Christmas Issue Archives - Stellar Woman Magazine

Monica Bradley: A Stellar Journey of Gratitude, Giving, and Leadership

21Dec

By Martin KagweriNo Comments

Celebration, Christmas Issue, Cover Story, Issue 11

Monica Bradley: A Stellar Journey of Gratitude, Giving, and Leadership

Stella Olivia Kikoyo : Monica, welcome to the Stellar Woman Show! It’s such a pleasure to have you here as our featured guest for this Christmas issue. Can you start by telling us about yourself and the journey that brought you to where you are today? Monica Bradley: Thank you, Stella, and thank you for the invitation to be here. I am the founder and managing director of MB Associates, a company based in the UK. While we are headquartered in Surrey, our clients span across the globe, from Australia to New Zealand and America. At MB Associates, we specialize in mortgages and financial protection. When I say financial protection, I’m referring to services that help secure people’s financial futures in the face of unforeseen circumstances. Our ethos is centered around long-term value an...

Monica Bradley Reflects on Family, Festive Traditions, and Business Growth This Christmas- Monica Bradley

21Dec

By Martin KagweriNo Comments

Celebration, Christmas Issue, Issue 11, Slide one 2

Monica Bradley Reflects on Family, Festive Traditions, and Business Growth This Christmas- Monica Bradley

Monica Bradley, founder and managing director of Surrey-based mortgage broker MB Associates, shares her festive plans and how she celebrates with her loved ones and colleagues. Family Time Christmas is a special occasion for me as it’s an opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones. Family is very important to me, and I love spending time with my nearest and dearest. This year however, things will feel different, as we sadly said goodbye to our last remaining Aunt, our beloved Aunt Rosaleen, earlier this year. Rosaleen was in her early 90s and a feisty lady with a great sense of humor who often came to stay with me from Ireland. Many of my work colleagues met her and were impressed by how agile she was for her age. One house guest was once amazed to wake up early one morning...

Welcome to Issue 11: Our Third Christmas Edition!

21Dec

By Martin KagweriNo Comments

Christmas Issue, Cover Story, Issue 11

Welcome to Issue 11: Our Third Christmas Edition!

As we step into this festive season, I am astounded by how far we have come and what we have achieved together. This year, our theme is gratitude, giving, and celebration. Gratitude for everything we have been given, especially life, and the celebration of the greatest gift of all. Even if things don’t look or feel ideal right now, remember that nothing is bigger than your life. So, direct your attention where it is due – revel in life. At Stellar Woman Magazine, we celebrate your life. This is your moment to shine. We’re here to inspire you to transcend any element of darkness or disempowerment by bringing you light through stories and knowledge. We aim to empower you to learn, thrive, and shine. Cover Feature: Monica Bradley Our cover woman, Monica Bradley, is the...

Gratitude, Giving and Celebrations- Ann Justi

21Dec

By Martin KagweriNo Comments

Celebration, Christmas Issue, Issue 11, Slide one 1

Gratitude, Giving and Celebrations- Ann Justi

Be Mindful and Thoughtful to Reap the Benefits! Gratitude, giving, and celebration are universal human practices found across cultures worldwide. Let’s explore their importance and how to embrace them meaningfully. Examples of Gratitude and Celebrations in Cultures Thanksgiving:A time for families to come together, express gratitude, and enjoy a feast. While Thanksgiving is central to American culture, gratitude and thanksgiving are celebrated globally in various forms. Harvest Days in Ghana:A joyous time marked by dancing and singing to express gratitude for rain and harvests. Gratitude: The Foundation of Giving When you give from a place of gratitude, selfish ambitions are replaced by consideration for others. Grateful giving stems from love and compassion, not expe...

How to Stay Fit Over the Festive Season- Christina Collison

21Dec

By Martin KagweriNo Comments

Celebration, Christmas Issue, Issue 11, Slide one 2, Wellness

How to Stay Fit Over the Festive Season- Christina Collison

Keeping up your exercise routine over Christmas will help you stay calm, feel energized, and cope with any seasonal stresses that may come your way. Christina Collison explains how and why you should find time to keep working out. The Challenge of Staying Active If you’ve let your workouts lapse over Christmas in the past, you’re not alone. A fitness report released by PureGym last year showed that 30% of people are most likely to reduce or stop exercising in the lead-up to the festive season. Are you going to be one of them, or will you commit to staying active? It’s understandable that exercise may not be the first thing on your mind over Christmas, even if you normally work out regularly. Routines change at this time of year, and it’s not uncommon to wake up not knowing what da...

The Year I Wove Another Thread Into the Tapestry- Divya Parekh

21Dec

By Martin KagweriNo Comments

Christmas Issue, Issue 11, Slide one 1, Thriving

The Year I Wove Another Thread Into the Tapestry- Divya Parekh

What is a year, if not a tapestry? A weave of moments, some bright and golden, others dark as nightfall, their threads pulled taut by the weight of the days. And yet, it is the contrasts that make the pattern sing. I see this now, sitting here in December’s quiet twilight, the year stretched out behind me like a river winding into the distance. I remember parts of this tapestry clearly—the bold strokes, the daring colors of achievement. But there are softer, almost hidden others that only now reveal their quiet beauty: the moments of struggle, the spaces where fear pressed hard against my chest but didn’t win. I think of those moments and feel them—not as regrets, but as proof. Proof that I was in the arena playing the game by trying, failing, trying again. This year wasn’t my first fig...

Inspirational Interview with Magdy Setzler: A Love Revolutionist’s Journey.

21Dec

By Martin KagweriNo Comments

Christmas Issue, Issue 11, Slide one 1, Thriving

Inspirational Interview with Magdy Setzler: A Love Revolutionist’s Journey.

In this interview, we delve into an extraordinary conversation with Magdy Setzler, a self-proclaimed "love revolutionist" and spiritual mentor. Magdy’s life is a testament to resilience, purpose, and unwavering faith. Here is her journey in her own words. Who is Magdy Setzler? Q: How would you describe yourself, Magdy?“I am a love revolutionist,” Magdy begins, “a believer in humanity and the transformative power of love.” This powerful statement sets the tone for a deeply moving narrative of personal evolution and healing. Q: But who is Magdy, really? How did you become this advocate for love and humanity?Her mission and perspective are rooted in personal transformation, making her story one that resonates deeply with anyone seeking a path to hope and purpose. The Backs...

From Struggle to Triumph: How Gratitude Led Me to Conquer the NYC Marathon- Theresa Russell

21Dec

By Martin KagweriNo Comments

Celebration, Christmas Issue, Issue 11, Slide one 2, Thriving

From Struggle to Triumph: How Gratitude Led Me to Conquer the NYC Marathon- Theresa Russell

Life often presents us with challenges, but it’s in these moments that we realize the true power of gratitude, giving, and celebration. In reflecting on my own journey this past year, I found that even in the face of hardship, these elements provide the strength to grow, give, and celebrate what we overcome. A Routine Shattered: The Unexpected Struggle Spring brought with it what I thought would be another season of running—a routine I had followed for over two decades. But something was wrong. I felt sluggish, and my breath didn’t come as easily. My pace slowed significantly, and what was once a comfortable run became an effort. At first, I dismissed it as a passing issue, but when it didn’t improve, I realized it wasn’t just a bad day. Listening to My Body: The Wake-Up Call D...

Health, Gratitude, and the Greatest Gift of All- Stella Olivia Kikoyo

21Dec

By Martin KagweriNo Comments

Christmas Issue, Cover Story, Editor's Note, Issue 11

Health, Gratitude, and the Greatest Gift of All- Stella Olivia Kikoyo

As the Christmas season surrounds us with warmth and light, I find myself reflecting on the invaluable lessons this year has taught me—chief among them the power of gratitude. In a year marked by moments of loss, challenges, and healing, I have come to understand that gratitude is not just a fleeting emotion but a transformative way of living. The Gift of Health Health, as I have learned, is the foundation of everything. Without it, even the simplest joys can feel out of reach. This week, as I have walked the path of recovery, I have learnt to celebrate each breath, each step, and each moment of progress. I whisper, “Thank you, Lord,” not just for the big milestones but for the small, everyday miracles— the turning of my body without pain, the ability to sit up, the ability to join i...

Life’s Gift – Embrace It: A Christmas Message of Joy, Hope, and Love- Stella Olivia Kikoyo

21Dec

By Martin KagweriNo Comments

Christmas Issue, Issue 11, Issue One 2, Slide one 2, Thriving

Life’s Gift – Embrace It: A Christmas Message of Joy, Hope, and Love- Stella Olivia Kikoyo

A poem on Life by Stella Olivia Kikoyo Life is a melody – dance to its tune,Life is a sunrise – bask in its bloom.Life is a river – let it flow,Life is a seed – nurture and grow. Life is a canvas – paint it bright,Life is a journey – seek your light.Life is a story – make it bold,Life is a treasure – more precious than gold. Life is a gift – unwrap it with grace,Life is a star – find your place.Life is a prayer – whisper it true,Life is a miracle – waiting for you. Merry Christmas! May your life sing with joy, hope, and love this season and always.

50+ Festive Christmas Ideas: Food, Movies, Games, and More!

21Dec

By Martin KagweriNo Comments

Celebration, Christmas Issue, Issue 11, Slide one 1

50+ Festive Christmas Ideas: Food, Movies, Games, and More!

Christmas is finally here—the season of twinkling lights, cozy family gatherings, and endless holiday cheer. Whether you’re planning a feast, a movie marathon, or fun-filled games, this guide is packed with over 50 ideas to make your Christmas truly magical. From delicious recipes to heartwarming movies and creative activities, there’s something for everyone here. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, and let’s dive in! 🎄 Section 1: Delicious Christmas Food Ideas 🍲 The holiday season isn’t complete without mouthwatering dishes to share. Here’s a roundup of festive foods to inspire your menu: Appetizers Mini Caprese Christmas Wreaths: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory and cheesy with a holiday twist. Cranberry Brie Bi...