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Venice has always been a city of beauty—its canals, its history, its endless romance. But during this year’s Film Festival, one woman seemed to embody that spirit in motion. At the Better World Fund dinner gala, Madison Zhao stepped into the spotlight wearing a spectacular one-of-a-kind Gucci creation, her gown framed by a sweeping floral cape that seemed to float with her. Cameras followed her every move, but Zhao’s presence was not only about style—it was about purpose.
Still in her twenties, Zhao is quickly becoming a voice of her generation: an entrepreneur who pairs ambition with compassion, glamour with vision. She is the founder of Liuxuewd, a platform opening doors for Chinese students to study abroad; EDUX TECH, which explores how artificial intelligence can transform learning; and Madison Profit Academy, where she mentors young entrepreneurs—especially women—helping them build confidence, identity, and independence.
Her path to this moment was anything but ordinary. Born in China, Zhao left home at just sixteen, moving alone to the United States. What could have been overwhelming instead became defining. “Independence became my strength,” she says. It was a turning point that shaped not only her outlook, but also her resilience—the quiet power that underpins her success today.
Zhao’s influence extends far beyond boardrooms and galas. With more than 600,000 followers on Instagram @madison_ceo, she has cultivated a digital presence that feels as multidimensional as she is. One scroll reveals couture looks, thoughtful reflections on business, and glimpses of her everyday life. The effect is both aspirational and approachable—proof that leadership can be stylish without losing its sincerity.
Philanthropy is not an afterthought for Zhao; it is central to who she is. She supports animal shelters and rescues, while also developing an online university focused on confidence and entrepreneurship. To her, success only matters if it creates opportunities for others.
Of course, the rise of a young, visible leader often comes with its share of scrutiny. Yet Zhao has learned not to be distracted by outside noise. Instead, she chooses to keep building, to keep moving forward. That composure—grace under pressure—is perhaps what makes her most magnetic.
In Madison Zhao, Grazia’s readers will recognize a modern kind of elegance: one that is not defined only by fashion, but by how one lives, leads, and gives. Her Gucci creation in Venice may have dazzled, but it was more than a statement of style—it was a reflection of a woman unafraid to be both strong and graceful.
Her journey is still unfolding, but her message already rings clear: women no longer need to choose between ambition and elegance. They can have both. And in Venice, as her floral cape swept across the marble floor, Madison Zhao reminded the world that true style is not only seen—it is felt.
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