Celebrating 3 Magazine's First Anniversary: A Night of Culture, Identity, and Community in Toronto

There are evenings that feel like more than just a party; they feel like a celebration of a movement.

That was precisely the feeling at the one-year anniversary of 3 Magazine last week. The scene was set at Harriet’s Rooftop, a true sky-high oasis at the 1 Hotel Toronto, where the city’s shimmering skyline melted into the last rays of golden hour. The air itself felt curated, alive with a soft, rhythmic pulse from the DJ and the hum of inspired conversations.

The event was a powerful gathering of creatives, storytellers, and innovators, all united to champion a vital voice in the Canadian media landscape.

Taken on DJI Osmo Pocket 3*

It’s always a delight when elements of your own life intersect with a special event

which is why I loved seeing the beauty touch-up stations by MAC Cosmetics Canada and Batiste Canada. Batiste has been my secret weapon for years for fresh hair between photoshoots and fitness classes, and my makeup journey is deeply tied to MAC. From having my makeup done by their talented artists for countless events and shoots over the years to a vanity filled with their products, their presence felt like a personal fit for a night celebrating style and identity.

The Vision Behind 3 Magazine: Championing the Third Culture

​At the heart of the celebration was the magazine itself. 3 Magazine is a Canadian quarterly publication dedicated to exploring the stories of Third Culture Individuals (TCIs) and the culturally curious.

​For those who may not be familiar, the term ‘Third Culture Individual’ refers to someone who has spent a significant part of their developmental years outside of their parents’ culture. They internalize influences from their home culture (their parents' world) and their host culture (the world they grew up in), creating a unique 'third culture' of their own. This often results in a distinct worldview, a natural ability to bridge cultural gaps, and sometimes, a complex feeling of being at home everywhere and nowhere all at once. It's a modern identity shaped by globalization, and one that is becoming increasingly common.

​It is this beautiful, nuanced experience that 3 Magazine so thoughtfully explores. Published by SJC Media, one of Canada's largest media companies, in partnership with the purpose-driven company, 369 Global, the magazine has a powerful foundation to amplify these essential narratives.

​A Full-Circle Moment with Lilly Singh

​The most significant moment of the night was getting a first look at the new issue, featuring the phenomenal Lilly Singh on the cover. I felt a genuine wave of nostalgia, remembering my university days watching her hilarious and authentic YouTube skits. As a trailblazer, her success has been pivotal for South Asian representation in global media, and she is a perfect embodiment of the modern, multifaceted identity the magazine celebrates !

​Why These Stories Matter Now

​In our increasingly interconnected world, more people identify with a mosaic of cultures rather than a single one. The Third Culture Kid experience creates a perspective that is rich, complex, and deeply insightful. 3 Magazine is more than a publication; it's a community for anyone who has ever navigated a bicultural identity or felt like a global citizen.

​If you are looking for stories that resonate with the nuanced realities of a multicultural life, I wholeheartedly encourage you to explore their work. You can subscribe to the beautiful quarterly print edition or tune into the 3 Magazine podcast for even more inspiring conversations.

This was more than an anniversary -

it was a celebration of a vision that is shaping the future of media. My warmest congratulations to the teams at 3 Magazine, SJC Media, and 369 Global! And a special thank you to Ashley Pang of 369 Global for the lovely invitation. An unforgettable evening, suspended in the Toronto sky ✨!

With Love & Style,

Betty Lam

Photo Credit - Majority of the photos were taken by 3 Magazine, with a mix of mine.

ThreeMagazine.com | @3.Magazine

My Outfit Details:

Celenia Maxi Dress by NBD

Color: Champagne Butterfly