THRILL-SEEKERS
9/23/2024
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Celebrating those who live for daily
thrills.
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As we present the
Campio
XT, we wanted to feature dynamic individuals from Montreal and Toronto who, in our opinion,
truly embody the spirit of the
Reebok
Campio XT.
The 'XT' symbolizes the extra 30 minutes of overtime in soccer, where anything can happen in the game. Inspired by '90s soccer shoes and designed for everyday wear, it’s the perfect shoe to bring together talents from various spheres. We uncovered how they live life to the fullest and interviewed them read on to dive into their world!
The 'XT' symbolizes the extra 30 minutes of overtime in soccer, where anything can happen in the game. Inspired by '90s soccer shoes and designed for everyday wear, it’s the perfect shoe to bring together talents from various spheres. We uncovered how they live life to the fullest and interviewed them read on to dive into their world!
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Thrill-Seekers are all about the rush. As a DJ, what's that electrifying moment you chase
every time you hit the decks?
The most electrifying moment for me is when I test a new transition during a live set and it turns out to be so good that the crowd also gets it. The thrill comes when the idea naturally comes to me in the midst of my set and I decide whether or not I go with it. It’s really a game: either I play it safe or try something new not knowing if it’ll work. Most of the time it does!
Do you see your work as a bridge between cultures, particularly with your Haitian heritage and the diverse Montreal music landscape?
Definitely. I believe Montreal is one of the most beautiful cities in North America when it comes to music because of the blend of so many cultures and languages. It is not uncommon for people to speak a minimum of 3 languages in the city and that transpires into our ability to reach sounds beyond language barriers. I believe Haitian music is not understood or celebrated enough anywhere. Rarely you will see a non-Haitian DJ play a Haitian beat. That is why my goal is to show the world what Haitian culture sounds like and how well it can be blended with different genres to create a beautiful sonic experience. The bridge will be made when we Haitian music will live and thrive even outside of our communities.
What’s been the most thrilling highlight of your recent journeythose unforgettable moments that remind you why you love what you do?
The most thrilling highlight was definitely Aire Commune x VibeBenders on May 30th 2024 as it set the tone for the rest of the summer. I unexpectedly performed in front of thousands of people for the first time in my life. It was nerve-racking, but exciting. When I finished this set, I knew it was made for me. There’s this feeling when you’re able to draw people into your performance that I didn’t know I could do and I loved it ever since.
Would you say your fashion and visual aesthetics help amplify your on-stage persona?
Definitely. I’m very intentional about my outfits when I perform: I’m looking for comfort, personal style and an outfit that represents the overall set I’m going for. When I look good, I feel good and more confident in my work. I believe it also sets a tone for people to understand my work better.
This collaboration speaks to dynamic, vibrant individuals. Who keeps you inspired to push the envelope in both your music and lifestyle? What’s your best tip for those eager to live life with the same fearless energy?
I believe my lifestyle and music comes from so many different influences: my friends, family, travels, new people I meet, shows or events I go to, people I follow on social media. I am definitely shaped by what I choose to consume. But, if I have to name someone, I will say Kaytranada has shaped me a lot as an artist. Another Haitian-Montrealer just pushing boundaries and showing us innovation in the industry while staying true to himself, his work and heritage. Much respect to him. My best tip to live fearlessly is to keep going. Oftentimes people try different things and move onto the next when they don’t see results, but the work ethic, willingness and dedication will bring you much further than just talent. So find your touch, stick to it and grow into it.
What’s on the horizon for you? Any exciting projects or new adventures we should keep an eye out for?
I am taking the rest of the year to actually narrow down my sound and create a sonic world that is a lot more reflective of myself and my brand. I have started a weekly series called IVY’S MIX on YouTube with the intention of welcoming people into the discovery of my soundwhile I also discover it myself. Just experimenting with different vibes and genres while also setting a tone for the aesthetic portion of it all. The rest of the adventure will be gifts unfolding through time. Stay tuned!
The most electrifying moment for me is when I test a new transition during a live set and it turns out to be so good that the crowd also gets it. The thrill comes when the idea naturally comes to me in the midst of my set and I decide whether or not I go with it. It’s really a game: either I play it safe or try something new not knowing if it’ll work. Most of the time it does!
Do you see your work as a bridge between cultures, particularly with your Haitian heritage and the diverse Montreal music landscape?
Definitely. I believe Montreal is one of the most beautiful cities in North America when it comes to music because of the blend of so many cultures and languages. It is not uncommon for people to speak a minimum of 3 languages in the city and that transpires into our ability to reach sounds beyond language barriers. I believe Haitian music is not understood or celebrated enough anywhere. Rarely you will see a non-Haitian DJ play a Haitian beat. That is why my goal is to show the world what Haitian culture sounds like and how well it can be blended with different genres to create a beautiful sonic experience. The bridge will be made when we Haitian music will live and thrive even outside of our communities.
What’s been the most thrilling highlight of your recent journeythose unforgettable moments that remind you why you love what you do?
The most thrilling highlight was definitely Aire Commune x VibeBenders on May 30th 2024 as it set the tone for the rest of the summer. I unexpectedly performed in front of thousands of people for the first time in my life. It was nerve-racking, but exciting. When I finished this set, I knew it was made for me. There’s this feeling when you’re able to draw people into your performance that I didn’t know I could do and I loved it ever since.
Would you say your fashion and visual aesthetics help amplify your on-stage persona?
Definitely. I’m very intentional about my outfits when I perform: I’m looking for comfort, personal style and an outfit that represents the overall set I’m going for. When I look good, I feel good and more confident in my work. I believe it also sets a tone for people to understand my work better.
This collaboration speaks to dynamic, vibrant individuals. Who keeps you inspired to push the envelope in both your music and lifestyle? What’s your best tip for those eager to live life with the same fearless energy?
I believe my lifestyle and music comes from so many different influences: my friends, family, travels, new people I meet, shows or events I go to, people I follow on social media. I am definitely shaped by what I choose to consume. But, if I have to name someone, I will say Kaytranada has shaped me a lot as an artist. Another Haitian-Montrealer just pushing boundaries and showing us innovation in the industry while staying true to himself, his work and heritage. Much respect to him. My best tip to live fearlessly is to keep going. Oftentimes people try different things and move onto the next when they don’t see results, but the work ethic, willingness and dedication will bring you much further than just talent. So find your touch, stick to it and grow into it.
What’s on the horizon for you? Any exciting projects or new adventures we should keep an eye out for?
I am taking the rest of the year to actually narrow down my sound and create a sonic world that is a lot more reflective of myself and my brand. I have started a weekly series called IVY’S MIX on YouTube with the intention of welcoming people into the discovery of my soundwhile I also discover it myself. Just experimenting with different vibes and genres while also setting a tone for the aesthetic portion of it all. The rest of the adventure will be gifts unfolding through time. Stay tuned!
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Montreal’s thrift scene is legendary. How do you find the thrill in discovering those
one-of-a-kind pieces that elevate your style?
Montréal’s thrift scene truly is legendary, but so are the thrifts on the South Shore or lesser known areas around the city! Hence why thrifting is so thrilling; you can come across that one piece that’ll be screaming Paris, Milan, New York, Lagos, Tokyo (or Montreal) literally anywhere! Not to mention at a third of the price, which is definitely very thrilling.
What’s the most thrilling find you’ve discovered while thrifting?
Undoubtedly a black leather double rider motorcycle jacket with the Hard Rock Cafe Montreal logo on the back. Perfect crop, way too heavy, and the everlasting smoke smell just adds to its character.
How do you stay inspired with your looks and content?
You’re a reflection of the people you surround yourself with! Which is why I’m so grateful to be around such open and creative minds that inspire both my looks and content. Creativity is something that comes and goes and being at peace with it is the best gift you can give yourself. As long as you have this desire to create, without sometimes necessarily knowing what, you’re good. The short answer would be fashion, cinema and music from the 2000s-2010s!
What advice would you give to someone looking to infuse more excitement into their wardrobe and embrace their own unique style?
Pinterest or social media in general are great tools, but trying pieces IRL is even more effective, in my opinion. Thrifting was such a pivotal activity for me for that exact reason! You get to feel the clothes, see what materials you like, what fit you prefer, etc. At first, you’ll buy things that won’t stand the test of time, but their affordability will allow you to make mistakes. And fashion is all about making mistakes!
We all have those moments that define our style. Was there a turning point or specific outfit that made you feel like, This is me’?
Surprisingly (or not), it was an all-black outfit. A silky ribbed tank top paired with the most comfortable work pants and loafers. Such a simple fit really allows you to play with textures and accessories, but also lets your aura do the talking. You make a statement when you’re wearing all-black and then people get surprised when you’re wearing colors. It’s a win-win!
Your confidence is striking where does that fearless energy come from, and what keeps it vibrant?
Just like creativity, confidence is also something that comes and goes! Still, doing things out of your comfort zone will surely allow you to channel that confidence on command, even on harder days. Having it be grounded in rewarding hobbies and relationships instead of looks and notability is key as well. I also don’t really believe in “cringe” and try to remember that I wouldn’t want to be around people who deem others “cringe” for being themselves, so I just do me!
What’s a daily ritual or habit that keeps you grounded and ready to take on the day?
Any kind of stretching, working out or jumping around is the best way to start my day. I’m not too sure about the magic behind it, but I feel like running or going to the gym really slows down my heartbeat and makes me less anxious about change and new experiences. They’re called endorphins, I think. Don’t quote me on this one
Montréal’s thrift scene truly is legendary, but so are the thrifts on the South Shore or lesser known areas around the city! Hence why thrifting is so thrilling; you can come across that one piece that’ll be screaming Paris, Milan, New York, Lagos, Tokyo (or Montreal) literally anywhere! Not to mention at a third of the price, which is definitely very thrilling.
What’s the most thrilling find you’ve discovered while thrifting?
Undoubtedly a black leather double rider motorcycle jacket with the Hard Rock Cafe Montreal logo on the back. Perfect crop, way too heavy, and the everlasting smoke smell just adds to its character.
How do you stay inspired with your looks and content?
You’re a reflection of the people you surround yourself with! Which is why I’m so grateful to be around such open and creative minds that inspire both my looks and content. Creativity is something that comes and goes and being at peace with it is the best gift you can give yourself. As long as you have this desire to create, without sometimes necessarily knowing what, you’re good. The short answer would be fashion, cinema and music from the 2000s-2010s!
What advice would you give to someone looking to infuse more excitement into their wardrobe and embrace their own unique style?
Pinterest or social media in general are great tools, but trying pieces IRL is even more effective, in my opinion. Thrifting was such a pivotal activity for me for that exact reason! You get to feel the clothes, see what materials you like, what fit you prefer, etc. At first, you’ll buy things that won’t stand the test of time, but their affordability will allow you to make mistakes. And fashion is all about making mistakes!
We all have those moments that define our style. Was there a turning point or specific outfit that made you feel like, This is me’?
Surprisingly (or not), it was an all-black outfit. A silky ribbed tank top paired with the most comfortable work pants and loafers. Such a simple fit really allows you to play with textures and accessories, but also lets your aura do the talking. You make a statement when you’re wearing all-black and then people get surprised when you’re wearing colors. It’s a win-win!
Your confidence is striking where does that fearless energy come from, and what keeps it vibrant?
Just like creativity, confidence is also something that comes and goes! Still, doing things out of your comfort zone will surely allow you to channel that confidence on command, even on harder days. Having it be grounded in rewarding hobbies and relationships instead of looks and notability is key as well. I also don’t really believe in “cringe” and try to remember that I wouldn’t want to be around people who deem others “cringe” for being themselves, so I just do me!
What’s a daily ritual or habit that keeps you grounded and ready to take on the day?
Any kind of stretching, working out or jumping around is the best way to start my day. I’m not too sure about the magic behind it, but I feel like running or going to the gym really slows down my heartbeat and makes me less anxious about change and new experiences. They’re called endorphins, I think. Don’t quote me on this one
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Can you tell us about a moment where your outdoor activities significantly impacted your
creative projects?
I can't say there is one moment where my outdoor activities significantly impacted my creative projects. Everything I do or create is from my perspective, which is largely shaped by outdoor activities and sport. Who I am is so deeply intertwined with my identity as a climber, my creativity and outdoor activities are inseparable. One clear example of a creative activity being impacted by my athletic and outdoorsy background is in my style. Both my personal style and work as a stylist reflects my influences. A lot of my clothing references and taste are shaped by outdoor clothing and gear. I began climbing at eight years old and therefore have been familiar with what is now trending as “gorp core” for as long as I can remember. The clothing I am drawn to, how I pair pieces together, layer things and view clothing in general is all shaped by outdoors experience. I think this gives me a unique taste and adds an element of authenticity to my take on fashion.
Thrill-Seekers are all about catching that adrenaline rush. How do you channel that same excitement into your daily life?
Being an adrenaline junkie, or catching an adrenaline rush I think is almost the opposite of what outdoor activity is about for me. When outdoors it is important to be calm and collected, especially in the face of genuine risk and/or danger. Day to day to channel or add some excitement into my life I like to switch up my routine and try new things. I enjoy trying new foods,going to see a movie, checking out a different park. I think veering from your daily routine even in small ways and mixing things up is really stimulating. It Keeps things fresh and exciting! Additionally I try to incorporate some type of movement everyday. I crave movement and need it to be both happy and healthy. The feeling of a hard workout or a good sesh at the gym is exciting to me. I enjoy climbing (obviously), yoga, running, going on walks or even simply weight training at the regular gym. I also like to cycle to commute around the city and love to travel. I will go on a trip on a whim at any opportunity I get.
What’s the most memorable climb you’ve completed, and how did it make you feel?
If I had to choose one climb that was most memorable it would be Narcissus Direct 12d in the New River Gorge,West Virginia. This route is my hardest onsite to date - which means that I did it on my first try with no beta (information on how to do it). The route is a hard boulder problem, maybe V7/V8 on bad finger pockets, into a physical and pumpy sustained finish. I think this is my most memorable climb for a few reasons. The trip as a whole was the best climbing trip of my life. A couple friends and I drove from Toronto to The Red River Gorge, Kentucky to climb for a few days then made the beautiful, windy drive from Kentucky to West Virginia. I was having a wonderful time the entire trip and climbing very strong, flashing route after route and felt like I was simply floating up the walls. (Flashing a route means you do it on your first attempt with beta.) Narcissus Direct was the cherry on top of the trip for me. I remember being so nervous before trying. It took me a while to calm my nerves and prepare myself to get on the wall. I knew that I could do it on my first try, I just needed to be composed and execute. I was absolutely elated when I clipped the chains. It was so satisfying to round off a delightful and successful trip with a new personal best.
How do you maintain a balance between your passions for climbing and modeling, and do they ever converge in unexpected ways?
For me climbing and modeling go hand in hand. Most of the modeling jobs I do are sports related, so in that sense they feed into one another. I believe that I get jobs because I am athletic and comfortable doing a range of activities in front of the camera; climbing, running, skiing, snowboarding, swimming - you name it! The more that I am climbing and exercising in my own life, the more fit I am. And the more fit I am, the more modeling jobs I get. In another sense, doing sports and climbing balances my modeling/work because it is a source of fun and self- confidence that is not related to how I look. Feeling strong and capable about a skill that I have developed goes beyond feeling pretty, it's deeper than that. It is something that I have done for myself, by myself and have complete control over. This is very grounding and empowering because in life, and modeling, there is little you can control.
What’s your favorite way to unwind and recharge after a hectic day or week?
My favorite way to recharge after a hectic day or week is to go to a hot yoga class. I find it so relaxing and stress relieving. The combination of heat, physical movement and meditation really does it for me. I also love to chill at home, watch a movie and eat some ice cream to unwind.
What’s a hidden gem in Toronto that you think everyone should know about, but only the cool kids are in on?
A hidden gem in Toronto that I think everyone should know about is Boulderz Climbing Centre in the Junction (where we filmed). It is one of the OG climbing gyms in Toronto. It is a small gym with hard/fun setting and a great vibe!
What’s a personal goal you’re pursuing right now that’s making you feel all the excitement?
A personal goal that I am pursuing right now that is making me feel all the excitement is finishing my university degree. I have one semester left of my degree in commerce and marketing, I can’t wait to be done! I feel so lucky to have the opportunity to go to post secondary school and I can’t wait to finish up and see what's next for me. The past couple years climbing and adventuring was on the backburner as I was in full time school pursuing my undergrad. Looking forward to hopefully traveling, climbing and all the unexpected things life has in store for me in the near future.
I can't say there is one moment where my outdoor activities significantly impacted my creative projects. Everything I do or create is from my perspective, which is largely shaped by outdoor activities and sport. Who I am is so deeply intertwined with my identity as a climber, my creativity and outdoor activities are inseparable. One clear example of a creative activity being impacted by my athletic and outdoorsy background is in my style. Both my personal style and work as a stylist reflects my influences. A lot of my clothing references and taste are shaped by outdoor clothing and gear. I began climbing at eight years old and therefore have been familiar with what is now trending as “gorp core” for as long as I can remember. The clothing I am drawn to, how I pair pieces together, layer things and view clothing in general is all shaped by outdoors experience. I think this gives me a unique taste and adds an element of authenticity to my take on fashion.
Thrill-Seekers are all about catching that adrenaline rush. How do you channel that same excitement into your daily life?
Being an adrenaline junkie, or catching an adrenaline rush I think is almost the opposite of what outdoor activity is about for me. When outdoors it is important to be calm and collected, especially in the face of genuine risk and/or danger. Day to day to channel or add some excitement into my life I like to switch up my routine and try new things. I enjoy trying new foods,going to see a movie, checking out a different park. I think veering from your daily routine even in small ways and mixing things up is really stimulating. It Keeps things fresh and exciting! Additionally I try to incorporate some type of movement everyday. I crave movement and need it to be both happy and healthy. The feeling of a hard workout or a good sesh at the gym is exciting to me. I enjoy climbing (obviously), yoga, running, going on walks or even simply weight training at the regular gym. I also like to cycle to commute around the city and love to travel. I will go on a trip on a whim at any opportunity I get.
What’s the most memorable climb you’ve completed, and how did it make you feel?
If I had to choose one climb that was most memorable it would be Narcissus Direct 12d in the New River Gorge,West Virginia. This route is my hardest onsite to date - which means that I did it on my first try with no beta (information on how to do it). The route is a hard boulder problem, maybe V7/V8 on bad finger pockets, into a physical and pumpy sustained finish. I think this is my most memorable climb for a few reasons. The trip as a whole was the best climbing trip of my life. A couple friends and I drove from Toronto to The Red River Gorge, Kentucky to climb for a few days then made the beautiful, windy drive from Kentucky to West Virginia. I was having a wonderful time the entire trip and climbing very strong, flashing route after route and felt like I was simply floating up the walls. (Flashing a route means you do it on your first attempt with beta.) Narcissus Direct was the cherry on top of the trip for me. I remember being so nervous before trying. It took me a while to calm my nerves and prepare myself to get on the wall. I knew that I could do it on my first try, I just needed to be composed and execute. I was absolutely elated when I clipped the chains. It was so satisfying to round off a delightful and successful trip with a new personal best.
How do you maintain a balance between your passions for climbing and modeling, and do they ever converge in unexpected ways?
For me climbing and modeling go hand in hand. Most of the modeling jobs I do are sports related, so in that sense they feed into one another. I believe that I get jobs because I am athletic and comfortable doing a range of activities in front of the camera; climbing, running, skiing, snowboarding, swimming - you name it! The more that I am climbing and exercising in my own life, the more fit I am. And the more fit I am, the more modeling jobs I get. In another sense, doing sports and climbing balances my modeling/work because it is a source of fun and self- confidence that is not related to how I look. Feeling strong and capable about a skill that I have developed goes beyond feeling pretty, it's deeper than that. It is something that I have done for myself, by myself and have complete control over. This is very grounding and empowering because in life, and modeling, there is little you can control.
What’s your favorite way to unwind and recharge after a hectic day or week?
My favorite way to recharge after a hectic day or week is to go to a hot yoga class. I find it so relaxing and stress relieving. The combination of heat, physical movement and meditation really does it for me. I also love to chill at home, watch a movie and eat some ice cream to unwind.
What’s a hidden gem in Toronto that you think everyone should know about, but only the cool kids are in on?
A hidden gem in Toronto that I think everyone should know about is Boulderz Climbing Centre in the Junction (where we filmed). It is one of the OG climbing gyms in Toronto. It is a small gym with hard/fun setting and a great vibe!
What’s a personal goal you’re pursuing right now that’s making you feel all the excitement?
A personal goal that I am pursuing right now that is making me feel all the excitement is finishing my university degree. I have one semester left of my degree in commerce and marketing, I can’t wait to be done! I feel so lucky to have the opportunity to go to post secondary school and I can’t wait to finish up and see what's next for me. The past couple years climbing and adventuring was on the backburner as I was in full time school pursuing my undergrad. Looking forward to hopefully traveling, climbing and all the unexpected things life has in store for me in the near future.
We hope these interviews inspire you to embrace
the excitement of everyday life, and we want to give a big thank you to the three vibrant
individuals : Ivy Guerrier,
Laurent Savaria and
Bea Evans. Be sure to follow their inspiring
journeys!
A special thank you to Miguel P. Jimenez for the photos and videos.
A special thank you to Miguel P. Jimenez for the photos and videos.
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