We’re looking forward to introducing you to Francis Wong. Check out our conversation below.
Francis, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first ninety minutes of my day are sacred—a slow unfurling of thought and motion. My morning begins, without exception, with that first cup of coffee—non-negotiable, essential, and absolutely divine in its ability to coax me into wakefulness. Though my phone is in hand, I resist the pull of social media. Instead, I dive into an online strategy game I’ve been playing for nearly six years. It’s my quiet ritual of mental stretching—a way to awaken my mind through organization and strategic thinking before the world demands my attention. If the morning holds no early commitments, I move at an unhurried pace. And truthfully, those ninety minutes seem to slip by in the blink of an eye.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Francis, and I’m the Co-founder and creative mind behind FraNtiK Solutions, FraNtiK MEdia, Lifestylish, and VESSEL Lifestylish Magazine. Everything we do revolves around connection, creativity, and community. What began as a vision to merge art, fashion, and culture has grown into a network that celebrates individuality and the stories behind every creative pursuit.
Through FraNtiK MEdia, we’ve built a space where artists, models, and creators can collaborate, grow, and find their voice. Our magazine, VESSEL, captures that same energy—it’s not just about aesthetics, but about lifestyle, expression, and the people shaping modern culture.
Right now, we’re expanding on that vision with events, editorials, and our annual gala, weaving together talents from all walks of life. What makes it all special is that it’s real—it’s built on passion, inclusivity, and a genuine love for creativity in every form.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
When I was a student at the School of the Arts in San Francisco, I discovered the joy of expressing myself through drawing and painting. Art had always been a part of my life, yet I never truly saw myself as an artist. My skills were still developing, and I often questioned whether I had what it took to pursue that path.
Then came Mrs. Marsha Pannone, my senior-year art teacher — the person who saw me clearly before I ever saw myself. She recognized my potential, my drive, and my quiet determination, even when I doubted them. When I was rejected by the art college I had long dreamed of attending, it was her belief in me that kept my creative spirit alive. She was persistent, sometimes frustratingly so, like a parent who refuses to let you give up on yourself — but it was always rooted in love and conviction.
Looking back, I realize how deeply her faith shaped my journey. I wish she were still here today so I could show her how far that spark of belief carried me, and how her vision of me became the foundation of everything I’ve built.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Life will bring many struggles, but if I could speak to young Francis, I would tell him this: Do not listen to anyone who doubts you. Never question your own abilities or worth. Let go of the unrealistic, never-ending chase for perfection—it’s neither healthy nor attainable. Seeking validation from others will only feed that cycle, giving you yet another reason to keep striving for something impossible. So stop. Trust yourself, embrace your imperfections, and know that you are already enough just as you are.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
When I was younger, I was often self-conscious—constantly aware of how I looked, how I acted, and how I was perceived. There were moments when my outward behavior didn’t always align with what I truly felt inside. But with time, growth, and therapy in my thirties, I’ve learned to live in complete alignment with who I am.
What you see now is genuinely what you get. Though I’m naturally private and an ambivert by nature, I no longer feel the need to create a façade for the world. My words carry intention—if I speak on something, I mean it. And if I have nothing kind or constructive to say, I choose silence. When I offer my support, I give it wholeheartedly—110%, without pretense or performance.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
What an intriguing question—if I knew I had only ten years left, what would I stop doing immediately? Truthfully, nothing. I wouldn’t stop; I would accelerate. I’d channel every ounce of energy, passion, and purpose into achieving the goals that still burn within me. That doesn’t mean neglecting my health or balance—it means pivoting, shifting focus, and approaching life with sharper intention.
For instance, I’ve always dreamt of becoming a photojournalist, and in that scenario, I’d finally make it happen. I’d pack my bags, take my cameras, and set off to capture stories across the world—stories of people, culture, and truth—just as we already strive to do through our magazine. I’d use every remaining moment wisely, creating and executing projects that reflect my vision while still savoring the beauty of simply living. In essence, I wouldn’t slow down; I’d live more deliberately, more vividly, and more Lifestylish than ever before.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.vesselmagazine.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/franciationphotography
Image Credits
Tommy Butler, Chelsea Freeman, 43 Studios, Felicia Hendricks, Jennifer Woo, Blood+Blush Studios, Hailey Benson, Alex Sinclair, Eli Baldwin, Dru Williams
