options that fit the region's style in the glass and they definitely over-deliver. I really enjoy the Quails's Gate 2022 Clone 220 Chenin Blanc. This wine brings in a bit of wine geekiness, using the Loire Chenin Blanc Clone 220, but the vineyard has been nurtured by the winery for 20 years. This small-batch wine is fermented and aged in concrete eggs, filled with aromas of elderflowers, wet stone, lime and fresh white flowers. It is a textured wine on the palate with hints of tropical notes and a dynamic finish. For the red, I’d recommend the 2021 Queue by Quails' Gate, this great pour combines Rhône and Bordeaux grapes. It is a winemaker's composition using Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah from the winery's estate vineyards. On the nose, this wine is a rich blend of spice, dark cocoa, dark fruit and violet notes. On the palate, you experience pepper notes with supple tannins and an exquisite finish. This wine stands up beautifully with a roast dinner or game meat or, for the vegetarians in your life, go with a roasted mushroom dish! These are five wines to have on hand if you want to shop once and be covered, after all, the Holidays are about taking time with friends and family, not worrying about what to serve them! ENJOY!■ 77

7 LIFESTYLE—BALTIC CRUISE

Cruising the Baltic Sea is the

Ultimate Voyage WRITTEN BY SHANNON SKINNER

f a cruise is on your bucket list, consider a Nordic cruise sailing the Baltic Sea. While there are many cruise options on the planet, a voyage on the Baltic Sea offers perhaps the best of all worlds – including spectacular nature, historic cities, cultural diversity and Viking history. This summer, I sailed the Baltic Sea with Viking, one of the world’s leading exploration companies, on their new Viking Mars ocean cruise ship. It was my first ocean cruise and, although I have sailed on the Danube (also with Viking) a few years ago, I knew I would be in good hands on this ocean voyage. The Viking Mars, launched in May 2022, is considered a small ship, carrying 930 passengers. Our cruise itinerary was the Viking Homelands, tracing the roots of the Vikings, which is notable as Viking celebrates its 26th anniversary this year. One big benefit of a Nordic cruise on the Baltic Sea is that you visit several Scandinavian and European countries, including islands, in a short period of time. You see many historic and charming cities and sites, experience cultural and culinary diversity, and can also do outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking and fishing. Our Viking Homelands itinerary sailed from Stockholm, Sweden to Bergen, Norway (15 days, 6 countries). I boarded the ship in Stockholm where we set sail on the Baltic Sea. Ports of call included: Mariehamn, the capital of the Åland Islands (Finland); Gdańsk, Poland; Rønne, Bornholm, Denmark; Warnemünde (for Berlin), Germany; Copenhagen and Ålborg, Denmark; Oslo, Stavanger, Eidfjord and Bergen, Norway. In Germany, passengers took a train to Berlin for the day. I disembarked

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These cities are teeming with maritime history. in Warnemünde (I was only on segment #1 of the itinerary) and travelled by train to Berlin for a night and departed for home, while the ship continued to Norway. I saw much in just a few days. A key advantage of cruising the Baltic is the fact that the cities you visit are all conveniently located on the waterfront and the ship’s dock near the city or in the downtown harbour, such as Stockholm (except for Germany’s Warnemünde port, which is quite far from Berlin). This allows you to get off the ship quickly and start exploring straight away, with no time wasted. Also, these cities are teeming with maritime history. The Baltic Sea, an arm of the Atlantic Ocean, is mostly calm because it is sheltered from open waters by primarily Scandinavian countries, an important feature for travellers who are concerned about motion sickness. Our cruise had one day that the sea was a bit choppy; otherwise it was smooth sailing. And, in terms of climate, Northern Europe is generally cooler than other parts of Europe, which may be preferable for some outdoor enthusiasts and those who wish to avoid the heat. Weather conditions in summer and fall are warm and pleasant, but it can be unpredictable and windy. On our summer-time Nordic cruise, we had rainy days that were chilly, and days that were sunny and warm. The temperature ranged from 16C to 23C. Probably the greatest reason of all to take a Nordic cruise is that it offers spectacular natural vistas, including the breathtaking Norwegian fjords. The best way to view the fjords is on the water. As well, depending on the weather and time of year, it could be an excellent way to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). As you sail, you will also view awe-inspir20TH A N N I VE R SA RY M A R Q U E E IS S U E

venient way of seeing Scandinavia, it may also, quite possibly, be easier on the wallet than vacationing on the ground, as Scandinavian countries are quite expensive. So, it actually may be a more affordable way of seeing this part of the world. Of course, that depends on the cruise, itinerary and size of your wallet. If it is time for your ship to sail, let it be on the Baltic Sea. Bon voyage!

ing landscapes along the coastlines, such as the picturesque Swedish coast, as well as the maze of islands scattered throughout the Baltic. By sailing in the Baltic, you get the opportunity to discover Viking history, which has long fascinated our Western culture. The Vikings originated from Scandinavia (Denmark, Norway and Sweden) and eventually spread across Europe. Today, there are Viking sites and museums, and other historic seafaring sites in Scandinavia that are both fascinating and educational. Some of the outstanding Viking and maritime museums to visit include the Vasa Museum in Stockholm that houses the Vasa warship, the Norwegian Maritime Museum and Denmark’s Viking Ship Museum. Lastly, taking a Nordic cruise – your floating hotel - may be not only a con-

Shannon Skinner is an award-winning inspirational television host, producer, author, speaker and travel writer. She is based in Toronto. shannon@shannonskinner.com.■

7 LIFESTYLE—DREAMERS

'Volcano Under the Full Moon' by artist Anne Bourgoyne.

The World Belongs

he world belongs to those who dream. When we pursue our passions, we immerse ourselves in the essence of our ideas, and life flows more effortlessly. Success is intertwined with embracing the spirit of our pursuits. It is challenging to tap into an idea that lacks passion and fails to resonate with our hearts. So why do many of us find ourselves not following our true callings? Have we settled for money, pensions or titles? What is our personal story in this narrative? I found myself in my 40s feeling unfulfilled, lost and disillusioned. I believed I had not achieved much or had much to show for in life. I felt unhappy. But then, I chose the path of marketing to find freedom. As I studied marketing, I realized it did not bring me joy. It felt boring and mechanical, except for business social studies, a subject I loved and excelled in. Why didn't I follow my childhood dream of studying psychology? In that pivotal moment, I let the opinions of others and the fear of financial security overpower the whispers of my heart. All too often, we heed the advice of those who fail to understand our passions. How can a lawyer comprehend the soul of an artist? Society often urges us to be realistic, inundating us with tales of the 'starving artist' archetype. But who are they to write our stories? At the end of the day, it is our thoughts and emotions that shape our destiny. I remember when the song "Daydream" by Lily Meola first debuted and how deeply I connected with it. When Lily performed it for the first time on America's Got Talent, even Simon

to The Dreamers WRITTEN BY KAMILA BIELECKA

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Section Title | Title

It is crucial to recognize that we become what we think about.

Cowell was moved, and tears welled up in the eyes of the audience. She beautifully expressed the essence of our childhood dreams and the struggle of not pursuing them. Her lyrics resonated with the fear of being unrealistic and settling for a plan B by going to college instead of following our hearts due to the perceived risks involved. Why did this song strike such a chord with everyone? Were we all living the plan B life? Had we all settled? I was fortunate enough to discover the path to my true passion. Amidst the Covid pandemic, I made the decision to enroll in high-ticket courses in the realm of self-development. Surprisingly, I found myself in a world previously unfamiliar to me. While others pursued professional development courses to aid their employers' dreams, I dedicated myself to becoming the best possible version of myself, actively pursuing my own aspirations. It was an empowering journey, where I took charge of my destiny while also achieving financial success. Today, as I listen to Lily Meola's song, I am filled with overwhelming gratitude for uncovering my true-life purpose. Our desires serve as the driving force behind our very existence. We often hear people expressing exhaustion and overwhelm, when they are simply lacking inspiration by not engaging in activities that make them radiate. Knowing your path and living a purpose-driven life grants profound freedom. It involves awakening each morning, looking into the

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mirror, and feeling inspired. Because, without inspiration, what are we truly accomplishing? Merely existing... just breathing... Remember, it is more than okay to dream. We are the creators of our own story. Imagination, alongside perception, will, reason, intuition and memory, is one of our highest faculties. Yet, growing up, we were often discouraged from utilizing it. Daydreaming was deemed unproductive, and we were urged to focus on our work. Ironically, as we progressed in life, we found ourselves employing imagination against ourselves, conjuring up worst-case scenarios and dwelling on potential failures. It is crucial to recognize that we become what we think about. Our thoughts shape our reality, and our imagination has the power to manifest both positive and negative outcomes. It is never too late to be who you might have been. It takes courage to make certain decisions and to go after your dreams. Today, I invite you to close your eyes for a moment and envision the life you desire. Feel the fire within you, the yearning to live a life of purpose and fulfillment. Hear the whispers of your heart, urging you to take the first step towards your dreams. You possess within you the power to shape your reality, to mold your destiny. The world belongs to those who dream, but it is up to us to bring those dreams to life.■

Kamila Bielecka is a Professional Dreamer and Manifestation Coach who helps women become Go-Getters, step into their power, believe in themselves, and pursue their dreams. It 's never too late to become the person you were meant to be. Professional Links: kamila.bielecka@yahoo.ca, facebook.com/kamila.bielecka.562

7 LIFESTYLE—WHERE'S THE PARTY

Former mayor John Ortner with hosts.

Guests at Motionball

Party? Where's the

Models from Startup Fashion Week

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF JOHN ORTNER

Founder Women in Governance Caroline Codsi left with friends.

Guest at fashion show.

Winner of Women in Governance.

Guests at the gala.

VIPs at Black Diamond ball.

Shawn Cuffie & Patricia Jaggernauth.

Paul Mason Centre with Guests

Roger Gingerich with friends.

Guest at Trend Hunter Future Festival.

Host Kardinal Offishall.

Wine Sisters Erin and Courtney Henderson.

Guests at Cashmere Party

TIFF Cameron Bailey with Korea director.

Glen Baxter & Susan Langdon.

Glenn Dixion, Glen Baxter and friend Guests at The Rescue Party.