In this issue, we introduce you to Maximilian Eicke, a German-born furniture designer who’s manufacturing his dreams around the world—from the Hamptons to Bali. You’ll also learn about world-renowned researcher Dian Fossey, who pioneered preservation efforts to save the lives of mountain gorillas in Rwanda and beyond. Finally, discover how Jay Shetty’s three-year stay at a monastery propelled him into fame as an inspiring life coach with over 50 million online followers.
The Nomad
While Maximilian Eicke’s unusual glassware originally put him on the map, his road to success took many detours. The German-born individualist and furniture designer left his home country in pursuit of his eclectic style, a journey that took him to New York for secondary school, Ireland for college, and Bali for business. His creations, ranging from sculptures to beach chairs, have become increasingly popular in the Americas—just ask models Kendall Jenner and Elsa Hosk, who have both shared Eicke’s chic creations with their millions of social media followers.
Of all his works, Eicke’s Ghost glassware has garnered the most attention. The minimalist design went viral during pandemic lockdowns when Eicke’s wife Irina suggested sending the glasses to some of their favorite fashion designers and personalities. The lavishly packaged, limited-edition glasses (alongside an extensive PR kit) were sent to 120 fashion leaders. Within six weeks, Eicke’s online sales had exploded, his breakthrough in the United States.
A Visit to the World of Dian Fossey
Dian Fossey spent years valiantly fighting for the protection of mountain gorillas in Rwanda—a battle she ultimately paid for with her life. Fossey’s sacrifice, however, was not in vain; for the first time in 37 years, the country’s population of mountain gorillas is increasing.
“When you realize the value of all life, you dwell less on the past and concentrate more on the preservation of the future.”
Dian Fossey
In the 1970s, Fossey carried out an aggressive campaign against Rwanda’s then-lax attitude toward poachers. In publications including National Geographic, her articles warned that mountain gorillas would be extinct by the end of the 20th century and spearheaded change by bringing corrupt game hunters to the attention of the international public. Since then, Rwanda has introduced severe penalties for poaching and pledged its support of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
Viral Wisdom
With an online following of over 47 million, former-Hindu-monk-turned-social-media-star Jay Shetty is an international phenomenon known for his work as an international life coach. Whether it’s people’s dreams, aspirations, anxieties, or disappointments in love, family, or work, Shetty can draw on his three-year tenure as a Hindu monk to find the right words of encouragement.
He’s told the story of his time as a Hindu monk to audiences around the world. Not only does he present the ancient Indian philosophy in a fresh, inspirational way but as an authentic face of diversity—whether ethnic, secular, or cultural. Armed with charisma and excellent timing, he expertly shares the most important lessons he learned in India.
“The value of material things was considered little to none. Mastering the mind wasn’t an option but a necessity for well-being. Discipline was a joyful and powerful force of self-care. Empathy, peace, mindfulness, and love were the only paths to abundance and success.”
Jay Shetty
One of his teachers urged him to share the lessons he learned, and in pursuit of this goal, Shetty returned to his home in London. After being rejected by all forty jobs to which he applied, Shetty began posting private, motivational videos to Facebook. These caught the eye of Arianna Huffington of the Huffington Post, who asked him to produce videos for the publication. By 2017, Shetty was included on Forbes’ 30 under 30 Europe list.
If that’s not interesting enough, Shetty also officiated Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck’s second marriage.
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For all of these articles and more, you can view the full issue here. Enjoy your read.