Posts made in March 2019

Azuri Technologies X Energise Africa Launch UK Crowd Campaign

Azuri Technologies, a leader in pay-as-you-go solar in Africa and crowdfunding platform Energise Africa today announced the latest phase of debt financing from UK impact investors to deliver affordable, clean energy and help solve the energy crisis in sub-Saharan Africa.

The Azuri and Energise Africa collaboration plans to raise £2.5 million for pay-as-you-go-solar and help more than 100,000 off-grid people in Sub-Saharan Africa access clean, affordable energy.

The investment will support low-income families in Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, Zambia and Tanzania.

More than 600 million people across Africa live without access to electricity – limiting their life chances of achieving economic prosperity and improved quality of life. Universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy services is one of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals and can only be met with access to sufficient investment.

Crowdfunding has emerged as a powerful way of financing the off-grid solar industry and is leading the way in increasing investor interest in the market.

Through Energise Africa, individuals in the UK can invest from as little as £50 in bonds, issued by solar businesses, to provide clean and affordable energy access, while targeting annual returns of 6%. Capital is at risk and returns are not guaranteed.

Azuri is a leader in pay-as-you-go solar technology and since 2012 has been supplying affordable solar home systems and products to the millions across Africa living off-grid without access to mains electricity.

In 2018, Azuri and Energise Africa raised £1.7 million from hundreds of UK investors to deliver clean, affordable energy products to more than 16,000 families in sub-Saharan Africa.

Simon Bransfield-Garth, CEO of Azuri said: “Azuri is delighted to extend our partnership with Energise Africa and their community of UK-based retail investors to finance off-grid solar projects. With this innovative financing, thousands more households will be able to access modern solar energy for the first time.”

Lisa Ashford, Managing Director Energise Africa said: “Through Energise Africa, we are committed to providing UK based people with easily accessible opportunities to invest directly in sustainable businesses that can tackle climate change, create long-term social and environmental impact, and also deliver a potential financial return. We’re looking forward to the prospect of working with Azuri Technologies again to help accelerate the achievement of UN SDG 7.

Energise Africa has been developed by Ethex and Lendahand – two of Europe’s leading impact investing companies and is also supported by UK aid, Virgin Unite, Good Energies Foundation and P4G.

Over the past 20 months the Energise Africa community of investors has generated over £7.57 million for 12 solar businesses to provide 312,000 people in 10 African countries with access to clean energy, which has prevented almost 70,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions entering the atmosphere annually and also repaid almost £1.8 million back to investors.

Investing in Energise Africa projects via the www.energiseafrica.co.uk site involves risk, including the loss of all of your invested capital, illiquidity (the inability to sell assets quickly or without substantial loss in value), and it should be done only as part of a diversified portfolio.

The investment opportunities on www.energiseafrica.co.uk are not an offer to the public in any jurisdiction and are available only to registered members of the platform who have certified that they are eligible to invest. Any person who is not resident in the United Kingdom who wishes to view these investment opportunities must first satisfy themselves that they are eligible to do so under the securities laws and regulations applicable to them. This site does not constitute an offer of, or the solicitation of an offer to buy or subscribe for, any securities to any person in any jurisdiction to whom or in which such offer or solicitation would be unlawful.

In respect of its regulated activities, Lendahand Ethex Ltd is an appointed representative of Share In Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 603332).

Def Jam’s “Bloody” Documentary

WATCH THE FIRST EPISODE “BLOODY,” FROM DEF JAM’S UNDISPUTED DOCUMENTARY SERIES ON WORLDSTARHIPHOP

WATCH EPISODE HERE

YFL Kelvin may have made it out the mud, but his journey is only primed to blast off. Follow along as he, YK Osiris, TJ Porter and more record, create, and pioneer Def Jam’s new wave in the first episode of UNDISPUTED. More hits, more licks, more fire on the way. Def Jam’s UNDISPUTED album drops on 3/8. Get ready.

UNDISPUTED THE ALBUM COMING MARCH 8

READ “HOW DEF JAM PLANS TO RECLAIM ITS HIP-HOP CROWN” ON BILLBOARD.COM

Def Jam’s UNDISPUTED album featuring YK Osiris, YFL Kelvin, Bernard Jabs, S3nsi Molly, Lil Brook, TJ Porter, PVRX, Nasaan, Fetty Luciano, Landstrip Chip, Billz, Sneakk, Lul G, Dominic Lord, Striiipes, Ashton Travis, and Nimic Revenue drops on March 8. The groundbreaking album will be accompanied by an insanely in-depth eight-part docu-series, which will be released through WorldStar starting on Thursday, March 7. The series follows the creation of the album and explores unbelievable stories of the artists involved in the album.

The Odyssey At Ushuaïa and Hï Ibiza

THE NIGHT LEAGUE REVEAL LINE-UP FOR ‘ODYSSEY’ – THE 24-HOUR OPENING PARTY EXTRAVAGANZA AT USHUAÏA AND HÏ IBIZA

ADAM PORT, ADRIATIQUE, ANDREA OLIVA, ANII, ANNA, CHRIS LIEBING, DAMIAN LAZARUS, DENIS HORVAT, FJAAK, KEVIN DE VRIES, MATHEW JONSON (LIVE) , PAUL KALKBRENNER (LIVE), PEGGY GOU, REZNIK, RICHIE HAWTIN, STEPHAN BODZIN (LIVE), TALE OF US

18 May 2019 | Midday Saturday to Midday Sunday

Midday to 12am at Ushuaïa Ibiza | 12am to Midday at Hï Ibiza

24 Hour Passes on sale now.

The Night League, the team behind the award-winning Ushuaïa and Hï Ibiza, today reveals the line-up for Odyssey, a 24-hour opening party extravaganza taking place at Ushuaïa and Hï Ibiza on 18 May. This will be the first time two Ibiza superclubs have come together to throw an unforgettable 24-hour, outdoor-indoor opening party and have brought together a world-class roster of some of the most sought after underground acts to celebrate.

Taking the reigns at the iconic Ushuaïa Ibiza from midday to midnight will be revered Italian production partnership Tale Of Us, joined by German techno don Stephan Bodzin (live), international techno superstar Paul Kalkbrenner (live), rising icon Peggy Gou along with Copenhagen based DJ & producer Denis Horvat, rising Kompakt selector Anni and Keinemusik collective’s Reznik (who soundtracked the Odyssey teaser video). Clubbers will be able to party through the daytime and sunset at Ushuaïa for the first instalment of what promises to be the most epic opening party to date.

Then on to the award-winning Hï Ibiza when the sun goes down from midnight to midday, for the second installment, where Germany’s finest Adam Port will take the baton at 12pm in the ‘Theatre’ (main room). He will be followed by one of techno’s most sought after duos Adriatique and Crosstown Rebels boss Damian Lazarus, before the incomparable Richie Hawtin steps up to the plate to play his Hï Ibiza debut.  Tale Of Us will then return to bring the 24-hour extravaganza to an epic close, a true celebration of underground techno at its best.

Looking after proceedings in the ‘Club’ (room 2) Kevin de Vries will kick things off, handing over to one of Brazil’s finest exports ANNA, followed by Ibiza favourite Andrea Oliva, Canadian prodigy Mathew Jonson (live), Berlin techno duo FJAAK and deep techno stalwart Chris Liebing who will close the room. All these acts will provide the perfect soundtrack for an unforgettable opening, keeping the dancefloor moving right through until midday on Sunday.

Marking the official opening of both clubs and heralding the start to the 2019 Ibiza season, Odyssey is set to be a ground-breaking start to the summer. For the ultimate opening party experience, clubbers can opt for a 24-hour pass which gives access to both venues for the duration of the event, or individual day or night passes.

Tickets are now on sale at www.odyssey.art – grab yours now before they fly.

Ushuaïa Ibiza | Midday to Midnight

Tale Of Us, Stephan Bodzin (live) Paul Kalkbrenner (live), Peggy Gou, Denis Horvat, Anni,  Reznik

Hï Ibiza | Midnight to Midday

Theatre: Tale Of Us, Richie Hawtin, Damian Lazarus, Adriatique & Adam Port

Club: Chris Liebing, FJAAK, Mathew Jonson (live), Andrea Oliva, ANNA & Kevin de Vries

Get ready for a truly groundbreaking opening for the Ibiza season. Both 24 Hour Passes and individual tickets can be bought here.

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ABOUT HÏ IBIZA

Since opening its doors for the very first time in 2017, the multi-award-winning Hï Ibiza has played host to many of the biggest names on the electronic music scene. Welcoming thousands of party revellers from all around the world each week throughout the season, Hï Ibiza has fast become one of the most sought-after tickets on the island. With world-class residents, state-of-the-art design and sound, plus a commitment to putting the clubber at the centre of the experience, the groundbreaking club has proved itself a force to be reckoned with.

ABOUT USHUAÏA IBIZA BEACH HOTEL

Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel is a luxurious 417-room hotel comprised of two buildings: The Ushuaïa Club, featuring an amazing poolside stage, and The Ushuaïa Tower, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Ushuaïa is dedicated to providing the best outdoor entertainment venue coupled with a modern, cutting-edge hotel experience. Designed for the discerning traveller seeking the fun and entertainment associated with Ibiza, Ushuaïa continuously raises the bar –from Swim-Up room options, daytime parties hosted by celebrated DJs, to “chromotherapy,” the ability to set the mood to their rooms with LED lights, ensuring that the party never stops. Its collection of dining options is unrivalled, from Ibiza’s first premier steakhouse Montauk and Minami serving sushi and other Japanese delicacies, to The Oyster and Caviar Bar beside the pool and the relaxed Ushuaïa Beach Club providing the perfect fuel for Ibiza party-goers.

ABOUT THE NIGHT LEAGUE

Founded in 2001 by events entrepreneur Yann Pissenem, The Night League is a 360 music and entertainment company, dedicated to every facet of event and venue management. For almost two decades, we have created and delivered world-class music experiences through our globally-renowned in-house brands Ushuaïa Ibiza, Hï Ibiza, ANTS and Children of the 80’s, as well as collaborating with some of the world’s most influential artists, festivals and events to create bespoke, pioneering concepts, such as GangStar and DYSTOPIA. From our event producers, venue operators, booking managers, artist management, marketing and design teams, TNL consistently goes beyond expectations, fusing music and art to deliver profound experiences that invigorate audiences around the world

A SEASON OF MILESTONES FOR FORMULA 1®

Next week the 2019 FIA Formula One World Championship™ starts with the FORMULA 1 ROLEX AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX 2019. Motorsport’s pinnacle series will take to the Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit from Friday 15 to Sunday 17 March, launching the 70th Formula 1® championship. Formula 1® attracts fans from across the world, captivated by the sport’s cutting-edge technology and its remarkable athletes in their quest for perfection. The competition’s enduring spirit, as well as its commitment to bold performance and innovation, aligns closely with Rolex’s own passion for continuous excellence. This season, Rolex marks its seventh consecutive year as a Global Partner and the Official Timepiece of Formula 1®.

In a move to improve overtaking, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and Formula 1® have introduced rules reducing aerodynamic turbulence from the front and rear wing, encouraging the cars to follow each other in close proximity. Rolex Testimonee and multiple Formula 1® race winner Mark Webber explains their impact: “The new regulations are designed to encourage drivers to get into a position to overtake. The cars should be more predictable, meaning the drivers will be more confident about creating exciting passing opportunities. There’s definitely a lot to look forward to this season and I think there will be a good fight for the championship. I hope it goes deep into the year – I really believe it will.”

The 2019 season, spanning March to December and consisting of 21 races around the world, will feature several milestones. Next month’s FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN CHINESE GRAND PRIX 2019 will be the championship’s 1,000th Grand Prix™. Since its first race in May 1950, Formula 1® has pioneered technology across the globe, showcasing legendary drivers behind the wheel of the most advanced racing cars. This May, the FORMULA 1 GRAND PRIX DE MONACO 2019 celebrates 90 years since the inaugural race around the Principality’s famous streets and almost a century later the circuit still paves a virtually identical route. Rolex Testimonee and 2016 FIA Formula 1® Drivers’ World Champion Nico Rosberg highlights the importance of celebrating the sport’s past: “I’m very proud of the great heritage of Formula 1 and the small part I have played in its history. I look forward to being involved in these landmark occasions, to reflect and reminisce on the sport’s tremendous legacy and its exceptional achievements. Formula 1 continues to be one of the most technologically advanced sports in the world and these attributes – legacy, excellence and innovation – fit perfectly with Rolex.”

On 7 September 2019 at Monza (Italy), Sir Jackie Stewart, a Rolex Testimonee for more than half a century and three-time FIA Formula 1® Drivers’ World Champion, will celebrate 50 years to the day since he clinched his first championship. The Scottish legend, who marks the occasion at the same circuit where he sealed the crown in 1969, reflects on the milestone: “I’ve always felt emotion is dangerous for a racing driver, but I hope there is a little flush of it when I get to Monza this year. I’m incredibly proud, and fortunate, to have seen the sport grow in prestige as well as from a safety perspective, it’s a wonderful story. To honor the anniversary at one of the greatest race tracks in the world where I won my first championship is truly special and I look forward to a weekend full of celebrations.”

This season will feature several new driver partnerships, with only Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport and Rich Energy Haas F1® Team keeping the same line-up as in 2018. The shake-up has created added intrigue as the teams travel to Australia. “There’s nothing like going racing,” says Mark Webber. “It’s amazing how quickly the drivers will settle into their new environments, but prior to Melbourne they have had only a limited amount of testing, so the first race of the year will answer a lot of questions. Melbourne is one of the best Grands Prix of the year; the city comes to life. It is very significant for the event that Rolex has been involved for so long, united by their world-class approach and attention to detail. For me personally, and for all Australians, it makes the event extra special that such an incredible brand like Rolex is so closely associated.”

ROLEX AND MOTORSPORT

Rolex’s close ties with motor port date back to Sir Malcolm Campbell’s World Land Speed Record successes in the 1930s, when he became the first driver to break the 300mph barrier (483km/h) at the wheel of his car Bluebird. Since then, Rolex’s presence in motor racing has grown steadily, supporting iconic endurance events such as the Rolex 24 At DAYTONA, the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the FIA World Endurance Championship. In 2013, Rolex partnered the pinnacle of motor sport, Formula 1®, having supported Rolex Testimonee Sir Jackie Stewart since 1968. The brand also has a global appreciation for classic car events steeped in elegance, beauty and tradition, including the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance®, The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, the goo and the Goodwood Revival.

ABOUT FORMULA 1®

Formula 1® racing began in 1950 and is the world’s most prestigious motor racing competition, as well as the world’s most popular annual sporting series. The 2019 FIA Formula One World Championship™ runs from March to December and spans 21 races in 21 countries across five continents. Formula One World Championship Limited is part of Formula 1®, and holds the exclusive commercial rights to the FIA Formula One World Championship™.

Formula 1® is a subsidiary of Liberty Media Corporation (NASDAQ: LSXMA, LSXMB, LSXMK, BATRA, BATRK, FWONA, FWONK) attributed to the Formula One Group tracking stock.

ABOUT ROLEX

AN UNRIVALLED REPUTATION FOR QUALITY AND EXPERTISE

Rolex, a Swiss watch manufacture headquartered in Geneva, is recognized the world over for its expertise and the quality of its products. Its Oyster Perpetual and Cellini watches, all certified as Superlative Chronometers for their precision, performance and reliability, are symbols of excellence, elegance and prestige. The word “Perpetual” is inscribed on every Rolex Oyster. But more than just a word on a dial, it is a philosophy that embodies the company’s vision and values. Hans Wilsdorf, the founder of the company, instilled a notion of perpetual excellence that would drive the company forward. This led Rolex to pioneer the development of the wristwatch and numerous major watchmaking innovations, such as the Oyster, the first waterproof wristwatch, launched in 1926, and the Perpetual rotor self-winding mechanism, invented in 1931. Rolex has registered over 500 patents in the course of its history. A truly integrated and independent manufacturing company, Rolex designs, develops and produces in-house the essential components of its watches, from the casting of the gold alloys to the machining, crafting, assembly and finishing of the movement, case, dial and bracelet. Furthermore, Rolex is actively involved in supporting the arts and culture, sport and exploration, as well as those who are devising solutions to preserve the planet.

John Newman “Feelings”

Today, BRIT Award-nominated UK platinum-selling singer, songwriter, performer, and vocal powerhouse JOHN NEWMAN returns with a brand new single entitled “Feelings.”

Get it HERE via Republic Records.

Upholding a tradition of international #1 smashes including “Feel The Love,” “Love Me Again,” and “Blame,” his latest anthem “Feelings” spotlights the scope of the blockbuster voice that made listeners everywhere fall in love with him in the first place. He co-wrote the single alongside Swedish collective BLNK [The Chainsmokers, NEIKED] and co-produced it with Jarly [Sigala].

“Feelings” arrives as JOHN reaches another major career milestone. He just surpassed 2 billion total streams on his solo music and 4.5 billion, including collaborations.

Right now, he’s putting the finishing touches on his upcoming third full-length—due out in 2019.

JOHN NEWMAN first rose to global superstardom with the RIAA platinum smash “Love Me Again.” His 2015 opus, Revolve, boasted diverse cameos from the likes of Idris Elba and Charlie Wilson and garnered widespread international praise. Along the way, he’s captivated audiences with TV performances on Ellen and alongside Taylor Swift and at the European Games Closing Ceremony. Moreover, the artist has received the endorsement of The New York Times, USA Today, and more. In 2018, he released the fan favorite “Fire In Me” and hit the main stage at Coachella to perform “Blame” during Calvin Harris’ headlining set.

The Porto Protocol: A Solution-Driven Forum for Fighting Climate Change

Robin Daniel Lail, founder of Lail Vineyards, has been appointed the U.S. representative for The Porto Protocol. She is currently the only U.S. representative – and one of three representatives worldwide. Lail joins Pancho Campo of Spain, the CEO of Chrand, and Adrian Bridge of Portugal, director general of The Fladgate Partnership. Bridge is the founder of The Porto Protocol and leads the organization’s solution-driven forum for fighting climate change.

Established in Porto, Portugal – one of the world’s great wine capitals and home to some of Europe’s most diverse vineyards – The Porto Protocol is taking the lead in reducing the effects of climate change by simply asking their members to do more than they are currently doing to reduce their impact on the environment. The Porto Protocol is focused on creating a database of peer case studies so that business leaders can quickly learn what steps their colleagues are taking that they can also emulate and implement.

“In Napa Valley, growers and vintners are already actively engaged in protecting the environment as we farm for our grandchildren,” said Lail. “We are re-evaluating our farming practices at Lail Vineyards and my goal as The Porto Protocol’s U.S. representative is to reach out to farming communities across the country to do the same. Together, we have the opportunity to create a really loud voice.” 

The Porto Protocol sprung from the wine industry because grape farmers are especially vulnerable to the impact of climate change. The organization’s goal is for leaders in all industries to share their expertise and wisdom through their case studies to inspire their peers to make changes that will mitigate the effects of climate change.

Robin Daniel Lail is a fourth generation vintner and the founder of Lail Vineyards. Along with her family, she has produced some of the most elusive, coveted wines in Napa Valley. As a descendant of one of Napa Valley’s founding families, the story of Robin Lail’s life is woven into the history of the Napa Valley. Her great-granduncle Gustave Niebaum established Inglenook in 1879 and her beloved father, John Daniel, Jr., created wines that are regarded among the best of the 20 century. The wines of Lail Vineyards are born from generations of winemaking knowledge in Napa Valley, a legacy that remains Lail’s steadfast compass.

Austin Adventures: Family Appreciation Month

Through hard work and dedication to the details, Austin Adventures has grown to be the #1 Family Adventure company in the country. For over 35 years they have been taking families to the national parks of the West as well as special places around the globe. As a two-generation, owned and operated active travel company, family travel is in their DNA.

For the second year in a row, Austin Adventures is dedicating the entire month of March to “Family Appreciation,” with special incentives and giveaways, plus an interactive child & parent “Take a National Park Vacation” webinar that all ages will want to attend.

“Between work, school, athletic and social schedules, planning and scheduling a family vacation has never been more challenging, often to the point of missing the opportunity all together to create lasting bonds and memories within the family,” explains Dan Austin, company president and founder. “Austin Adventures is fully committed to helping anyway we can. Our goal is to take the stress out of vacation planning and then deliver an experience second-to-none.”

On Tuesday, Mar 12, 2019 at 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Austin Adventures invites kids and parents to a live webinar focused on helping families (especially the kids) with their vacation planning. Anyone considering a small group vacation tour now or in the future is encouraged to attend. For information and to register click here.

The seminar will be hosted by Kasey Austin, Outside Magazine 2014 Family Guide of the Year. Making a cameo appearance will be Dan Austin, company visionary and travel industry legend. Together, The Austin Family has set the bar for family adventure travel for decades, so much so, they are often referred to as “the First Family of Adventure Travel.”

During this informal and informative webinar focused on the younger generation, Kasey will offer tips and insights on planning and visiting America’s National Parks along with other popular family destinations.

As an incentive to register and attend, every family that participates will receive a coupon worth $250 off their next Austin Adventures family vacation. Plus, all participating kids (age 6-12) whose parents end up booking a 2019 family national park adventure will receive a logo-embossed backpack (on Day 1 of the trip) packed full of swag (logo water bottle, trip journal, field guide, hacky sack, stickers and more).

“I had so much fun sharing my passion for our National Parks last year, I couldn’t wait to do it all again this year. Sharing the parks with the next generation of adventurer really is my passion. I am looking forward to sharing what we know and have learned from our 35+ years of taking families deep into our national parks,” said Kasey Austin.

“Dan and I will draw from our own experiences and help families with real time information that can assist them in making the most of a park vacation, whether with us or on their own. There will be a follow-up email survey as well as ample time for questions and answers.”

The webinar will help Austin Adventures kick-off their second annual “Family Appreciation” Month. Dedicated to celebrating and encouraging family vacations worldwide, this observance comes on the heels of the company’s 2nd wildly successful “Alumni Appreciation” month held in December, 2018. Throughout the month there will be dedicated e-newsletters and blogs on family travel, special incentives, travel agent promotions and for extended families, an offer of a free trip for one guest in groups of ten or more booked.

To assist in vacation planning, Austin Adventures also offers a free Insider’s Guide to Planning the Perfect Family Adventure. See: http://www.austinadventures.com/free-family-travel-guide/.

Austin Adventures has led the field when it comes to family adventures (twice being acknowledged by Travel + Leisure Magazine as the #1 Tour and Family Tour Operator in the World). For 2019, there are over 40 family adventures planned across the globe. Here is a sampling of some of the more popular National Park itineraries on the current Austin Adventures roster. All adult rates are per person, double occupancy.

Grand Canyon National Park: 6-days/5-nights from $2,998; children from $2,398.

Alaska- Kenai Fjords National Park: 6 days/5 nights from $3,698; children from $3,328.

Bryce & Zion National Parks: 6 days/5 nights from $2,798; children from $2,518.

Yellowstone National Park:  6 days/5 nights from $2,898; children from $2,318.

Grand Teton National Park: 6 days/5 nights from $3,298; children from $2,968.

Yosemite National Park: 6 days/5 nights from $3,698; children from $2,958.

Glacier National Park: 6 days/5 nights from $3,298; children from $2,638.

South Dakota – Black Hills (Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Monuments / Wind Cave NP): 6 days/5 nights from $2,898; children from $2,318.

Banff to Jasper National Parks 6 days/5 nights from $3,098; children from $2,478.

About Austin Adventures
Based in Billings, Montana, Austin Adventures has spent over 35 years building an international reputation as a top provider of luxury, small group, multi-sport tours for adults and families to the world’s most captivating destinations. They have been acknowledged twice by Travel + Leisure Magazine with the prestigious World’s Best Awards along with other national media accolades and distinctions. Austin Adventures has perfected the art of creating itineraries featuring exceptional regional dining, distinctive accommodations, incredible guides and exhilarating activities, all while keeping all-inclusive rates and services the norm. In addition to scheduled group departures on all seven continents, Austin Adventures has developed a reputation as the leader in customized trip planning and execution, all backed by the industry’s best money-back satisfaction guarantee.

H&M STUDIO SS19

H&M UNVEILS H&M STUDIO SS19 – AN ADVENTUROUS, GLAMOROUS COLLECTION FUELED BY WANDERLUST

Today, H&M unveils the campaign for the H&M Studio SS19 collection, “The Glam Explorer”, styled by Géraldine Saglio and photographed by Lachlan Bailey against the dramatic backdrop of Arizona. Inspired by a glamorous adventurer, the campaign sets the tone for H&M’s decision to swap the Paris Fashion Week catwalk for the Sedona, Arizona desert, where the SS19 collection will debut in an immersive theater format. The unique storyline can be followed on #HMStudio and the collection will be available to purchase beginning on March 21st on hm.com and in select H&M stores.

“The H&M Studio SS19 collection caters to a glamorous, adventurous spirit: we’re designing for a woman who doesn’t want to limit herself. She might be going to a party one evening in a sequined skirt, but the next morning she’s up early to go to yoga in her metallic-stripe leggings – so we’re thrilled to be able to present the collection in Sedona, Arizona, channelling the glamorous explorer spirit that infuses the clothes,” says Pernilla Wohlfahrt , Design Director H&M

“Working on SS19 with the H&M Studio team has been a very satisfying project for me. We wanted to capture the mix of high glamour and nature in its wildest form, inspired by the famous 1975 French movie, Le Sauvage, with Catherine Deneuve as a runaway bride on a tropical island. The combination of high glamour and more utilitarian pieces feels very ‘me’ – I like to dress in this way and I hope other women will too,” says, Géraldine Saglio, stylist and creative consultant

Taking a free-spirited glam explorer as its muse, the SS19 collection offers a versatile mix of thrilling, statement pieces with low-key, utility-led separates. With mood board references that include the vibrantly-hued mineral ponds of Utah, the collection’s key pieces comprise of a rainbow-hued printed dress, a decadent sequin-splattered skirt, and a structured utility jacket – all of which spell effortless glamour.

ABOUT H&M STUDIO

H&M Studio is H&M’s biannual, most fashion-forward collection. Created by a dedicated design team, the limited-edition collection of trend-led looks and statement pieces has in the past been unveiled during Paris Fashion Week with a runway show. In 2019 it will adopt an innovative immersive theatre format.

*H&M is proud to be a sustainable brand promoting second-hand use of clothing with their Garment Collection program. Drop your bag of unwanted clothing (any brand, any condition) in the recycling box at your local H&M store. For more information, please click the link here.

T.J. Martell Foundation and the NYC Marathon

T.J. Martell Foundation for Cancer Research Named an Official Charity Partner of the 2019 TCS New York City Marathon Set for Sunday, November 3, 2019

The T.J. Martell Foundation for Cancer was named an Official Charity Partner of the 2019 TCS New York City Marathon, it was announced today. The race will take place on Sunday, November 3, 2019.  

“The T.J. Martell Foundation is thrilled to be named an official charity partner of the 2019 TCS New York City Marathon,” said Laura Heatherly, CEO. “The TCS New York City Marathon provides a unique platform for thousands of dedicated runners to pursue their goals while raising awareness for causes that are close to their hearts. We are proud to support our team on their journey to the iconic finish line as they raise important for our cancer research programs.”

The T.J. Martell Foundation kicked off its Team T.J. Martell at the 2018 Hamptons Marathon and Half, where a team of 10 runners raised over $48,000 for cancer research programs at flagship hospitals across the country.

“New York Road Runners is honored to have the T.J. Martell Foundation joining us as an official charity partner for the 2019 TCS New York City Marathon,” said Christine Burke, vice president of runner products and strategic partnerships for NYRR. “Taking on the five boroughs of New York City while raising funds and awareness for important causes is truly inspiring. We are proud to support the efforts of the T.J. Martell Foundation’s team, and all of our charity runners, and wish them the best of luck as they begin their journey to the 2019 TCS New York City Marathon.”

Since its inception in 2006, the TCS New York City Marathon official charity partner program has raised $310 million, including $40 million at the 2018 TCS New York City Marathon. For more information on the official charity partner program, please visit: http://www.tcsnycmarathon.org/plan-your-race/run-for-charity

About the T.J. Martell Foundation

The T.J. Martell Foundation is the music industry’s leading foundation that funds innovative medical research focused on finding treatments and cures for cancer. The Foundation was founded in 1975 by music industry executive Tony Martell and his colleagues in loving memory of his son T.J., who died of leukemia. The Foundation has provided more than $280 million for research at flagship hospitals in the United States. For more information, please visit www.tjmartell.org.

About the TCS New York City Marathon

The TCS New York City Marathon is the largest marathon in the world and the signature event of New York Road Runners (NYRR), the world’s premier community running organization. The race is held annually on the first Sunday of November and includes over 50,000 runners, from the world’s top professional athletes to runners of all ages and abilities, including 10,000 charity runners. Participants from over 125 countries tour the diverse neighborhoods of New York City’s five boroughs—Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan. Race morning also features the Rising New York Road Runners Youth Invitational at the TCS New York City Marathon, a race within Central Park that ends at the marathon finish line. More than one million spectators and 10,000 volunteers line the city’s streets in support of the runners, while millions more watch the globally televised broadcast. The race is a founding member of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, which features the world’s top marathons—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York.Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), a leading global IT services, consulting, and business solutions organization, is the premier partner of NYRR and the title sponsor of the TCS New York City Marathon. The 49th running of the TCS New York City Marathon is set for November 3, 2019. To learn more, visit www.tcsnycmarathon.org  or follow them on Instagram.