It’s not every day a swimwear label steals the show at Miami Swim Week , but then again, nothing about HartiSWIM  is ordinary. When the British Isles-based brand debuted their kaleidoscopic, pop art-infused collection earlier this year, the response was seismic. Models strutted in sculptural one-pieces, vibrant bikinis, and satin kaftans that looked more like gallery pieces than garments. The soundtrack? Original. The production? Theatrical. The audience? Dazed and enthralled. Harti Atelier custom made to order But while the fashion world collectively gasped at the hand-painted, sustainable swimwear (each piece crafted from 13.1 recycled plastic bottles pulled from the ocean, no less), those in the know were fixated on something even more compelling: the art behind it all. HartiSWIM - Hope High Cut and Sarong & silk head scarf The man with the brush is Harti  - real name Sascha Hartmann  - a former clinical neuropsychologist turned painter-provocateur whose works are quickly becoming collector catnip and cultural conversation-starters. And while HartiSWIM may be his most wearable output to date, his core medium remains giant, unapologetic acrylic-on-canvas statements that are shaking up the world of contemporary art. From Canvas to Couture Harti’s route to artistic recognition has been anything but conventional. Born in German, growing up in Italy and marrying a Scotswoman, and now based in the British Isles, his work embodies a collision of heritages - continental precision, British satire, and a wry, outsider’s perspective that cuts through the noise. He didn’t attend Central Saint Martins. He didn’t do the circuit. Instead, he studied the mind - earning a degree in neuropsychology from the University of Zurich - before eventually abandoning academic life in favour of artistic rebellion. Sascha Hartmann “I started late,” he admits, “but with a vengeance.” Indeed. Since launching his art career later in life, Harti has already exhibited at prestigious institutions including the Saatchi Gallery  in London, Venice and South Korea, and his work has attracted interest from collectors across Europe and the US. What makes him stand out is not just the arresting visual impact of his paintings, but the layered commentary embedded within them. Tenebrism Meets TikTok Culture Harti’s style is a striking blend of classical technique and 21st-century urgency. He pulls from tenebrism  - the dramatic use of shadow popularised by Caravaggio - to underscore his compositions, then overlays them with sharp, satirical nods to pop culture, politics, and power. Harti at Saatchi London In one piece, a cherubic figure clutches a smartphone mid-scroll; in another, a masked aristocrat dines on climate data. There's irony, provocation, and a lingering sense of discomfort - a deliberate choice. “I want people to laugh first, then think,” Harti says. “If it’s just pretty, I’ve failed.” His canvases are large, loud, and intellectually layered. It’s art that demands engagement, not just admiration. You don’t hang a Harti to match your sofa - you hang it to start a fight at your dinner party. The Artist as Brand (and Back Again) But perhaps the most fascinating part of Harti’s story is how he’s refused to silo himself. When most artists are clamouring for a white-wall gallery or a biennale invite, he’s been building something far more dynamic - art that lives off  the wall. Enter HartiSWIM , the swimwear brand he co-founded with his wife, fashion and branding powerhouse Tessa Hartmann CBE . She, too, comes with serious credentials - an award-winning communicator, a luxury PR veteran, and currently the President of the British School of Fashion . She’s also been decorated by the late Queen Elizabeth II for her contribution to British fashion and textiles. Sascha Hartmann & Tessa Hartmann Tessa Hartmann CBE Creative Director Together, the Hartmann’s have created a formidable operation that merges high art, fashion, and environmental purpose. Every HartiSWIM piece features original artwork by Harti, transformed into fabric that’s ethically sourced and sustainably produced. Their packaging is eco-friendly. Their ethos? Buy better, buy less . Their muse? The “Siren” - a fierce, independent woman with style, substance, and a side hustle in ocean conservation. More Than Merch It would be easy to write off the art-meets-swimwear model as a gimmick. But HartiSWIM is anything but. In addition to their statement swim, the brand recently launched Harti Atelier , a made-to-order couture line that transforms full-scale paintings into sequinned gowns, hand-lined in silk and trimmed with metres of ostrich feathers. Their small studio in the British Isles handles each order, couture-style. Their creative ecosystem now spans fashion, interiors (a collaboration with Andrew Martin  on Harti-designed cushions), and even furniture (a pair of velvet Harti armchairs sold out within days). And then there’s HartiLife.com  - an educational platform built to promote ocean and marine conservation, loaded with accessible content for anyone wanting to do better by the planet. Just this year, they launched a campaign with one of the largest coffee chains in the British Isles Coopers & Co – ‘ Art on Your Cup, Change in Your Hand’s  - featuring Harti’s artwork printed across limited-edition coffee cups. The message? Simple: reuse, recycle and share your eco-action on social media, tag @Hartiswim, and you could win one of their swimsuits. Not bad for the chance to own a piece of sustainable, wearable art. Harti Atelier Collective Subconcious Sequin Kaftan From Elton John to Spotify And if the Miami runway show felt unusually slick, that’s because it was a true Hartmann production. The music? Written and produced by Harti himself. (Naturally, the show’s original soundtrack Miami Runway  is now available to stream on Spotify.) Closing the show was none other than their daughter, Tallia Storm , the R&B singer once discovered by Sir Elton John , and now striding into the industry on her own terms. Clad in a billowing bespoke ostrich feathered Harti gown, Tallia served as both a finale model and a reminder that this is not just a brand - it’s a family-built universe with deep creative roots. Harti Atelier Collapsed Dogmatism More Than Just Hype Of course, fashion loves a novelty. But what makes Harti compelling is the depth behind the aesthetic. Here is an artist who has taken the scenic route to success - trading textbooks for paintbrushes, academia for activism. He didn’t emerge fully formed from the art school conveyor belt; he carved his own path, and in doing so, found a way to make his work both culturally relevant and commercially viable. In an era of fast fashion and faster attention spans, Harti is doing something rare: slowing us down just long enough to look . Really look. And whether that’s at a canvas, a kaftan, or a coffee cup, the message is the same: art is everywhere - and maybe, just maybe, it should make us think. From the studio to the swimwear rack, from Saatchi walls to Spotify playlists, Harti is proving that art needn’t be precious to be powerful. And that true creative energy doesn’t always arrive on time - it arrives when it’s ready. One thing’s for sure: this pop art invasion is here to stay. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of HartiSWIM

British fashion entrepreneur Tommy Fordham continues to make waves in the footwear industry with the U.S. launch of CTRNE , his new wellness-focused sneaker brand now available at Saks Fifth Avenue Bal Harbour. Designed to bridge the gap between luxury fashion and spirituality, CTRNE introduces a bold and modern take on wellness, with sneakers that aim to inspire both inside and out. CTRNE (pronounced "citrine") made its digital debut earlier this year on Saks.com  and is now arriving in-store for the first time in South Florida. The launch signals the brand’s growing presence in the U.S. market and its appeal to style-conscious consumers interested in mindful living. Each pair of CTRNE sneakers is embedded with a citrine crystal—often called the “success stone”—believed to promote prosperity, creativity, and mental clarity. Designed with features that include aromatherapy inserts, toweling interiors for sockless wear, and insoles ideal for meditation, the sneakers also incorporate symbolic mantras and affirmations inspired by global spiritual traditions. “CTRNE is not about traditional spirituality—it’s about trusting your intuition and manifesting your own success,” said Fordham. “These sneakers are wearable reminders of the power you already have within.” Available in men’s and women’s styles starting at $235, the inaugural collection blends innovation with intention. Materials are infused with positive energy, while the overall design reflects Fordham's vision of making wellness both stylish and accessible. The brand is deeply personal for Fordham, who rose to prominence from humble beginnings. CTRNE reflects his belief that wellness doesn’t have to look a certain way—it can be messy, bold, and completely your own. “Even on the tough days,” he adds, “I wake up driven to create something better. That’s the mindset CTRNE is built on.” CTRNE Founder Tommy Fordham With its debut at Saks Bal Harbour , CTRNE joins the retailer’s curated mix of high-end fashion and lifestyle brands. It also marks a new chapter in Fordham's career, one that connects fashion, function, and purpose. CTRNE sneakers are now available at Saks Fifth Avenue Bal Harbour , Saks.com , and CTRNE.com . By ML Staff. Photos/CTRNE

Gary Nader Art Centre is pleased to announce 'From Picasso to Botero', an upcoming exhibition curated by Gary Nader to be presented during Art Basel Miami 2025 . The show invites audiences into a vibrant dialogue between Pablo Picasso and Fernando Botero — two artists who broke the mold to redefine art through bold, deeply personal visions. The exhibition will be on view from December 5th, 2025 through March 28th , 2026 at the Gary Nader Art Centre in Miami . Beyond style, geography or time, this exhibition focuses on what these two masters share at their core: an instinct to disobey . Through iconic works and rarely seen series, it explores how both Botero and Picasso defied academic conventions, reimagined classical genres, and elevated style above subject matter as the true engine of creative expression. Organized into thematic sections , the exhibition places their still lifes, disproportionate nudes, and visions of bullfighting and the circus in dialogue — revealing how distortion, whether explosive or meditative, becomes a visual manifesto. It invites viewers to discover how, in the hands of Picasso and Botero , style becomes a powerful tool of freedom, irony , and sensuality . One of the highlights of the exhibition will be the presentation of a never-before-seen oeuvre by Pablo Picasso , exhibited to the public for the very first time. Curated by Gary Nader — renowned collector, gallerist, and cultural advocate of modern and contemporary art, and the world’s largest private collector of Fernando Botero’s oeuvre — the exhibition offers a bold, personal reading of two revolutionary figures. With deep admiration and expertise, Nader brings to light the genius, rebellion, and aesthetic power of these universal creators. “Art is not about reflecting reality — it’s about reinventing it through a singular vision. Both Picasso and Botero understood this with fearless clarity,” says Gary Nader, founder of Gary Nader Art Centre and curator of the exhibition. As part of the curatorial process, the Gary Nader Art Centre is actively acquiring important works by both artists to be included in the exhibition. Proposals can be sent to gn@garynader.com . Additional details regarding the final artwork selection and cocktail reception will be announced soon. By ML Staff. Content/image courtesy of Gary Nader Art Centre.

With flights from Miami to Dubai more accessible than ever, luxury travelers have a new reason to visit the UAE: the highly anticipated opening of Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai , scheduled for October 2025. The new property marks the brand’s second hotel in the city and is set to raise the bar for high-end hospitality in the region. Located in the iconic Wasl Tower on Sheikh Zayed Road, the 259-room hotel will offer sweeping views of both the Arabian Gulf and Dubai’s dazzling skyline. The tower’s striking, twisted form is the tallest ceramic façade in the region and incorporates innovative, energy-efficient design, positioning it as a landmark of sustainable urban architecture. Beyond its visual appeal, the hotel promises a next-level experience with 224 branded residences, Dubai’s first-ever under the Mandarin Oriental name, available for lease. Guests and residents will also enjoy exclusive access to ten dining and nightlife destinations showcasing cuisines from France, China, Greece, Italy, and beyond. The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai will span two levels, blending traditional wellness philosophies with modern treatments focused on nourishment, movement, and rejuvenation. A rooftop helipad, in-room wellness programs, and smart tech integration throughout the building make it one of the most forward-thinking hospitality developments in the region. Reservations are now open. Visit www.mandarinoriental.com/en/dubai/downtown or follow @mo_downtowndubai for updates. By ML Staff. Photos/Mandarin Oriental

The Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, through its Art in Public Places program, has announced a major public art opportunity in partnership with North Bay Village. With a generous budget of $537,000, the county is seeking qualifications from professional visual artists across the United States for art commissions at the new North Bay Village Hall and Safety Complex. The deadline for submissions is Monday, September 21, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. EST. This high-profile commission represents a significant opportunity to contribute to the cultural and architectural identity of one of South Florida’s vibrant waterfront communities. Interested artists can view full application details and apply HERE . This initiative continues the longstanding tradition of the Miami-Dade County Art in Public Places program, one of the first public art programs in the country. Established in 1973, the program mandates that 1.5% of the capital costs of new county buildings be allocated to public art commissions, educational programming, and collection care. Overseen by the Art in Public Places Trust and its Professional Advisory Committee, the program has helped shape Miami-Dade’s visual and cultural landscape through hundreds of notable public artworks. More information on the Art in Public Places program and other opportunities can be found at www.miamidadearts.org . By ML Staff. Photo/North Bay Village Hall and Safety Complex by MDCDCA

Ellemar Enterprises , a multi-generational, ultra-luxury homebuilder based in South Florida, has listed a fully reimagined  oceanfront penthouse at Le Sanctuaire  in Highland Beach for $26.9 million. The 6,182-square-foot, full-floor residence is located at 3425 S Ocean Blvd, Unit PH, Highland Beach, FL 33487. Originally built by Ellemar more than 30 years ago, Le Sanctuaire is a boutique, four-residence building known for architectural sophistication, privacy and direct beach access. Ellemar has returned to this legacy project to unveil a modern coastal home that blends timeless design with contemporary features and functionality. The redesigned penthouse features four bedrooms and four-and-a-half bathrooms. It was completely gutted and rebuilt, transforming the former three-bedroom layout into a turnkey residence that rivals custom oceanfront estates. Highlights include 180-degree ocean views, floor-to-ceiling glass, a wraparound terrace with summer kitchen, a private elevator, curated designer finishes and direct beach access. Ellemar also completed building-wide upgrades to elevate the overall property.  Located between Boca Raton and Delray Beach, Highland Beach is one of South Florida’s most exclusive oceanfront communities. Known for its residential character, pristine shoreline and minimal commercial development, the town has fewer than 4,000 full-time residents. “This project represents a full-circle moment. It connects the past, present and future of our family-run firm, which has more than three decades of experience in luxury development,” said Mark Rothenberg, CEO of EllemarEnterprises. “With only four residences in the building, Le Sanctuaire offers a rare level of privacy.” “Reimagining this residence alongside my father was especially meaningful,” said Brandon Rothenberg, vice president of real estate and development. “Returning to one of our earliest projects with a fresh design lens was both nostalgic and rewarding.”  For more information about 3425 S Ocean Blvd, Unit PH, Highland Beach, contact Ellemar at 954.603.0500 or  info@ellemar.com . By ML Staff. Photos by Living Proof Photography.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is kicking off a summer of bug-sized fun with evening programming for "Bugging Out: A Bug's World but BIGGER!" The after-dark events include Family Movie Night & Twilight Bug Safari on August 9 and August 30 from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. This isn't your typical movie night. Picture this: glowing robotic insect sculptures lighting up the garden, kids chasing bubbles at a "Dance Dash," butterflies fluttering in moonlight, and families sprawled on the lawn watching movies under the stars. Here's what's buzzing on these special nights: Twilight Bug Safari – Guided exploration of nocturnal insect behavior in the garden after dark Wings of the Tropics Exhibit – Open during evening hours with rare opportunity to observe nocturnal butterfly behavior among hundreds of species, including iridescent Blue Morpho butterflies Bubble Bash Dance Dash – Interactive bubbles, beats, and all-ages dancing fun Big Bug Cinema – Outdoor movie screenings: "A Bug's Life" (G) on August 9 "James and the Giant Peach" (PG) on August 30 These evening events transform the garden into an illuminated wonderland, offering families new ways to experience the insect-themed showcase during fun summer nights. By ML Staff. Photos/Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Through her Miami‑based nonprofit FoundnWell, Gore is providing free, culturally fluent mental health care and community support for entrepreneurs building under pressure. In the world of entrepreneurship, hustle culture often takes center stage — but behind the glossy headlines and success stories lies a quieter truth: founders are burning out. For minority entrepreneurs, that pressure is compounded by systemic barriers, funding gaps, and the constant push to prove themselves in spaces that weren’t built with them in mind. Samia Gore, a Miami‑based wellness entrepreneur, knows this reality all too well. After years of leading her own thriving company, she faced the kind of anxiety, exhaustion, and isolation that statistics say affect more than 80% of entrepreneurs at some point in their journey. That lived experience inspired Samia to create FoundnWell, a nonprofit company dedicated to providing free, culturally competent mental health support for minority founders. From group therapy and healing‑centered programming to in‑person meetups that foster authentic community, FoundnWell is on a mission to make mental wellness as essential as a business plan. For Samia, it’s not just about surviving entrepreneurship, it’s about building a future where founders can thrive without sacrificing their health in the process. In this conversation, Samia shares the personal journey that shaped FoundnWell, the unique mental health challenges minority entrepreneurs face, and how she’s creating a "village" of support in Miami and beyond. From intimate mental health brunches to ambitious plans to bring the conversation to venture capitalists, she’s reshaping the narrative around what it really means to be a successful founder, and why being well is the foundation of it all. You describe FoundnWell as a return to self. Can you unpack what that means for you personally and the individuals you hope to reach? FoundnWell is a platform that provides free mental health services to minority founders and entrepreneurs. Being a minority founder and entrepreneur, I have struggled in the past with mental health. Just being an entrepreneur and the stress that comes with it, the anxiety that comes with it. Sometimes, even the depression that comes with it. 80% of entrepreneurs face some level of mental health disability at some time on their journey, whether it be anxiety or depression. It's very normal, but people don't really talk about it. Some founders and entrepreneurs don't have the resources to seek help for it. FoundnWell is a platform that was formed out of my own journey, but it's to offer those resources to founders and entrepreneurs, and offer them for free.  What inspired you to transition from supplements with Body Complete Rx to mental wellness with FoundnWell? Was there any defining moment that pushed you to create this platform?  It's not really a move. I still own Body Complete Rx. It's a company that I started a little bit ago, it'll be nine years, actually, in September. Over the years, there have been seasons where I've dealt with anxiety, heavy anxiety, just being an entrepreneur, and the changes that happen when you own your own company and things are on you. I didn't really have a lot of people to talk to. I didn't really have a lot of people that understood that journey as an entrepreneur and how, yes, it can be so rewarding, it can be a great experience, being able to own your own company and have a thriving business, but no matter how successful your company is, that does not keep you from experiencing moments of doubt, moments of anxiety, sometimes moments of depression just from the stress of it all. That's what led me to form FoundnWell, which I feel like is a really complete ecosystem of myself being in the wellness space. Body Complete RX is a wellness brand that focuses on supplements, and FoundnWell is a wellness brand that focuses on mental health. For me, it's not like a transition out. It's more of a completeness of who I am as a person, and who most entrepreneurs are as people. We're sometimes expected to operate on a superhuman level, but at the end of the day, we're all humans, and we've all experienced difficulties in our journey. That's how FoundnWell came about.  What unique challenges do you think these minority entrepreneur groups face in high-performance spaces that other people may miss or not totally understand? FoundnWell is focusing on minority founders and entrepreneurs specifically because we face challenges that other entrepreneurs do not face. So, when I say 'other,' I mean specifically white male entrepreneurs. We face challenges when it comes to funding. We're underfunded and underrepresented in the funding space for our companies. A lot of us are carrying the burden of bootstrapping multimillion-dollar companies because we don't have access to certain capital. It's harder for us to enter that space.  When I say minorities, I don't just mean Black women. Asian women, Asian men, African American women, African American men, women in general are overall considered minorities when it comes to entrepreneurial spaces, and we face challenges that our counterparts don't always necessarily face. Why was it important to you that FoundnWell offers culturally competent therapy? How does that shift the healing process compared to more traditional models? It's important to me because again, not everybody understands your struggle. If you're a woman, you may prefer to have a woman therapist because you may feel like that woman connects with you more. Same with minority founders. It's important for me to have a space where minority founders have access to other minority founders and therapists who have familiarity with having conversations with minorities who have different difficulties that I just expressed, because they relate to them more, and they can understand them more. And also, it just gives a level of comfort when it comes to having certain conversations. I wouldn't want to have a white male therapist talking to me about my struggles as a minority woman and entrepreneur because he wouldn't necessarily understand that.  What does "creating the village" look like in real terms at FoundnWell? Can you share a little bit about the community-building aspect of the platform?  Currently, our community building aspect has been doing public or open meetups. We had a meetup in Chicago in May of 2024 and had Everette as a guest. Everette is the CEO of Kickstarter, and he is a minority founder as well. He's someone who has been very vocal about his own mental health struggles as a founder and entrepreneur. So, creating safe spaces where we can actually meet up in person and have open dialogue. Our most recent meetup was in Miami during the American Black Film Festival Week, and that was just several weeks ago. We had a brunch for founders. It was a mental health brunch, where we again were able to connect and bring founders together. We can be real and have a conversation about mental health and open up the dialogue, and actually connect with others who are like ourselves, who also understand the struggles that we may face.  How was that event in Miami? Were there any standout moments you would like to share? Yeah, absolutely.
It was a wonderful event. Everybody who walked away from the event said they were happy that they were able to attend and connect with other founders again. People they can continue to have relationships with outside of the event. Amber Dee, who is the therapist on staff for FoundnWell, was able to speak specifically to the statistics surrounding minority founders and entrepreneurs, and also speak directly about what she sees as a therapist on a daily basis with founders and entrepreneurs, and how that connects along the way. So that was one particular point in the brunch, people resonated with that conversation specifically.  How do you hope FoundnWell changes the mental wellness space in the long term? I hope that it changes mental health. I hope it changes the conversation. I feel that as founders and entrepreneurs, not even minority founders and entrepreneurs, but all founders and entrepreneurs are expected to be kind of superhuman. You're running companies, you have employees, you have staff, and people are looking for you to lead, but they don't understand that. You may be leading and also struggling. And that's okay. And that's where I want FoundnWell to have that voice to say, hey, it's okay. You don't have to appear to be this super strong person all the time who doesn't have any challenges. It's okay to say, "You know what, I need to step away for maybe a day or two to take some rest for myself so I can be mentally well to run this business." We're carrying a lot on our backs, and especially if we're funded by big VCs and companies, they are looking at us to produce revenue and the bottom line for them. But you can't get to that bottom line number that you're looking to get, even as a VC, if your founder is not mentally stable or they're not well. So mental health is that, really, to me. It's the foundation of any successful founder or entrepreneur, and the foundation of any business being successful. You can't have someone at the top leading a business who is not well.  As a Black woman leading two powerful wellness brands, what advice would you give to other minority founders who are navigating entrepreneurship burnout?   My advice that I would give is that one, it's important to always take time for yourself. When I started my company, for the first maybe five, six years, I never really took time for myself because of the pressures of having a business, running a business, and wanting to make sure that everybody else was well, but me. I guess my advice would be to always make sure that you're checking in on yourself. If you're feeling depressed or if you're feeling anxiety, if you're feeling any of these things, know that you're not the first person and you won't be the last person to feel those things and also know that there is a community of other founders and entrepreneurs that you can talk to who also experience the same things that you're experiencing and who can relate to you.  Sometimes we keep things in. It's like we try to hold things in, keep things under wraps. We don't want anybody to know that maybe we might be struggling a little bit. And I think that does more harm than good. We're not on a one-man island; this is a community. Anybody who is a founder or entrepreneur is someone who should have access to FoundnWell and should know that we can be founders and we can be well, which is the whole reason why the business's name is FoundnWell. You're a founder, and you're also well.  Miami is a melting pot of cultures, ambition, creativity -- but also a lot of pressure. How do you see FoundnWell specifically supporting Miami's diverse community of founders and entrepreneurs? Miami is a growing hub of entrepreneurs. I just moved to Miami in February, and it's a booming community. It's growing with young entrepreneurs in different fields and businesses. And what I see is, again, there is no community that is specifically talking about what we're talking about with FoundnWell, when it comes to mental health. You have meetups in Miami for founders just to mingle, meet and greets, things like that. But nothing that the basis of it is an organization that focuses on mental health. So, me being even involved in an event that FoundnWell has, if I'm an entrepreneur, it's like I'm okay with saying, hey, mental health is important, and it's really the base of my company. So like I said, Miami is a growing space, and I think the presence of FoundnWell in Miami is very important, and it will be important for founders to come out and be involved with the meetups we'll be having in Miami.  As someone leading a culturally rooted wellness brand in a city that is as dynamic and fast-paced as Miami, how do you stay grounded here? Do you have any rituals or local spaces that help you recharge? I found my own grounding activities over the years just by figuring out what works for me. So being able to turn things off, going to the water, spending time by the water, that's not for everybody, but that for me helps to calm and ground my spirit. Taking time to read and just being silent sometimes.
Miami is a buzzing city. Some people like all that buzz all the time, and for some people, it can be overstimulating.  I think it's about like each founder finding and figuring out what works for them when it comes to settling their mind and their spirit. How do they ground themselves? Whether it be exercise, Miami's big on fitness. A lot of people in Miami are in the fitness field and industry. Whether it be finding a local group fitness class or a local activity that you can do with other people or even by yourself, that may be something that entrepreneurs can seek out. It depends on your own personality, what works for you. My advice is to find what works for you. What's next for you and for FoundnWell? Are there any upcoming initiatives, events, or collaborations we should all be watching out for?  Yeah, so right now, we're planning an event, not in Miami, though, an event in the Hamptons in August of 2025. We will bring together some of the top VCs in the world to have this conversation. FoundnWell again is an organization that's meant to support founders and entrepreneurs, and a lot of these VCs put their investment into the business of the founder, but do not invest in the founder's mental health. That is where this conversation needs to really start to go, how we can start to incorporate mental health services into investments that VCs are making into businesses. When I say VCs, I mean venture capitalists.  So, a lot of times, not a lot of times, all the time, the investment that a VC puts into a company is mainly geared towards just the business aspect of the company, not taking into account the founder's mental health, which could make or break the whole company. We want VCs to start to recognize the importance of not just investing in a founder's company, but also setting aside investment for the founders to actually be well mentally. Learn more about FoundnWell at foundnwell.com  and follow them on Instagram @foundnwel l. Keep up to date with Samia Gore’s journey by following her on Instagram @samiagore .  By ML Staff. Photos/FoundnWell

Fontainebleau Development is launching a transformative redevelopment of the iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach resort, with plans to reimagine its outdoor pool deck as a premier, family-friendly destination. The ambitious project, set to begin in early 2026, will introduce all-new pools, water slides, interactive family attractions, enhanced food and beverage options, and upgraded poolside entertainment—all designed to complement the resort’s signature luxury experience. Fontainebleau Miami Beach Pool Expansion, Photo Credit-Fontainebleau Development “This is a milestone moment for Fontainebleau Miami Beach and our vision for what a modern resort destination can be,” said Jeffrey Soffer, chairman and CEO of Fontainebleau Development. “With the addition of these new attractions and amenities, we are creating a fully integrated, large-scale family-focused experience unlike any other in the region.” The redevelopment will also expand the resort’s culinary offerings with upgrades to La Côte Restaurant and three signature bars. Upon completion, the resort aims to set a new standard for luxury family travel in South Florida. In addition to enhancing guest experience, the expansion is expected to provide a major boost to the local economy. The project will create hundreds of jobs in construction, hospitality, and operations, from lifeguards and guest services to food and beverage staff. “Fontainebleau Development has long been recognized for creating destinations that not only define luxury and experience but also uplift the communities they serve,” said Brett Mufson, president of Fontainebleau Development. “This expansion exemplifies that philosophy—melding visionary design with strategic investment.” With its mix of iconic branding and forward-thinking family attractions, the new Fontainebleau pool experience is poised to become a first-of-its-kind draw in Miami Beach, attracting both local families and international travelers. Learn more at fbdev.com . By ML Staff. Photo/FBDEV

Emerging brand  Montage Swimwear  debuted at Miami Swim Week with a breathtaking runway show. The brand presented their first 12 capsule collections, each designed by accomplished models including  Amazing Race 's Kayla Fitzgerald, fitness influencer Brit Manuela,  Selling Sunset's  Bre Tiesi and more. Held at the Mondrian Hotel in South Beach Miami, the show hosted upwards of 100 guests including press, influencers, industry professionals, family and friends. All 12 designers were spotted on the runway modeling a piece from their own collection for one big reveal that left viewers in awe. The group of powerful women worked closely with Montage Swimwear for an opportunity of a lifetime to create their very own collection from start to finish. The brand encouraged the emerging designers to take charge of their new business venture from the design process and campaign shoots all the way to the stage bringing their visions to life one step at a time. Each collection reflects the designer's personal style with unique touches of character along with inspiration from their favorite vacation destinations. Designed with the intent to be worn for pool parties, summer soirees, beach vacations and beyond, the 12 collections fuse function with fashion for a limitless wardrobe. Styles include swimwear and coverups to summer-focused ready to wear with prices ranging from $100-$200. Montage Swimwear continued the launch celebrations with an exclusive VIP event hosted with popular swimwear brand  Dippin' Daisy's  on the following Saturday at The Sagamore Hotel. The event welcomed an intimate group who enjoyed gifting suites, live DJ's, drinks and more. Following, Montage Swimwear kept the party alive with an all-inclusive after party that was open to the public featuring DJ Vice, poolside drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere.  The designers of the first 12 capsule collections are  Abby Bagley ,  Ava Stewart ,  Bre Tiesi ,  Brit Manuela ,  Daniela Tablante ,  Freicheska Scalze ,  Ivy Bagley ,  Janey Lee ,  Kamila Davies ,  Kayla Fitzgerald ,  Taylor Ranftle , and  Tiffany Keller . All 12 collections are available to shop now at https://montageswimwear.com/ . About Montage Swimwear Founded by Bryan Skowronek, Montage Swimwear is a brand new label entering the market with 12 signature capsule collections. Each designed by accomplished models in their own right, the collections offer fun and flirty styles ranging from swimwear to complementary ready-to-wear. The novelty brand aims to put the power back in the hands of industry tastemakers by empowering young women to explore their creative and entrepreneurial potential. Montage Swimwear is pioneering a new business model with innovation and collaboration at the forefront. Follow Montage Swimwear on Instagram By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Montage Swimwear

In this exclusive interview with Miami Living Magazine, New Zealand-born actress Te Ao o Hinepehinga opens up about her journey from Aotearoa’s Te Tairāwhiti region to the global spotlight. A lifelong advocate for indigenous rights, fluent in Māori and French, and raised in a politically active family, Te brings depth and intention to every role she inhabits. Now, as she stars alongside Jason Momoa in the highly anticipated Apple TV+ series Chief of War , she merges her love of performance with her cultural roots in a story that redefines historical storytelling from an indigenous perspective. We’re thrilled to sit down with Te as she brings the role of Kupuohi to life in one of the most anticipated series of the year. Miami Living (ML): Te, before we dive into your incredible journey, we’d love to start with something light: you trained as a dancer, speak multiple languages, and have lived across three countries – what’s something totally unexpected or delightfully quirky about you that fans might be surprised to learn? Te: Something light, you say… Well, I love to cook! I wanted to be a chef for the longest time. I used to experiment a lot in the kitchen, learning how to play with flavours from cooking shows like Masterchef and Hell's Kitchen. It’s turned into a kind of comfort. Whenever I’m feeling overwhelmed, I’ll bake something delicious and end up feeding whoever is around me. It got me in a bit of trouble on set, because our men wear malo in Chief of War, they had to stay in top shape, and apparently, bringing baked goods to set was not making things easy for them. Sorry boys… ML: You were raised in the Te Tairāwhiti region of Aotearoa in New Zealand, surrounded by culture, politics, and a strong sense of community. Did your upbringing – growing up in a big family of 7 siblings, speaking Māori, and being raised by a politically active grandfather – plant early seeds of activism and storytelling? Te: I jokingly call myself the white sheep of the family (I’m the pale one in a family of brown) because I chose to be an actress instead of following in the footsteps of my papa, like he hoped. I was the firstborn of my family’s next generation, and it was expected that I would continue the work they do in the community. I still enjoy working in that space, but it was the stories my papa would tell me on our travels — adventures of Te o Tane and Kahungunu — that were my favourite moments growing up. I’d sit with him at the Marae and listen to the stories of our people and imagine myself in the world they created. At the time, it was a fun childish game, but I didn’t expect it to turn into this. Even my papa wasn’t entirely sold on the idea of my pursuing acting, but I think he’d be happy to know I found a way to do both. Chief of War and Head High showed me how I could do both. ML: Chief of War brings an indigenous lens to an epic moment in Hawaiian history. What did it mean to you, personally and culturally, to step into the role of Kupuohi alongside Jason Momoa? Te: It was terrifying. I didn’t believe myself worthy of telling this story, but I wanted to support my Hawaiian cousins in their pursuit to indigenize TV on a global stage. I would have been a coffee runner, whatever they needed from me, to make this all happen. I never thought they’d give me something like this. It’s an honour I will forever be grateful for and will continue to work to be worthy of. ML: Kupuohi is a woman living in a time of upheaval and transformation. How did you prepare emotionally to embody her strength, her fear, and her love? Te: As part of the production, we were each given a language coach to work with to make sure our ‘olele was as good as it could be. Kalei Kawa’a was mine, and she is my main inspiration for Kupuohi. We spent hours every day leading up to the production and during filming working on the language, and in doing so, her persona. Everything from the way she stood, to her presence in the silence. Kalei helped me to define what it was to be a Hawaiian woman at the time, understanding the social dynamics of the period and the ways that women moulded history and the men she cared for along the way. It was important to us that she embodied the essence of being a Polynesian woman and preserved the authenticity of the indigenous experience. People keep saying she's this badass, but in truth, I think she is exactly who our women are, regardless of where they come from. They're unyielding, brave, and loving. They're warriors and the givers of life. I hope every woman who sees her finds a little of themselves in her story. I hope they feel seen. ML: The series was filmed in Hawaii and tells a powerful story of resistance and unity. Were there any moments on set that felt especially sacred, surreal, or emotionally resonant for you as an indigenous woman? Te: There was a moment when we relocated to Hawai’i Island (Big Island) to film a battle that took place during a volcanic eruption. The evening we landed to film, Mauna Loa erupted for the first time in 75 years. It was as if Pele herself had awoken to say, “This is my story and I am here”. It was a reminder that our tipuna and atua were watching and guiding the journey of this production, and that brought me great comfort because I knew they would keep us accurate to the mission of this production. ML: Before acting, you danced professionally and even performed as a showgirl in Australia! Do any of those stage experiences still inform the way you move through your roles today? Te: Dancing gave me a lot of confidence. Despite my love of storytelling, I prefer to stay in the background and avoid the spotlight – not exactly the kind of energy you need for this line of work. Dancing helped me figure out how to step out of my comfort zone and embrace the attention. It’s a bit hard to hide when you're dressed in a bedazzled bikini with a massive feather headdress. Dancing was an unexpected detour, but I learnt a lot about myself during that time. I realized hiding in the back was stopping me from fully experiencing what the arts industry had to offer, and I’m grateful for every moment I had dancing in Australia. It’s a highlight of my life. ML: As a founding member of ICAN (International Culture Art Network), you’re helping artists prepare for real-world opportunities. What’s one piece of advice you give young indigenous performers that you wish someone had told you early on? Te: I was fortunate to have had many great mentors early on, which allowed me to learn the hard stuff quickly. One story I always share is about my first day at Music Theatre school. Our acting teacher, Stephanie McKellar-Smith, sat us all down at the very beginning and told us the hard truth, and it goes something like this: “Of the 24 of you here, maybe three of you will make it. Only one of you will likely turn it into a lifelong career. And it will take you 7 years to find that out because being an actor is 5% talent and hard work and 95% being at the right place, at the right time”. It was the best thing anyone could have said to me, because I had a realistic understanding of what I was walking into. I knew then and there that I was trying to pull off something impossible, and I wanted to try anyway. Young people are resilient and fearless; honesty is the best thing you can give them. Because if they know what they’re walking into, they won’t be scared, they’ll be ready. ML: When you're not filming, you’re into everything from yoga and gardening to reading and weightlifting. What’s your perfect “reset” day look like — and what’s on your nightstand right now? Te: My reset is a day curled up on the couch with a good book, a pepperoni pizza, and a hot bath to soak in at the end of the day. I’m a homebody, I like the quiet of home and the comfort of a good book — something to dive into and escape the world. My nightstand is an absolute mess; it's always covered in piles of jewelry and random bits I find in my pockets before bed. But it always has my salt lamp, Kindle, Kindle holder, and remote, so I can lie in bed and read without breaking my blanket burrito. My brother got me the holder as a birthday present, and it’s the best gift ever! I miss it every time I’m away at work. Follow Te on: Instagram  / IMDB By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Robert Trathen

Just a few short seasons ago, the Miami Dolphins had one of the brightest futures in the National Football League. With young quarterback Tua Tagovailoa at the helm and the dynamic Tyreek Hill at receiver, the Dolphins possessed one of the most explosive offenses in football. So you could be tempted to use your same game parlay strategy  on one of their games. However, following a lot of initial fireworks, the Dolphins have seen their share of struggles. After missing the playoffs in 2024, there are questions about, particularly between the quarterback and his star receiver. With pressure rising, tensions between the two will be something to monitor in the coming season. Issues with Hill Hill has been one of the best and most explosive receivers in the NFL for the entirety of his career. During his first two seasons with the Dolphins, Hill caught 238 passes for 3,509 yards and 20 touchdowns. If he wasn’t the best receiver in football, he was at least in discussion. Last season Hill experienced a major backslide, however. Hill slid down to 81 receptions – his lowest since 2019 – and 959 yards – just the second time he’s had less than 1,000 yards in his career aside from his rookie season. Normally one for creating big plays, Hill struggled to find that same dynamic gear that had made him arguably the most dangerous receiver in the NFL. Then there was the issue from last season’s regular season finale. Hill took himself out of the game against the New York Jets before later telling supporters that he would like to play elsewhere. He never formally requested a trade and ultimately apologized for the comments, walking them back in February. Tua Speaks on Tyreek Aside from general manager Chris Grier, no one from the team had really commented on the things Hill had said. When training camp convened recently, Tavovailoa was finally asked about the situation with Hill and what it meant for the team. He noted that Hill would have to build up trust  and that Hill is already putting in the work to get there. “It’s not just with me, it’s with a lot of guys,” Tagovailoa said. “I’m not the only one that heard that. You guys aren’t the only people that heard that. A lot of people that follow football, that follow Tyreek that are fans of his – everyone has seen that.” Those comments are boilerplate for situations like these. Tua is saying what he feels needs to be said while still at least partially holding Hill accountable for his comments. What the relationship internally is like is known only by them. A Tough Season for the Dolphins The 2024 season was one of the toughest in recent memory for the Dolphins. During the 2023 season, the Dolphins performed well – for the most part. After building a sizeable lead in the AFC East over the Buffalo Bills, the Dolphins lost three of their last five games, ultimately ceding the division to their rivals. Unfortunately, the 2024 season was not the progress they had hoped for. A Week 2 loss to the Bills was bad enough, but Tagovailoa was lost for several games due to yet another concussion. It put the Dolphins behind the eight-ball, seeing them lose five of their next six games. Despite a stretch where they won four of five, it was too little, too late for the Dolphins. They finished second in the AFC East with an 8-9 record, missing the playoffs. It was a bitter disappointment for Tagovailoa, Hill, and everyone involved. Pressure to Perform in 2025 There is inherent pressure to perform for Tagovailoa, Hill, and the Dolphins. For Tagovailoa, his injury history has been a major issue in recent years, and the feeling is that another major head injury could spell the end of his career. For Hill, there are several things to prove. First, he needs to show his teammates that he is dedicated to them and the team. He also needs to show that, at 31 years old, he isn’t trending downward. It would be surprising to see him fail to register 1,000 yards again, but can he get back to the 1,700-yard plateau of the past? The Dolphins also have big expectations. What was once a young, promising team now has questions abound. Will another failed season result in the dismissal of head coach Mike McDaniel? Making the playoffs and winning at least one game would be enough to keep the team moving forward. Changes Ahead? Experts are speculating whether this will be the end of the current Dolphins run. If McDaniel goes, Tagovailoa and Hill may not be far behind. That would ultimately result in a hard reset for the franchise, which typically takes at least a few years to get out of and is something to be avoided. By Ml Staff. Image courtesy of CCS Pictures, flickr.