 Interview By Vonoi Magazine In 2018, she launched the diffusion line, VF x VICTOIRE FOCX, an elegant and affordable selection of classic bag silhouettes with a contemporary edge. Each bag is named after someone who inspired her in her personal and professional trajectory. VM - Your background merges both design and modeling. How has these dual perspectives being in front of and behind the camera influenced your approach to creating handbags? Being in front of the camera, I understand how the design and feel of a product enhances the demeanor, or swag of the model advertising the product. Having worked behind the scenes with editors and photographers, I understand what photographs well, and stands out under the lights, against the backdrops and even on the glossy editorial layouts. I design with an emphasis on details that will catch the flashing lights of the camera. VM - Your time studying at RISD and Brown University must have shaped your creative vision. What’s one lesson from your design education that still guides you today? My education taught me to respect the ongoing and ever evolving nature of the design process. I can’t be too attached to final product because the “end result” is never “the end”. As long as something exists, it can always be further designed, and redesigned, including our lives. VM - Working with icons like Alek Wek and Patti Wilson exposed you to fashion at the highest level. What did you learn from these experiences that helped you define your own design voice? Patti Wilson showed me the strength, beauty and magnificence of pushing the envelope, and doing it audaciously. She believed in the unusual ways that I articulated my aesthetic vision, more than my RISD professors did. Her confidence in my know how, empowered me to take more risks in design, and trust the beauty, flavor and integrity of my vision, exploring beyond boundaries. Working with Alek was great for showing me the ins and outs of communicating with factories and managing relationships with manufacturers. VM - Travel seems to be a major source of inspiration for you. How did the architecture and stained glass artistry of Tuscany and Venice translate into the visual language of Victoire Focx handbags? The classical structure of Renaissance cathedrals lots of circles, lines and geometry within the stained glass windows inspired the structured geometric shapes and silhouettes within my collections. The kaleidoscopic effect of stained glass inspired my explorations with mixing textures, patterns and colors to create a similar, tactile effect.   VM - Each Victoire Focx piece carries an air of timeless elegance. How do you strike the balance between classic sophistication and modern relevance in your designs? Classic is identified as classic because it’s always modern. I think of myself as always relevant because I respect the past, honor the present and embrace the future. You don’t loose relevancy if you stay plugged into multigenerational perspectives. I share as much time with 19 year olds as I do with forty something year olds, sixty something year olds, and thirty year olds that act like they’re in their twenties. That’s how I keep my perspective fresh design wise, and in my personal life. VM - The use of exotic leather patchwork is a signature element of your brand. Can you walk us through the craftsmanship process and what makes these details so special? Leather and exotic skins are among the most expensive and sustainable materials one could work with, and to honor this quality is to exalt it by marrying it with top-notch workmanship. VM - In 2018, you launched VF x VICTOIRE FOCX as a more accessible line. How does this collection differ creatively and philosophically from your main luxury collection? VF x Victoire Focx is more streamlined in details. Instead of a focus on intricate and exotic leather patchwork, the key design component is the hardware and ubiquitous motif a semicircular leather adornment bedazzled with snaps, and circle ring enclosed by those snaps. VM - You name each bag after someone who inspired you. Can you share the story behind one of these names and why that person holds a special place in your creative journey? The MONICA bag my fastest and best selling bag was named after Monica Vargas, an effervescent and vivacious woman who encouraged me and uplifted my self-belief at a time that I most needed it. The VALERIE bag is named after my mom, who has long championed my creative expression, intellectual excellence and spiritual development. The two bag styles have very similar shapes, and very different textures, materials and hardware specifications.  VM - With a Master’s in Historical and Sustainable Architecture, how do you incorporate sustainability and architectural structure into your design philosophy?
Because I honor sustainability, it makes perfect sense to me to work with leather, the most sustainable and durable material. Timelessness includes design, material, and durability of the handbags. Structure like the lines and shapes that you see in historical and contemporary architecture is exemplified in all of my silhouettes. VM - As a woman designing for women, what message do you hope Victoire Focx handbags send about empowerment, luxury, and individuality in today’s fashion world? Be the best, most authentic version of yourself; no one else can surpass you at that. Do this, and you’ll live a fulfilled life, regardless of what you’re wearing, how much you’re spending, and who’s noticing. Check out her website at https://www.victoirefocx.com/collection.html Vonoi Magazine
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 When a voice rises from struggle, discipline, and purpose, it resonates. That voice belongs to Jay Maymi—entrepreneur, speaker, author, bodybuilder, educator, and now one of the newest additions to VonoiRadio.com. His show brings intention, impact, and a message shaped by his life’s journey: overcoming challenges, persevering through adversity, and turning obstacles into success. Jay Maymi’s story is one of grit. Raised in Spanish Harlem, New York, with limited financial resources, the odds were against him. Instead of letting circumstances define him, he used them as fuel. What could have held him back sparked a passion for growth, self-mastery, and determination. Those early struggles built a mindset grounded in hustle and discipline a foundation for a career that spans more than thirty-five years. From modest beginnings to diverse achievements, Jay’s path reflects constant evolution. Today, his accomplishments include:
Jay’s success fuels his mission to help others break through barriers. Through writing, coaching, speaking, radio, and digital content, he shares the insights and tools that shaped his own transformation. His message is simple: Where you start doesn’t define you. Growth and persistence do. Now, Jay brings his energy and experience to Vonoi Radio, expanding his reach and amplifying his impact. The Jay Maymi Show offers authentic stories, practical strategies, and candid conversations about business, mindset, and personal development.  Listeners can expect:
By welcoming Jay Maymi, Vonoi Radio strengthens its commitment to empowering entrepreneurs, leaders, and dreamers. His story is proof that resilience and vision can turn challenges into opportunities. Every episode of The Jay Maymi Show is designed to help listeners unlock potential, challenge limiting beliefs, and take the next step toward success. Vonoi Radio is proud to feature Jay Maymi a voice with a story worth hearing and a mission worth following. Tune in to The Jay Maymi Show and start your own journey toward growth and achievement. Click Link below to Listen to Jay Maymi By Bennie Randall for Vonoi Magazine Winning in business in 2025 isn’t about chasing the latest trend or trying to outshine your competition—it’s about clarity, discipline, and execution. The business world is evolving fast, but the fundamentals remain the same: those who commit, adapt, and execute will dominate.
Too many people want the title of “entrepreneur” without embracing the responsibility. Success isn’t measured by social media posts, it’s measured by building something that lasts. If you want to separate yourself from the noise in 2025, here’s how you win Speed + Precision = PowerBusiness is moving at the speed of technology. The winners in 2025 aren’t the ones who take months to decide—they’re the ones who move fast, test ideas, and pivot when necessary. But remember, speed without precision creates chaos. You must move quickly, but with focus and strategy. Action step: Stop overthinking. Test your next idea in 6 days, not 6 months. Relationships Are the Real Currency AI, apps, and algorithms can’t replace human connection. Relationships remain the most valuable asset in business. Who trusts you? Who respects you? Who will pick up the phone when you call? If your network isn’t strong, your foundation is weak. Action step: Strengthen your relationships by adding value, not asking for favors. Master the Art of Attention Attention is the new gold in 2025. You can have the best product in the world, but if no one knows about it, you don’t exist. Winning means mastering attention—through storytelling, branding, and consistent visibility. Action step: Audit your online presence. Does it demand attention or does it disappear in the scroll? Build Systems, Not StressHustle may get you started, but it won’t sustain you. Systems are the bridge between small wins and long-term wealth. Automate, delegate, and streamline so you can scale without burning out. Action step: Identify one repetitive task in your business and either automate it or outsource it this week. Bet on Yourself, Every TimeThe most important investment you’ll ever make is in yourself. The market can change, investors can back out, and partners can walk away, but you are the constant. Your mindset, education, health, and skills will carry you through. Action step: Set aside a budget in 2025 for personal growth—mentorship, training, or wellness. Winning is a Choice Winning in business in 2025 isn’t about luck or connections—it’s about execution and consistency. Every day you have a choice: play the game at the highest level, or sit on the sidelines watching others win. This year, choose to win. Bennie Randall Jr. - Business Advisor - www.BennieRandall.com  By: Bennie Randall for Vonoi Magazine In today’s fast-paced, digital-first business world, where and how you receive your mail matters more than ever. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur, online business owner, or small company scaling fast, having a professional, secure, and reliable mail solution is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity. That’s where NYMail.com steps in as a game-changer. For over 30 years, they have been the gold standard in mail services for startups, creators, consultants, freelancers, and established businesses alike. And here's why more entrepreneurs are choosing them every single day. A Prestigious Manhattan Business AddressFirst impressions still matter — especially in business. You instantly gain a real New York City street address (not a P.O. box) right in Manhattan, which can elevate the professionalism of your brand. Whether you’re a coach, content creator, or ecommerce store owner, using a NYC business address can:
 Running your business while traveling or working remotely? Makes sure your important mail never gets lost or delayed. You can choose from in-person pickup, scanning, or forwarding to any global location. Whether it’s a government letter, legal notice, check, or contract — you’ll know exactly what arrives and when. Plus, their team personally handles your mail with care, unlike the faceless national chains. If you work from home but want to keep your residential address private, that gives you the separation and professionalism you need. It’s perfect for:
 In an age of identity theft, spam, and sketchy package deliveries, protecting your business (and yourself) is non-negotiable. Using your home address on your website or business registration exposes you to privacy risks. With NYMail, you can safely separate your personal life from your professional presence. And because it’s a physical address (not a virtual-only mailbox), it’s accepted by:
Unlike short-term mailbox companies or pop-up services, NYMail has been around since 1985 — helping thousands of businesses grow, scale, and operate with confidence. They’re locally owned, deeply experienced, and highly rated by entrepreneurs across industries. You’re not just renting a mailbox — you’re gaining a business partner that understands how entrepreneurs operate.  Every Serious Business Needs a Serious Mail Solution. Whether you're a one-person show or building a growing brand, where your mail lives says a lot about your business. Don't settle for generic P.O. boxes, complicated mail forwarding, or risking your home address online. With NYMail.com, you get: ✔️ A real NYC address ✔️ Professional presentation ✔️ Flexible mail handling ✔️ Rock-solid security ✔️ Entrepreneur-friendly pricing Because in business, details matter — and NYMail helps you look and operate like the success you're building.  Vonoi Magazine
Anime Is the New Gold: Why Attention Is Currency and Anime Is a Cultural Asset of the Future7/1/2025  By Bennie Randall - Editor In Chief - Vonoi Magazine In a world driven by clicks, shares, and scrolls, attention has become the most valuable currency of the digital age. Today’s brands, influencers, and entrepreneurs aren’t just competing for sales—they’re competing for seconds of your attention. And in this fierce battle for the human gaze, anime has emerged as one of the most powerful cultural assets on the planet. Anime isn’t just “animated entertainment” anymore. It’s a global phenomenon, an emotional language, and for many, a lifestyle. The success of billion-dollar franchises like Dragon Ball, Attack on Titan, and One Piece proves that anime is no longer a subculture—it’s a mainstream powerhouse with the ability to drive trends, command loyalty, and influence consumer behavior at scale. So why is anime so effective at capturing attention—and why are the smartest brands and entrepreneurs rushing to leverage its power? Every platform—from YouTube and TikTok to Netflix and Spotify—is fighting to hold your attention. The average person is exposed to over 10,000 brand messages a day, and most of them go unnoticed. But anime cuts through the noise. Its striking visuals, intense emotion, and rich storytelling keep people watching longer, engaging deeper, and buying into the universe being built. In marketing, that kind of captivation is priceless. Brands that hold attention can build loyalty. Loyalty builds trust. And trust leads to sales—again and again. Anime doesn’t just grab attention—it earns it. It makes viewers feel something. Whether it’s the journey of Naruto chasing his dreams, Goku fighting for his loved ones, or Tanjiro protecting his sister, anime is full of relatable emotion wrapped in unforgettable visuals. That combination is a blueprint for how modern brands should communicate. What makes anime a true cultural asset is the loyalty it inspires. Anime fans aren’t passive—they’re active. They cosplay, create fan art, run YouTube breakdowns, and buy limited-edition merch in minutes. They wear the identity. They live the language. This is the core of what experts call the fandom economy: people who don’t just consume content—they become emotionally invested in it. And emotional investment is the gateway to lifetime value. For businesses, this means that when you tap into anime culture with authenticity and respect, you gain access to a highly engaged, extremely loyal audience that spreads your message for free. That’s influence that money can’t buy—but attention can earn.   Anime has done what few entertainment formats have achieved: it’s become globally relevant without losing cultural identity. From Tokyo to Toronto, Lagos to London, anime’s themes of friendship, struggle, love, and perseverance resonate with universal truths. In an age where global connection matters more than ever, anime becomes not just art—but a bridge.
And because anime speaks to values as much as it does visuals, it helps brands express identity. It lets them be bold, emotional, even rebellious—without saying a word. That’s why fashion houses, gaming companies, record labels, and even financial tech startups are now infusing anime aesthetics and storytelling into their campaigns. Anime doesn’t just decorate the brand. It becomes part of the brand’s DNA. The success of anime doesn’t just stop at content—it extends to commerce. From licensed merchandise and streaming deals to virtual characters and NFT collectibles, anime is a blueprint for how to turn attention into ownership. Creators are now launching their own anime-inspired IPs, characters, and web series—then building communities around them through Discord, Patreon, and limited-run drops. These business models aren't just about selling—they're about inviting fans to co-own the culture. And in a creator economy where community matters more than advertising, anime’s built-in emotional ecosystem is an asset with endless upside. We live in an era where attention dictates influence—and influence dictates value. In this landscape, anime has become a key that unlocks all three. It grabs attention, builds emotional bonds, and drives massive engagement across demographics, industries, and geographies. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, marketer, or media brand, anime is more than a style—it’s a strategy. And those who learn how to harness its power won’t just win attention. They’ll own culture. Vonoi Magazine  Streamer University is a live, in-person creator academy. More than 150 up-and-coming streamers were selected from over a million applicants to attend. Travel, food, and lodging are completely covered, and the weekend will be packed with sessions that teach creators how to grow their platforms and turn content into a career. Cenat made it clear from the jump. “…No matter if you’re big or small, you can stream the entire weekend,” he stated via Complex. The goal wasn’t to impress gatekeepers. It was to build community and give fundamental tools to people trying to break into the content game. For those who have been watching Cenat for a while, you know this move fits. According to The Economic Times, Cenat started popping up at several college campuses without warning, bringing fans and cameras with him and causing a social media frenzy about what he was offering. Akron was one of those stops. The energy on campus was wild. Students crowded around him, clips started trending, and the idea for something more structured started to form.  What started as viral chaos quickly became a blueprint. Akron turned into the home base for a new kind of learning experience. This isn’t about textbooks or midterms. Streamer University focuses on four key areas: content creation, audience growth, monetization, and streaming tools. However, Complex further notes that the session names are far from traditional.
Instead of using traditional professors, Cenat is tapping some of the biggest internet names to lead workshops. He is bringing in Duke Dennis to teach Physical Education, DDG to lead a session on Internet Beef 101, and ImDontai to guide students through Defense Against Hating. Other instructors include cookingwithkya, India Love, and Funny Marco. Cenat himself is walking participants through building his platform from scratch. The 2025 Streamer University class had range. According to Complex, names like Ayemariiii, Keeyahthecreator, Deshae Frost, and Maleni (from Chicklet & Maleni) made the cut. Some were already making waves online, and others were just getting started. But everyone showed uo to learn, collaborate, and get better. The application process was so intense that the website crashed shortly after it opened. That didn’t stop Cenat from reviewing submissions and personally selecting the creators who would attend. Streamer University isn’t just a cool moment on social media. It’s a step toward reshaping what the creator economy can look like. The Economic Times further highlighted Cenat’s approach, proving you don’t need a huge production budget or a studio to build something powerful. You need a plan, a platform, and people who believe in the vision. Streamer University has reminded everyone that success doesn’t have to be lonely in an industry that can feel like a solo grind. Sometimes, all it takes is a camera, a campus, and a community. Vonoi Magazine Beard Octane was first conceived in 2017, by a man known to the world as Joe. Joe had long sought the perfect beard care product that would properly nourish his beard, fueling it like a high performance machine. Often finding that the big box store products simply fell short of accomplishing this, along with have unhealthy fillers. So Joe does what Joe always does and became obsessed with creating the best beard care product possible. A product that actually does what it is supposed to do; nourish and improve a man's beard. This is when the late nights, long hours, and personal sacrifices began in the developing the greatest beard care company known to the world today, Beard Octane. Vonoimag.com
 Written By: Bennie Randall for Vonoi Magazine Opening a coffee shop in New York City (NYC) is an exciting venture that combines passion for coffee with the dynamic energy of one of the world's most vibrant cities. However, navigating the complexities of starting a small business in NYC requires careful planning, adherence to regulations, and strategic execution. This guide outlines the essential steps to help you establish a successful coffee shop in NYC in 2025. A well-crafted business plan serves as the foundation of your coffee shop. It should include. Define the unique selling proposition (USP) of your coffee shop. Will it focus on specialty brews, artisanal pastries, or a cultural ambiance? For instance, Café Rue Dix in Brooklyn offers a Senegalese market experience, combining a café with a boutique selling imported goods from Senegal. Research the local coffee scene to identify your target audience and assess competition. Estimate startup costs, operating expenses, and projected revenues. Outline how you plan to attract and retain customers.  Determine the total investment required and explore financing options such as personal savings, loans, or investors. Startup costs can vary widely; for example, a small coffee shop with sit-down service may require between $80,000 to $300,000. Selecting a strategic location is crucial to your coffee shop's success. Consider factors such as foot traffic, visibility, and proximity to complementary businesses. Each borough in NYC offers unique opportunities, so align your location choice with your target demographic. Decide on a legal structure for your business (e.g., sole proprietorship, LLC) and register it with the New York State Department. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax purposes. Compliance with local regulations is essential. Key licenses and permits include. Register your business with the city to obtain a business tax certificate. Ensures your premises meet building codes and are zoned for a coffee shop. Required for businesses preparing and serving food. All employees handling food must obtain this certification within 30 days of employment. Allows you to collect sales tax on taxable goods and services.  Create an inviting and functional layout that enhances customer experience and operational efficiency. Consider seating arrangements, workflow for staff, and aesthetic elements that reflect your brand.
Invest in reliable equipment such as espresso machines, grinders, and brewing tools. Establish relationships with reputable coffee bean suppliers, preferably local roasters, to ensure freshness and support local businesses. Recruit staff who are passionate about coffee and customer service. Provide comprehensive training to ensure consistency in product quality and service standards. Create a user-friendly website and engage with customers on social media platforms. Collaborate with nearby businesses for cross-promotions Host events or workshops to foster community ties. Incorporate sustainable practices such as using eco-friendly packaging, sourcing ethically produced coffee beans, and implementing waste reduction measures. Be aware of potential challenges such as high operational costs and competition. For example, Buddies Coffee in Brooklyn faced rent hikes and competition but garnered community support to sustain their business. Host a grand opening to introduce your coffee shop to the community. Gather customer feedback and be prepared to adapt and innovate to meet evolving customer preferences. Starting a small coffee shop in NYC in 2025 requires meticulous planning, adherence to regulations, and a passion for delivering exceptional coffee experiences. By following these steps and remaining adaptable, you can establish a thriving coffee shop in the bustling landscape of New York City. Vonoi Magazine  Gourdet is a celebrated chef, best-selling author, and television personality best known for his award-winning cuisine, numerous TV appearances, and trendsetting role in Portland, Oregon's culinary boom. In his role as Culinary Director of Printemps New York, Gourdet will oversee five concepts, ranging from fine dining to a casual cafe—each a celebration of artistry, unparalleled quality, innovation, culture, and creativity.
A New York City native, Gourdet studied at the Culinary Institute of America and began his career with legendary chef Jean-Georges Vongrichten. During his seven-year tenure, Gourdet honed his culinary skills at three of Vongrichten’s trailblazing restaurants and climbed the ranks to become one of his chefs de cuisines before moving to Portland, Oregon. There, he helped pioneer the city’s culinary boom with his unique approach, applying global influences and cooking techniques to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. His restaurant, Kann, is one of the country’s most celebrated Haitian restaurants, gaining international acclaim by La Liste for spotlighting traditional Haitian flavors alongside dishes inspired by the cuisines of the African and Caribbean diaspora. Gourdet is a three-time James Beard Foundation Award-winner. His debut cookbook Everyone’s Table: Global Recipes for Modern Health was recognized by the Foundation in 2022, Kann was named “Best New Restaurant" in 2023, and he brought home the “Best Chef: Northwest and Pacific” in 2024. Additional acclaim spans Bon Appetit, Esquire, The New York Times, and more. A two-time Bravo Top Chef finalist, he has been honored as “Chef of the Year” by Eater Portland and the Oregon Department of Agriculture. Gregory sees food as nourishment and is committed to moving the restaurant industry forward sustainably and equitably. He is a member of the US State Department’s American Culinary Corp and an ambassador for the Marine Stewardship Council. VONOI MAGAZINE |
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