The Playing For Change Foundation’s 2025 Impact Awards gala was nothing short of spectacular—an evening where music, philanthropy, and global unity converged to raise over $2 million for the foundation’s mission.

On March 15, Miami’s Rubell Museum set the stage for this star-studded affair, honoring The Marley Family, JUANES, and Anitta for their commitment to social change through music. The event, co-chaired by Whitney Kroenke Silverstein & Nick Silverstein; Karolina Kurkova & Archie Drury; and Sandra & Howard Hoffen, was a dazzling display of music’s power to unite and uplift.

Before the awards, guests were whisked into the Capital One Entertainment Garden Party, a lush, Amazon-inspired oasis featuring a Caipirinha Bar, vibrant greenery, and exotic performers—setting the night’s magical tone.

The red carpet sizzled with industry luminaries including Island Records founder Chris Blackwell, Grammy-winning artist Maxwell, supermodel Lais Ribeiro, NBA legend Alonzo Mourning, and Recording Academy President Panos A. Panay, all showing up in support of PFCF’s mission.

The Marley Family, led by Cedella & Rohan Marley, was recognized for carrying forward Bob Marley’s vision of One Love through their work with the Bob and Rita Marley Foundation. Chris Blackwell, a longtime reggae champion, presented the award. In a surprise twist, Blackwell himself received an Impact Award for his lifetime contributions to music and social change. JUANES was honored for his humanitarian work with Fundación Mi Sangre, which has empowered over 2 million people across Colombia. Anitta was celebrated for her advocacy in youth and music education, particularly through her work with Instituto Playing For Change in Brazil.

The evening featured show-stopping performances, with GALE delivering a powerful tribute to JUANES that enthralled the crowd. In an unexpected moment, JUANES himself took the stage for a surprise performance. Skip Marley honored his family’s legacy with an unforgettable set, while youth groups Young Musicians Unite (YMU) & Hip Hop Kidz kept the energy high, reinforcing the night’s theme: music as a force for change.

The celebration continued at Superblue Miami, where Cimafunk turned up the heat with its signature fusion of funk, Afro-Cuban, Latin, and electronic beats, keeping the party alive into the wee hours of the morning.

Among the night’s many philanthropic moments, Jerry Plush won a coveted guitar after an exciting, cut-throat bidding war with his wife, Jessica Plush, and Alitza Weiss made a significant contribution to the foundation’s cause.

Capital One Entertainment, Tiffany & Co., Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Jockey, and SPIN Magazine helped bring this mission-driven night to life, reinforcing Playing For Change Foundation’s impact across 95+ locations in 27 countries.

As the night came to a close, one message remained clear: music is more than a universal language—it’s a tool for transformation.

To learn more or support the cause, visit PlayingForChange.org/Impact.

Photo credit: World Red Eye

In a vibrant fusion of high fashion and athletic fervor, Flaunt magazine and Loewe hosted an exclusive celebration honoring Aryna Sabalenka, the tennis virtuoso and recent Flaunt cover star, at chic Casa Neos to kick-off the Miami Open. This curated gathering, a testament to the intersection of sport and artistry, welcomed a discerning assemblage of athletes, creatives, and industry elites.

Guests indulged in signature bites, the Marg-Aryna, a cocktail masterpiece conceived by Sabalenka and executed by Dobel Tequila, while the sonic landscape was sculpted by the dynamic DJ sets of Jay.Wav, Grand Marchis, and Sole Aspect. Sip Channe offered a unique, immersive pour experience, elevating the evening’s sensory journey. 

The esteemed guest list included:  Kris Humphries, Academy Award-winning actor Cuba Gooding Jr., ’80s sensation Taylor Dayne, actor Vincent De Paul, entrepreneur and real estate visionary Alan Faena, art collector Rasher Benacerraf, designer Sam Robin, Kavita Channe, CEO of Sip Channé, VP of events, Ernesto Arambatzis, luxury connoisseur Gianfranco Berardinelli and a host of Wilhelmina models draped in beautiful Loewe ensembles. Each guest added their unique luster to the event.

The event was produced by Rose Thorn (@rosefaiththorn) and Jeffrey Jah (@jeffreyjah), bringing a seamless blend of high fashion, sport, and culture to the heart of Miami. The celebration was captured by William Perez (@williamperez_at) and BFA (@bfa), highlighting the night’s energy and elegance. Photos courtesy of BFA.

As a fragrance lover, I couldn’t wait to visit Olfactory NYC’s newly opened Wynwood, Miami location. Known for their customizable, high-quality perfumes, Olfactory NYC offers a unique experience—blending luxury scents at an affordable price.

Personalizing My Signature Scent

Upon arrival, I was welcomed into a sleek, modern space that reflected Wynwood’s creative energy. The real magic began when I explored their core scents, crafted by world-class perfumers like Frank Voelkl (the nose behind Le Labo’s Santal 33) and Honorine Blanc (responsible for YSL’s Mon Paris).

After sampling the collection, I chose Hunter as my base, a warm, musky blend of cedarwood, vanilla, and tonka bean, created by master perfumer Ilias Ermenidis (known for scents from Gucci and Givenchy). With expert guidance, I customized it further, adding hints of bergamot and sandalwood to create a scent that felt uniquely mine.

A Personalized Touch

One of the coolest parts? Olfactory NYC labels your custom scent with your name and keeps it on file, making it easy to reorder when you run out. No need to remember your formula—they’ve got it saved for you!

More Than Just a Store—A Perfect Experience

Olfactory NYC isn’t just about buying perfume—it’s an experience. Whether you’re looking for a unique date night idea, a thoughtful gift, or even a creative team-building activity, customizing a fragrance is a fun and interactive way to connect. It’s hands-on, personal, and something you’ll remember every time you wear your scent.

Why Wynwood?

From the vibrant murals outside to the curated music inside, this location is more than just a store—it’s an immersive experience. Olfactory NYC seamlessly merges fragrance with art, making it the perfect fit for Wynwood’s creative heartbeat.

Final Thoughts

Leaving with my custom Hunter-based perfume in hand, I felt a new appreciation for the artistry behind scent. If you’re in Miami, don’t miss the chance to create your own fragrance at Olfactory NYC—you may just discover your perfect signature scent.

The 2025 SOBWFF: Mike’s Amazing Burger Bash presented by Shweid and Sons was everything we hoped for—mouthwatering burgers, incredible energy, and well-fed food lovers. With the sound of sizzling grills in the air, the ocean breeze rolling in, and an all-star lineup of chefs bringing their best, this year’s event was truly one for the books.

Some of the most talented chefs from across the country (and beyond!) went head-to-head, serving up next-level creations packed with bold flavors and creative twists. The competition was fierce, the bites were unforgettable, and honestly choosing winners was no easy task!

And the Winners Are…

Schweid & Sons® The Very Best Burger Award
Skinny Louie took home the top honor and a $2,500 prize for their Wagyu Louie—a mouthwatering combination of double smashed wagyu beef patties, melted smoked gouda, truffle aioli, and pickled jalapeños, all stacked on a buttery brioche bun. Simply put, a burger lover’s dream!

Mike’s Amazing® People’s Choice Award
The fans have spoken! La Birra Bar from Argentina won over the crowd and took home a $5,000 check for their Smash Golden Chimichurri Burger— two smashed patties, American cheese, red onions, and a special Argentinian chimichurri mayo that had festivalgoers coming back for more.

Idaho Potato® Best Side Dish Award
Because a great burger deserves a great side! La Birra Bar also won for their “Smashbrowns”—crispy, loaded hash browns with a zesty lime pepper seasoning that perfectly complemented their award-winning burger.

Burger Bash wasn’t just about the food—it was about the experience. Ice-cold drinks, live music, and an electric atmosphere made it an unforgettable night of celebration, bringing together food lovers from all over.

#SOBEWFF #BurgerBash2025 #Mike’sAmazing #SchweidAndSons #LaBirraBar #SkinnyLouie #FoodieHeaven

The Miami Beach EDITION is hosting its 8th Annual Ping Pong, Pizza, & Peroni event on Friday, February 21, 2025, from 10:00 PM to 1:00 AM at MARKET at EDITION. This late-night celebration, hosted by Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, features entertaining ping pong matches, signature pizzas, sliders, a raw bar with stone crabs, oysters, shrimp, freshly rolled sushi, and a variety of desserts. Specialty cocktails will also be available, with music provided by guest DJ Keen One. Tickets are priced at $150 (plus tax) per person, including entry, food, and beverages. Attendees must be 21 or older. Valet parking starts at $30, with limited street parking available. For more information and to purchase tickets visit, 8th Annual Ping Pong, Pizza, & Peroni Tickets, Fri, Feb 21, 2025 at 10:00 PM | Eventbrite.

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and mingle with the stars at the iconic South Beach Wine & Food Festival (SOBEWFF).

This four-day extravaganza, which returns for its 24th year from February 20-23, has grown far beyond its South Beach roots, spreading its culinary magic across Miami’s Design District, Wynwood, and Coconut Grove.

Imagine a gourmet playground teeming with over 500 celebrity chefs, renowned personalities, and beverage wizards. From Rachael Ray rocking the 18th annual Mike’s Amazing® Burger Bash to Aarón Sánchez sizzling up the hottest tacos at Tacos & Tequila, SOBEWFF promises an unforgettable foodie adventure.

But the delicious adventures don’t stop there. Dive into intimate brunches, masterclasses, and exclusive dinners, or bring the whole family for special events. Feeling festive? Late-night parties await. Whether you crave intimate culinary conversations or a grand tasting extravaganza with 1,200+ delectable samples spread across 135,000 square feet at the Goya Foods’ Grand Tasting Village, SOBEWFF caters to every palate and party mood. 

Speaking of the Goya Foods Grand Tasting Village- it ranks among our favorite activations of the weekend. Imagine a daytime dance party with your 1000 closest friends right on the sand… but with a twist. The culinary playground features live cooking demos from Food Network stars, 1,200+ food and drink samples, and unforgettable concert experiences curated by the brilliant minds behind Groot Hospitality and Only in Dade. Get ready to groove and graze as Ultra meets the SOBEWFF.

The best part is that each bite you savor supports a worthy cause. 100% of the festival’s net proceeds benefit the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University, a top-ranked program shaping the future stars of the industry. So raise a glass (or fork!) to good food, good company, and giving back at this epicurean extravaganza!Tickets are just a click away at SOBEWFF2025.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of Miami’s most fun, creative and elaborate culinary happening.