“LuxeBook is a window into the evolving language of luxury.” For Sameeksha Uniyal, luxury is less about possession and more about emotion—an experience that feels authentic and leaves a lasting imprint. She brings this same philosophy to her work: creating brand stories with heart, purpose, and cultural relevance. With over 17 years of experience across marketing, media, and brand strategy, Uniyal has redefined how global spirits connect with local audiences. Whether curating immersive experiences like Casa BACARDÍ or crafting timeless blends such as BACARDÍ Mango Chile, her approach balances creative innovation with data-led insight. “True refinement often lies in simplicity done well,” she says, describing her go-to drink — a perfectly balanced Bacardi Daiquiri. Her vision of success extends beyond numbers: “It’s not just what you achieve, but how you make people feel along the way.” She champions curiosity, empathy, and collaboration as key to leadership, especially for women breaking barriers in luxury. When she’s not steering iconic brands, Uniyal finds balance in quiet evenings with a Bombay Sapphire & tonic, good music, and conversation. Her take on luxury today? “Personalisation with purpose—experiences that tell your story, not just the brand’s.” “Some of my most treasured pieces are heirlooms passed down by my mother. Her jewellery and sarees, and even small trinkets collected over time.” For Shirin Mann, fashion has always been a journey of curiosity, creativity, and storytelling. A Chandigarh native, she studied International Journalism in Wales and returned to India to work as a crime journalist—but her love for design and craftsmanship soon charted a new path. NEEDLEDUST, her first brand launched in 2014, was born from a personal quest: finding the perfect pair of bridal juttis. When she couldn’t, she created her own, blending North India’s artisanal techniques with modern elegance. Today, NEEDLEDUST offers juttis, kolhapuris, mules, heels, sandals, wedges, and bags, collaborating with designers like Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, Anju Modi, Ridhi Mehra, Arpita Mehta, and Abhinav Mishra, while also supporting artisans’ children’s education. Building on this vision, Mann launched SAND (Such-A-Nice-Day), a travel-inspired clothing brand crafted from innovative natural fabrics such as aloe vera, eucalyptus, banana, and organic linen, in earthy, calming tones. She has been invited to share her journey at Simply Fest Talks, CBRE, Etsy, and the Women Economic Forum where she was awarded the Women of Excellence in 2019). Even after tasting success, Mann’s commitment to inspire through storytelling and empowering artisans is intact. She continues to transform fashion into a reflection of dreams, tradition, and the endless beauty of reinvention. | 44 Sameeksha Uniyal Regional Head of Brand (AMEA), Bacardi Rums & Bombay Sapphire | 45 Shirin Mann Founder & Creative Director, Needledust And Sand By Shirin
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