#MAKEITHAPPEN

Our latest #MAKEITHAPPEN woman, Martha Graeff, understands the power of fashion and how it can be used to make a difference in the world. Graeff is a Miami-based mover and shaker who—with Danié Gómez-Ortigoza (a.k.a. @journeyofabraid)—co-founded The Bazaar For Good in 2018, a lifestyle-driven event that brings together influential women, fashion brands, and food and music, with 100% of the event proceeds going towards serving underprivileged children. This year's event will take place on May 5 in the Miami Design District and will raise funds for at-risk children in Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia, and Mexico. Here, we chat with Graeff on how she got started, why positivity is her biggest strength, and her passion for uniting women together to create change.

What are the driving passions that set you on your path?
I consider myself a big love spreader and I truly believe that love can change the world. My mission is to use fashion to unite people and causes, and work as a community to positively affect the lives of others. These are the passions that set me on my path!

What does #MAKEITHAPPEN mean to you?
It's an incredible way to celebrate women and start a conversation. I’m so honored to be a part of this!

And who or what inspires you to do so?
Women have always been my inspiration. The Veronicas are a great example of what women together are able to achieve. I love the expression “movers and shakers” because when we use our power to do amazing things, we are able to shake the entire universe.

Top life hacks to make it happen?
Putting passion into every task. Being persistent even after hearing “no” from people; do not get discouraged. Be open to meeting people and having open-hearted conversations—great ideas come from talks like this. Connect people and be the bridge between them. Stay positive and meditate.

3 must-haves to make it happen?
1. Surrounding myself with people who inspire me.
2. Learning from my mistakes and getting out stronger.
3. Spreading love and energy without expecting anything in return.

Top 3 fashion hacks?
1. Combat boots with dresses and skirts
2. A baseball cap or hat to make a look less serious
3. Confidence is the best accessory to any look—wear it well.

Top 3 beauty hacks?
1. I carry a gallon of water with me everywhere I go so I don’t forget to hydrate.
2. I use my gua sha stone every single morning.
3. Infrared sauna is my latest addiction. 

And the wardrobe MVPs that help you make it happen?
Killer boots, leather pants, and a Veronica Beard jacket!

Share one example of how you made it happen through adversity...
I was very young when I started modeling and traveling the world. I went through many difficult stages—I felt very lonely, developed an eating disorder, and cried every day for my family and friends. After just a few years of modeling, I decided to change my career. I became a buyer for Harvey Nichols in Turkey when I was 23 years old and that was a big challenge for me. They only saw me as a model and I had to show the entire team that I was serious about the job. Slowly, they started to respect me—especially when I learned to speak Turkish! In the worst moments, I always saw the glass half full and I trusted that things would get better. Positivity is my biggest strength. 

Tell us about the one thing or person who changed your life and POV?
I love Stephen R. Covey’s book, The 7 habits of Highly Effective People. I took a lot from it and it made me change my perspective about things. Highly recommend. 

Advice to others to make it happen?
Don’t give up, keep going, and know that every person who made things happen also made mistakes. 

Tell us about The Bazaar For Good causes you're supporting this year...
The Bazaar For Good is a way we found to use fashion to raise funds for different organizations around the world. Today we have an incredible network of women that use their influence to spread the word about this yearly event. We have more than 100 brands donating products and amazing panels where people can connect. This year the event will happen on May 5th at the Miami Design District and we are raising funds for children in Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia, and Mexico! Our handle is @thebazaarforgood.