Olivia Vasilopoulos begins an exciting new chapter at her 24 as the newly crowned Miss Universe Greece 2026, preparing to represent Greece on the international stage at Miss Universe 2026 in Puerto Rico. Born in Sydney to Greek parents and raised in Hong Kong, Olivia grew up surrounded by different cultures, languages and perspectives. Her family’s journey of migration, perseverance and determination has deeply influenced the woman she has become, while her Greek roots remain an essential part of her identity. With family connections to Mytilene, Argos and Patras, she carries a strong sense of cultural pride alongside a distinctly global outlook. Olivia studied Political Science and Chinese in Melbourne and speaks five foreign languages in addition to Greek. Her international modeling career has taken her across continents, while her experience in public policy has given her another perspective on leadership, communication and social responsibility.

When you look back at the beginning of your modeling career, what inspired you to enter the fashion industry and how has your journey shaped the woman you are today?

My journey into modeling began with a genuine love for fashion, beauty and self-expression. From a young age, I was fascinated by the way fashion can tell a story and give someone the confidence to express who they truly are.

As I began taking my first steps into the industry, I quickly realized that modeling is about much more than appearance. It requires discipline, dedication, resilience and the ability to constantly grow and adapt, not merely to fashion developments but also the social changes that fashion absorbs and reflects. The industry can be demanding, fast moving and dynamic. Every experience has shaped me into the woman I am today and has taught me resilience, including to believe in myself and back my own dreams.

But above all, I want everything I do to have a purpose and resonate with personal meaning also. I want to use the opportunities I receive to help people, protect our planet and ecosystem and stand beside vulnerable and disadvantaged groups – giving voice to those who may not be well positioned to advocate for themselves. For me, success has meaning only when it can be shared and can make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Modeling is often seen as a glamorous profession, but it also requires discipline, resilience and hard work. What have been the biggest challenges you have faced and what have they taught you about yourself?

The modeling industry can be demanding and sometimes unpredictable. One of the biggest lessons I have learned is that rejection is not failure. It is part of the journey and an opportunity to become stronger. Some of the greatest rejections I have experienced have redirected my steps, this has frequently led to an opportunity that I may not have otherwise found. I have learnt to trust the process and believe in my ability to learn from and be reshaped by setbacks. This has been a very positive experience that has prepared me for life in all its dimensions.  

The industry has also taught me about the importance of hard work, consistency and discipline. I have learned that success does not happen overnight, it can take years to come to the kind of fruition one might imagine or hope for. It involves courage in being prepared to face the setbacks needed to keep moving forward, even when things do not happen exactly as you imagined.

These experiences have also made me more aware of the importance of empathy and compassion. I believe that whatever position we achieve in life, we should never forget the people, animals, and causes that need our voice and support. An empty success that resonates only in the most shallow sense, holds no appeal for me.

How important has your family’s support been throughout your journey? In what ways have their encouragement, values and advice helped you pursue your ambitions?

My family has been incredibly important to me. They have always encouraged me to pursue my dreams while reminding me to remain grounded and true to myself.

Their love and support have been unconditional and have given me the confidence to take risks, explore new opportunities and believe that I can achieve everything I set my mind to.

They have also taught me values that I consider essential: compassion, respect, responsibility and the importance of being selfless and helping others. I want these values to remain at the heart of everything I do.

You have also pursued your studies in Australia, an experience that must have offered a different perspective on life. What motivated you to study in Melbourne and how did it influence your personal growth and independence?

Studying in Australia was a very important chapter of my life. Living in Melbourne allowed me to experience a completely different culture and environment, while also becoming more independent and responsible for my own decisions.

Being away from home taught me how to adapt, communicate with people from different backgrounds and see the world from a broader perspective. It helped me mature both personally and professionally and gave me a stronger sense of who I am and what I want for my future.

After my studies, I undertook a year long internship with then Leader of the Opposition, Minister Bill Shorten. It was a wonderful opportunity to directly engage with the kind of social impact that is so meaningful to me. I learnt so much about the kind of dedication, thoughtfulness and sheer hard work that was needed to drive meaningful change and impact.

My studies and work experience also taught me that knowledge is a powerful tool. I want to continue using everything I learn to create opportunities not only for myself, but also to contribute to causes that matter — from supporting people and vulnerable communities to protecting animals and our environment.

How do you balance your academic background with the demands of modeling and do you believe education has given you a different perspective on beauty, success and the opportunities available to you?

Balancing education and modeling requires a great deal of organization, discipline and commitment. I believe that education and more importantly, access to quality education, is one of the most powerful tools a person and community can have because it drives knowledge, confidence and the ability to think critically and independently – it is powerfully life transforming. 

For me, true beauty goes far beyond physical appearance. Beauty without intelligence, character, kindness, confidence and the way you use your voice is shallow and meaningless.

Education has taught me that success is not simply about being seen; it is about having something meaningful to say when you are given the opportunity to be heard — and, even more importantly, using that voice to help others.

Every young woman has dreams that go beyond her professional achievements. What are the dreams you hold closest to your heart, both personally and professionally and what would you love to accomplish in the years ahead?

One of my biggest dreams is to build a life that has meaning and purpose beyond my own achievements.

I want to use my voice, my visibility, my platform and every opportunity I receive to help people and make a positive difference in the world. I care deeply about vulnerable and disadvantaged groups, access to quality healthcare and education and the protection of our planet in all its dimensions (land, sea and air).

I believe that we all have a responsibility to leave the world a little better than we found it. Whether that means supporting a person in need, raising awareness for an important cause, protecting an animal, or encouraging people to care more about our environment, I want my actions to have a positive impact and feel that when I had the chance, I did all that I could to help.

I would also love to continue representing Greece internationally, while promoting our culture, our heritage and the values that make our country unique.

Winning Miss Universe Greece 2026 is a significant milestone. What did this achievement mean to you personally and how has it changed your outlook on your career, your responsibilities and the opportunities ahead?

Winning the Miss Universe Greece 2026 title would be an extraordinary honor and a tremendous responsibility.

For me, the crown would not simply represent beauty. It would represent a platform — an opportunity to speak, to inspire and to represent Greece with dignity, confidence and authenticity on an international stage. I am Greek, but have also had an upbringing that translates the Greek Diaspora having grown up between Greece, Australia and Hong Kong. I have also spent a great deal of time in America and wider Asia. In combining this background with my political science academic background, my work experience in community causes, my post graduate qualification in languages and culture and my years of experience in environmental advocacy, I hope to represent a modern Greece beyond tourism cliches. Much of this also involves embracing and advocating for the return of the Parthenon marbles and other antiquities, as well as highlighting all the wonderful dimensions of Greek culture, life and contribution to the world stage that extend far beyond those that may currently be understood internationally.  

Most importantly, I would want to use that platform for something far greater than myself. I would want my voice to reach people who may not always have the opportunity to be heard, to support vulnerable groups, promote equal access to essential services, advocate for animal welfare, promote environmental awareness and inspire young people to believe that they too can make a difference. These are all areas of community life that I have tried to promote using my platform. I am excited at the prospect of being able to amplify and highlight that voice both domestically in Greece and internationally. 

I would see the title as the beginning of a new chapter — one in which beauty is connected with purpose, responsibility, compassion and action.

In an industry where appearance and public perception often receive so much attention, how do you stay authentic and protect your confidence, individuality and sense of self?

I believe authenticity is one of the most powerful forms of beauty. Trends change, standards change and opinions change, but knowing who you are remains your greatest strength and North Star. 

I try to remind myself that I do not need to become someone else to be worthy of success. I want people to see not only the woman in front of the camera, but also the person behind it — with her values, dreams, imperfections, and ambitions.  At the end of the day, it is about being able to look into the mirror and like what you see and know about yourself.  That transcends the outer exterior in every way that is meaningful. 

Confidence does not mean believing that you are perfect. No-one is, or should aspire to be.  It means accepting yourself, knowing your worth and continuing to grow toward the best version of yourself.

And I believe that true confidence also comes with responsibility. If you are given a voice and a platform, you should use them to lift others up, not simply to promote yours

Looking ahead, what are your plans for the next chapter of your career and life? Do you see yourself exploring international modeling opportunities, working with major fashion houses, or expanding into other fields?

I would love to continue developing my career internationally and have the opportunity to work with major fashion houses and leading names in the industry.

At the same time, I do not want to limit myself to modeling. I am interested in exploring opportunities in media, communication, entrepreneurship and projects that allow me to make a positive impact on our wider community. I view these areas as very complimentary and symbiotic.

I want to create initiatives and participate in actions that support people in need, vulnerable groups, animal welfare and the protection of our planet.

Ultimately, I want to build a career that combines creativity, purpose, compassion and meaningful representation. My work with the European Parliament in promoting Greek culture (the first project of its kind), in conjunction with Greek icon and Member of the European Parliament, Elena Kountoura, is a great example – in this ground breaking project, I have sought to highlight the impact that climate change has on vulnerable geographies such as Greece and to highlight the need for advancing sustainable fashion, environmental protection and addressing social inequality with urgency. New law has been passed in Europe to drive sustainable practices (The EU Waste Framework Directive).  I hope to highlight the need for early adoption in all member nations while illustrating the devastating effects that climate change has on Greece and other vulnerable communities around the world. It is exactly this kind of intersection of fashion, art and public policy that I find most meaningful and important.  

If you could send a message to the little girl you once were, before the modeling career, the international experiences and the achievements, what would you tell her about believing in herself, overcoming obstacles and daring to dream big?

I would tell my younger self: Believe in yourself and trust the process – you will win some and lose some, but what is meant for you will find you and it will all be ok.

Do not be afraid of failure and never allow someone else’s opinion to define your worth. Everything happens at its own time and every experience — even those most difficult and painful — teach a valuable lesson. Sometimes, the lesson is simply that life can throw its worst at you and you can not only survive it, but also find purpose and direction from it. I am still in my twenties, but I have experienced my share of life’s tragedies and loss at a very early stage in life – losing my much loved brother to a rare and deadly cancer at age 19 while I was still a teenager myself. It is easy to speak of loss from a theoretical distance – I know what it is to experience real darkness and crushing loss. I hope to provide some inspiration to others undergoing challenging times that they can find the light and purpose again. What emerges can be greater understanding, compassion and consideration for others. I don’t take anything for granted because I know life can turn on chance at any time. That perspective and my wider experience has taught not to take anything for granted and to always be grateful for those opportunities that do come along.    

I would also tell my younger self to dream fearlessly, to remain kind and never to forget that the greatest success is not simply what you achieve for yourself, but what you are able to give back to the world and those that you love and care about around you. 

Finally, what does it mean to you to represent Greece on the Miss Universe stage?

Representing Greece on the Miss Universe stage would be one of the greatest honors of my life.

Greece is a country with an extraordinary history, culture, beauty and spirit. To stand on an international stage carrying the Greek flag would mean carrying with me the stories, values and dreams of an entire nation.

I would want to represent Greece with elegance, strength, intelligence and authenticity — and to show the world that a Greek woman can be both deeply connected to her heritage, thoroughly modern, multifaceted and international and completely open to the future.

But I would also want to represent something universal: compassion, respect and the belief that each of us can contribute to a better world and make a positive difference.

For me, the crown would never be the destination. It would be a responsibility and a platform from which I could make Greece heard, seen and remembered — while using my voice to help people, protect animals, care for our planet and stand beside everyone who needs support.

The post Olivia Vasilopoulos Begins Her Journey Of Beauty, Ambition And Dreams appeared first on Licence Magazine.

There are nights that begin with a line-up, and then there are nights that evolve into something much bigger than that.

On Saturday, September 19, Full Circle returned to Playground 260 for an evening that started with movement, electronic music, collective experience and ended by bringing SUCO, Maarkk, Man With The Speaker, Avangart Tabldot and WhoMadeWho together on the same stage.

The night did not start at the decks.

It began with focus on the body.

Before the dancefloor even filled, the audience took part in SUCO, an experiential practice that approaches meditation through movement, breathing, shaking and dance.

With headphones and a guided experience led by a facilitator, SUCO created a different way to enter the night: not by observing, but by participating. Movement became a tool for expression, while music became a way to connect with the body, emotions and the people around us.

It was a first statement of what was to come.

The musical baton was then passed to Full Circle residents MAARKK and MAN WITH THE SPEAKER, who gradually opened up the dancefloor and built the musical momentum of the night.

MAARKK, co-founder of Full Circle with many years of experience in the electronic music scene, moves between groovy basslines, melodic elements and breakbeat rhythms, while MAN WITH THE SPEAKER is known for his genre-blending sets and his ability to read the energy of every space.

From there, the journey began.

For the third time, Avangart Tabldot joined Full Circle with their distinctive groove.

The Turkish trio of Ata, Aytek and Semih has established a unique position within the international electronic scene in recent years, with releases on labels including Innervisions, VOD, TAU, Madorasindahouse and Siamese, as well as through their own Crib Records.

At Playground 260, their set carried exactly that energy: groove, movement and constant evolution. At the same time, they presented music from their recent discography, with their new release Love.Exe having come out just a few days before their appearance in Athens.

The dancefloor had now transformed into a single body.

And then came the moment for WhoMadeWho.

The Danish group has long crossed the boundaries between live band, electronic music and club culture, creating a sound that combines electronic production, rock, jazz and songwriting.

At Playground 260, WhoMadeWho’s hybrid DJ set was presented by Tomas Høffding and Tomas Barfod, two of the group’s core members.

Their performance became the climax of the night. With a set that moved between their distinctive sonic universe and the energy of the dancefloor, the two Tomas brought their own interpretation of the WhoMadeWho experience to the evening.

It was not simply another big name on the line-up.

It was the moment when everything that had come before — SUCO’s movement, the residents’ opening sets and Avangart Tabldot’s groove — came together on one shared dancefloor.

And like every circle, the night had to return to its beginning.

After WhoMadeWho, MAARKK and MAN WITH THE SPEAKER returned to the decks for the closing set, keeping Playground 260 alive until the very end.

From SUCO’s guided movement to the final beat, the night followed a clear journey:

body → emotion → music → connection → dancefloor

This was Full Circle-Join The Circle at Playground 260.

Not simply an event.

An experience that began individually and ended collectively.

The post Full Circle At Playground 260 appeared first on Licence Magazine.

Milan 2026, the icon who continues to define the language of the supermodel

At Milan Fashion Week 2026, Naomi Campbell once again embodies a generation of women who transformed the role of the model within fashion and popular culture.

Since the 1990s, her name has been associated with an era when supermodels became more than runway figures. They became recognizable personalities, cultural references and defining faces of an industry constantly reinventing itself.

“The era changes. The icon remains.”

For this special Licence feature, we revisit a series of images inspired by the visual language of the 1990s — an era defined by strong silhouettes, confident attitudes, refined beauty and photography with an unmistakable sense of character.

THE ’90s, REIMAGINED

The influence of the 1990s continues to appear throughout contemporary fashion.

But this story is not about recreating the decade exactly as it was. It is about revisiting its energy and understanding why its visual language continues to resonate today.

Set against Milan during Fashion Week, the imagery creates a conversation between past and present.

The attitude feels familiar. The setting is contemporary. The woman at the center of it remains unmistakable.

“Naomi Campbell represents more than a generation of fashion. She represents a language of fashion that continues to evolve.”

A SUPERMODEL BEYOND THE RUNWAY

Naomi Campbell belongs to a generation that expanded the definition of what a supermodel could be.

Her career has crossed fashion, beauty, photography, entertainment and culture, allowing her image to remain relevant through decades of change.

The fashion industry has evolved dramatically since the 1990s. The way images are created, distributed and consumed has changed. Yet certain faces continue to carry a particular cultural weight.

Naomi Campbell is one of them.

Her presence in Milan in 2026 becomes a reminder that fashion history is not simply something that belongs to the past. It continues to influence the way we see the present.

“The ’90s never really left. They simply found a new language.”

THE LICENCE COVER

For this special edition, Licence places Naomi Campbell at the center of a cover story built around a simple title:

THE ORIGINAL SUPERMODEL

The cover is a reflection on an era, an image and an enduring presence.

Rather than simply looking backward, this story asks what remains from the supermodel era and how its codes continue to appear in contemporary fashion.

Naomi Campbell represents that connection between generations.

The era changes.
The image evolves.
The influence continues.

BEHIND THE IMAGE

Every striking fashion image is the result of a creative vision and the collaboration of several talents.

This series captures Naomi Campbell in Milan through a visual language inspired by the attitude and atmosphere of the 1990s, bringing together photography, hair and make-up to create a contemporary interpretation of the supermodel aesthetic.

The result is a story built around presence, movement and image.

“Behind every image, there is a creative vision, a team and a story.”

IMAGE CREDITS

The images featured in this editorial are presented as a curated selection by Licence. They are not a photographic production commissioned or produced by Licence.

In recognition of the creative work behind the imagery, Licence credits the photographer and creative team associated with the series.

Photography — @germanlarkin
Hair — @lorenzo_barcel
Make-Up — @lucianochiarello

Licence presents this selection in an editorial context, with respect for the credited creators and the creative work represented in these images.

THE ICON REMAINS

Fashion constantly moves forward. Trends change, platforms evolve and new generations redefine the visual language of culture.

But some images remain part of the collective memory.

Naomi Campbell is one of those images.

From the defining years of the supermodel era to Milan in 2026, her presence continues to connect fashion history with the world we see today.

NAOMI CAMPBELL.
THE ORIGINAL SUPERMODEL.

The post NAOMI CAMPBELL: THE ORIGINAL SUPERMODEL appeared first on Licence Magazine.

By Licence Magazine | Fashion Business

A new chapter is taking shape for @donatella_versace.

The legendary Italian designer is joining forces with @revolve, bringing together decades of creative authority and a platform deeply connected to the next generation of fashion, beauty and culture.

More than a traditional fashion collaboration, the partnership signals a broader conversation about how fashion is created, communicated and experienced today.

For Donatella, creativity has always been rooted in movement. Her vision for this new chapter is centered on a generation shaped not only by fashion, but also by music, film, art, beauty and digital culture.

“I believe creativity should be fearless, inclusive and alive in the world.”

That philosophy sits at the heart of the partnership with REVOLVE. The company’s digital infrastructure, global reach and connection to emerging communities offer Donatella a new environment in which to develop her creative vision beyond the traditional fashion system.

For Mike Karanikolas, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of REVOLVE Group, the partnership represents an opportunity to build something from the ground up by combining Donatella’s creative authority with REVOLVE’s technology and global infrastructure.

Raissa Gerona, President of Brand and Partnerships at REVOLVE Group, similarly points to Donatella’s ability to understand and connect with the next generation as a defining element of the collaboration.

Beyond the runway

What makes this partnership significant is the cultural space surrounding it.

Today, fashion does not live exclusively on the runway or inside traditional fashion houses. It moves through social platforms, music, celebrity, beauty, creators and communities. The boundaries between fashion and wider popular culture continue to evolve.

Donatella Versace has spent decades operating at the center of that conversation. REVOLVE represents a digital-first generation that experiences fashion through a different ecosystem.

Their partnership brings those two worlds together.

A new language for a new generation

For Licence, the most interesting part of this new chapter is not simply the names attached to the collaboration, but the question it raises: what happens when an established creative legacy is given a new cultural and digital vocabulary?

The answer will unfold through the work itself.

But one thing is clear: Donatella Versace and REVOLVE are positioning this partnership around connection, creativity and the next generation — three forces increasingly shaping the future of fashion.

Licence Point of View

Fashion is no longer defined by a single runway, season or institution. Its influence travels across culture. This partnership places Donatella Versace’s creative legacy inside that evolving landscape, creating a space where heritage meets digital culture and where fashion becomes part of a much larger conversation.

The post Donatella Versace x REVOLVE: A New Era Begins appeared first on Licence Magazine.

On August 29, Michael Jackson would have turned 68.

Few artists have left such a profound mark on global culture. From his early years with the Jackson 5 to his extraordinary solo career, Michael Jackson continuously reinvented the possibilities of music and performance.

With albums such as Off the Wall, Thriller and Bad, he transformed pop music into a global visual experience. His music videos became cultural events, while his signature silhouettes, sequined jackets, military-inspired looks and iconic accessories helped redefine the relationship between fashion and performance.

But Jackson’s influence extended far beyond music. His choreography, stage presence and visual storytelling inspired generations of musicians, dancers, designers and filmmakers. He understood that an artist could become not only a performer, but an entire world of images, sounds and ideas.

More than 17 years after his passing, his presence remains deeply embedded in popular culture. His songs continue to be discovered by new generations, his style continues to inspire, and his artistic vision remains a reference point.

Michael Jackson was not simply the King of Pop. He was one of the defining cultural figures of his generation — and his legacy continues to speak.

The post Michael Jackson: The Legacy of an Icon appeared first on Licence Magazine.

Sophie Zanninou is one of the most beloved and enduring artists of the Greek performing arts, with more than fifty years of uninterrupted presence in theatre, film, television and music. With a career filled with remarkable collaborations, unforgettable roles and experiences alongside some of Greece’s greatest artists and creators, she continues to serve her craft with the same passion and dedication. In the interview that follows, she reflects on the defining moments of her journey, the dreams left unfulfilled, the changes in the entertainment industry and the values that have shaped both her life and career.

You have a career spanning decades in theater, song and television. If you could turn back time, is there a moment in your career you would live the same way?

There are many such moments, because I was lucky to work with great artists such as Thanassis Veggos, Kostas Chatzihristos, Nikos Stavridis, Nikos Perakis, Harry Klin, Antonis Kafetzopoulos, Nikos Kalogeropoulos, Georgia Vassiliadou, Maria Georgiadou, Smaragda Karidi, Alekos Syssovitis, Chryssoula Diavati and many more.

As for television, I worked with Nikos Sergianopoulos, Mirka Papakonstantinou, Jessie Papoutsi and Penelope Pitsouli.

Also in the theater with Giannis Zouganelis, Eleni Kastani, Antonis Loudaros, Zeta Douka, Penelope Anastassopoulou. With all the old directors such as Alekos Sakellarios, Orestis Laskos, Kostas Karayiannis, Leo Bartlett. I sang with Giorgos Marinos, Marinella, Giorgos Gerolymatos, Harry Klin, the Tzavara brothers, Dakis, Thanasis Bratzioti, Giannis Zouganelis and many others.

You were fortunate to collaborate with distinguished artists of the Greek theater and cinema. Who taught you the most important lesson and which memory from those years do you still keep alive?

I especially remember collaborations with maestros such as Giorgos Katsaros, Mimis Plessas, Giorgos Pagiatis, Giorgos Theodosiadis, Giorgos Chatzinassios. The most important lesson I learned from them is respect.

Is there a great Greek actor or artist you never had the chance to meet or work with and would have loved to?

I had an unfulfilled collaboration with Manos Hadjidakis. When the iconic Athens Tower, the country’s first 26-story skyscraper, was being built, businessman Dimitris Antonakis envisioned an ultra-luxurious roof garden at its top and entrusted Manos Hadjidakis. Discussions took place; the concept was locked. With exhaustive rehearsals completed, the act reached the final rehearsal. Unfortunately, there was never a premiere.

How do you think the theater and entertainment field has changed from the time you started until today? Are these changes mostly positive or negative?

There are changes and there aren’t. Everyone says that back then there were those stunning and great actors. Yet, because I work with many very young actors, I must tell you I have seen exceptional talents, girls and boys, whom I have admired and applauded. We have equally great actors as in the old days and time will prove me right, because we truly have very good actors. Things change anyway; the tools are different, and old performances had their magic, but new ones with new tools, such as lights, sound, etc., also create a magical result.

Right now you are involved in new artistic works and collaborations. What excites you most about each new professional step?

That I must portray and adopt a new character like the one I did in the Grand Hotel TV series, which I had never done before and there is always a tremendous charm and a strong challenge in everything new. Now, in the Your Face Sounds Familiar TV show, I was teaching acting and it was a major challenge because we did 120 disguises, i.e., the artists impersonated 120 different characters, different singers and that was a great charm, a great challenge and we pulled it off. That was a great joy for the EXCEPTIONAL participants and me!!! Wonderful, talented singers and actors, each better than the other.

Family has played a significant role in your life and in shaping your personality. What values have you tried to pass on to your own family?

What I took from my own family is honesty, courage, hard work and love.

As a mother and a woman with a lot of life experience, what do you consider the most important advice you would give today to young people?

Usually, I don’t advise people because every person is unique; every character is unique; what may suit me may not suit another person. Just go with honesty in everything you do because that gives truth and you see the real image of any situation. Always proceed with honesty, open-mindedness and open-heartedness, without a second thought and you will nail it. Whenever people go with malice and cunning, they are ruined. Whatever you do, do it with sincerity, courage and love. The universe will compensate you. There is a cosmic balance, as if everything we do is recorded: the good and the bad. What we sow is what we reap; that is the only sure thing.

Having worked with many generations of artists, how do you see the new generation of actors and singers? Do you notice the same passion that existed before?

Of course I see it, but I also see another thing: the older generation was usually experiential; there were no acting schools, and there were not many stimuli; now all the young actors, singers, and dancers receive a great education, and this is a great asset for an artistic career.

What qualities should a young artist have to endure in the field and build a career with longevity rather than just a momentary success?

Money and fame should come second. Colleagues and the quality of the work should be priorities, as should the love of making artistic work.

If Sophia Zanninou could leave a message to the people who have followed her all these years, what would it be?

I love them from the bottom of my heart because without those who love me, I wouldn’t exist. I thank them from my heart for honoring me with their love.

The post Sophie Zanninou Has An Uninterrupted Presence In The Performing Arts appeared first on Licence Magazine.

On September 5, 2026, Kinshasa will host the first Creative Currencies Panel Talk, a new platform created to foster meaningful conversations, connections and opportunities within the Congolese creative ecosystem.

For its inaugural edition, Creative Currencies presents a timely theme: “THE BUSINESS OF FASHION: When Creativity Becomes an Economic Force.”

Beyond fashion itself, the panel will explore how creativity can be transformed into sustainable careers, businesses, opportunities and economic value.

A Creative Industry Ready for the Next Step

The Democratic Republic of Congo is home to an extraordinary generation of designers, stylists, photographers, models, artists, creative directors, entrepreneurs and other emerging talents.

But talent alone is no longer enough.

Professionalization, access to opportunities, business knowledge, investment, networking and stronger industry structures are essential to help creative talents build sustainable careers and position Kinshasa as a stronger force within the African and global creative economy.

These are some of the key questions that Creative Currencies aims to bring to the table.

IB Kamara as Guest of Honor

For its first edition, Creative Currencies will welcome IB Kamara as its guest of honor.

Recognized internationally for his work across fashion and creative direction, Kamara represents a generation of African creative voices that have successfully translated vision, identity and creativity into global influence.

His participation brings an international perspective to a conversation that remains deeply connected to the ambitions of Congo’s creative community.

More Than a Panel — A Space for Connection

The event is designed not only as a conversation, but also as an opportunity to meet, exchange ideas, ask questions and build meaningful connections.

Whether already working in the creative industry or aspiring to turn a passion into a profession, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with professionals and other members of the creative community.

At a time when Africa’s creative industries are gaining increasing international attention, conversations like these are essential to understanding how local talent can become sustainable economic power.

LICENCE SAYS

For Licence Magazine, supporting initiatives that give visibility, structure and momentum to Africa’s creative talents is essential.

LICENCE SAYS: Supporting the vision, amplifying creative voices and giving strength to a new generation shaping the future of Congo’s creative industry.

The talent is already here. Now, it is time to build the structures, opportunities and platforms that allow it to become a true economic force.

CREATIVE CURRENCIES — THE BUSINESS OF FASHION

The post Creative Currencies Brings Kinshasa Into the Conversation on the Business of Fashion appeared first on Licence Magazine.

Darina Al Joundi is a Lebanese-born actress and writer whose work spans theatre, film and television in Arabic, French and English. She began performing as a child in Beirut and later emigrated to France, where she built a stage career and co-wrote the acclaimed one-woman show Le jour où Nina Simone a cessé de chanter, which explores exile, trauma and citizenship. Her performance at the 2012 Avignon Festival drew high-profile attention and helped accelerate her naturalization as a French citizen. Al Joundi has appeared in international films and series—including Our River…Our Sky and The Man Who Sold His Skin—and frequently speaks on women’s rights and refugee experiences. Her work is noted for mixing personal testimony with political themes.

Can you share some moments of your childhood and how your family and environment influenced you to develop a more global view?

I had a father who was a writer, journalist and a philosophy and Arabic language teacher and a mother who was one of the first radio speakers in the Middle East. Thanks to my father and his friends and the life he used to have, we were always surrounded by poets, writers and journalists. There were always parties at the house. Also, wine was always floating in the music. So, I had a childhood full of knowledge, books, happiness, friends, and very interesting discussions for a child like me. My father used to give me books to read from a very young age. He offered me the chance to watch movies and to listen to music. He had a lot of influence on my evolution in the arts, culture and knowledge.

Of course, I started acting at the age of eight on Lebanese TV. So, since my childhood, I was a working child as an actress and that very much influenced my childhood. I didn’t have a childhood that resembled others. I had to go to the shooting twice a week while going to school and then there was this atmosphere at home that made our lives full of joy, culture, music and happiness.

What motivated you to transition from Lebanon to France and pursue a career in acting there?

I’ve always been an actress in my life. And the things that I was doing in the Arabic world weren’t sufficient for me. On an artistic level, on a very high-quality level of work. And I wanted more; I wanted something else. I started wanting to leave and work in Europe at a very young age. I left Lebanon for Europe at the end of the 90s. Then went back when my father died in 2001. This is where I had my traumatic experience with the rest of my family, my mother and my sisters. And the minute I had the chance to leave, I left. And I started my new career here. I came for more freedom, more freedom to express myself, more freedom to live daily. I was looking for more professional, personal and intellectual freedom in my life.

How did your one-woman show Le jour où Nina Simone a cessé de chanter reflect your personal struggle to obtain French citizenship?

Well, it wasn’t “Le jour où Nina Simone a cessé de chanter”, which means the day Nina Simone stopped singing, that gave me the French nationality. It was my second play that’s called “Ma Marseillaise,” in English “Marseillaise my way”. This is the play that gave me the nationality. This is a play that talks about my struggle to obtain my papers and my French nationality. One week before the opening of the play, I had the refusal of my papers in France. So, I added this information to my play by the end of the play. And a critic from Le Monde newspaper, the biggest theatre critic in France, came and watched the play. And she wrote an article about the play, saying, “Mariane doesn’t recognize her sisters anymore. Mariane is the symbol of the French Republic”. The same day, the French Interior Minister, who was Emmanuel Valls, called me at the theatre and told me that the problem I had was a very administrative problem. They had to change the law. And he announced to me that he would change the law so I could have the French nationality and represent the Republic in the world as an artist. 

As someone who has spoken at the French Ministry of Women’s Rights, how do you see the intersection of art and activism in promoting gender equality?

Well, I think about how to do it in our work. Each one has to talk about their own convictions. It touches more the author side of my work because, as an actress, I do not always have the choice. Even though I do get a lot of proposals for acting, sometimes they are a bit similar to my way of living and activism. But it’s more on the author’s side because this is where I can express my opinions. But I think it’s only about being sincere and that each one of us talks and expresses their opinions, their experiences. And this is the only way that we can move forward.

You are known for your stage performances, but you also have a notable filmography. Do you prefer theater or cinema and why?

I’m known as a stage performer in Europe and I’m also known abroad. Even though I started when I was eight on TV, I don’t have a preference, actually. Each one of radio, cinema, TV and theater, each one of these ways of expression has its own challenge. Actually, what’s luxurious is time and the place where we have more time than any other kind of work. The theater is the place where we have more time, so we have the time to build the character and then to perform. The day of the premiere is the day when we really start working and it continues working until we stop performing the play. It can be for years and each time you make it better. Things get better, silence gets better. The film is a challenge; it’s very difficult because sometimes we start with the first scene and the next day we do the last scene and three weeks later we go back to the first scene to continue it from another decor set. So all these have to be in an intimate situation, but you are surrounded by hundreds of people. You cannot control anything in the cinema or on TV. Plus, on film, the good thing is that we have a bit more time than on TV. The luxury is time. So, theater can give you this luxury that TV and film don’t give you and it makes it harder to continue being on the same level as the character all the time. So, each part of this way of expression is either theater, film, TV or radio. Radio is another level of expression, another level of work. Each one of them has its own challenges, its own difficulties and its own magic. The magic and the passion are everywhere for me. I love all. I cannot do one and not do the others. I have to jump from one to another, like do TV and then do a film and then do a play, which I do all the time and that makes me really happy and more passionate about my work.

The preference between film, TV and theatre, there’s one thing I would like to add: theatre permits us to condense all the work that we do in months to be able to do it in minutes for the movies or for TV, which means, as actors, we learn the most important thing is to be present in the moment. And theatre is an excellent professor for it and the technique that we use in theatre permits us to use the same technique, but in a very short time, to be able to do the same for a film or for a TV show.

Among your roles in productions like Homeland, Tyrant and The Romanoffs, which character challenged you the most as an actress?

Well, among all these projects, there’s also the New Look; there’s Athena, a film on Netflix by Romain Gavras. There are a lot of films or shows that I did that are really challenging for me. Actually, the last project I did for French TV, which was called “Kabul”, was a big challenge because I had to learn a language that I didn’t know, Dari, one of the Afghan dialects. And we didn’t have a lot of time. It’s a project like in the US; they would do it in six months. We did it in three. A big production for France, but not really for the US as a TV production. But it was very challenging and also the most beautiful experience of shooting in my life. It was a very beautiful experience, an adventure with the crew, with the screenplay, with the directors, and with the other actors. This was a very challenging but very beautiful experience. “Kabul” was for France2FrenchTV.

Your father, Assem Al Joundi, was a prominent author and politician. How did his legacy shape your own path in the arts?

My father was a poet, journalist, writer and militant activist for freedom. He shaped my life not only during my childhood, but also during my adolescence and all parts of my life. His way of thinking, his way of doing things, he was one of a kind; he used to say what he thought and do what he said. He was a real free person and he did it with his own daughters, not just talking about it. I remember our house was always full of his friends, writers, politicians, poets and journalists. There was always music, words and books in my childhood and my youth. And just the way that we used to debate, to discuss, to talk, to drink together, to have fun together. Yes, he showed me how to love life.

And he showed me that to be free, you have to be mainly independent financially and that we have to be responsible towards our freedom and to assume all our actions and their consequences. Then you have the right to be free.

When preparing for roles, especially in emotionally intense works, what is your approach to embodying complex characters?

My approach to the roles that I do is actually very simple and very difficult. It’s just being there in the moment, not before, not after and just live the instance, the second that you are living in. That’s the most difficult and the easiest thing at the same time. It’s a process that you put in your body and your head and your soul. But for me, it’s this: it’s being able to be present in the moment. This is it.

How do you navigate your dual identity as a Lebanese-born actress who is now a French citizen in your work?

There’s no duality for me and there’s no me born a Lebanese actress and being a French citizen. It’s always me. It’s me, the same person. The way I live now resembles my way of being more than the way I used to live before; I’m still the same person. I just have more space, more freedom to express myself, to work, and more chances.

Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations that excite you, either in theater or cinema?

Well, the most exciting upcoming project for me is that I’m trying to adapt my second novel, which is called “Prisoner of the Levant”. It’s about the life of May Ziadeh and I’m hoping that by the end of next year, I will be in preparation for shooting my first long feature film and that’s the most exciting project I’ve been working on for five years now, so I hope I’ll be able to do it.

The post Darina Al Joundi Reaches High-Quality Work Level appeared first on Licence Magazine.

Yiannis Vardis is a Greek singer and songwriter known for blending contemporary laiko and entehno elements with a melodic, emotional style. Born in Athens in 1974, he began writing songs at a young age and studied piano, which helped shape his musical identity. He first appeared on record through work connected to his father, Antonis Vardis, before releasing his own material and gaining strong popularity with younger audiences. Over the years, he has built a steady career with albums, singles and live performances that highlight his warm voice and personal lyrics. His music often centers on love, loss and reflection, making him a familiar name in modern Greek popular music. His new song is “Den To Perimena” (“I Didn’t Expect It”), music by Kyriakos Papadopoulos, lyrics by Vassilis Giannopoulos and released by Panik Platinum.

Listen to the new song

What was your original inspiration for pursuing a career in singing and how did you start your career?

It wasn’t really a matter of inspiration—it was a matter of love. I have loved music since I was a child. Growing up, I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do within music. At some point, I realized that I could sing anything I heard—I could reproduce it with my voice. So, I went to my father and asked him to audition me, listen to my voice, give me his opinion and tell me if I was good enough. If he believed in me, I wanted him to take me by his side and teach me how to be a singer.

What moment do you consider the turning point in your musical journey?

I think the turning point was my father’s “yes.” After that came my first participation in the song “Tha Se Perimeno” (“I Will Wait for You”), and then the first song I recorded on my own, Isos (“Maybe”). That song was incredibly important to me and marked a significant moment in my career.

You’ve collaborated with many artists. Is there one collaboration that stands out and why?

I’ve had wonderful collaborations and each one has been different. Working with George Dalaras was truly unique. Just being by his side is a unique experience—you learn so much from him. Collaborating with Katsimiha Brothers and my father was a lifelong dream. My collaboration with Vasilis Karras was equally important. They have all been incredibly valuable experiences.

What genre of music has influenced you the most in your development as a singer?

From a young age, I listened to many different genres of music. The one that attracted me the most was rock, especially rock ballads. As I got older, I also started listening to heavy metal bands. But no matter the genre, I was always searching for beautiful melodies.

What process do you follow when creating a new song or choosing your repertoire?

There’s no specific process. The important thing is finding a great song. Thankfully, my father left me many wonderful unreleased songs and the truth is that it’s not always easy—when you have so many great songs to choose from, picking just one can be difficult. Very often, our choices are influenced by our state of mind and emotions at that particular time and that plays a significant role.

How do you see the evolution of the Greek music industry today compared to previous years?

I don’t think things are in a good place for Greek music today. There are still talented composers and some very good singers. However, I believe many composers have had to compromise to remain relevant because, unfortunately, radio has lowered its standards considerably. It’s become difficult to hear truly great songs on major stations that follow very specific airplay formats.

As I mentioned, there are good singers, but very few who truly give you what we call heart. Also, I believe there’s a major creative gap in our industry when it comes to genuinely great songs.

Have you faced difficulties during your career and how did you overcome them?

Of course I have. I’ve experienced shut microphones, issues over billing on the marquee and disagreements over performance time—who goes on stage first, or whether someone has to cut twenty seconds from their set so the headliner isn’t inconvenienced. Unfortunately, these things happen in our profession, no matter who you are.

Because I didn’t like that environment, I chose to step away from the big stages and large music venues. Instead, I decided to create my own projects, surrounded by people I choose and who choose to work with me. In short, I left those venues because I was looking for a healthier working environment.

What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from working with other artists?

Collaborations in our profession are like they are in any other job or in society in general. You meet wonderful people and also you meet the others. Through work, you learn to be careful. You gain experience that helps you surround yourself with the right people and the best collaborators possible.

This profession teaches you to be patient, to stay focused on your goals and to trust your own abilities.

Are there any artists or lyricists you’d like to collaborate with in the future?

There are outstanding composers I’ve already worked with and would love to collaborate with again, such as Kyriakos Papadopoulos, Dimitris Kontopoulos, Giorgos Moukidis, Vasilis Gavriilidis, Vasilis Giannopoulos and Olga Vlachopoulou.

There are also lyricists I haven’t had the chance to work with yet, such as Nikos Gritsis and Nikos Moraitis.

And of course, there are artists I’ve never collaborated with but deeply admire. Ever since I was a child, I’ve loved and admired Orfeas Peridis. To my ears and to my soul, his music is healing, if I may put it that way.

And I won’t hide the fact that I would love to collaborate with my father again—even if only on a recording. Whenever we’re creating music together, it’s something profoundly liberating for me.

What message would you like to give to young people who dream of a music career?

I’m not sure I want to give advice, but I would certainly like to make a wish.

I wish for a better future for Greek music—a future filled with beautiful songs, meaningful lyrics and beautiful voices. A future without AI, but with heart and soul.

The post Yiannis Vardis Has Loved Music Since He Was A Child appeared first on Licence Magazine.

For Sanober, fashion is not simply a profession it is a way of life. Every destination he visits, every piece of architecture he admires, every artwork he encounters, and every culture he experiences becomes part of his creative language. His collections are designed not to follow trends, but to create unforgettable silhouettes that transcend seasons and generations.

At the heart of SANOBER PARIS lies a clear philosophy: glamour is timeless. Each design is conceived to empower women, allowing them to express confidence, strength, and individuality. To Fahaid Sanober, clothing is more than fabric—it is an armour capable of transforming the way a woman feels the moment she wears it.

His vision of luxury extends far beyond exclusivity or price. True luxury, he believes, is defined by identity, craftsmanship, emotion, and legacy. It is about building a house with a distinctive signature that inspires people for decades to come.

Building an independent fashion house has demanded resilience, creativity, and determination. Competing without the resources of historic luxury brands has only strengthened his commitment to excellence and reinforced the unique identity of SANOBER PARIS.

Looking ahead, Fahaid Sanober remains focused on expanding internationally, presenting his collections on prestigious global stages, and continuing to redefine contemporary glamour through a spectacular, sensual, and timeless aesthetic.

Interview with Fahaid Sanober

Who is Fahaid Sanober beyond fashion?

To be honest, there isn’t really a life outside of fashion. Fashion is part of my everyday life, the way I think, and the way I see the world. It’s my first love. Every journey, every encounter, every work of art, and every architectural detail fuels my creativity. I believe the greatest dreams are built through patience, hard work, and the determination to never give up.

What is the vision behind SANOBER PARIS?

SANOBER PARIS was created to become much more than a fashion brand. I want to build a house that celebrates glamour, emotion, and exceptional craftsmanship. Every collection tells a story and invites women to reveal the strongest and most captivating version of themselves. I don’t simply create clothes—I create women who are unforgettable.

How would you describe the DNA of your brand in three words?

Glamour. Sensuality. Boldness.

Where do you find inspiration?

Travel, culture, art, architecture, and nature inspire me constantly. But above all, I’m fascinated by glamour throughout history—from Hollywood legends to the icons of the 1990s. My goal is never to follow trends, but to create timeless silhouettes that leave a lasting impression.

How do you want women to feel when wearing SANOBER PARIS?

Strong. Sexy. Completely themselves. Clothing should feel like armour—something that gives confidence and allows every woman to express who she truly is.

What defines true luxury?

Luxury is never about price. It’s about vision, craftsmanship, excellence, and identity. A true luxury house creates dreams and builds a legacy.

What has been your greatest challenge?

Building an independent fashion house without the resources of the major heritage brands. Every challenge has pushed me to become more creative and strategic.

If you could dress one person, who would it be?

Beyoncé. I deeply admire her discipline, her constant pursuit of excellence, and her remarkable ability to reinvent herself. Those values perfectly reflect my own philosophy.

How do you see the future of luxury fashion?

The future belongs to brands with a genuine identity. People are looking for emotion, authenticity, and meaningful stories. Glamour never disappears—it evolves, and that’s exactly what SANOBER PARIS represents.

What’s next for SANOBER PARIS?

Expanding internationally, presenting my collections at major fashion events, and unveiling exciting new projects that, for now, remain confidential.

What advice would you give to young designers?

Never become a copy of someone else. Protect your vision. Talent matters, but discipline, patience, and perseverance are what build a lasting fashion house.

Finally, what message would you like to share with Licence Magazine readers around the world?

Fahaid Sanober: Believe in your dreams, but most importantly, have the courage to act. Dreams only become reality when you decide to pursue them. Never be afraid to think big the only limits are often the ones we place on ourselves.

The post FAHAID SANOBER: THE MAN REDEFINING MODERN GLAMOUR WITH SANOBER PARIS appeared first on Licence Magazine.