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Megan Foo Singaporean Artist Megan Foo : Objet Megan Foo : Winkm Megan Foo : Portrait Megan Foo : Objet 1/6 Images provided by: Megan Foo Maegzter (Megan Foo) is an emerging and the only neon artist in Singapore. In her practice, she explores the medium of traditional glass neon in innovative ways, subverting the belief that neon can only exist as outdoor signage. Some of her latest explorations include wearable neon and portable neon works, which can be powered by AA batteries. Megan’s journey into the world of neon has been unconventional. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Singapore Management University’s (SMU) Business Management Program and worked at Sephora Southeast Asia before transitioning to life as an artist. Initially intrigued by the craft in Bayswater, Melbourne, she later honed her skills by apprenticing under a Taiwanese neon master in Hsinchu, Taiwan. To Megan, traditional glass neon possesses an alluring and unique quality that captivates others. She is particularly drawn to the fact that every piece must be made by hand, ensuring that the craft retains a human touch. In the near future, she hopes to continue using this medium to create more intriguing and collaborative works. Previous Next

< Back Minae Lee Minae Lee’s Perspective: Where Fashion Meets Urban Development in New York City Fashion, derived from the Latin word “facere,” meaning “to make,” extends far beyond clothing and accessories. It embodies the prevailing styles that define not only what we wear, but also how we live and interact with the spaces around us. From the architecture that shapes our cities to the interior designs that create the sanctuaries of our homes, fashion is intrinsically linked to the evolution of style, innovation, functionality, and demand—all influenced by the trends of the times. For Minae Lee, a first-generation Korean American and principal of the 76 Eight Avenue office building development in New York, fashion is not just a personal statement but a professional ethos. As a luxury real estate agent newly aligned with the prestigious Charlie Attias Team in New York City, Lee navigates the intersections of design, development, and urban growth with a unique perspective informed by both her heritage and upbringing. A LEGACY OF REAL ESTATE Coming from a lineage steeped in real estate, Lee’s career trajectory seems almost preordained. Her father, an accomplished real estate investor and advisor, laid the groundwork for her professional pursuits. Yet, it’s her own experiences and the influence of her marriage to Sang Lee—a seasoned real estate attorney with over two decades of expertise in affordable housing development—that have truly enriched her journey. The real estate wisdom she inherited from her in-laws, who built homes in New Jersey, further solidified the foundation upon which she has built her career. Lee’s parents played pivotal roles in shaping her professional path, each contributing uniquely to her development. Her mother, an artist, fostered Lee’s early love for design through shared moments of drawing and painting. “I even considered becoming an interior designer,” Lee recalls, referencing her early interest that led her to take interior design classes. Meanwhile, her father’s journey from Japan to the United States in the 1980s exemplifies determination and adaptability. Balancing work in American hotel chains by day and studying at night, Lee’s father eventually completed a business degree and ventured into real estate after successfully running various businesses, including delis and restaurants. “I worked in the tech industry for a decade before taking a break after becoming a mother, but my passion for art and design was always there from when I was a little girl,” Lee reflects, highlighting the seamless transition from technology to real estate that her father’s influence made possible. THE IMPACT OF CULTURAL HERITAGE Adding to this rich tapestry, Lee’s father-in-law’s journey from South Korea to the United States in the 1960s to work for the United Nations underscores the importance of perseverance and hard work. His entrepreneurial spirit, mirrored by Lee’s in-laws who later invested in commercial and residential real estate, reinforces the notion that the intersection of business acumen and cultural heritage can lead to significant contributions in the real estate market. Together, Minae and Sang Lee have become a formidable duo, drawing on the wisdom and expertise of their parents to navigate and shape the future of real estate in New York and beyond. FASHION MEETS REAL ESTATE IN A POST-PANDEMIC WORLD In Lee’s world, fashion intertwines with New York real estate and development, influenced by the era, societal needs, and the city’s ongoing revitalization. The 76 Eight Avenue project exemplifies this evolution. It’s a prominent new boutique office building developed by Noviprop, a family-owned real estate company with properties throughout New York City. The office building is the dream project of Lee's husband, who is the principal of Noviprop. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly transformed the working lifestyle and office spaces in New York City. Before the pandemic, the traditional 9-to-5 office schedule, five days a week, was widely accepted as the standard for effective work. However, as the pandemic forced a shift to remote work, “it was for many office workers, remote work or essentially no work,” as Lee observed. This unplanned but necessary experiment revealed that productivity could be maintained—or even enhanced—without daily commutes or a constant physical presence in the office. Employers, who “may not have asked for” the remote work experiment and “may wish it had never happened,” found themselves with little choice, Lee noted. It quickly became clear that remote work was effective enough to spark a “continuing debate about the value and necessity of commuting to work on a daily basis.” The rapid adoption of virtual meeting platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams further facilitated this shift, proving that many tasks and meetings could be conducted just as effectively from home. As a result, a significant number of employees, “after they tasted flexibility,” became reluctant to return to the rigid office-based schedules of the past, according to Lee. Consequently, the demand for commercial real estate in New York City has undergone a fundamental shift. The pre-pandemic approach, which linked demand directly to the number of office workers, no longer applies. Companies are now rethinking their office needs, often downsizing and moving towards a more flexible model that doesn’t require a dedicated desk for every employee. “I think we are still in the midst of that shakeout,” Lee commented. One clear outcome of this ongoing transition is a decreased overall demand for office space, leading to a “flight to quality” where businesses seek modern, well-located buildings. Older buildings in less desirable areas are the primary losers in this dynamic. In contrast, projects like 76 Eight Avenue, a new and modern development in a prime neighborhood, have benefited from this trend, being “leased up prior to completion.” The ongoing changes in work culture and space requirements are reshaping the commercial landscape, with implications that are likely to be felt for years to come. DESIGNING FOR THE FUTURE The design of 76 Eight Avenue was directly influenced by the evolving needs of both employers and employees, particularly in the context of a post-pandemic work environment. Boutique office spaces have become similar to high-end residential places where tenants now seek turnkey spaces that are move-in ready with great appliances and amenity spaces such as gyms, bike storage, and more. This shift in expectations was central to the design consideration for 76 Eight Avenue, where top-of-the-line appliances were included in bathrooms and kitchens, along with bike storage and a rooftop space with a bar and grill for people to gather and enjoy the environment. In addition, the design approach further incorporated principles akin to Pungsu, Korea’s version of Chinese Feng Shui. Pungsu—literally meaning “wind-water-earth-principles-theory”—is an ancient art of geomancy involving the auspicious placement and arrangement of buildings based on topography. Reflecting this cultural influence, attention was paid to creating harmony between the building and its surroundings, considering factors such as energy flow, the orientation of doors, and the strategic placement of elements like mirrors. Located in the West Village, an area known for its historic, landmarked buildings, the opportunity to construct an ultramodern building presented a striking contrast to the traditional surroundings. As Lee described, “We had the opportunity to build an ultramodern building in this setting, offering a nice contrast to the existing surroundings.” This contrast is most evident from inside the building, where large floor-to-ceiling windows allow office workers to enjoy views of the “beautiful gargoyled facade of a landmarked building across the street.” This juxtaposition between the new and the old reflects the changing expectations of modern office workers. They seek environments that are not only functional, but also visually stimulating and connected to their surroundings. NAVIGATING THE CHALLENGES OF MANHATTAN DEVELOPMENT Developing property in Manhattan presents unique challenges and opportunities that differ significantly from those in other major cities. Manhattan’s density and the presence of many historic areas require developers to approach projects with a heightened sense of responsibility and sensitivity to the surrounding environment. As noted by Lee, “With 76 Eight Avenue, we were presented with an opportunity to create something on a very prominent corner of one such area for generations to come.” This sentiment underscores the dual challenge of contributing to the city’s architectural legacy while ensuring that new developments enhance rather than detract from the character of their neighborhoods. Lee acknowledges the subjective nature of beauty, stating, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but I like to think we succeeded with this one.” THE EVOLVING DEFINITION OF FASHION IN REAL ESTATE In the context of New York City real estate, what defines “fashionable” is multifaceted and ever-evolving. Lee emphasizes that the essence of a fashionable development lies in its ability to enhance its neighborhood, whether through an ultramodern design, a classic red-brick townhouse, or even a well-placed piece of graffiti art. As she puts it, “The beauty of New York City is that you can have these right next to each other.” This eclectic mix of styles and the visual experiences they create are part of what makes New York City unique. The goal, according to Lee, is to avoid the wrong answers in design and hopefully land on one of the best, thereby contributing positively to the city’s vibrant and diverse landscape. The convergence of fashion and real estate illustrates the evolving nature of urban development and societal trends. The 76 Eight Avenue project exemplifies this trend in New York City, showcasing how contemporary design and functionality address the city's changing needs. It reflects a broader movement where modern developments balance innovation with respect for historic surroundings. As cities like New York adapt and revitalize, such projects highlight how the intersection of fashion and real estate can drive urban transformation and enrich the city’s character. 1/4 Images provided by: Minae Lee | 76 Eight Building NYC Previous Next

< Back Jay-r Gamboa Flores Sultan Kudarat Couture Virtuoso In the lush, vibrant province of Sultan Kudarat, nestled in the southwestern corner of Mindanao, Philippines, a remarkable story of talent, heritage, and cultural elegance unfolds. Meet Jay-r Gamboa Flores, a self-taught couturier whose exquisite creations have earned the admiration of queens and princesses from the region's royal families, bringing a touch of Mindanao's rich cultural tapestry to the world of high fashion. A KINGDOM OF INSPIRATION Sultan Kudarat, named after the legendary Sultan Muhammad Dipatuan Kudarat who fiercely resisted Spanish colonization in the 17th century, serves as the perfect backdrop for Flores' creative journey. This land, steeped in history and cultural diversity, has become the wellspring of inspiration for his breathtaking designs. "Being here in Sultan Kudarat helps me connect with the local culture of the Moro tribal group, the datus (tribal leaders of the Moro people), and other local tribes, while also staying connected to my roots in Luzon and the Visayas," Flores explains. This unique blend of cultural influences has become the signature of his work, setting him apart in the competitive world of fashion design. FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS TO ROYAL APPROVAL Born to dressmaker parents who moved to Sultan Kudarat in the 1970s, Flores grew up surrounded by the hum of sewing machines and the rustle of fabric. Despite initially pursuing education and nursing, the siren call of fashion design never left him. Without access to formal fashion design education, Jay-r turned this potential setback into his greatest strength, learning from his parents and drawing inspiration from his cultural heritage. In 2012, Flores took a leap of faith and founded 'Gawang Flores,' a brand name that pays homage to his family and upbringing. "I want to devote my career, and dreams to my parents," he shares. Little did he know that this heartfelt tribute would soon garner recognition from local royalty. WEAVING CULTURE INTO COUTURE What sets Flores' designs apart is his masterful integration of local tribal influences. Drawing inspiration from the Moro, T'boli, and Blaan cultures, his creations are a symphony of intricate embroidery, dazzling beadwork, and vibrant colors that tell stories of ancient traditions and modern elegance. Flores understands the responsibility that comes with his craft. "As a designer, I have to be careful with the use of traditional woven fabrics. I have the knowledge of the fabric, but I have to establish kinship with the communities in order to obtain their approval," he reflects. For the inaul fabric from the Moro community, Flores not only educated himself about the local culture, but also visited the weavers to understand their process. He established a good relationship with AMIN (Asosasyon ng mga Manghahabi ng Inaul ng Nuling), the inaul fabric weaver's organization. CHALLENGES AND GROWTH As a self-taught designer based in Sultan Kudarat, Flores faces unique challenges. Unlike designers based in Manila or those who attended fashion design schools, he has had to join contests not only to showcase his skills, but also to establish connections leading to future clients. "I am not from a wealthy family, so I had to start from scratch. I even had to build my own mannequin before," Flores recalls. Learning and staying on top of cultural details and norms in the region has also been a journey. "I once created a dress to represent the Blaan tribal group, but I was criticized because the dress did not represent them in detail. I had to apologize and ask the tribal head to educate me more about their culture," Flores notes, highlighting his commitment to cultural authenticity and respect. FUTURE ASPIRATIONS Looking ahead, Flores plans to expand his 'Gawang Flores' brand by continuing to incorporate traditional design elements from Mindanao's tribal groups into his creations while broadening his ready-to-wear collection to include jackets, boleros, and potentially a men's clothing line. His ultimate goal is to elevate the brand to international recognition by establishing a presence in boutiques across key fashion capitals and participating in global fashion events. Flores aims to showcase the beauty of Filipino design on the world stage while preserving Mindanao's rich cultural heritage, emphasizing sustainable and ethical production methods to appeal to conscious consumers worldwide. ADVICE FOR ASPIRING DESIGNERS To those following in his footsteps, Flores offers sage advice: "If this is what you want to do, prepare yourself. Have a lot of patience, make sacrifices, and be ready for sleepless nights. You need to be tough because you will encounter different types of clients, including difficult ones. Be humble and always have room for learning. When your work is not appreciated, it doesn't mean you are not worthy to be a designer." Flores' journey from humble beginnings to royal acclaim exemplifies the profound impact of authenticity and cultural heritage in high fashion. By weaving the rich traditions of various indigenous groups from his region into his designs, he not only transforms the fashion landscape but also advocates for greater representation and inclusivity on the global stage. His commitment to celebrating traditional craftsmanship challenges the industry's norms and inspires others to embrace their own cultural identities. Ultimately, Flores reminds us that true elegance lies in the artistry and techniques passed down through generations of diverse communities, making high fashion a vibrant tapestry of indigenous heritage and skill. As Jay-r Gamboa Flores continues to push the boundaries of fashion, weaving together threads of tradition and innovation, one thing is clear: from the heart of Sultan Kudarat, a couture virtuoso has emerged. His exceptional skill in creating bespoke, high-end garments that blend Mindanao's rich cultural heritage with contemporary elegance sets him apart in the world of haute couture. 1/4 Images provided by: Jay-r Gamboa Flores Previous Next

Erica Paredes Filipina-Parisian Chef Reyna's Culinary Journey "I built the community first; then the space followed." This is the guiding principle Erica Paredes followed to secure her success with her Parisian restaurant, Reyna. From her bright eyes, her friendly and charismatic smile, to her artistic floral arm tattoo, one has the impression that she is an expressive, creative, and confident woman. Erica Paredes is a celebrated culinary steward and the owner of Reyna in Paris. A Filipina, she began her career in publications, particularly in the fashion and beauty arenas. Her global journey spans the Philippines, Australia, Great Britain—where she studied in London—and now Paris, where she honed her culinary skills at Le Cordon Bleu. Paris was a serendipitous stop that soon felt like home, aligning perfectly with her vibrant personality. The journey to the success of Reyna, and thus her success, was "organic yet purposeful," as Erica described it. She worked at various restaurants, including an internship at a Michelin-rated establishment. For Erica, climbing the ladder while working for someone else was never her goal. She knew she wanted her own space to pursue her second career. She sought out experiences in challenging kitchens to observe operations and learn how to manage her own place. Erica initiated a supper club, her brilliant idea involving hosting a three-course meal and a glass of wine for ten random guests at her apartment. Utilizing social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, she announced the date of the supper and the theme for the evening. She never revealed the menu in advance, adding an element of surprise to the dining experience; however, she always asked guests for any dietary restrictions. From her kitchen, equipped with a professional table and open to the dining room with a single table, Erica delivered what would become the essence of her restaurant, Reyna. Her aim was to provide her guests with an exceptional experience in a communal setup, reminiscent of the Filipino tradition of salo-salo, or togetherness. Opportunities for pop-up kitchens soon came her way. She was offered the chance to take over a restaurant kitchen for varying periods, akin to a residency. These stints ranged from one week to two weeks, with the longest being four months. During the Covid pandemic, when the food industry was heavily impacted and restaurants were closing, it was a time of difficulty and self-questioning. However, this did not deter Erica. According to her, "In times of despair and hardship, it's time to find solutions and answers to get to the next step." During the pandemic, when many restaurants remained closed, Erica resumed cooking in her kitchen for takeout. Through her connections, she found a restaurant kitchen where she could produce her food using professional equipment and hired two people with scooters to handle deliveries. Erica worked throughout the rest of the pandemic. When restaurants began reopening, she resumed her pop-up kitchens until she eventually opened Reyna two years ago. Erica explains that Reyna is an homage to her late maternal grandmother and to the women who nurtured her growing up in the Philippines. It became evident during this interview how close Erica is to her family when she described her relationships with the women in her family. "I love that I come from a lineage with a grandmother who is very caring and another grandmother who is a badass." When asked how her Filipino upbringing influences her work, Erica explained that it shapes her thinking and the way she treats people. This explains the respect she receives from her Reyna team and the patrons who continuously support the restaurant. "You can be the best in any field, but if nobody likes to work with you, you will not get far." It is important for her to treat people with respect and maintain her passion for what she does. Erica describes her kitchen as democratic, where her sous chefs can make suggestions, test them out, and proceed with them if they meet Reyna’s culinary standards. Running a restaurant in Paris poses certain difficulties due to cultural differences. Compared to Manila, where staffing is more accessible, labor in Paris is very expensive, resulting in Erica taking on more responsibilities than just cooking. For instance, if there is a plumbing problem, she has to fix it herself. Besides being creative, personable, headstrong, and hardworking, one of Erica’s biggest strengths is her ability to recognize people who can help her bring her goals and ideas to fruition. As a woman, Erica has proven herself in the culinary arena through hard work. However, she is not one to settle after a single positive publication about Reyna. “Staying consistent and relevant in Paris is very difficult because there is always a new place opening up,” Erica explains. Reyna is celebrating its two-year anniversary, a testament to her work's relevance in Paris. When asked for advice to our readers, Erica states, “Success is moving forward, reaching small goals to get to the big goals.” Investing in oneself is significant, but having the discipline to work hard is mandatory. It is not enough to recognize one’s passion because “there is no red carpet that will be rolled out for you.” She describes her journey to success as encountering swamps and quicksand and requiring her to climb mountains. Similar to what we see on social media, people only post the best parts of their lives, even though their struggles are real. Hardship, however, allows one to use parts of the brain that would otherwise remain dormant. “Don’t be afraid of hardship, to be uncomfortable, and to exercise creativity,” she adds. Surrounding oneself with key individuals is essential to achieve one’s goals and to support one’s mental health. “I have endless ideas I want to execute. If it fails, it fails. At least you are trying to do it. Find your strengths and weaknesses, and when you find your weaknesses, find people to fill those gaps.” Photo credits: Portrait and restaurant by Paolo Coumans | Food by Erica Paredes Previous Next

< Back Nguyễn Tiến Truyển The Tapestry of Dreams: Nguyễn Tiến Truyển weaves thread into divine creations Nguyễn Tiến Truyển’s journey in fashion is akin to crafting an extraordinary dress, where every ambition is a stitch that transforms simple fabric into a masterpiece. His story reflects not only his personal dreams, but also the vision of his mother, creating a rich tapestry of shared aspirations. FROM HO CHI MINH CITY TO GLOBAL RECOGNITION Nguyễn Tiến Truyển, the celebrated Vietnamese fashion designer behind the brand 'Nguyen Tien Truyen,' gained international acclaim after winning *Project Runway Vietnam* in 2015. Born in the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh City, his designs capture the city's dynamism and cultural blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, Khmer, French, and American influences. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest metropolis, brims with energy and an eclectic mix of traditions, embodied in its welcoming people and their lively way of life. A CHILDHOOD STEEPED IN FASHION Nguyễn’s fashion journey began well before his television success. His foundation was laid in childhood, inspired by his mother, a seamstress with her own dreams of sewing. Despite challenges, she sparked a profound passion in him. Nguyễn reflects: "Having inherited the enthusiasm from when I was still in my mother's womb, I showed my sewing abilities at a very early age. As I grew up, that passion grew stronger and stronger, and this is when I thought that it was my calling to continue writing the dream on behalf of my mother." His formal education at Hoa Sen University in Ho Chi Minh City, affiliated with the French Modern Art Fashion Academy, honed his skills for the global stage. AVANT-GARDE VISIONARY Nguyễn’s style, under the brand 'Nguyen Tien Truyen,' is a captivating blend of contemporary and traditional elements. He describes his approach: "My design style is rooted in the avant-garde, a realm where imagination knows no limits and innovation thrives. My designs are a dance between the past and the future, where traditional Vietnamese elements seamlessly blend with contemporary innovation, creating timeless yet modern pieces." His creations often channel divine inspiration, with garments fit for goddesses. For instance, 'The Black Athena,' an evening gown for CEO Duong Thu Huang at Cannes 2023, draws on the strength and elegance of the Greek goddess Athena, merging the sacred with the sublime. INSPIRATIONS AND ASPIRATIONS Nguyễn’s influences are as bold as his designs. He reveals: "Alexander McQueen has always been my greatest source of inspiration. His fearless creativity and groundbreaking designs have fueled my fashion dreams since I was young. I would love to design for Lady Gaga; she embodies the spirit of avant-garde fashion and isn't afraid to push boundaries, much like myself." This inspiration is evident in the evening gown worn by beauty queen Andrea Aguilera (Miss Supranational 2023) at the Miss Supranational pageant 2024 in Poland. The gown, inspired by burning fire, transforms the wearer into a mesmerizing flame, as if channeling the power of a goddess. SUSTAINABLE FASHION PIONEER Nguyễn is also a leader in sustainable fashion. In 2022 at the Vietnam International Fashion Week, Nguyễn along with other designers showcased upcycled fabrics made from coffee fiber, oyster shells, and recycled plastic bottles, demonstrating his commitment to eco-friendly practices and environmental responsibility. CULTURAL STEWARDSHIP THROUGH VIETNAMESE SILK Nguyễn’s use of Vietnamese silk honors his country’s cultural heritage. This luxurious fabric, once reserved for royalty, symbolizes tradition and craftsmanship. His intricate designs merge this silk heritage with avant-garde fashion, creating pieces that are both culturally significant and modern. OVERCOMING CHALLENGES Establishing 'Nguyen Tien Truyen' came with challenges. Nguyễn reflects on his biggest hurdle: "Communicating a deeply personal and unique vision in an industry that was not yet ready to embrace such distinctiveness. It was like introducing a new dialect in a familiar language." Though avant-garde fashion is gaining traction among younger, urban Vietnamese, more conservative regions still emphasize modesty. Nguyễn continues to broaden his international presence, steadily achieving his goal. ADVICE FOR ASPIRING DESIGNERS Nguyễn Tiến Truyển offers this wisdom to aspiring designers: "Be true to yourself and your vision. Understand your unique style and let it shine through your work." His journey from Ho Chi Minh City to the global fashion stage is a testament to the transformative power of dreams and the significance of cultural heritage. Nguyễn’s avant-garde designs, blending Vietnamese tradition with modern innovation, continually reshape the fashion landscape. By channeling divine inspiration into his creations and honoring his mother’s dreams, Nguyễn crafts garments worthy of goddesses, making each piece a profound statement of identity and purpose. In a world driven by fleeting trends, Nguyễn Tiến Truyển and his brand ''Nguyen Tien Truyen' stand as beacons of authenticity and vision. His dedication to sustainability and cultural preservation not only elevates his work beyond art but also ensures he will continue to stun the global community with his undeniable divine creations. As his influence grows, Nguyễn inspires others to turn their dreams into reality, showing that with passion and diligence, one can craft a legacy that is both timeless and profoundly impactful. 1/4 Images provided by: Nguyễn Tiền Truyền Previous Next

Dayat Sutisno Indonesia Dayat Sutisno.jpg Dayat Sutisno.jpg 1/1 Photo credit: Dayat Sutisno His photography captures profound stories in a single frame, making words almost unnecessary. Dayat Sutisno is an Indonesian photographer known for capturing compelling images that often reflect the rich cultural and natural landscapes of Indonesia. His work typically emphasizes the vibrant life, traditions, and scenic beauty of the country, bringing to light aspects of Indonesian society and environment that might otherwise go unnoticed. Sutisno's photography is noted for its vivid use of color and composition, which creates a powerful visual narrative. Previous Next

Jeremy Hu Luxury Real Estate Agent Trust: The Key to Jeremy Hu’s Success in NYC’s Luxury Real Estate In many Asian societies, trust is the bedrock of personal and business relationships, fostering long-term connections, collective harmony, and respect. Jeremy Hu, a standout luxury realtor in New York City, personifies this value. “Trust is number one in any industry, in any deal-making,” Jeremy asserts. Jeremy’s multicultural background has significantly shaped his career. Born in Taiwan, he moved to Singapore at 14, then attended a boarding school in England. He graduated from Central St. Martins College of Arts and Design in London, focusing on advertising and graphic design. During his time in London, Jeremy’s modeling career took off after being discovered for a Pepsi TV commercial. He appeared in numerous TV commercials, print ads, music videos, and runway shows, including modeling women’s clothing for Alexander McQueen. “I had an absolutely exhilarating time, feeling inspired by the incredible people I met, the stunning places I explored, and the unforgettable, vibrant parties I attended. It was a truly uplifting and memorable experience,” Jeremy recalls. Modeling women’s wear on the runway was a unique experience for Jeremy. “I was confused,” he admits about being asked to wear a dress. His slender figure and long hair made him ideal for the role. Unlike today’s generation, which has more outlets for expressing diverse gender identities, Jeremy felt more constrained by traditional expectations. “I think that’s great,” he says of the younger generation’s freedom. Despite societal constraints, Jeremy grew up feeling authentically himself, nurtured by loving parents and a talent for socializing. A summer visit to New York City during his time in London marked a turning point for Jeremy. “The moment I arrived, I knew this is my home,” he recalls. Despite his parents’ preference for him to return to Taiwan, Jeremy was determined to move to NYC. After graduating from college, he was eager to start his professional life in the big city. Although working in London was challenging for a foreign graduate, the opportunities in NYC suited his educational background perfectly. Jeremy’s early career in New York began with an internship at an advertising company representing brands like Calvin Klein. This led to a work visa sponsorship. Simultaneously, he helped establish a new fashion store in the Lower East Side, making the neighborhood trendy. “I didn’t sleep much having two jobs, but the excitement kept me going,” Jeremy recalls. Jeremy's keen creative eye, artistic background, and extensive training allowed him to excel in his early career endeavors. He thrived in the advertising industry for many years, utilizing his experiences and connections from his time in London and his modeling profession. Moreover, he successfully operated his own art gallery as a dealer before making a transition into real estate. Today, Jeremy is synonymous with luxury real estate in NYC. His personable nature, practical mindset, and positive approach—key characteristics of his Asian background—have earned him the trust of his clients. He is a founding member of LEVEN Real Estate, where he and his team of experienced agents focus on the ultra-luxury market while catering to a wide range of clients. His dedication and hard work have resulted in several record-breaking deals. The diverse team at his company, fluent in over 17 languages, has successfully served clients from more than 51 countries. Fluent in Mandarin and deeply understanding Asian societies and business practices, Jeremy has carved out a niche by expanding his services to potential Asian clients. Many of his clients are parents of foreign students attending NYC universities, finding it more suitable to buy than rent. Jeremy returns to Taiwan annually, maintaining his cultural roots and personal connections. One memorable real estate experience stands out to Jeremy. “Whatever you think, we are fine. We trust you, we listen to you,” a high-profile client once told him. This trust motivates Jeremy to deliver his work with ease and professionalism. When asked about challenges in his field, Jeremy responds, “I don’t see any challenge as a challenge because I will try to look at the brighter side. It is not something I would even consider dwelling on.” For him, focusing on solutions rather than problems is key. Describing the NYC luxury real estate market as vibrant and highly desirable, Jeremy notes, “The city boasts an incredible lifestyle with world-class entertainment, dining, education, and being the financial capital of the world. The whole package itself is enticing.” Despite his success in the complex world of luxury real estate and a hectic NYC lifestyle, Jeremy remains warm and grounded, truly loving what he does. His morning meditation routine provides balance, and he enjoys spending time with friends in the city. “Everything I do is very much tied to the business. I do not have much distinction between personal and professional life.” Jeremy’s lifestyle and outlook are exceptional, finding harmony between loving what he does and using his calm nature to set his own standards in dealing with people in such a demanding city. Reflecting on his journey and offering insights for the younger generation, Jeremy’s advice is clear: “Dream big. Have the biggest ambition possible because the journey to get there requires the same time and energy as a smaller goal. If you aim high, you can achieve anything below that easily. When there’s no choice, you need to act as if your life depends on it. That gives you the urgency and motivation to succeed.” Photo credit: Provided by Jeremy Hu Previous Next

Dayat Sutisno Indonesia Dayat Sutisno.jpg Dayat Sutisno.jpg 1/1 Photo credit: Dayat Sutisno His photography captures profound stories in a single frame, making words almost unnecessary. Dayat Sutisno is an Indonesian photographer known for capturing compelling images that often reflect the rich cultural and natural landscapes of Indonesia. His work typically emphasizes the vibrant life, traditions, and scenic beauty of the country, bringing to light aspects of Indonesian society and environment that might otherwise go unnoticed. Sutisno's photography is noted for its vivid use of color and composition, which creates a powerful visual narrative. Previous Next

Rituals on the Ancestral Land BATO, Boracay Ati Tribal Organization | Boracay, Philippines Fluid Gold Journal extends our deep gratitude to the Boracay Ati Tribal Organization (BATO) for granting us permission to share and publish two of their rituals. The following rituals have been translated from the ATI Community local dialect. Our culture in the past was rich in numerous rituals. While we still teach our children about the various types of rituals, the process of performing them is no longer passed down. Due to the influence of Catholicsm and the establishment of the church, it is now rare to find medicine people, healers, or shamans, and many rituals are no longer practiced. A shaman is considered more powerful than a healer. Many of the shamans from earlier times have passed away, and only one healer, Tay Johnny, remains. As a result, we now seek the help of a shaman from a different province and also go to the hospital when we are sick. Despite this, we still believe in the value of our rituals, as they have the power to save lives and cure illnesses that Western medicine cannot. Palubad This ritual is conducted to determine if supernatural entities reside on the land. A hole is dug to plant a coconut seed. After three days, the hole is re-excavated to inspect the seed. If the coconut shakes, it indicates a negative presence on the land. If it remains still, the land is deemed safe for use and settlement. Sanag This ritual is for a newly constructed house. The father of the house or head of the household will conduct the ritual where the house will be built using stone or money. Plant the coins along the perimeter of the house in order to buy the land from supernatural entities. Previous Next

Dayat Sutisno Indonesia Dayat Sutisno.jpg Dayat Sutisno.jpg 1/1 Photo credit: Dayat Sutisno His photography captures profound stories in a single frame, making words almost unnecessary. Dayat Sutisno is an Indonesian photographer known for capturing compelling images that often reflect the rich cultural and natural landscapes of Indonesia. His work typically emphasizes the vibrant life, traditions, and scenic beauty of the country, bringing to light aspects of Indonesian society and environment that might otherwise go unnoticed. Sutisno's photography is noted for its vivid use of color and composition, which creates a powerful visual narrative. Previous Next