Google recently organized a mingle and jingle event in New York City to showcase some of their latest trends, tips, and tools that can come in handy during the holiday season.
VIPS and partygoers flooded Vegas this past weekend for the inaugural race weekend, making Las Vegas and F1 history. All of the top DJs, Music Artist, Actors, Athletes and Entrepreneurs flocked to the hottest events and happenings all week long from November 16th through the 19th. Everyone from Brad Pitt to Jennifer Lopez could be seen and heard popping around town.
Allē Lounge on 66 added to the excitement by transforming into ‘TURN 66’, an exclusive late-night hospitality series by leading experiential partner CMG (Corso Marketing Group) following the evening race and qualifying night run. Hosted by global hospitality leader Richie Akiva, known for curating the most A-List of events globally, and music artist Badius, the two-night after affair catered to VIP guests on Friday and Saturday nights, November 17th and 18th, for an exclusive post-race celebration perched above the Las Vegas Strip on the 66th floor of Resorts World Las Vegas’ Conrad Tower. Featuring captivating 360 degree views and a stellar lineup of famed world class DJs including DJ Pee .Wee aka Anderson .Paak, Guy Gerber, Kaz James, Ruckus, Vice, Carlita, DJ Tennis, Swaylo and Miramar.
The high energized late night party that went until 6am for two straight nights was attended by notable talent such as Travis Scott, Swizz Beatz, Zedd, Odell Beckham Jr, Glen Powell, Nyjah Huston, Swae Lee, Heidi Klum, Tom Kaulitz, David Dobrik, Badius, Ross Butler, Jessica Serfati, Leonardo Del Vecchio, Michael Rubin, Will Makris, Mark Birnbaum, Bobby Kennedy III, Taras Romanov, Leon Bridges, Rufus Du Sol, Christopher Schwarzenegger, Galen Gering, Amber Black, Haley Amaya, Chloe Hock, La Demi, Jessica Belkin, Sienna Raine, Chord Overstreet and many more.
The room of music artists, supermodels, athletes, influencers, VIPs and top global entrepreneurs sipped on top shelf spirits, Heineken Silver and Red Bull fueled the evening. The party went until the sun could be seen rising over the Las Vegas Strip and mountains from the floor to ceiling windows of the extraordinary and sophisticated venue that played home to the late night fete.
ZOUK, the nightclub at Resorts World, also had headliners Travis Scott, Zedd and Tiesto, who performed each night of the weekend racing events.
Corso Marketing Group is a leading experiential agency that was also on the ground for F1 Vegas handling the Heineken House at the track, featuring a three day series of programmed DJs, artists and performances as well as additional Resorts World and Zouk Group programming.
Follow @CorsoMG @RichieAkiva #Turn66 @ResortsWorldLV on social channels
All photos courtesy of Resorts World LV
B.I is no stranger to releasing new music, but he returns on November 9th with his latest offering to fans. In this release, he gives fans a glimpse into heartbreak with his album, “Love or Loved Pt 2.” The album includes five tracks that take on the pain of a love in trouble or lost. The album begins with the title track, “Loved,” before venturing into “4 Letters” which features, Filipino-Australian singer and songwriter, James Reid. Then the album journeys into the track, “Alone” which also features singer, TYTAN. Rounding out the album are the last two songs, “S.O.S” and “All shook up” which features Indonesian singer and songwriter, Agnez Mo.
We had the wonderful opportunity of chatting with B.I ahead of this release. During our chat we discussed everything from inspirations to collaborations. He also shared his favorite track off the new album.
Question: What was the genesis or the inspiration for the new album?
B.I: While I’ve consistently delved deeply into the concept of love, this time, I wanted to venture into new genres and experiment with different lyrical tones. Love is an emotion that feels incredibly familiar to all of us, yet I aimed to convey these stories with fresh and unique music and storytelling.
It is my sincere hope that listeners can deeply connect with this portrayal of heartbreak. And by that, I don’t only mean that they relate to the lyrics, but also that they find solace in the melodies.
Question: How would you say this album helped you evolve as an artist? as a music producer? as a musician and creator?
B.I: I can sense personal growth with every studio or single album I produce. So far, I believe my exploration of various musical genres and diverse instrumental arrangements has enriched my work, and I’m very satisfied with the results.
Question: Can you break down each track on the album? Can you explain to me what its vibe is or what people should expect?
B.I: [Loved] has an alluring combination of bass and drum sounds, and its overall mood is cold. The mellow and calm vocals also add to its charm. [4 Letters], on the other hand, resembles an uplifting and bright movie soundtrack, but its lyrics in contrast, evokes a sense of nostalgia. I think that would transport the listeners into a state of reminiscence about a past love. On top of that, having James as a featured artist on the track further heightens great anticipation, I’m sure. [Alone] is a laid-back track with a peaceful rhythm, while it bursts with energy in the rap section. Titan, who featured in the song, delivered the tone I had envisioned. With [S.O.S], I spent a significant amount of time on creating the lyrics. If you pay attention to it, it could really get you thinking deep. [All shook up] is an unfamiliar genre not only for me, but also for listeners in Korea. I’m pleased with my collaboration with Agnez Mo; it’s a fresh combination that elevates the level of completion. The melody is very beautiful, so I wish the listeners a relaxing and easy listening experience.
With the entire album, I put in the effort to explore something new and uncharted. Moreover, I wanted to highlight the charming and surprising collaborations with artists in Asia. The results aligned perfectly with my vision, so I’m eagerly looking forward to sharing them with our fans.
Question: Is there a song off the new album that you feel closest to or love the most?
B.I: I adore each and every song, but if I had to pick a favorite, it would be the title track [Loved]. It has a wonderfully dreamy and sentimental quality. It’s the kind of mood I’ve always wanted to explore, and I’m particularly pleased with how well it came together… It beautifully showcases the essence of the album, I have a deep affection for it, and knowing that it was co-created in collaboration with such an exceptional team of songwriters, makes it even more precious to me.
“Love or Loved Pt 2” is out now and can be found on all streaming platforms.
Afrojack brought his notorious tunes and infectious beats to smartwater’s smart after dark event in NYC!
The holiday season is officially upon us. Now that Halloween is over it’s time to get into the Christmas spirit. Hilton Hotels & Resorts and the Hallmark Channel have partnered up to bring the spirit of the holidays to travelers, fans, and viewers. Anyone can now feel like they are in a Hallmark Christmas movie by booking a stay at select Hilton Hotels & Resorts properties in New York, Houston, and Chicago all inspired by Hallmark’s beloved “Countdown to Christmas” movies. Each of the Hilton Hotels & Resorts and Hallmark Channel suites will feature festive decor that is reflective of the property’s locale, as well as symbols from “Countdown to Christmas” movies.
The Knockturnal had the chance to experience the magic firsthand at Hilton Chicago in the “Santa Summit” suite. The holiday suite is fit for the man of the hour, himself! The merry guest room offers festivities that inspire the spirit of friendship and adventure, featuring vintage Santa décor, life-sized reindeer, a Santa-themed bed and cookie kit, a heartwarming wall installation for Letters to Santa, and much more. What’s more, the room was created to bring to life the all-new original Hallmark Channel holiday movie premiere, “The Santa Summit”, which centers around the true meaning of the holidays and the bonds of friendship. As a special surprise for travelers slumbering in the Santa Summit suite, Mr. Claus has even guaranteed a spot on the nice list following each stay! In the hotel lobby, guests staying at this historic hotel will be transported into the ultimate holiday stay with a 24-foot Christmas tree decorated with nearly 2,000 inches of garland, and a gingerbread replica of the Hilton Chicago, complete with Chicago’s iconic skyline. Guests and Hallmark fans alike can even take part in finding Santa’s Missing Buttons, expertly hidden throughout the hotel, to receive a treat from the Hallmark Holiday Cart.
“Our partnership with Hilton is the perfect holiday pairing. These festive, showstopping stays are the ultimate ‘suite’ treat that will deliver on our fans’ growing desire to immerse themselves in the Hallmark brand and the wonderful world of Hallmark Channel Christmas movies,” said Lara Richardson, chief marketing officer, Hallmark Media. “We’re proud to help guests indulge in a winter wonderland of aspirational holiday décor, charming Christmas activities, and endless ways to experience the Hallmark holiday spirit.”
Photo Credit: Hilton Hotels & Resorts
Photo Credit: Hilton Hotels & Resorts
Photo Credit: Hilton Hotels & Resorts
Photo Credit: Hilton Hotels & Resorts
Photo Credit: Hilton Hotels & Resorts
Photo Credit: Hilton Hotels & Resorts
Photo Credit: Hilton Hotels & Resorts
Photo Credit: Hilton Hotels & Resorts
Photo Credit: Hilton Hotels & Resorts
Each guest room includes a custom-decorated Christmas tree and a complimentary hot cocoa station. To keep the holiday cheer going all season long, each guest suite will also include Hallmark Channel branded takeaways guests can enjoy with their loved ones during or after their holiday stay. Items include Hallmark Channel Wine, Bissinger’s cocoa mix and hot cocoa bombs, Republic of Tea products, wine glasses, mugs, and more.
Additionally, guests at all three properties can get into the holiday spirit with the Hallmark Holiday Cosmopolitan, a unique cocktail offering crafted by Hilton’s expert mixologists and uniquely designed to invoke every Hallmark lover’s small-town holiday dreams while staying in the big city. The festive cocktail will be served alongside a non-spirited version for all cheerful travelers to enjoy throughout the season.
Photo Credit: Hilton Hotels & Resorts
“We’re thrilled to partner with Hallmark for a collaboration that embodies the joy of the holiday season and brings to life the light and warmth of hospitality we show our guests every day,” said Matt Schuyler, chief brand officer, Hilton. “This is a great representation of Hilton’s commitment to delivering immersive and unforgettable experiences during every stay. Our collaboration with Hallmark allows us to leverage timeless storytelling to bring an added level of excitement during the holidays.”
Reservations for Hallmark Channel’s “Countdown to Christmas” Holiday Suites by Hilton will be available to book starting at 9:00 a.m. EST/12:00 p.m. PST on November 1, with stays running from November 7 to January 2 at Hilton New York Times Square; from November 7 to January 1 at Hilton Americas-Houston; and from November 7 to December 30 at Hilton Chicago.
To enjoy a sneak peek of the “Countdown to Christmas” Holiday Suites by Hilton or book a stay, visit Hilton.com/Hallmark. To learn more about Hilton Hotels & Resorts, visit stories.hilton.com.
Thursday, October 26th, 2023. The Neuehouse, Manhattan New York — National Geographic releases a new documentary, “Bobi Wine: The People’s President,” filmed by Director, Moses Bwaoy.
The 121 minute (2 hours and 1 minute) documentary focuses on the trials and tribulations faced by the humanitarian, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, also known by his stage name Bobi Wine and his wife, Barbie Kyagulanyi. The singer, actor, Ugandan politician and a former Member of Parliament for Kyadondo County East constituency in Uganda’s Central Region survived seven assassination attempts on his life while he ran for the presidency. Bobi Wine also leads the National Unity Platform political party; a political and social liberation political party that is progressive in its mission, positioning itself as a social democratic organization, guided by the principles of servant leadership, equality, transparency, accountability, freedom, liberty and social justice for the citizens of Uganda. The screening for this film was held at the Neuehouse and Moderated by the eloquent filmmaker and Director Amir Bar-Lev (publication credits include: Newsweek, Rollingstone, Village Voice).
In June 2019, Bobi Wine, a native of Uganda who grew up without his parents, in a more impoverished and harsh space of Uganda, announced his candidacy for the 2021 Ugandan presidential election; but not with little resistance faced by environmental factors, such as the COVID-19 Pandemic, placing a strain on the public gatherings of his supporter and with equal, if not more pushback from the Ugandan police, under the directive of president, Yoweri Museveni, who’s served the country of Uganda for over 30 years. Incumbent Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine), took part in the 2021 election, garnering over 7 million signatures of votes to run for president from the people of Uganda, who also experienced hardships during the Museveni leadership.
Unfortunately, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine), lost the race for presidency, according to official results, placing the incumbent, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, as the victor; although Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, along with several citizens, claims this result was fraudulent. Not only had the civil leader been beaten and hospitalized by the regime, but had lost many family members and friends who were beaten, killed or had gone missing due to their unyielding support of Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine).
This moving documentary has so much wrapped up in one film. What is most impressive is that first time filmmaker, Moses Bwayo, shot 5,000 hours of film and brilliantly condensed the most intricate footage into two hours. Bwayo highlights the love story of the charismatic couple that led Robert and Barbie together, and the strength of their union that helped them survive this trying and dangerous season of their lives. He captures the power of woman, Barbie Kyagulanyi, who remains poised, exhibiting grace under fire as she navigates her children and family through extended periods of time apart from her husband, Robert, the man we call Bobi Wine; Barbie, not knowing if her spouse was dead or alive. Bwayo captures the story of liberation, documenting the campaigns, the arrests and the volatility that surround Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine) during his fervent run for office. With an unbiased eye, he captures the stories of heartbreak, brutal murders, hostility and literally blood in the streets of Uganda. With enthusiasm and belief in a greater mission, his film illustrates a story of hope, pulling the viewers in to chant for the success of Bobi Wine; albeit we are aware of the fate of this brave leader to take on such a powerful authority that is Museveni; and most importantly this film serves as an eye opener to the world that is blindly unaware of the suffering of the People of Uganda and other nations of the world, who face day-to-day tragedies, as they beg for and seek asylum and equal rights as human beings.
I highly recommend checking this documentary out; this film garners, for the respective countries, a new level of appreciation for the freedoms we are afforded in the United States of America and in other countries where citizens are allowed to find better ways of living and even the freedom to gather in peaceful protests. “Bobi Wine: The People’s President” is available on the following platforms: Disney plus, FuboTV and will air worldwide on YoutubeTV, Nov 5th, 2023.
NEW YORK – OCTOBER 18: General atmosphere at the National Geographic Content Showcase at Hall des Lumieres on October 18, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Anthony Behar/PictureGroup for National Geographic)
Wednesday, October 18th, 2023. Hall des Lumieres, Manhattan, New York. — National Geographic, the editorial brand whose legacy is drenched in 135 years of vivid storytelling and exploration, hosted an inspirational gathering to celebrate its renowned explorers, which include a group of bright photographers, scientists, journalists, educators, producers and broad ranges of talent that share their journeys through documentaries at the Hall des Lumieres. The Hall opened its stunning doors to media press, influencers and explorers of the National Geographic family to host “A Night Of Storytelling’‘, an intimate content showcase sharing films and stories across a wide range of genres that include travel, adventure, exploration, science, history, culture, wildlife and much more. The content showcase, featured films to be aired in the coming months. National Geographic and its iconic yellow rectangle is synonymous with groundbreaking research, incomparable journalism and visually spectacular storytelling through pens, lenses of photography and film. Their award winning works are world renowned, taking its viewers into spaces and on journeys that would otherwise be inaccessible. Their trusted name has landed them the spot as the #1 brand on Instagram, further echoing the strength of its legacy. National Geographic credits its success to creating a platform that highlights transparency in storytelling that is only made possible by garnering the best photographers, explorers and creative talents in the world.
The event began with generous offerings of hors d’oeuvres and beverages of refreshing sparkling water, wine and champagne to sip as guests mingled on the ground level of the hall. Low lit and encapsulating, the ground level was illuminated with luminous hues of blue and ornamented a backdrop of transitioning images of wildlife. The space held a relaxing ambiance, preparing the guests for the main event upstairs. Upon entering, I checked in with the event hosts, placing my order for a choice of three available entrees: the Seared Atlantic Cod, served with fall Market vegetables, Marble potatoes and aioli and lemon Pistou; a Truffled Fall Orecchiette, the vegan dish, complemented with roasted butternut squash, shiitake, leeks and crispy sage; or the Grilled Filet, which was my preferred choice of the three and served with a side of rosti stuffed spinach, and red beet soubise.
After moments of mingling, the guests were escorted upstairs in small waves and led into the marble showroom floor. We welcomed by iridescent lights that projected waterfalls and cascaded behind the podium, and two extra long banquet tables, dressed with a white tablecloth, silverware, crystal wine glasses and dining ware. The two banquet tables were separated by foliage that ran parallel to one another, awaiting guests to be seated at their designated spaces. Once seated the media guests and the Nat Geo explorers, both nominated and award winning, sat interwoven at the tables and took the opportunity to share their respective up and coming documentaries.
I had the honor of dining beside Dr. Serena McCalla of “Science Fair: The Series”. Dr. Serena McCalla, ecstatic about her involvement with Nat Geo as a newly named explorer, gushed sharing her background and her excitement for the impact her work makes on education and her students. McCalla dedicates her life to advancing science education and research with the most promising youth in the world and has built the Jericho, New York, High School Science Research curriculum into one of the most preeminent science research programs globally. Her career in research education led her to founding the iResearch Corporation (iRC), a corporation that promotes excellence, inquiry and equity in science. The iRC encompasses a variety of research-centric programs that seek to unlock the potential in every science teacher and student while promoting scientific prowess in underserved communities. Dr. McCalla’s students are lauded annually for their success in the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) and Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS) competitions, as displayed in the National Geographic feature documentary “Science Fair” and the all-new upcoming series. McCalla aspires to support all students to make a difference by discovering something new within themselves and the world. “Science Fair: The Series” which has been nominated and won the Emmy and Peabody awards and premieres Dec. 10 on National Geographic; Dec. 11 on Disney+ and Hulu.
NEW YORK – OCTOBER 18: Courteney Monroe, President, National Geographic Content attends the National Geographic Content Showcase at Hall des Lumieres on October 18, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Anthony Behar/PictureGroup for National Geographic)
The opening remarks of the evening were held by Nat Geo’s President Courteney Monroe whose powerful statement reminded us all of the importance of our work and responsibility as media professionals and individuals. She inspired us to be mindful of our impact in our messages in the media and to remain vigilant in expressing the truth of what we offer to our readers and viewers alike,
“We are without question living in an extraordinary time. A time when factual accuracy and credibility in media have never been more essential. A time when optimism feels in short supply.” Monroe continues on to add, “It is in times like these that I believe National Geographic’s storytelling is more vital than ever. It contextualizes the complexities we face and it reminds us that the world is still an amazing and miraculous place, filled with beauty, awe and wonder… [tonight] we celebrate that storytelling and the power of National Geographic,” and with those words a night of storytelling began.
The presentation of Nat Geo’s, “A Night Of Storytelling,” was led by the National Geographic Executive team which included Nathan Lump, Senior Vice President and Editor In Chief; Tom McDonald, Executive Vice President of Global and Unscripted Content and Senior Vice President of Inclusive Content and Engagement, Karen Greenfield; along with Executive Vice President of Scripted and Documentary Films, Carolyn Bernstein.
NEW YORK – OCTOBER 18: Nathan Lump, SVP, Editor in Chief, National Geographic attends the National Geographic Content Showcase at Hall des Lumieres on October 18, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Anthony Behar/PictureGroup for National Geographic)
In between presentations, guest were appetizers of Crudite (heirloom carrots, red endives, Romanesco, watermelon radish and dried figs); spreads of Pine nut hummus, Cilantro Tahini, Fennel Chutney and garlic oil toasted baguettes and grilled Naan bread along with refreshing little Gem & blood Orange salads. Choice wines included Cotes du Rhone Mon Coeur, J.L. Chave Selection (Rhone Valley) and Sauvignon Blanc Lieu Dit (California).
NEW YORK – OCTOBER 18: Peggy Simpson attends the National Geographic Content Showcase at Hall des Lumieres on October 18, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Anthony Behar/PictureGroup for National Geographic)
Centered primarily on the 2023-2024 Fall/Winter slate and show lineups, the showcase included notable documentaries that piqued many of the guests’ interest, such as the Disney and Pixar inspired, “A Real Bug’s Life” (premiering on Disney+ Jan. 24) narrated by Awkwfina. The film takes an introspective look into nine different micro bug worlds around the globe and the tiny heroines that survive through their own miniature catastrophic scales they likely deem as “forces of nature” to survive day to day life. Other films included “QUEENS” (premiering March 4 on National Geographic; March 5 on Disney+ and Hulu) is Produced and Directed by Faith Musembi and narrated by Actress, Angela Bassett, is a documentary that features matriarchies and female leaders around the world to tell a story of sacrifice and resilience but also of friendship and love. “QUEENS” brings the natural world into focus through the female lens for the very first time. The seven-part series leverages cutting-edge technology to reveal surprising insights into how females in the natural world rise to power. The final episode of the series celebrates the women who have gone to the ends of the Earth and dedicated their lives to documenting and protecting animal queens found in nature.
“Photography” a documentary centered around notable photographers Cristina Mittermeier, Paul Nicklen, Dan Winters, Campbell Addy, Krystle Wright, Muhammed Muheisen and Anand Varma highlight the skilled visual artists who became renowned photographers and their life journeys that led to the inspiration behind their artistic medium. I was tipped by a fellow media professional in attendance to look more into London based photographer, Campbell Addy whose work and narratives highlights the expression of authentic emotions found in nature and casting underrepresented faces. I later became equally intrigued with Anand Varma’s work, whose photobook was given to the guests as gifts upon departure. More films showcased that stirred the crowd included “A Blink of An Eye”, “JFK”, Ceasar Milian’s, “Better Human, Better Dog”, and “Genius: MLK/X”,
NEW YORK – OCTOBER 18: Gina Prince- Bythewood and Reggie Rock- Bythewood attend the National Geographic Content Showcase at Hall des Lumieres on October 18, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Anthony Behar/PictureGroup for National Geographic)
created by multi-hyphenate Reggie Rock, explores the formative years, pioneering accomplishments and dueling philosophies of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. The showrunner of Apple TV+ series, “Swagger” holds notable credits include, “A Different World”, “Get On The Bus” and the film “Notorious” about famed lyricist Christopher Wallace whose life ended tragically in 1997.
Another notable explorer being honored at the event was the empathic Albert Lin of, “Lost Cities Revealed” sat adjacent of me and Serena McCalla. I had the pleasure of speaking one on one with the explorer post presentation. Lin takes a technologist’s approach to uncover humanity’s stories and explores new frontiers while honoring the artifacts and environment of the landscapes he explores. Passionate about the human experience, Lin began his career with the Valley of the Khans project, a technology-enabled search for Genghis Khan’s tomb. What makes his work spectacular is that Lin utilizes tools such as satellite imagery, crowdsourcing engines, machine learning, drones, and ground-penetrating radar permitted to search widely for archaeological sites while respecting the traditional beliefs of local Indigenous peoples. His ethical approach has also led him to survey the the First Emperor’s tomb in China and the Mayan Temples of Northern Guatemala. Lin is featured in the up and coming new season, “Lost Cities Revealed” premiering November 23, 2023
NEW YORK – OCTOBER 18: Mariana Van Zeller attends the National Geographic Content Showcase at Hall des Lumieres on October 18, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Anthony Behar/PictureGroup for National Geographic)
Last and certainly not least in the up and coming series, “TRAFFICKED WITH MARIANA VAN ZELLER” (Muck Media) Premieres January 17, 2024, on National Geographic; and January 18, 2024 on Hulu. I had the brief honor of meeting and photographing with the Emmy Award-nominated series host and creator Mariana van Zeller . In “TRAFFICKED,” the courageous journalist takes her viewers on an investigative and dangerous journey, exposing the inner workings of shadow markets, criminal organizations and trafficking networks around the world. In the upcoming season, the award-winning journalist Mariana van Zeller investigates new emerging underworlds: the trade in body parts, hired assassins, sextortion and the smuggling of people across the U.S. – Mexico border; and she will meet the players and learn the business behind the dark underworlds. Mariana puts her life at risk to better understand these multi trillion-dollar shadow industries and economies and the people behind them.
The evening closed with bite sized desserts choices of fresh fruit tartlets, pumpkin cheese cake bites, turtle brownies, and mini chocolate cookies; and an after dinner drink of Espresso Martinis (Vodka, Kahlua and simple syrup). Guest left with logo branded gift bags from National Geographic that included an illustrated story of the life of the late John Chaus, a young American missionary, killed on a remote island in North Sentinel Island; SPACE, a special Issue of National Geographic, released October 2023; an enormous 365 page photo-book, “INVISIBLE WONDERS (Photographs of the Hidden World)” by Ananad Varma (of Nat Geo’s original film, “Photography”); and a Home Pod mini, compliments of Apple and Nat Geo.
NEW YORK – OCTOBER 18: (L-R) David E. Miller, EVP & General Manager, National Geographic, Carolyn Bernstein, Executive Vice President, Global Scripted Content and Documentary Films at National Geographic, Nathan Lump, SVP, Editor in Chief, National Geographic, Courteney Monroe, President, National Geographic Content, Karen Greenfield, Senior Vice President of Content, Diversity and Inclusion, and Tom McDonald, EVP Global Factual & Unscripted, National Geographic attend the National Geographic Content Showcase at Hall des Lumieres on October 18, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Anthony Behar/PictureGroup for National Geographic)
The most impressive part about the evening was the very idea of the Executive board celebrating their talents and the work they all produced. Not only were the explorers all in solidarity about their joys, respect, admiration and thrilled with the opportunity to work for and with National Geographic as a platform; it speaks volumes in a professional work setting where the human capital that makes a company great, tend to go unnoticed. I have gained so much respect for this brand and organization based on this display of humility and the gratitude leadership has shown for the hands that move this publication and the celebration from Nat Geo leadership than any program or award the platform could ever air. I highly encourage you to tune in and follow this remarkable brand. They are, behind the scenes, everything they present to the world: richness, array of color, depth, substance, appreciation and an ever evolving story that moves our world forward.
The Global Lyme Alliance Gala successfully raised $1.6 million for Lyme and tick-borne disease research and awareness.
Equality Now, an organization dedicated to advocating for the human rights of women and girls across the world, held their annual gala on Wednesday night at Gustavino’s. Under a backdrop of the glittering Queensboro bridge at sunset, poet Rupi Kaur won the 2023 Changemaker award and delivered an inspiring call-to-action speech.
Held on International Day of the Girl, the Make Equality Reality Gala celebrates the progress made toward a more gender equal world and all who fight for that future. To date, Equality Now has changed over 70 laws around the world. Since 1992, they have been fighting to achieve legal equality, end sexual exploitation and violence, and end culturally normalized harmful practices towards women and girls. The organization’s Director, Mona Sinha, told us the organization means a lot to her because “as a young girl growing up in India, [she] saw the discrimination firsthand,” and thinks that “the law is the foundation to securing women’s rights.” She joined Equality Now because she’s “more interested in systemic change that is binding and secure” than something that only lasts for a year or two. Tonight’s event is a way for Equality Now to “showcase their work in a positive, happy way, because it is very challenging work.
Rupi Kaur, who won the 2023 Changemaker award (given last year to the icon Gloria Steinem), is a poet whose work has transformed the lives of women and given voice to many who were previously unable to share their experiences. Her book, Milk and Honey, is among the top 10 banned books in the United States due to its discussion of sexual harm. She knows more than anyone how powerful our voices are, and how they “threaten those who are more than happy to take away those powers.”
She engaged the room with her intelligence and charm, encouraging art for resistance despite censorship as a “beautiful act of rebellion against a world that undermines us at every turn.” Despite oppression worldwide, she assured everyone that “young girls will always find a way to survive; their resilience is unparalleled” and told us that “we as a community must find a way to empower them through all walks of life.” Director Sinha celebrated Kaur as a “real changemaker, because she has really changed the hearts and minds of the next generation in a way that is so meaningful and will really impact the future.”
Gloria Steinem told the crowd to keep fighting for progress and for the Equal Rights Amendment, and lauded 10-year-old Teela Samra for her passionate speech calling for gender equality.
The night was a beautiful celebratory way to “show the world that we can win, and we can change lives, and we can make a difference in a time when the world is pretty dark.” Equality Now inspired its guests and its wins this year, and continues to make a difference worldwide. Learn more about the incredible work Equality Now is doing here. 
