He’s a polymath, multihyphenate and all-round great guy. But what does Viwe Mfaku do when not engaged with his lifestyle brand IBITSO, his art gig and his marketing and creative agency Cule? And how does he find time for anything else?
What’s the best book you’ve read in the past year? And why?
Can’t Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds by David Goggins. It’s one of the best books I’ve read recently because of the topics and nature in which they are covered: namely, accountability and ownership as an adult despite what you might have been through as a child. It’s written through the voice and lens of a man in his late 40s, in the best shape of his life, who has overcome self-sabotage.
How do you keep fit?
Having recently moved to a new city, I haven’t found the rhythm yet. Normally I train, focusing on cardio, three to four mornings a week, and I do something intense like a hike or 300 steep stairs once a month, as well as try to walk and not drive or commute.
Weekday, lowkey restaurant go-to anywhere in the world? What do you order?
Cecconi’s, Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles. Order the Cavatelli lamb ragu with pecorino and mint.
What is the one artwork you’ll always love, and why?
Infinity Mirror Rooms by Yayoi Kusama. I love this piece because it’s an experiential art installation; it’s physically limited but feels endless and immerses you, making you forget where you are because it’s so beautiful.
What do you regret most?
Not starting earlier. I run three businesses: Cule, IBITSO and VMart. I wish I had started the art business (VMart) earlier, because it is essential to both my service business and product businesses.
The one unusual item you can’t live without?
My MacBook Pro 16″ M3 Pro.
Who was your high school celeb crush?
Halle Berry!
Three songs that you’d take to a desert island?
Tribe by Simphiwe Dana; Field Trip by Kanye West; and Ozeba by Rema.
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