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By Isabel Jiménez for Visionnaire Moralmoda During their last conference in Bahrain, the Climate Change Forum hosted thought leaders from around the world. One of the keynote speakers, Dr. Yewande Austin (founder of Change International), shared with Visionnaire MM her mission to empower vulnerable communities through business. Recognized as a Global JEDI Strategist (Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion), Dr. Austin’s work has reached over 250,000 people across 31 countries including 23 African nations. As an honorary U. S. Cultural Ambassador, she has been recognized for her tireless commitment to our global community with an Honorary Doctorate in Humanitarianism from Stanford University, a 2017 President Barack Obama Lifetime Achievement Award, and as a 2020 CNBC Rising Woman – one of thirty-five women shaping the future of Africa. Dr. Austin was recently honored to present her research on the impact of structural racism in international development for the United Nations Development Programme’s 2021-2022 Corporate Anti-Racism and Discrimination Implementation Plan. We had the pleasure to meet Dr. Yewande Austin at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain. Visionnaire - What’s your inspiration for this work? YA - From my earliest memories, I knew that I wanted to change the world. I remember reading stories about social activists like Harriet Tubman and Sojourner Truth who risked their lives to free enslaved people at the height of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade in America. Why couldn’t I do that, too? I’m not quite sure why I was so fearless at that age, but I was fortunate to be raised by a mother who never silenced my dreams. She herself was an entrepreneur and commercial interior designer for nearly 40 years. Dr. Yewande Austin (far right) with IDP families (Internally Displaced People) in Northern Nigeria. This early exposure to design would profoundly shape my approach to sustainable development. Some may be surprised to know that I slept in my mother’s bedroom closet as a child. All she could afford was a 1-bedroom apartment when she and my biological father divorced at the age of 1. It was barely big enough to fit a twin bed, second-hand clothes and a bookcase, but my bed was adorned with an exquisite hand sewn quilt made by my grandmother, Artie Lee Ball, who lived to be 99 years old. The living room was filled with Haitian art and handmade African pillows. And somehow, my mother managed to squeeze a drafting table into our tiny dining room where she drew the most intriguing floor plans. I was surrounded by beauty! Dr. Yewande Austin and Isabel Jiménez, Lady of Parte Guelfa and Visionnaire's honorary contributing editor, at the Four Seasons Hotel in Bahrain. Society has conditioned us to believe that beauty and struggle can’t co-exist, but some of the greatest innovations in history were born in times of crisis. Our little heaven on Cherry Hill Road was my introduction to creative thinking – challenging traditional ideas that foster innovative solutions to existing problems. Creative thinking reveals the possibilities that exist within everything! "In 2015, my humanitarian organization was the first to provide emergency education relief to IDP children (Internally Displaced People) who survived Boko Haram terrorism in Northern Nigeria. When I learned that their families would be evicted from the Durumi IDP Camp, the concept of Alheri Village was born." - Dr. Yewande Austin Visionnaire - Tell us about your organization, Change International. YA - I founded Change International in 2006 to empower vulnerable girls and women with skills that promote social and economic independence. We’ve produced socio-economic empowerment programs for over 250,000 participants in 31 countries including 23 African nations. But I’m most proud of Alheri Village – sustainable communities that we’re developing for some of the world’s most vulnerable people. We’ve already received requests to replicate this model in 7 countries, but currently focused on launching our pilot for Internally Displaced People (IDP’s) in Abuja, Nigeria. Visionnaire - How did you develop the concept for Alheri Village? YA - In 2015, my humanitarian organization was the first to provide emergency education relief to IDP children (Internally Displaced People) who survived Boko Haram terrorism in Northern Nigeria. When I learned that their families would be evicted from the Durumi IDP Camp, the concept of Alheri Village was born. In the Hausa language, Alheri means “grace”. Like the little apartment that I grew up in, I wanted to create a space that was beautiful, sustainable and protected homeless survivors at higher risk of sexual assault, violence and human trafficking. Alheri Village (2030 United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #8 – Decent work and Economic Growth) offers residents secure housing, job acquisition training, healthcare and agribusiness education that will teach skills from farming to processing and distribution. Visionnaire - What is economic inclusion? YA - Economic inclusion is based on the fundamental belief that every individual deserves equitable access to resources that position them to fully participate in the economy. Since the pandemic, more than half a billion more people have been pushed into extreme poverty (less than $1.90/day). The current economic crisis wasn’t caused by COVID-19, but the inequities that were created by us before the virus. So, we must be the ones to fix it. Change International has helped vulnerable people in twelve African countries develop high social impact businesses that confront some of the world’s greatest social, economic and cultural challenges through our leadership and economic inclusion program, Nawo, which means “invest” in the Yoruba language. We were recently invited to expand this program in India and the Ukraine to support their post-war recovery efforts. The World Bank’s State of Economic Inclusion Report 2020 indicates that economic empowerment programs like ours are quickly becoming an important part of international anti-poverty strategies. In Nigeria, the women of Alheri Village have launched 10 businesses and a women’s empowerment group from an investment that we made in 4 start-up businesses in the middle of a global pandemic! Lower income people have been historically segregated from our global economy, but by empowering these women economically, we reduce conflict, promote social stability, improve workforce development and increase the national GDP. And that makes the world a better place for everyone! For more information: www.changeinternational.org, www.globalinstituteforchange.com

Headdress ornament (manguan) with historical scene Gold Ming dynasty, 1368–1644 Cicada-shaped ornament Gold, tourmaline Ming dynasty, 1368–1644 From December 1st 2022 to April 14th 2023, L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts will present an exhibition showcasing over three thousand years of goldsmithing work in China, through a selection of masterpieces from the Mengdiexuan Collection. A Taoist text from the Han dynasty (206 BCE.–220 CE) reveals the importance of gold during that era: “Gold is the most valuable thing in all the world because it is immortal and never gets rotten. Alchemists eat it, and they enjoy longevity.” (Wei Boyang, alchemist). Since the 5th millennium BCE, gold has held a power of fascination and has been used by talented craftsmen to create jewelry and ornaments with a strong symbolic value. Following a first exhibition at L’ÉCOLE Asia Pacific in Hong Kong last spring, the exhibition arrives to Paris. Replete with various symbolic meanings that are deciphered throughout the exhibition, these ornaments span more than three thousand years of Chinese history. All are part of the exceptional private Mengdiexuan Collection, focused on Chinese art, that L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts in Paris is honored to present for the first time to the public in Europe. Curators: Valentina Bruccoleri, PhD in Chinese Art History (Sorbonne University) and Olivier Segura Gemologist, Scientific Director at L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts organise the exhibition around three main themes: The first part offers an introduction from a scientific and gemological point of view on the material and the properties of gold: what is gold? where is it found? what type of gold is used to make jewelry? Thanks to the displays composed of nuggets, crystals and ancient jewelry, the exhibition explores all these different aspects. The exhibition then focuses on the savoir-faire (craftsmanships), with several major techniques: hammering, chasing, casting, granulation, gold wire and filigree, setting and inlay. Lantern-shaped earrings, Gold. Ming dynasty, 1368–1644, all the pieces presented are from the Mengdiexuan Collection. Photos: Picspark Co. The displayed necklaces, bracelets, earrings, hairpins, brooches and belt buckles take us on a journey to the Chinese Empire through Central Asia, the Eurasian Steppes, Mongolia and the Himalayas. The exhibition covers a period of more than three millennia, from the Shang dynasty (about 1500-1046 B.C.E.) to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), and presents ancestral skills that still fascinate us today. Finally, the exhibition highlights the power of symbols in Chinese art, which displays a rich and diverse iconography embodying happiness, longevity, rank, prosperity and, more generally, auspiciousness. The ornaments from the Mengdiexuan Collection offer us a glimpse of this symbolic wealth. By bringing art history, savoir-faire, and materials into dialogue, the exhibition resonates with the mission pursued by L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts since its creation in 2012, with the support of Van Cleef & Arpels, that of promoting the many dimensions of the art of jewelry through courses, talks, workshops, exhibitions, publications, and research.

By Estelle Arielle Bouchet As a tribute to Pierre Soulages. who left behind his accomplishments at the honorable age of 102, we reflect on his work as a symbiosis: a total asceticism based on darkness as a support for a kaleidoscope of interpretations. A Master of Abstract Art, through dark and light, in a system of antagonism one revealing the other as it does in Argentic Photography. The essence of light could not exist without the invading presence of darkness amid the infinite cosmos of his creation, reverting back to the Black Hole at the origin of his Universe as a child selecting the black predilection. In 2019 Pierre Soulages evoked his darkness leitmotiv: "I love the authority of black. Its severity, its obviousness, and its radicalism. It is a very active colour. It lights up when you put it on a dark colour." Darkness in this sense could embody the role of a discipline. Thus it seems justified, in investigating the work of a master such as Soulages, to explore the concept of multiple levels of interpretation, undoubtedly indicating the predominance of a metaphysical and modern vision of Art itself. At the image of a Meta-World to be rebuilt and rethought constantly at the heart of the Creation process. In the equivoque of a contemporary "Clair Obscur" the true dimension is settled, as with the alchemist's ability to transmute lead into gold, Soulages could also appear as an alchemist, able to burn a piece of art when not satisfied by a vernacular and archaic rite of purification. The artist offers a post Manichean vision where darkness is light as light could be darkness and to resume simply darkness could not exist without the irradiance of light. This pattern could be applied to many fields of interpretations thinking of the spiritual itinerary of the great Saints or Plato's myth of the cave. PIERRE SOULAGES : LITHOGRAPHIE N°17 - LITHOGRAPHIE ORIGINALE, 1964. Soulages in this direction could be an initiated "Cherche Midi", in perpetual quest for light, seen as a liberation through darkness' original primary support. We can still admire at the Sainte Foy de Conques Church in Aveyron the stain glasses he conceived as at the end of "rue du Cherche Midi " the same analogy could be associated with the stained glasses of the Saint Sulpice Church, following a unique path of light at its equinox...Light becoming the new redemption for Darkness.

Printed page from art book: "Égypte Secrète-Secret Egypt". All images courtesy of EAB PRESS & IMAGE. Estelle Arielle Bouchet (above) is an international art journalist, author of three books: Mes Carnets d'Egypte, Mes Carnets d'Italie at Flammarion and recently her last book "Égypte Secrète-Secret Egypt" dedicated to her eldest son Nazem Shah, at her own Publishing House "Méditerranée en Lumière" based in Provence. Galignani Bookshop, 224 rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris. EAB PRESS & IMAGE. You will find the beautiful coffee table book in its precious turquoise and gold chest at Galignani Bookshop, 224 rue de Rivoli 75001 Paris or at www.mediteterranee-en-lumiere.com The perfect gift for the Egypt's Lovers. From left to right: Nazem Shah, her eldest son, and Estelle Arielle Bouchet.

Valentino creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli wins designer of the year at Fashion Awards in company of numerous celebrities at the Fashion Awards 2022 at Royal Albert Hall Above and below: CREATIVE DIRECTOR Pierpaolo Piccioli with Florence Pugh, who wore Valentino look especially designed for her by Creative Director Pierpaolo Piccioli. The British Fashion Council (BFC) reveals the winners of The Fashion Awards 2022 presented by Diet Coke. The event raises the profile of and funds for the BFC Foundation charity which awards scholarships, grants and mentoring to future proof the pipeline of talent to the fashion industry. The event celebrates the role of fashion in self-expression, escapism and optimism. It also recognises the exceptional individuals, brands and businesses whose imagination and creativity have broken new ground in fashion globally over the past 12 months - transforming the possibilities of fashion today. The evening, hosted by British and Jamaican actress Jodie Turner-Smith, celebrated twenty-three awards including fifteen Leaders of Change. The Fashion Awards nominees and winners are voted for by an international judging panel made up of over 1000 industry experts. Above: Kristen McMenamy, Valentino look especially designed for her by Creative Director Pierpaolo Piccioli Naomi Campbell, Valentino look especially designed for her by Creative Director Pierpaolo Piccioli Dixie D’Amelio LOOK: Valentino dress from the Surfaces Spring 2023 collection and Valentino Garavani VSLING bag CELEBRITY: Sarah Lysander LOOK: Valentino look from the Surfaces Spring 2023 collection and Valentino Garavani Locò Bag CELEBRITY: Rosie Huntington Whiteley, Valentino look from the Unboxing Spring/Summer 2023 collection and Valentino Garavani Locò bag The evening included a number of special celebrations that showcased fashion at the intersection of culture. The Red Carpet LIVESTREAM served by Diet Coke opened with a live performance by singer Olivia Dean who performed her hit single DANGER!, accompanied by Diet Coke’s very own Fashion Awards Glambot. The Red Carpet was hosted by Presenter Miquita Oliver, Author and Columnist Raven Smith and Editor Julia Hobbs, highlighting key arrivals and special moments. The pre-show ceremony involved a Jean Paul Gaultier Fashion Freak Show, an electric combination of revue, pop concert and fashion show in a spirit of exuberance and magic. The awards ceremony opened with an iconic Year in Review film hosted by Christine Quinn, Tom Daley and Munya Chawawa, highlighting moments in fashion that have defined this year. Discover the film here. 2023 marks 30 years since the launch of NEWGEN which was set up to enable a group of designers, including the late Lee Alexander McQueen, to showcase their collections at London Fashion Week. NEWGEN was recognised at The Fashion Awards with a special introduction by Dr. Samuel Ross, Artist and Creative Director of A COLD WALL. An exclusive film featuring Princess Julia celebrated the creative zeitgeist of NEWGEN and its social and political relevance. The evening included performances by Shygirl and Jessie Ware whilst DJ Jodie Harsh and DJ Fat Tony led the afterparty. The British Fashion Industry paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II through The Fashion Salute Show. Designers included Alexander McQueen, Burberry, Charles Jeffrey (Loverboy), Christopher Kane, David Koma, Dilara Findikoglu, Dunhill, Edward Crutchley, Erdem, Halpern, Harris Reed, JW Anderson, KNWLS, Matty Bovan, Molly Goddard, Nensi Dojaka, Nicholas Daley, Ozwald Boateng, Philip Treacy, Preen, Rejina Pyo, Richard Malone, Richard Quinn, Roksanda, Roland Mouret, Simone Rocha, Stella McCartney, Stephen Jones, Vivienne Westwood, Victoria Beckham, Wales Bonner, Zandra Rhodes. The Fashion Salute Show Credits: Art Direction Robin Derrick, Creative Director Sophia Neophitou, Stylist Oliver Volquardsen, Casting Director Adam Hindle, Music Jeremy Healy and The Queen’s Royal Hussars, Production INCA & Gold Dust. As well as recognising designers and industry leaders, The Fashion Awards celebrated five years of NEW WAVE: Creatives and the 2022 cohort through a special film created by Matte Projects. The accolade represents 50 of the most innovative and inspiring young creative talents from around the world spanning continents and creative disciplines. The award pays homage to the incredible success of both home-grown and international talent; while celebrating all those who play a vital role in the industry’s cultural and creative reputation. Pierpaolo Piccioli with Sabato De Sarno and Gabriele Cusimano. Pierpaolo Piccioli with Benedetta Pietro Simona Stella Piccioli-The Fashion Awards 2022-December 5 2022-London-SGP Pierpaolo Piccioli with CEO Jacopo Venturini and Creative Director Pierpaolo Piccioli at the British Fashion Awards 2022 in London. CREDIT: Valentino/SGPItalia Each winner received a unique trophy designed by British- Nigerian designer Yinka Illori in collaboration with ethical and environmentally friendly jewelry company SkyDiamond, and glass design studio The Glass Foundry. The trophy, which was manufactured by hand at The Glass Foundry in the Cotswold’s, spotlights the necessity of creative collaboration and eco-innovation demonstrating how design unifies communities and has a positive impact on society, evoking a sense of joy and optimism. The official winner’s portraits were photographed by BFC NEW WAVE: Creative and London based photographer Joyce NG. The Fashion Awards raises funds for the BFC Foundation (Registered Charity Number: 1185152) which supports the future growth and success of the British fashion industry by focusing on Talent, Education, Grant-Giving and Business Mentoring and aims to improve equality and opportunity so that the fashion industry remains diverse and open to all, helping talented designers at all stages of their career from school level through to becoming a global fashion brand. In the financial year 2021/2022, the BFC remitted over £1.3m in funds to designers and scholars.

Maison Dior held its first show on the African continent at the foot of Egypt’s ancient Giza pyramids, presenting its 2023 fall men’s collection in the shadow of the millennia-old monuments. Egypt has resently hosted COP top meeting, in the Red Sea resort town of Sharm El-Sheikh. This is the second COP in Africa since COP22 was held in Morocco in 2016. Now it is time for another international happening in the country hosted by French luxury fashion house controlled and chaired by French businessman Bernard Arnault, who also heads LVMH, the world's largest luxury group. Fashion giant Christian Dior is famous for its designer clothing and is part of LVMH’s highly profitable Fashion and Leather Goods group.20 The brand was founded in 1946 by its namesake founder. Arnault’s investment in Christian Dior predates the existence of LVMH as it currently stands. Arnault purchased Parisian textile group Boussac, in bankruptcy protection, in 1984 for a symbolic one franc. Boussac’s assets included Christian Dior. The Dior brand has proven a staple of Arnault’s holdings—and, in turn, LVMH’s business—ever since. In 2017, LVMH and Arnault proposed a complex $13.1 billion transaction to consolidate the company’s ownership of Dior by buying out minority shareholders. Dwarfed by the vast Giza-pyramids complex—their imposing ridges illuminated by white light for the show — models showcased the collection titled “Celestial”. A fall collection that revealed itself in the scorched Giza desert at nightfall was textbook Kim Jones: vast, elegant, cinematic. The monuments of ancient pharaohs lit up, by LEDs illuminating the runway into existence to the sound of pounding techno. Jones is an auteur as much as he is a designer, pulling from both the Dior archive and the world beyond it to create pure spectacle. The man knows how to put on a show. Lucky VVIP residents and international guests listed on the guestlist, gathered to the venue near Cairo for an extravagant programme. Dior's tradition of showcasing its menswear collections around the world, comes to the Pyramids of Giza in Cairo, after previous Dior shows in Spain, China, Greece, Italy, South Korea, the UK, and the US. Zeinab Bashier, the Founder and President of “We love Egypt“ Foundation, the main target of foundation is to focus on the development in all aspects in Egypt and highlight it locally and internationally. Under the stars and before the silent wonder of the pyramids, it all felt a little mystical. That’s kinda the point. As both a Fall collection premiere and a birthday party for Dior’s 75th, Jones wants the celebration to be spiritual, to focus on the cosmos—much like the ancient Egyptians, who built the show’s breathtaking backdrop to reflect the star path of Orion’s Belt above. “With this anniversary and the collections’ we’ve done that are all entwined and building to a conclusion, it felt appropriate to do something very special at the end of the year,” Jones told GQ ahead of the show. “It is the summing up of past, present and future in a place—in front of the Great Pyramid.”

Alina Dyachenko is the CEO and founder of Chic Icon Luxury Lifestyle Magazine and Bespoke Events. Alina is a self-made entrepreneur and young woman who has inspired women to develop their capabilities and find purpose in their lives. In an exclusive interview, Alina discusses her passions, such as women's empowerment issues that are close to her heart. Please tell us about your journey. I am a very cosmopolitan person, having been born in Russia and having lived in 10 countries all over the world. Barcelona is my second home and the place where I earned two MBAs and began my career in media. Now that I've lived in Dubai for five years, I run Chic Icon Luxury Lifestyle Magazine. What is the philosophy behind your media? It is one of the world's leading luxury lifestyle magazines, with 1 million readers from 45 countries around the world, and it is based in Dubai. For me, it highlights the healthy self-love philosophy of letting yourself have only the best things in life. I organize bespoke luxury events and offer a do-it-yourself concierge service as part of the experience, as well as digital marketing and social media marketing. What is the next big event you're planning? The next event is the Chic Icon Awards, where we will be honoring the best luxury companies in the UAE. It is patronized by a royal member of Dubai, and we expect only high-profile guests, such as royal family members from the region, entrepreneurs, and celebrities. It's an award gala dinner with 250 VVIPs and selected guests. I intend to expand with my Chic Icon franchise globally, and I also intend to launch my fine jewellery line in 2022, and I will undoubtedly prioritise to take more time for me. (Chic Icon) the world's leading luxury lifestyle magazines, with 1 million readers from 45 countries around the world, and it is based in Dubai. For me, it highlights the healthy self-love philosophy of letting yourself have only the best things in life. - Alina

Amal Clooney and George Clooney, December 4, 2022, at the 45th Kennedy Center Honors ceremony at The Kennedy Center, Washington DC. Amal Clooney wore Valentino Haute Couture look from Valentino The Beginning Fall/Winter 2022-23 collection styled with Valentino Garavani Locò Bag. CREDIT: Valentino/GettyImages. Actor George Clooney is being honored for his contributions to American culture alongside singers Gladys Knight, Tania León, Bono, and Amy Grant. For the special occasion, both George and Amal Clooney showed up to the White House in style. George wore a classic black tuxedo and bowtie while receiving his medal, while Amal chose an off-the-shoulder silver gown that was encrusted with crystals. It wasn’t the only gown that Amal slipped into for the event. Just last night, the Clooneys attended a special pre-dinner in honor of the Kennedy Center Honors, and Amal chose yet another striking dress for it—this time in an attention-grabbing red. The human rights lawyer sported Valentino’s off the shoulder column gown from the spring 2022 couture collection, complete with a long sweeping train. She accessorized the statement look with a matching red box clutch. George, meanwhile, complemented her Old Hollywood frock with another sleek black suit. When it comes to style, this couple is always in perfect sync Naomi Campbell, December 4, 2022, attends the British Vogue 'Forces For Change' dinner hosted by Edward Enninful and Vanessa Kingori at The Londoner Hotel. LOOK: Valentino Haute Couture dress from Anatomy of Couture Spring/Summer 2022 collection and Valentino Garavani Locò Toile Iconographe bag, Valentino/GettyImages. Adut Akech and Samuel Elkhier, December 4, 2022, at the British Vogue 'Forces For Change' dinner hosted by Edward Enninful and Vanessa Kingori at The Londoner Hotel. LOOK: Valentino Haute Couture looks from Valentino The Beginning Fall/Winter 2022-23 collection. Valentino/GettyImages.

Dubai-based Architect, Entrepreneur and Founder of Concept ME, Nina Parvaresh talks about her love for the world of design and one of her latest projects in Dubai, including Bulgari Penthouse project, see images below. Bulgari Penthouse Livingroom My unconscious learning towards architecture began in me before I could even talk fluently. I taught myself how to express things through drawing houses andlandscapes before I could read and write. My kindergarten teacher had told my parents that she was impressed by my drawings and for as long as I can remember, I never said anything but ARCHITECT in response to “What do you want to do when you grew up?” Looking back on this, I believe that growing up in France, spending a lot of time in Paris and travelling a lot as a child curated and nourished the love of architecture in me. - Nina Parvaresh Bulgari Penthouse Master Bedroom Bulgari Penthouse Kitchen What are the advantages and benefits of having such a unique working environment as Dubai and which other cities inspire you? In a fast-moving city like Dubai, the dynamic motion of the people and landscape motivates you and unconsciously pushes you to be dynamic, forward-thinkingand capable of finding a wide myriad of diverse people with interesting and various talents. As a starting entrepreneur ten years ago, Dubai gave me an ease of access to business features, a legislative flexibility and a great network of like-minded people that allowed my business to bloom in its context. Nina Parvaresh, Architect and Founder of Concept ME In our field of high-end design, it is often quite difficult to find ways that enable us to bring luxury in a mindful manner. However, our approach to the topic is enabled through choosing the right team members, the curation of items that are produced mindfully, the work with people who care about their community and the partnership with craftsmen who have been honing a holistic approach to their production, their supply chain and their company culture for the past couple of decades. On that note, we are mindful of the environment in which we are constructing our projects, meaning our approach to bringing a project to life in Dubai differs from the way we are enabled and empowered to build in Milan for example. Nina Parvaresh, Architect and Founder of Concept ME What is your leadership/management style – how many people work under you? Across the years, I have been really conscious of my leadership style and in beingself-reflective to perfect my approach with my team. As someone who was used to being quite controlling due to my obsession with perfecting all the details, I have worked on myself through educating myself further, listening to feedbackand learning from role models to become a person that collaborates rather than delegates, as someone who is open to conversation rather than centralized decision making and as someone who tries to make sure that all 11 people I manage daily are actually enjoying what they do and growing within the shell of the company. At the end of the day, this industry is built on open communication between all the individuals that make it up with the aim of the project’s overall success-from the suppliers to the contractors to the brains that design aesthetically. It takes a village! Tell us about your inspiration for the new Bulgari penthouse project? What high-quality materials are clients excited about today? The inspiration in a nutshell: a peaceful and timeless space. Our client aimed fora space in which they can enter and sigh in relief, where the stress and tangible pressure of real life can disappear. This informed every one of our design choices for the space. It had to be, again, peaceful and again, timeless. Additionally, the panoramic view of the city refuses to be ignored. So, we drew on inspirations that integrated that aesthetic, natural element into the space. This is reflected in the overall space layout that used the golden ratio to reflect a natural shell with perfect proportions, the earthy color scheme, the subtle material that appeased the eye through its rich textures and absent patterns and the minimalistic details that tied up the project’s narrative perfectly. Some of these details is what we and the client were excited to use. These include the unique stone we sourced from Tuscany, the bronze finishes that take weeks to perfect in look and feel and the custom-made wood flooring that we selected based on the character of this space to make it unparalleled. Bulgari Penthouse Master bathroom How do you balance work and free time? This is actually one of the things I have recently been truly working on–and somehow failing at it! I am someone who genuinely loves what she does–so much so that the boundaries between my professional and personal lives have blurred out. However, because I love what I do I recognize that my personal comfort and peace of mind play a pivotal role in my efficiency, professional productivity and satisfaction of my team. This is why I have made a conscious decision to take more breaks, to loosen up control over the tiniest of details and to be more organic in my approach to work. This has even taught me to say no to several opportunities just to avoid spreading myself and the team too thin. That being said, it’s a work in progress! Which are your upcoming projects? We are really excited for the new chapter that Concept Me is writing! In addition to our work in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, we have two stunning locations in Milan that we are working on to create exceptional residential spaces in them. One of these projects involves us rebuilding the rooftop of a historical building in a landmark street and the second one will allow us to bring to life a traditional Italian residence with our signature touches!

On Friday, December 2, 2022, the Elina Svitolina Foundation will hold an auction during its Annual Gala Dinner, which will be held for the first time at Monaco Yacht Club. The funds raised during this evening, placed under the High Patronage of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco, will be used to finance the programs set up by the Foundation since 2019 including post-war Ukrainian tennis recovery program, but also to continue the logistical and material support provided to the families of beneficiaries severely impacted by the war in Ukraine. A private concert at the Fenice in Venice, the Finals of the 2023 Wimbledon men’s and women’s singles tournaments as well as a full experience at the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort including dinner at Michelin-starred Blue Bay restaurant and a 2-night stay in the iconic “Nadal” Suite are all unforgettable experiences that will be offered at auction during the Annual Gala Dinner of the Elina Svitolina Foundation organized by Top Five Management and held on December 2nd at the Monaco Yacht Club in the presence of the Ukrainian tennis icon, former world number 3, Olympic medalist and Ambassador of President Zelenskyy platform UNITED24, Elina Svitolina. “I am holding the Annual Gala Dinner of my Foundation at a very difficult time for my country... For me, this is an opportunity to remind once again everyone that the war continues” says Elina Svitolina. “My goal is to gather those who support Ukraine and find new friends and partners for my Foundation, which works both to support talented children and to develop tennis. The team and I firmly believe in victory and are already thinking about the post-war restoration of the sports infrastructure. Young talents who fled the country because of the war should know that they will soon be very welcome at home”. More than fifteen exceptional lots will be offered during the evening, which will bring together an array of international guests from the worlds of sport and entertainment, gathered for the occasion around the Ukrainian champion to support her Foundation and its actions. This evening, placed under the sign of solidarity and sport, will also be the opportunity to review the actions implemented in 2022 by the Foundation but also to meet committed athletes during a cocktail and a dinner in one of the most iconic places in the Principality of Monaco. For more than three years, the Elina Svitolina Foundation has been working actively to identify and support young top talents for the future of Ukrainian tennis with the objective and ambition to provide optimal training conditions to its talents to help them achieve professional careers. Since the large-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the Elina Svitolina Foundation reoriented part of its activities to provide emergency assistance to young tennis players and their families running away from the conflict. More info about the Elina Svitolina Foundation: ukraine.elinasvitolinafoundation.org/ More info about Top Five Management: www.topfivemanagement.net/ For any enquiry about the event: info@topfivemanagement.net

The final Fashion Show of this year was held as part of the Emirates Fashion Week series on November 22 at the luxurious Arjaan by Rotana Gallery. The show that took place on a mirror date (22.11.22) made a splash on the audience and was the true embodiment of a combination of beautiful Arabic classics and modern Fashion trends. JAPP The dazzling show was attended by 17 designers from 10 countries. From the beginning of the Fashion show, the podium was conquered bythe breathtaking debut on the Emirates stage of the Mokoteshe @mokoteshe and VIITTA Fashion @viitta.fashion brands all the way from London and Moscow. Equally exciting was a bridal collection of the Du Meme Sang @dumemesang brand from Paris & UAE and a bright and colorful collection of the designer Olga Leffers @olgaleffers from Russia. The Mercedress @mercedress.ru splendid dresses made a great impression on the audience.While the iconic designs by Gia Bianca @giabianca_couture - a resort clothing brand that exudes elegance and luxury, have been praised by the fashion experts. For the second time this year, as part of the EFW series, JAP @jap_petelicka has presented a sumptuous new collection for the upcoming season. Tatyana Koshuba’s @tati_koshuba collection was a real embodiment of confidence for every lady attending the show. The audience also had a chance to see a unique collection for mother and daughter from the Valdini Couture @valdinicouture brand from Bulgaria, featuring models from Diamond Models School Dubai @diamondmodelsschool. A luxurious addition to the evening gowns presented during EFW, was a collection of a deluxe handcrafted clutches by Mintsa @mintsaofficial. A real breakthrough was the performance of kids of the Volskaya atelier @volskaya_atelier from Kazakhstan. Childish ease, coupled with a polished catwalk, could not leave the audience indifferent. The brand @emis_swimwear embodies feminine attractiveness andpositions human values above time. The Emis Swimwear brand pays special attention to the origin of the fabrics. The production is fully integrated in the sustainability’s circle. The UAE was represented by 7 designers - A fashion house & haute couture experts Lairmoire de Maya @larmoire.de.maya, that creates one of a kind luxury dresses & outfits to awaken the slumbered beauty inside every woman. An aspiring designer of magnificent evening dresses Maryamz @maryamzofficial. The Ali Asaad @aliassad.official brand all the way from the Galeries Lafayette Dubai. Said Omari @saidomari, the designer who presented the collection for the third time as part of the Emirates Fashion Week. His collection was distinguished by bright and feminine corsets. The collection inspired by the architecture of the Dubai Museum by young brand Luon @luoncollection, deserves special attention. The Diamond N Dresses @diamond_n_dresses brand, which specializes in dress for confident, self-loving, modern women, who always strive to look amazing. The gowns are made with love in the UAE, using the finest materials from France and Italy. The final, but not less exciting touch of the show was a dress by Roula Handmade @roula_handmade, with a train of the colors of the flag of the UAE under a unique musical accompaniment proclaiming the native land of the United Arab Emirates. All dresses of these brands are made in the UAE. @emirates_fashionweek Leffers Leffers Volskaya Dumesang www.diamondndresses.com Giabianca couture credit Reham photograph Koshuba Larmoire.de.maya Emis swimwear Diamond N Dresses Diamond N Dresses Diamond N Dresses Mokoteshe

By Carlos Mundy Qatar is organising what probably will be the best World Cup up to date but sadly, only with last-minute controversy. After an investment of over 200 billion USD and the construction of 11 great stadiums and other infrastructure, the much-anticipated opening ceremony took place on the 19th of November with last-minute, very much publicised cancellations of stars such as Shakira and Rod Stewart. The reason given behind these cancellations is due to the country's human rights record, explicitly regarding LGTB and women's rights. Qatar has hosted hundreds of international and regional sporting events since being awarded the World Cup in 2010. There has never been an issue, and every event has been delivered safely. But news anchors worldwide and the press are attacking Qatar daily now, clouding what is being an exceptionally well-run World Cup. The hypocrisy of the first world in this attack on Qatar does not escape me. The State of Qatar is not a pariah state. It has invested billions in the West, and the West has import deals with the West worth billions. Qatar is also the 10th largest landowner in the United Kingdom. Qatar is not a Western-style democracy, but neither Russia nor China. Russia organised the 2018 World Cup and was very repressive against LGTB rights. China organised the Summer Olympics in 2008 and the Winter Olympics in 2022. It is a country responsible for genocide against the Tibetans, with over 1.2 million killed since the invasion of their country. It has up to 2 million Muslim Uyghurs in the western Xinjiang region detained inside enormous re-education facilities. So, it seems that these lessons in morality are given when morality does not represent far reaching cost. More than 160 human rights groups worldwide signed a letter calling for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to reverse its decision to hold the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, citing allegations of widespread abuses by the Chinese government. Still, their pleas fell on deaf ears, and the Western world looked the other way, and nothing was mentioned in the press about the human rights situation in China. Why did the IOC not respect the Olympic Charter's core principles about 'human dignity? It is a fact that there were accidents within the labour force that constructed the infrastructures in Qatar. Indeed, in China, the same thing happened with a big difference. Thanks to the World Cup, labour laws have improved exponentially in Qatar. Qatar's Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) said the health, safety, and dignity of "all workers employed on our projects has remained steadfast," with "significant improvements" made around workers' rights. FIFA president Gianni Infantino also told CNN Sport's Amanda Davies that he has seen "great evolution" in Qatar's labour reforms. The International Labour Organization has noted reforms like a non-discriminatory minimum wage that Qatar is the first in the region to adopt. The LGBT community has restrained rights in 71 countries, and one of them is the State of Qatar. It is important to remember that from 1918 to 1968, the country was a British protectorate. It was not until the 27th of July 1967 that homosexuality was decriminalised in the United Kingdom as part of the Sexual Offences Act, and not until 2004 the LGTB community obtained true equality in terms of relationships. It is, therefore, hypocritical to judge Qatar from today's perspective of gender equality when he rode to equality in the Western World took many decades of hard struggle. Qatar and its Arab neighbours have the right to their own ideology. Qatar has its own narrative, history, and the right to advance toward equality in these matters at its own pace. Public displays of affection, regardless of orientation, are frowned upon, so asking for respect for their culture should not become news. Around 1.5 million soccer fans—approximately 100,000 American—from around the world are expected to converge in Qatar's capital of Doha to attend the tournament. The groups behind the "Boycott Qatar" movement should stop politicising the World Cup. All this controversy is more about who controls the narrative. Time will tell what the legacy of this World Cup will be, but what is certain is that until the final on the 18th of December, we will be watching the sport of football at the highest level. Qatar can be proud of an exceptional organisation.