SSI marks 30 years with the country’s most #PassionForward personalities
Passion has been the driving force of Stores Specialists Inc. (SSI) Group, the leading luxury retailer in the Philippines. For 30 years, the company has worked on bringing the best of lifestyle to the country through its curated selection of brands from all over the world.
As it celebrates a new milestone, SSI launched “The Curated Life” campaign earlier this year, with the aim to inspire, enable and rally its consumers to pursue a life well-lived. The Curated Life is anchored on passion in particular, living to the fullest and striving only for the best.
SSI brings together over 30 individuals from various industries who share their vision, those who champion the curated life through creativity, ingenuity and commitment to their craft.
To capture the essence of the company’s mission through its #PassionForward campaign and featured personalities, SSI has collaborated with author and lifestyle journalist AA Patawaran to tell the story of passions.
In his essay, AA says, “Beyond retail, the specialty stores opened up a universe of possibilities not only to shoppers but also to passersby who, even without any intention of buying, might have had the impression that here, under our little patch of sky, the whole wide world was suddenly within reach.”
The launch of the #Passion Forward campaign will include a photo exhibit by photographers Mark Nicdao, Kai Huang and Cyrus Panganiban, together with photographer hobbyist Kyla Olives and film director Paul Soriano.
Mariana Zobel de Ayala, deputy head, Ayala Malls: For Mariana, the mall is more than just a place to shop and eat; it’s a shared space for experiences. Malls are special to Filipinos because it’s here where memories are made. “Our hope is to be a home for both every day and milestone moments for the Filipino.” Senator Sonny Angara and Tootsy Angara, cluster head for sales, ABS-CBN Network: Through their work in public service and media, they are able to pursue their advocacies, uplifting the lives of the Filipino people and fighting for the common good. “I think everyone can make a difference, especially in this day and age when voices can be heard,” says Sonny. “Try as much as possible to be a positive influence when you speak, write and act,” adds Tootsy. Nicole Andersson, lifestyle and travel blogger: Nicole has found a platform to voice her thoughts. Through her digital presence, she aims to only spread positivity. “Style can inspire a generation because it helps you find your true self.”
JP Anglo, chef: Through his restaurants such as MuShu, Mai Po and Sarsa, JP brings new fire and fervor to modern Asian cuisine. “If you’re committed to a goal, you’ll always find the way to achieve it.”
Dindin Araneta, Lisa Periquet and Trickie Lopa, founders, Art Fair Philippines: The three continue to serve an important role altogether, pioneering the best in modern and contemporary Philippine visual art. Dindin says, “Art moves forward in time, because it reflects change.” “How can art not be a good thing? ” says Lisa. “Art feeds the soul, it enriches life,” adds Trickie. Armie Jarin-Bennett, Nine Media Corp./CNN Philippines president: Armie leads one of the biggest news agencies in the country. “When you’re passionate in what you do, you can do the job well.” Mia Borromeo, Home and Travel magazine editor: Mia Borromeo helps aspiring individuals learn the art of transforming a house into a home. “Taste is really very personal and subjective.” Kenneth Cobonpue, industrial designer: Cobonpue brings Filipino artistry and ingenuity to the global arena through his designs that are both whimsical and groundbreaking. “I love to take the materials I’ve selected and just experiment with them, almost like a couturier with fabric,” says Kenneth. Stephanie Zubiri-Crespi, author and travel, food and lifestyle journalist: Whether it be through the meals she creates or the exciting adventures she heads to, Crespi inspires all to live a fuller life. “I think the Philippines has so much to offer in terms of creativity and craftsmanship,” says Steph. Ernest Cu, president and CEO, Globe Telecom: The multiawarded Ernest remains one of the most powerful telecommunication executives in the world and a dynamic leader. “My job is to empower individuals and provide the support needed.” Sofia Zobel Elizalde, founder and managing director, STEPS Dance Studio: Sofia aims to celebrate the history of Filipino dance, while promoting and shaping its exciting future. “Filipinos move in a very specific way, and they put so much soul into their movement.” Aryanna Epperson, creative director, Always Sunday: Epperson advocates self-love and self-care through her fledgling beauty brand. “We give all this love to others, but we must not forget to love ourselves first.” Heart Evangelista-Escud
ero, artist: From show biz sweetheart to international style icon and artist, Heart is ever-evolving and has become the new face of the modern woman. “I am inspired when I see an amazing individual dressed up like she doesn’t have a care in the world,” says Heart. Irene Martel-Francisco, managing director, Philippine Tatler: Irene ensures that readers stay abreast of the global movements in luxury lifestyle. “I think luxury continues to retain its appeal, though its definition has evolved,” says Irene. Tricia Gosingtian-Gabunada, blogging pioneer: Tricia has become one of the most influential figures in the digital sphere. “I love supporting brands with strong convictions and empowering messages, because fashion is transformative,” says Tricia. Angelo Laririt, founder and administrator, Potter’s Place School, El Nido, and Mariglo Laririt, director of Sustainability, Ten Knots Development Corp.: Angelo believes that promoting a more conscientious lifestyle begins with education. “Strive for excellence and authenticity in everything that you do, and people will start ‘listening’ to your life.”
Mariglo has built retreats and communities that espouse the values of living green. “Small pebbles of habits can contribute to big ripples of change,” says Mariglo. “The natural environment is a shared resource.”
Royal Pineda, BUDJI+ROYAL Architecture+Design principal architect+CEO, and Budji
Layug, BUDJI+ROYAL Architecture+Design principal design
er+chair: This dynamic duo is known for their innovative green designs that use natural, sustainable materials weaved into a modern aesthetic. “The Philippine design aesthetic can definitely grow in prominence, especially since our design is very natural,” says Budji. As for Royal, he believes that “inspired design should always be a take-off for betterment.” Krie Lopez, founder and CEO, Messy Bessy: Krie believes that businesses can thrive when driven not just by profitability, but also compassion. Krie employs at-risk youth and uses an inclusive business model. “We look at promoting a green lifestyle as the right thing versus as just another marketing strategy.” Millet Mananquil, Lifestyle editor, Philippine Star: An enduring force in lifestyle publishing, Millet has been helping create and curate stories for decades. “Discerning readers can tell between mere hype and real stories. True journalism begins with the search for truth.” Lesley Mobo, fashion designer: Globally acclaimed Lesley is no longer simply thinking about what’s in store for his next collection; he’s thinking of how to inspire a new breed of designers. “Fashion shapes culture. It’s a two-way mirror.” Joel Palma, WWF-Philip
pines president and CEO: Joel is a passionate advocate who not only encourages people to protect the environment, but invites them to fight for their own causes. “If we’re looking for a reason to act now, there’s no better drive than thinking about what we will leave behind for our kids and the future generations.” Secretary Berna Romulo Puyat, Department of Tourism (DOT): After serving as the undersecretary of the Department of Agriculture, Berna is reviving trust and credibility in the department with her fresh brand of leadership. “I think the cabinet member that has the best job is the DOT secretary, because it’s so easy to sell the country.” Bruce Ricketts, chef: One of Manila’s best chefs, Bruce is a force to be reckoned with in the culinary world, having brought us new and exciting dining concepts such as Ooma, La Chinesca and Sensei Sushi, among others. “Purpose becomes easier to fulfill if you’re passionate about what you do.”
Lifestyle Inquirer: Thelma editor, Thelma Sioson Philippine is an San institu- Juan, Daily tion and emulated and authority, by many respected in the industry. content “It’s that not is the technology, game-chang- but er It all today depends and the on future the story of news. that you artist: Paulina have.” Paulina Luz comes Sotto, from visual a distinguished with no less than family National of artists, Artist Arturo “Young Luz artists as her now grandfather. are just as passionate ous generations.” as those from previGlobal Kevin Inc.: L. According Tan, CEO, to Alliance Kevin, he’s ing not malls in the and business condos, of but build- in shaping lifestyles. “My communities father taught and us the ty, humility value of and hard compassion work, integri- for those who have less in life— and these are the very values we espouse Steven in the Tan, company.” chief operating officer, SM Supermalls: In a country driven greatly by mall culture, Steven has found the secret to competitive success: innovation. “I have always felt strongly about innovation. In the fast-paced world of retail, you need to chase the new and the improved.” Happy Ongpauco-Tiu, founder, Happy Concept Group: A culinary mastermind, Happy aims to excite the Filipino palate with dishes that elevate traditional Pinoy flavors. “Aside from loving what you do, time is essential to success, or else you won’t last.”
Rissa Mananquil-Trillo, cofounder and chief brand officer, Happy Skin: Through her homegrown cosmetics brand, Rissa is inspiring Filipino women to embrace their natural beauty. “Beauty today means being authentic—it means knowing who you are and sticking to it, even when the going gets tough.” Annette Gozon Valdes, president, GMA Films and GMA Worldwide: Annette continually seeks new ways to create engaging and innovative content, helping elevate local entertainment. “There are always basic things that people want, but of course, you have to innovate.” Tessa Prieto-Valdes, style purveyor: Host and columnist Tessa inspires all to live big and without regrets. “Does style define a person? Yes and no. I think style helps to highlight your personality and give you the best first impression, but it will not define who you are. Your character will,” says Tessa. Paloma Urquijo Zobel, founder and creative director, PI
OPIO: Paloma aims to not only celebrate Filipino artistry, craftsmanship and heritage, but also to protect it. “I founded PIOPIO with the hopes of shining a light and bringing these textiles to the forefront. Kalye Artisano is aimed at empowering the trade of local craftsmanship, while preserving and highlighting local identity.”