Podcast Episode 70: Sebastian Norena Opens Up About His Journey In Creating Impactful Luxury Experiences That Resonate

Sebastian Norena is a hospitality executive born and raised in Colombia, yet he has called the US home for a while now. He worked his way up from entry-level positions to management, corporate, and executive roles with Nikki Beach Worldwide and the Butter Group in New York City. His body of work includes experience in both major cities and international markets to generate successful and impactful brand messaging and revenue, that drive initiatives for his portfolio of clients. Working with the likes of Richie Akiva to produce and co-produce experiences at Coachella, Paris Fashion Week, the Cannes Film Festival, Tribeca Film Festival, Art Basel Miami, amfAR Gala after parties, and Rihanna’s Fenty NYFW and PFW official after parties. Industry leaders seek out Sebastian, asking him to spearhead their projects and consult on a variety of branding and event-based projects, which led to the birth of his company KIP Hospitality, where he has worked with Mercedes Benz and the Academy Awards, scouting the talent for their events, bringing celebrities such as Mase, Guy Gerber, Paris Hilton, and Wycliff. Sebastian’s experiences and those he’s a part of resonate with consumers, media, and attendees and in turn, create long term returns and retention.

Ally Portee

Starting out in the world of politics, Ally interned and worked in Washington, DC, in Congress, at The White House, and on political campaigns. Today she’s in a totally different arena: fashion. Developing an eye for sartorial craftsmanship, Ally has learned how to put intricate and detailed collections into words, while developing relationships with some of the world's most leading brands and covering Paris, Milan, and Riyadh Fashion Week shows. Ally started SEELE in 2012. Seele [ze-le] is the German word for Soul and its aim is to encourage people with faith-inspired and lifestyle content that stir the soul. Ally has written for Forbes, Harper’s Bazaar, The Hollywood Reporter, GQ Middle East, Vogue Arabia, Refinery29, NPR, Arabian Business, and Euronews.

Next
Next

Cardi B Stuns at Ashi Studio’s Fall-Winter 2025 Couture Show