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Marisa Milroy is captivating and enigmatic, much like her approach to storytelling. A published poet at age seven, Marisa’s craft continued to develop into works of fiction, leading to her branching into Film at the age of eighteen. Originating from Canada, Marisa moved to Los Angeles at seventeen. Marisa honed her craft as a screenwriter, receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Screenwriting from The New York Film Academy. Marisa’s screenplays explore the tenacity of complex characters in unconventional worlds. She specializes in both Feature and Television screenplays centered upon LGBTQIA+ and mental health driven concepts. Her spec feature screenplay AWAKE, garnered attention at numerous notable screenplay competitions. It was a quarterfinalist for the Screen Craft Screenwriting Fellowship (2020), placed in the Quarter-Final round of the 2020 PAGE Awards competition, advanced in the second round in the Drama Feature Screenplay in the 2020 Austin Film Festival Script Competition, and received an honorable mention at First Frame International Film Festival 2021. While the world entered a new normal, Marisa moved back to Vancouver, BC where she was hired by a local production company to adapt a YA novel for an unreleased television mini-series. Marisa is currently in development on an LGBTQIA+ screenplay with Florida Hill Entertainment. Marisa ventured back to Los Angeles and opened up her business in conjunction with her production company, Did You See Me productions. Specializing in working as a screenwriter and producer, Marisa’s company offers writing services such as ghostwriting and script doctoring as well as her own freelance as a screenwriter. She most recently produced The Secret Art of Human Flight, starring Academy Award Nominee Paul Raci (Sound of Metal) and Grant Rosenmeyer (The Royal Tenanbaums, Money Monster ), its release slated for 2023. Her recent short films, SWATCH, What You Felt Like, and Lily White are also slated for a 2023 release. Associated with her company, Marisa also works with the non-profit organization, Tad Health, producing and writing a podcast to provide a platform for high school and college students. Marisa’s main purpose is to be a voice to the mental health and addiction community as well as LGBTQIA+ and share stories that bring attention and awareness. Check out her interview in our print issue!

Meet Dr. Ernst von Schwarz, a triple board-certified clinical and academic cardiologist, and one of the world's foremost experts on stem cell research and anti-aging. Featured on Men's Health and a regular medical news contributor to TV and radio, Dr. von Schwarz is recognized globally as a pioneer in the field of stem cell research. With over 25 years of experience participating in basic research studies and clinical trials involving stem cells for various medical conditions, Dr. von Schwarz has authored the groundbreaking book, The Secret World of Stem Cell Therapy. In this book, he offers readers an exclusive inside view into the world of stem cell therapy, providing expert advice on how to approach the subject, what questions to ask, and how to be alert to red flags. Dr. von Schwarz is currently a clinical professor of medicine at UCLA and Director of Cardiology, Director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory, and Director of the Heart Institute at the Southern California Hospital at Culver City. He has published over 150 scientific papers in international peer-reviewed medical journals and authored several books and book chapters in cardiovascular medicine. As a sought-after expert witness in high-profile court cases, Dr. von Schwarz is a prolific speaker who lectures worldwide at international scientific conferences, including the American Heart Association, American College of Cardiology, and European Society of Cardiology, among many others. In recent news, Dr. von Schwarz has been called upon to share his expert opinion on the latest biotechnology breakthroughs and the news that Sam Altman invested $180 million into a company trying to delay death and add 10 healthy years to the human lifespan. With Dr. von Schwarz's extensive knowledge and experience in stem cell research and anti-aging, he is the go-to expert for anyone seeking advice on how to approach the subject of stem cell therapy and biotechnology. So we reached out to him and asked some questions. Can you explain the potential benefits of stem cell therapy in modern medicine? Stem cell therapy is the basis for what we now consider regenerative medicine that represents a shift from the conventional dogma of the all-or-nothing phenomenon (which means if there is damage from lack of oxygen or trauma or degeneration with advanced age that this is irreversible) to the possibility to repair damage by using stem cells. How do you distinguish between legitimate and unsubstantiated claims about stem cell therapy? Almost impossible for the layperson, I refer to my book “The Secret World of Stem Cell Therapy” which is supposed to serve as a guide for the public and possible stem cell patients on what questions to ask since the web mainly provides advertising and marketing rather than scientific facts. What should someone considering stem cell therapy know before making a decision? There is no cure for any disease using stem cell therapy, to date. Don’t believe spoken statements from companies, ask about their scientific data publications (which 99% don’t have). Can you discuss your personal experience participating in basic research studies and clinical trials using stem cells? Yes. How many months do you have to listen? I have been involved in stem cell research for over 20 years. Our first animal studies demonstrated that embryonic heart cells and stem cells transplanted into recipient animals after induced heart attacks could survive and contribute to improved heart function, which then started the hype on stem cell therapy, especially for cardiovascular diseases. The clinical trials are of utmost importance but very stringent in inclusion and exclusion criteria and therefore, are oftentimes not an option for the patients who would benefit the most from stem cells since they might be too sick to be considered for some studies. As an expert on anti-aging, what breakthroughs in this field are you most excited about? The fact that stem cells have the ability to work for so many different conditions, from arthritis to HIV to hair loss to erectile dysfunction to multiple sclerosis. How do you think Sam Altman's investment in a company trying to delay death and add 10 healthy years to the human lifespan will impact the medical field? There is a realistic goal to prolong life (see my upcoming book “The Secrets of Immortality” / Release date August 1, 2023) and to prolong heath span, which includes regenerative therapy using stem cells. It also includes other aspects such as diet and exercise as well as an individualized approach, there is no magic single pill to change longevity. Can you speak about any upcoming research or projects in the field of cardiology that you are currently working on? We are conducting several studies (in part patient funded) on chronic heart failure, erectile dysfunction, neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, dementia, and even autism in children in the near future, which requires substantial financial support by philanthropy. If someone wants to play a role in the future of modern medicine, we have the place to go to make a name (and more) long-lived and possibly immortal.

Art has evolved multiple times over the centuries. Early humans used the cave walls to record stories of their lives. Eventually, art became a tool for expression and continued being a platform for sharing inspiration and information, whether factual or fictional, in the latter years. In the modern world, art moved and adapted to online spaces and contemporary ideas but maintained its purpose in society. One example is graphic design. The American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) defines it as “the art and practice of planning and projecting ideas and experiences with visual and textual content.” It’s usually present in business logos, advertisements, or the complex layers of a website. It takes skills to create content that modern society can appreciate and relate to. If graphic designing skills are what it takes, then it’s graphic designing skills that Argentinean native Delfina Soto has. Besides that, she boasts of a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry, specializing in digital and print design. “I am committed to delivering visually stunning and engaging marketing materials, whether collaborating with renowned brands or assisting small businesses in promoting their unique offerings,” she said. Soto’s other abilities and talents include an unwavering passion for design and a keen eye for detail as she pushes the boundaries of her creativity with every step she takes to further her career. Yet being a passionate graphic designer doesn’t happen overnight. Like some, if not most, creative individuals, they realize their genuine interests as they continue their journey in life. For Soto, her creative path began while pursuing her bachelor’s degree in advertising. “During my studies, I discovered my true passion lay in the creative aspects of communications. This realization led me to kick-start my career as a designer in the hospitality industry, working for a well-known Argentinean travel agency called We-Tag,” she shared. Seeing as her passions for her career have changed, Soto began charting the course of her life toward opportunities that would aid her in becoming a well-equipped graphic designer. One significant step she took was pursuing educational opportunities at the University of California, Los Angeles. Immersed in the vibrant environment, she eagerly enrolled in a digital marketing certification program to enhance her expertise and cultivate a broader outlook, two things she’s determined to stay ahead of the ever-evolving digital landscape. Then came the time for Soto to apply what she learned. She joined Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt and handled all digital and print design for marketing purposes. It prompted her to exercise her creativity, authority, and professionalism. “In this role, I supported over 400 franchisees in their promotional efforts, working on national flavor campaigns and collaborating with renowned brands such as Oreo, Hershey's, Peppa Pig, Pj Masks, and more,” she said proudly. Soto also created engaging content for the brand’s social media platforms, which amassed nearly 50,000 dedicated followers. The Argentinean graphic designer now works as the sole designer of Jiti, an interior design company. She creates all marketing collateral, manages its social media presence, and creates patterns for pillows and furniture, all while embracing her passion for the hospitality industry and fostering her talent in graphic design.

As AI continues to revolutionize workplaces worldwide, the topic of its role in HR management has become increasingly vital. This is the perfect time to delve into this fascinating subject and gain insights from an industry expert like Jennifer Morehead. Photo credit of Sophie Baron Can you tell us a bit about your background? Where did you grow up? Go to college? Where are you located now? Jennifer Morehead: I grew up in Nebraska and later attended Northwestern University's business school in Chicago. Currently, I am located in Chicago. What led you to acquire Flex HR and enter the HR consultancy field? Jennifer Morehead: My background is in sales and marketing, and I previously sold my own company in 2020. Acquiring Flex HR felt like a natural progression for me. I saw the rise of HR consultants and recognized the value they bring to businesses. Flex HR offered a partnership opportunity with its original founder, and I was drawn to the company's nationwide presence and emphasis on employee-centric practices. Can you explain the concept of the CEO from Home? Jennifer Morehead: The CEO from Home model is highly relevant in today's business and work-from-home environment. It allows individuals to set up and run businesses remotely, even with a sizable workforce. With the advancements in technology, entrepreneurs can effectively manage their companies from the comfort of their homes. This model offers flexibility and the potential for both personal and professional growth. How do you feel about AI in general? Do you believe it is here to stay? Jennifer Morehead: I am a strong advocate for AI. Just like how publishing companies initially underestimated the internet, it is clear that technology, including AI, is not going anywhere. It is crucial to embrace AI and leverage its potential to enhance productivity and efficiency across various industries. How do you think AI will affect the HR process? Do you think it will eliminate HR roles in companies someday? Jennifer Morehead: AI has the potential to significantly impact the HR process in positive ways. It can make employees and employers more productive, streamline tasks, and provide valuable insights. However, it is important to note that AI should not replace human involvement entirely. There will always be a need for the human touch in areas such as recruitment, onboarding, managing absences, and maintaining a personal connection with employees. Photo credit of Sophie Baron What are your thoughts on the impact of AI on the world? Are we releasing AI technology too fast? Jennifer Morehead: The impact of AI on the world is immense, and its growth has been rapid. While AI brings tremendous opportunities, we must be mindful of how we implement and release the technology. It is essential to strike a balance between innovation and ensuring the ethical and responsible use of AI. It is encouraging to see discussions around pausing growth and reflecting on the potential consequences. We need to prioritize learning and progressing responsibly. How do you view the potential threat of AI to the HR industry? Jennifer Morehead: AI certainly has the potential to transform the HR industry. However, certain aspects of HR, such as building relationships, understanding individual needs, and providing empathy, require a human touch. While AI can automate certain tasks and improve efficiency, it cannot fully replace the value that human HR professionals bring. Onboarding, offboarding, and handling sensitive situations will always necessitate the expertise and emotional intelligence of human HR professionals.

Michele Schamberger is the owner of Plaintiff's Gambit. A business she launched over six months ago after years in the law industry. This Irish bombshell was born in Cali but raised in the south giving her a unique upbringing. She currently resides in Pensacola, Florida but travels often for work. We all know that litigation & trial logistics can be time-consuming and at times stressful. However, when Michelle and Plaintiffs' Gambit is secured as a vendor, trial teams can spend their time on case specifics vs logistics, which saves the team money in the long run (as well as stress). After the success of Lawyer shows like the Lincoln Lawyer, we knew we had to get a taste of this industry and we are so glad that Michelle was available to tell us about her and her business. How long have you been in Litigation & Trial Logistics? I have been in the law industry for a long time from contract writing, to paralegal and marketing for lawyers. I have been doing Litigation and Trial Logistics for 19 months and started doing my own business 6 months ago. What are you most well-known for? Vender relations with hotels, restaurants, and local vendors to assist with the logistics for my clients. What is your Instagram Profile? At what age did you realize you wanted to be a part of this industry and what did you do to move towards that goal? In high school, I wanted to get into the army and was one of the first girls to get into the ranger program. I wanted to be a pilot but was restricted because of a sight issue, so when I was college age I started studying business law then. Was there someone in the industry that influenced your choice to be in the law? My father was the reason I joined the law field off his recommendation that my skill set would be highlighted in that industry. What were some of your favorite childhood activities or hobbies? I played concert piano, was very much involved in drama, math, and student government danced, and often played banker at home instead of going out. I loved fashion and designing clothing and later would launch a children's clothing boutique Who is your biggest supporter and why? My husband. He is my #1 cheerleader. and is always staying on point with my eating and sleeping because they know I am a workaholic. My parents are also close to me and have been a big piece of my motivation. Who is a role model that you admire in your personal life? My best friend Wendy is someone I admire. she gives me great criticism and really has become a true friend and someone that I admire as a second mother. When you’re not working, how do you spend your free time? I am very OCD and impulsive so if I am not working I like to work out and keep moving. my free time is my kids all the time. I plan on spending as much time with them as I can. I even take them to work with me when I can. What are your thoughts on social media? Social media is a double edge sword. I think that everything in life is grand because we put out our highlight reels and I think I get inspired at the same time by the things you see. What is one of your favorite inspirational quotes? Your time is limited so waste it living someone elses life. steve jobs Do you have any pets? Yes. We have 40 chickens, 6 ducks, 4 cats, and 3 dogs. We have a great property that we call our mini farm out in the country. What are your five- and 10-year goals? In 6 months I want to expand and partner with other businesses, and hope that in five years we can do it all from start to finish in the litigation process. At the age of 45, I hope to have a company that my children can take over and I can retire. Name three things on your bucket list. I would love to travel and see Europe and Italy Enjoying my kids and watching them going through their milestones What health and beauty tips do you swear by? Plastic Surgery. A good one is a key! I think that gracefully and strategically you can fight the aging process and it's the way I fight it. My hair is professionally blown out in my hair. What is the first thing you think of in the morning? Work! my mind is always going 100 miles a minute. I am the main character in the Gambit show on Netflix, I can lay in bed and see the parts of my day playing out on the ceiling. Can you tell us about your least favorite experience so far? How did it change your approach to success? What is something random about you that most dont know about you? My mom's grandfather was the photographer for sherly temple and John Wayne. I have always admired the older generation of film and tv. I always feel like I was born in the wrong generation. What is your personal definition of the word CONFIDENCE? Confidence is doing it. knowing I have the ability, knowledge, and skills to get what I want when I walk into the room. Tell us about a moment when your confidence was the key piece to your success. I worked for a law firm but when the senior partner passed away I knew it was time to start my own company. I was scared but was able to get the confidence to do it. My first client having faith in me was a great tool to boost my confidence in the industry If a young girl/boy wanted to break into your industry, what advice would you give them? It's all based on relationships and the community is small. What made me excel was always treating people like family. being polite, respectful, and the small things to keep your clients happy. How do you prepare yourself to network with others? Research and learn what firms are working on at that time and what position they have within the system. I go to conferences and educational classes that are part of the law and the legalities so that I can communicate and speak the language. Talking points are the key and building that relationship. ONE WORD WITH…. What is your favorite drink? Iced honey Almond milk flat white from Starbucks What is the best color to wear? Red Who is your style icon? Jacky O What is your most used emoji? Hearts What sport are you the worst at? anything with a ball What is your favorite place to visit? New York What is the best show on Netflix right now? Queens Gambit What is your favorite flavor of Ice Cream? Praline. Vanilla with nuts Do you have any tattoos? Yes. 2 If you could be any animal what would it be? Lama. What is your dream job? I am doing it! Are you a morning or night person? Morning Beach or City? The city for me, Beach for family Would you ever go to outer space? Yes. What is your biggest addiction? coffee What store do you shop at the most? Target What is your best feature? Hair Who is your favorite music artist? Queen Who is your favorite cartoon character? Ariel What are you afraid of? Water

Edward Tricomi is a master celebrity stylist and co-founder of legendary Warren-Tricomi Salons , the ultimate experience in luxury haircare. Edward's unrivaled expertise sets trends and has defined beauty across the globe- just ask George Clooney , Scarlett Johansson , and Mick Jagger ( just to name a few). Edward has a track record of working with tons of A-List celebrities, and it's no surprise considering his jaw-dropping talent. When  Tim Burton  got his hair cut by Edward Tricomi, he was inspired to write the movie "Edward Scissorhands"-  and if you've seen the flick, you're familiar with the way Edward Tricomi cuts hair:  It's a one-of-a-kind experience with lightning-fast blades and hair flying everywhere.  In addition to his star-studded track record, Edward has worked for years designing hair for fashion shows including  Valentino ,  Christian Dior ,  Yves Saint Laurent ,  Gianfranco Ferr e,  Calvin Klein ,  Donna Karan , and  Ralph Lauren . It's safe to say he's seen and done it all! Edward Tricomi is known for demanding excellence in everything he does. Be it hair, fashion, or music – when Tricomi is involved, perfection isn’t just expected: it’s inevitable . The roots ( no pun intended ) of his renowned career began after a suggestion from his sister that he try cutting hair to supplement his income as a musician.  Growing up, Edward read Vogue religiously, devouring and absorbing the art within it. Moreover, as the grandson of a fashion designer, he was always surrounded and inspired by the world of fashion. Edward’s high-precision dry cuts and Roxana’s industry experience make the Warren- Tricomi Salons a one-stop beauty destination. Collectively, they debuted the first Warren-Tricomi Salon in midtown Manhattan. In 2008, they opened the luxurious Plaza Hotel flagship location and today the thriving empire features 5 U.S. and 9 international salons, each designed uniquely to fit its geographic location with a modern twist. Warren Tricomi salons are located in New York, Connecticut, California, and Florida, but the man himself can usually be found at the Plaza Hotel located in Manhattan.

Brazilian musician and music producer Eric Gorza says he’s now living and working in Los Angeles but is still remotely collaborating with his long-time bands Pura Vida and Pelados, which changed the band’s name to Rosa Chá. The band just started a partnership with a major radio station from Brazil, Jovem Pan, and the band is working on a brand-new album that will be produced by Rodolfo Simor, Latin Grammy winner producer. Eric moved to Los Angeles a few years ago to focus his career in music producing and recording/mixing engineering. He has been working non-stop for Thyphoon Music Group (LA/California), Gabriel Franzese’s (D'addario/Music Man endorsed artist), upcoming EP and Zé Maholics’ (brazilian group from Vitória) Quarantine Sessions. Gorza started his relationship with music at a young age by listening to his father’s LP records and started his musical journey studying popular guitar at the age of 12 when he had his very first lessons with Fernando Vieira, a well-known jazz guitarist from his hometown – Vitória. Quickly, Eric turned into one of Fernando’s best students, his understanding of rhythm, harmony and melodies were above the average level and in a few years Eric was helping Fernando on his educational concerts where Eric had a chance to play with a band for the first time. Few years later, Eric formed his first original band, Silken Feast. With that band, Eric had the opportunity to play in a lot of small pubs/venues around his city. The band’s best achievement was to play in the biggest venue from Vitoria - ES, called Spirito Jazz, that was a stage for renewed national and international artists. Approximately one year later, Eric decided to quit the group and form another band, called Pelados. With them, he started playing not only in venues but also in festivals. With Pelados, Eric recorded a live videoclip of their first single “Ela é Sexo” which was his very first experience in a professional recording studio. This episode gave him a new overview on the process of creating, producing, recording and sharing music with people. Eric got really into music prod so he started taking music production classes with Sergio Benevenuto – a latin grammy nominee producer, graduated in the Berklee School of Music (Boston, MA). This experience was important in teaching him better how to apply music theory in a functional and practical way. The classes gave Eric enough knowledge to produce his first Album “Saco Cheio - Pelados”. At the time, Eric also started to study vocal, having weekly lessons with Alza Alves – a singer from Rio de Janeiro who worked for major artists like Tim Maia, Gilberto Gil, Chico Buarque and Beth Carvalho. This experience too gave him a wider view and contributed to his understanding of the musical universe. Even living in a small capital that does not care about artistic expression in general - with few opportunities and incentive, Eric put all his effort to be an outstanding musician and, one day, he was invited to enter the surf music group Pura Vida Original. The invitation came along with a call for an emergency rehearsal for a tour in Rio de Janeiro, which was about to start four days after the call. The tour was a success, Eric’s first experience with Pura Vida Original was to play for a huge audience, out of his hometown. According to Eric, that experience was mind blowing. Since then, Eric has been active as a permanent member of Pura Vida. They made a lot of concerts in Vitória and Rio de Janeiro, playing together with important groups from Brazil (Falamansa - SP, Ponto de Equilíbrio - RJ, Maneva - SP, Armandinho - RS). Pura Vida released one EP (2016), one studio album (2019), 05 videoclips, 05 singles and 01 live concert recorded at the University of Espirito Santo’s Theatre (2019). His work with Pura Vida had definitely opened a lot of doors for him. The opportunity to produce an album with a Latin Grammy winner - Rodolfo Simor opened his mind even more about the music production industry. Beyond all the concerts, tours and productions, the most memorable achievements with Pura Vida were: - Partnership with Radio Cidade, one of the biggests radio stations in Vitoria - ES; - Rio Scenarium concert (one of the most traditional venues in Brazil); - WSL (World Surf League) concert in Saquarema - RJ as the headline band; - Partnership with Festival Casa Corais one of the biggest festivals in Vitoria - ES; - Sharing the stage with major artists (Armandinho, Falamansa, Maneva, Ponto de Equilibrio); - Single “A vida é uma só” featured in “Em Movimento” (Globo’s music television show). Although happy with the progress of Pura Vida and Pelados (that made one original song get into Spotify official playlist “Indie Brasil”), Eric still wanted to take his career to the next level so he moved to Los Angeles to study guitar/audio engineering at Musicians Institute - Hollywood. In his first year in Los Angeles, he focused on studying electric guitar. At the end of the first year he realized that his focus should change to sound engineering and musical production because of his passion and also the wider working possibilities in the music industry. Throughout his two years at this Musicians Institute, Eric got the chance to expand and apply his knowledge as a guitar player - playing in renowned venues like The Hotel Cafe - Hollywood, The Lexicon - Downtown LA; working as a session guitarist for Minna Amanda; musical producer – producing Gabriel Franzese, Steep Gradient and Karlee Shannon; and sound engineering – organizing recording sessions, mixing and mastering songs. He also got a degree in audio engineering from Musicians Institute - Hollywood.

Actor Daniel Delhoyo stars in the film ‘The Leak’. ‘The Leak’ definitely changed the perspective of the way we perceive Sci-Fi movies after being screened in multiple top festivals of Independent Cinema, such as Top Indie Film Awards, being the only Sci-Fi title during its Indie festival circuit, and bringing home the award of Outstanding Achievement from the Berlin Flash Film Festival. “I love the way my character was written. It slowly and unexpectedly becomes a huge part of the plot as the script evolves, which made the actual preparation for it insanely interesting and fulfilling.” Says Daniel. It is important for an actor to understand the live of the character he’s portraying, but Daniel was not familiar with the insights of the live of a hacker and he’s not even a technology expert. So, he took it seriously and did all the hard work that it takes to create a brilliant performance. He mentioned “I did pretty intense research of how hackers operate and saw about 10 documentaries about them. I did not have any understanding of hacking or even computers at all. I literally struggle to remember the password on my laptop.” It’s not only a movie about hackers…it really portrays accurately the theme of greed and betrayal. The film does an impeccable job in disguising this with entertaining explosions and chase sequences. However, it is a very emotional and relatable story that basically explores the natural instinct of greed and power in our society. “I honestly think that you can merge Sci-Fi and cool-looking stuff and still remain artistic and loyal to the art of cinema. The Leak is the proof of it.” Says Delhoyo. The film was shot on green screen and Daniel claims that it was the most fun he has ever had “I had never had so much fun filming….CGI was definitely a challenge, but a fun challenge! Filming on a green screen and imagining what it would be like having people spying on me over the phone definitely took me out of my comfort zone. Coming to work every day and holding a phone while running around worried all over a green studio was actually super fun. I’d do it 1,000 times again!”

In a world where everyone strives to live from acting, traveling and vlogging, only a few are actually able to make a living out of the arts in Hollywood. According to the statistics, the city of angels gets around 50 million visitors every year, an incredibly high number. A big part of these visitors are aspiring actors, influencers, and singers. But how many actually make it in this tough city? Alican Akman has been living in Los Angeles for six years, and he is the perfect example of a successful Hollywood actor and content creator. But achieving his current status was not an easy job! Just like almost every successful personality in the field of arts, Alican had to work and study for hours and even years to get to where he is today. Born in Izmir, Turkey, he was drawn to the arts from a very young age, performing in several plays written by Shakespeare, Çehov, and Molier, just to name a few. He was only 19 years old when he landed his first big play “Leyla ile Mecnun” directed by prestigious Turkish film director, screenwriter, producer and actor Onur Ünlü. That was only the beginning of Alican’s outstanding journey. That was the turning point, where his efforts and sleepless nights of studying finally started blooming, since, soon after release, “Leyla ile Mecnun”, became the first series in Turkey to break into the top 50’s of IMDB’s top 250 best series. Alican arrived in the United States of America with a solid resume. By the time he decided to move to Hollywood, he had already scored roles in big award winning movies such as Sen Aydinlatirsin Geceyi and Itirazim Var directed by Onur Ünlü and several television series. But working as a full time actor and content creator did not mean Alican was done. Although he was already successful, he continued to perfect his art on sets by studying and learning from the best: “Eric Morris” and “Ivana Chubbuck”, both A-list acting coaches, the latter famous for her book “The power of the actor”. Because of his continuous tenacity and hard work, Alican is now preparing to star in a yet non disclosed Turkish-American romantic comedy that will air on Netflix. “If I had to give any advice to young aspiring actors it would be to never give up. Acting can be hard, living in Hollywood can be hard. If you wanna make a difference you gotta push through, it is the ones who keep going the ones who make it” says Alican with kindness.

Peruvian music composer, producer and bass player moved to Los Angeles and is now working with artists such as Tamara Kumbula (Preach Records, RocNation), Saul Losada (Musician seen on Pre Grammy Awards, Pre-MTV Movie Awards), Molly Rose (Endorsed Artist by Paiste Cymbals, Vater Drumsticks) and playing in recognized venues around the US with nominated and award-winning band KingQueen (Hollywood in Media Awards, International Music Video Awards in Paris). Ella started her music career in Lima, Peru, where she was born and raised. She discovered her love for music at the age of 12 after playing her first guitar - She said “I started playing the guitar fairly young. I was making songs, but I didn't know what any of that meant until later on. When I decided to take music as my career”. Ella was mentored by Gregory Sanchez, a prodigy piano player from the National Conservatory of Music in Lima and studied Music at UPC (University of Applied Sciences) with prestigious industry mentors such as Miguel Ginocchio, a keyboard player for Laguna Pai and Bareto (distinguished Peruvian bands). She was also taught music in different recording studios around Peru such as “In Music Lima” where she learned in depth more about music production and engineering. All of this was before Ella decided to take her music career to the next level and move to Los Angeles to expand her knowledge and grow as a musician. After moving to LA, Ella rapidly started working within the music and film industry. She met artist Tamara Kumbula at the Musicians Institute in Hollywood and has been playing at recognized venues around Los Angeles with her since then. Some of the venues they’ve been playing together are “The Whiskey A-Go-Go”, “The Mint”, and “The Federal”. Ella has also been playing for nominated and award winning band KingQueen, where she plays the bass guitar. At first, Ella was working with them as a recording engineer and helping them with the production of drum recordings for their songs ``Roller Coaster” and “Live It Up”. After both songs were released, they got many nominations such as “Best Song Of The Year” at the 2021 Hollywood in Media Awards and quickly after that, the band was signed to Curtain Call Records. At the same time, Ella was recording and engineering bass and drums for their upcoming EP - being the first EP ever released by their new record label. Not long after, Ella became an official member of the band as a bass player and started to perform with them around Los Angeles. Some of the recognized venues they have performed together are “The Mint”, “Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood” as part of the LA Rock Collective, and the world-famous “The Troubadour”. The band has already tour dates for the next upcoming years. Apart from performing, Ella has also been working on producing and engineering well-known drummer Molly Rose for her upcoming collaborations with artist Jo Tyler (Country-Rap Artist). She has also been part of the album recording “Energy” by musician and music composer Saul Losada. “Most of the artists that I am working on and all the opportunities that I’ve had couldn’t have been possible if I wasn’t here in LA. I studied composition at the Musicians Institute and met some wonderful people that have opened and expanded my chances. Also just in general being a hard-working person, very professional, and on top of your game is something that people here in LA, such a competitive place, value the most. Apart from being a really good person and someone they want to work with, of course. I think one of the things that I have learned here is that you always have to be pushing, always aiming higher, and be prepared for anything. Because your dreams can come true anytime, if you just keep going.” Ella explained. Follow her career on social media! Official Website: https://www.ellagburgos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellaxsound/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellaxsound

Will Smith could win this year his first Oscar. He received a Best Actor nomination from the Academy Awards on Tuesday, Feb. 8, for his role in “King Richard.” Smith previously received nominations for “Ali” in 2002 and “Pursuit of Happyness” in 2007. Playing Richard Williams, the father of tennis prodigies Venus and Serena Williams, Smith was hailed for his performance. What other incredible actors will be competing with him this year? Benedict Cumberbatch for “The Power of the Dog”, Spanish actor Javier Bardem for “Being the Ricardos”; Andrew Garfield, “Tick, Tick...Boom!”; and the incredible Denzel Washington, “The Tragedy of Macbeth”.

We’ve all been feeling isolated these days, but try living on a small island off the coast of Western Canada with no indoor plumbing and no Internet. That was the better part of Quinn Teechma’s childhood until, her mother began taking her to Vancouver to pursue acting and modelling. “I never thought too much about my growing up because to me, it was usual,” Teechma, now a successful photographer and social media influencer says. “Of course, moving to the bigger cities and having more conversations has made me realize it wasn’t the most usual upbringing!” Though she was in ways sophisticated for her age–her family traveled extensively, including a jaunt to Nepal–Teechma learned not to stand out too much or risk attracting bullies. “When I first moved to a city school, it was difficult,” she remembers. “I was different and had little in common with my peers. When I wanted a hot bath, I was used to building a fire underneath a cast iron tub! I didn’t know what other kids were talking about when they’d discuss TV shows or games or certain toys. My teachers even made me feel different.” Hoping to avoid odd looks or bullying, Teechma would say that she was from “Vancouver” or “Vancouver Island” if asked. She never mentioned the tiny cabin with no indoor plumbing where she’d been raised or that her sister had been born on a sailboat. But being evasive just added to her sense of alienation. Finding self-confidence became a journey that led Teechma from acting and modelling to pageantry. She found beauty pageants to be far different than how they were portrayed. Teechma thrived on the preparation and discipline required of a beauty queen–learning how to be interviewed and present oneself, being creative. “It’s all about how you carry yourself,” she says. Once she became successful, there were bullies who would try to push Teechma off her pedestal (naturally!) but this was a small price to pay for the self-awareness and tenacity she was gaining. “When you do these deep-dives into a self-reflective space, confidence follows,” Teechma says. Recently the girl from the tiny island became a finalist for the title of Miss Universe Canada. In the press, she has been described as both regal and graceful. But she’d rather be known as inspiring, authentic and empowering. “Knowing yourself deeply and standing up for your beliefs is what creates a strong woman,” Teechma says. Her passion these days, she says, is making women feel like “the queens they are.” During the pandemic, Teechma opened Queen Studios YYC, a “boudoir” photo studio exclusively for women. A lot of her clients, she says, are single mothers coming out of abusive relationships. Most try to cancel a week ahead of time, scared that they’ll look fat or maybe convinced that they just don’t deserve to be sexy. “They come in nervous,” Teechma says. After a professional makeover by a makeup artist, her clients are taught poses that will flatter their body. Teechma then takes all of the photos herself, booking three to five women a week. The idea for the shoots was borne of frustration that, as a model, she never had control of her image–or her images. “Now I can help other women discover their inner queen and capture that forever,” she says. Teechma has recently moved on to helping other photographers start a successful “boudoir” photo studio for themselves. She’s christened this program, “Queen Collective: Six Figures in Six Months” in a nod to the financial success of her own business. She’s even hired a publicist to get her story into the media because she knows that when other women see the success she’s had, in spite of her humble beginnings, they may feel like success is attainable for themselves, too. “I’d like them to wonder, ‘If she can do it, why can’t I?’” Teechma says. Meanwhile, Teechma has also become involved with a number of official Miss Universe Pageant charities, including Operation Smile, SOS Children’s Villages and Habitat for Humanity. With a following of 600,000 fans on Tik Tok alone, she can now generate huge awareness for any cause she chooses. Teechma credits her large (and growing!) fanbase to authenticity and an ability to connect with people, many of whom are also feeling like they live on a distant island after two years of lockdowns and self-isolation. Being a social media influencer is, in many ways, like walking the ultimate runway. You’re vulnerable in the spotlight but also in a unique position to inspire. “Through acting and pageants I grew my confidence but it took internal work and continually takes work to be a role model,” Teechma says. “That’s why my goal is to empower other women–especially young women”. Quinn Teechma is a Miss Universe Canada finalist and was crowned as Miss Canada International Tourism in 2020 and 2021. Quinn has dedicated her life to empowering and uplifting other women and has quickly evolved into an educator to teach others how to do the same thing. and using her many platforms, Tic Tok having over nearly 600,000 followers and more than 2 million likes, she is inspiring all people globally to create positive change in their own lives as well as in the lives of others.