Welcome to Issue 12 of Stellar Woman Magazine – a celebration of bold dreams, unapologetic action, and the unstoppable spirit of women who Play Big! It is a true joy to bring you this issue, one that is especially close to my heart.
I have always been deeply inspired by women and men who play big. Yes, they dream big too, but playing big is more than just dreaming. It is an active declaration to the world: This is who I am, and I will not be small. Empowerment is not just about claiming our power, it is about fully maximising it for meaningful impact. That is what it means to be a Stellar Woman.
In this powerful issue, I had the honour of interviewing phenomenal women who are not only playing big they’re rewriting the rules and generously sharing the how behind their journey. Their courage, candour, and commitment light the way for others to rise.
Many women desire to play big but what shifts everything is the ability to take action at a higher level. This issue is a call to align your desire with your divine capability because you can. It is a deep desire of the self to express fully, to step into the limitless potential within.
From different backgrounds and paths, these women awaken us to new possibilities.
We’re honoured to feature Peace Mitchell and Katy Garner on our cover visionary co-founders of Women Changing the World Awards, the AusMumpreneur Awards, The Women’s Business School, Women Changing the World Press, and more. As sisters, their 16-year journey as business partners shows us what it means to give yourself permission to dream big, drop perfectionism, and adopt the mindset of a scientist ready to experiment until it works. That mindset is a game-changer.
We also journey with Julie Foster, wife of Reebok co-founder Joe Foster, who reflects on how the world for women has changed from limitations to limitless. She speaks of the power of doing what you want, not waiting for permission. Her story reminds us: today’s woman no longer needs to be told what she can or cannot do. They can give themselves permission to play big!
Farah Mak, a radiant force, actress, advocate, emcee, founder and visionary, shares her transformation from surviving an abusive relationship to becoming a powerful advocate for domestic violence victims. Her story shows us the true meaning of building from within — and letting your self-worth lead the way.
In Ellie Shefi, an attorney, keynote speaker, corporate trainer, publisher and international best -selling and award-winning author’s interview, we witness profound resilience. From surviving cancer twice, to rebuilding her life and identity after abuse, to learning to walk again. Ellie’s journey embodies what it means to live with unwavering gratitude and alignment. She is, truly, unshakable, unbreakable, and unstoppable — everything a Stellar Woman stands for.
As always, we are blessed with the brilliance of our expert contributors.
Monica Bradley teaches us the key difference between growth and scalability — a crucial shift in mindset for those ready to play big.
Divya Parekh reminds us that visibility is a bold choice even when your voice shakes.
Ann Justi, now serving as an Editorial Reviewer for Stellar Woman Magazine, offers us a bold invitation to step into the BHAG — Big Hairy Audacious Goal and shows how discipline, vision, and courage are vital tools for playing big with purpose.
Christina Collison – provides us with the need to take on running, not only for fitness but also as a mental health boost so that we can play big!
Theresa Lester Russell powerfully redefines playing big: it’s not about how you look, it’s about knowing your worth and taking up space unapologetically.
Cristal Johnson takes us inward showing how our gut health is the silent partner in our journey to play big.
Finally, I offer you this: Playing Big begins within. In my article, I explore how mastering the mind through mindfulness is the starting point of empowerment. You cannot become what you are not within. Playing Big is about stepping into the “I Am,” building from truth, and aligning your business with the power of your purpose.
You can also read my piece in the Business Section – Launch and Play Big: Marketing and Brand Strategies from a Chartered Marketer for Women Ready to Lead Aligned and Impactful Businesses.
Let this issue inspire you to say yes to your bigger vision. To stop holding back. To play big, not just for you but for all the women watching you and waiting to believe they can too.
With radiant joy,
Stella Kikoyo
Editor-in-Chief, Stellar Woman Magazine
