Hot Wheels Designer Brendon Vetuskey Connects With Collectors in Manila

The passion for collecting Hot Wheels goes far beyond owning miniature cars. For many enthusiasts, every piece carries a memory—from childhood races across living room floors to years spent building collections and searching for rare models. That shared enthusiasm recently brought collectors together at Kingsford Hotel Manila for an intimate evening with Hot Wheels designer Brendon Vetuskey.

Hot Wheels Designer Brendon Vetuskey Rolls in Nostalgia to Kingsford Hotel Manila.

Vetuskey, who joined Mattel in 2007 and currently serves as the diecast design lead for Red Line Club vehicles, met local and international collectors during an exclusive private dinner organized in partnership with Metrics PH, organizer of the Philippines Hot Wheels Collectors Convention.

Rather than focusing only on the collectible cars, the gathering highlighted the community that has developed around the hobby. Collectors, families, business leaders, tourism stakeholders, and hospitality representatives came together, demonstrating how a shared interest can connect people from different backgrounds and generations.

During the event, Vetuskey discussed his experience in designing Hot Wheels and offered guests a closer look at the creative process behind diecast vehicles. He also interacted personally with collectors, sharing stories and signing memorabilia. Photos from the event show Vetuskey meeting members of the Philippine Hot Wheels community and giving collectors personalized souvenirs.

For Vetuskey, collecting is also about the memories and conversations that develop around each car. He noted that collectors often connect by talking about their favorite childhood Hot Wheels or remembering the first model they added to their collection. 

Hot Wheels Designer Brendon Vetuskey Rolls in Nostalgia to Kingsford Hotel Manila.

The gathering also reflected the potential of collector communities to become part of Manila’s tourism and hospitality experience. Kingsford Hotel Manila General Manager Jorold Montelibano said hotels can serve not only as accommodations but also as places where visitors, businesses, and communities connect. The hotel’s partnership with Metrics PH likewise opens opportunities for specialized events that can attract visitors to Manila.

Hot Wheels Designer Brendon Vetuskey Rolls in Nostalgia to Kingsford Hotel Manila.

For longtime collectors and younger fans alike, the evening showed why Hot Wheels continues to cross generations. What may begin as a childhood toy can eventually become a lifelong hobby—one built around creativity, nostalgia, friendships, and the excitement of discovering the next car for the collection. 

Hot Wheels Designer Brendon Vetuskey Rolls in Nostalgia to Kingsford Hotel Manila.