Cover Story

11Nov By Stella Olivia KikoyoNo Comments

Business, Cover Story

Welcome to issue 10 of Stellar Woman magazine – The Wealth Building Issue!

It brings us great pleasure to present this edition, the last of the year. Can you believe it? This issue has piqued our curiosity like no other, reshaping our understanding of wealth and opening up a world of possibilities. We've had the privilege of tapping into the knowledge of extraordinary women, and it's an absolute delight to introduce you to our cover woman, Kim Kiyosaki. She's an incredible individual, generous with her time and knowledge, and passionately committed to a mission that aligns perfectly with our theme. Kim Kiyosaki, co-founder, and CEO of Rich Dad Poor Dad, as well as the founder of Rich Woman, graced us with her insights. She's an international speaker and the best-selling author of "Rich Woman" and "It's Rising Time!" Kim, along with her husband Robert Kiyos...

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11Nov By Stella Olivia KikoyoNo Comments

Business, Cover Story

Embracing Action over perfectionism – Gina Balarin

Gina Balarin is a hugely successful and world-renowned keynote speaker, trailblazer, role model, and B2B marketing leader and expert. She is the author of The Secret Army: Leadership, Marketing and the Power of People, Gina Balarin is also a hugely successful TEDx speaker whose name precedes her having also worked extensively on television and radio. Who is Gina Balarin, and what's your background story? Well, if you think about it, the easy way to remember how to pronounce Gina Balarin is Gina ballerina. And actually, when I was very little I thought I wanted to do one of two things either to become a ballerina or to become a professional businesswoman. And so, as it turned out, while I did study dance for many years, I turned away from the theater...

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11Nov By Stella Olivia KikoyoNo Comments

Business, Cover Story, Thriving

How Hala Taha transformed obstacles into opportunities

Hala Taha is the host of Young and Profiting Podcast, frequently ranked as the #1 Education podcast across all apps. Hala is also the CEO of YAP Media, a full-service social media and podcast marketing agency for top podcasters, celebrities, and CEOs. She is well-known for her engaged following and influence on Linkedin, and she landed the January 2021 cover of Podcast Magazine. Hala is an expert on networking, personal branding, Linkedin marketing, side hustles, entrepreneurship, and podcasting. Who is Hala Taha? What is your back story? So they call me the podcast princess. In terms of my background story, I started my career in radio. I used to work at the radio station Hot 97. I started my journey in broadcasting 10 years ago working as an intern at the radio station. I worked th...

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11Nov By Stella Olivia KikoyoNo Comments

Business, Cover Story, Feminism, Mind & Body, Thriving

Creating Impact, Influence and Income – Hui Hui Lek

Hui Hui is a coach, a course creator, and the Founder, and CEO of Impact University and Inner World Training. She is the creator of the Mission To Movement 10-Day Course Creation Challenge through which she helps new entrepreneurs and coaches create digital courses and coaching programs. Who is Hui Hui and what is your backstory? I was born and raised in Singapore, but I'm Chinese. Growing up, I was a very shy and introverted child. And because I'm the youngest child, most of the time I played alone at home and at times with my mom. Ever since I was young, I wanted to be an entrepreneur. So after my first job, which was book editor, I decided that I didn't want to just work for other people anymore. I wanted to start my own business. So I started my entrepreneurial journey. I have to...

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11Nov By Stella Olivia KikoyoNo Comments

Cover Story, Thriving

Karen Spens on striving for excellence: Listen, Learn, and Lead

Karen Spens is the president of BI Norwegian Business School. She received her PhD from Hanken School of Economics in 2001 and became Professor of Supply Chain Management and Corporate Geography in 2007. She has since held several administrative positions at Hanken and in 2015 became the Rector of Hanken. She has mainly taught Supply Chain Management and has primarily published in the field of Humanitarian Logistics.  Watch Karen Spens' full interview with Stellar Woman Magazine below: https://youtu.be/Oht0Q4nvu14 So who is Karen Spens? What's your backstory? Thanks for inviting me. It’s my pleasure to be here today. One important thing women need to do when trying to move forward is to be daring enough to take on a new challenge. I was ...

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11Nov By Stella Olivia KikoyoNo Comments

Business, Cover Story

“Staff need to feel valued and appreciated” – Monica Bradley

What are the qualities of a good business leader? Monica Bradley, Managing Director of Cheam-based mortgage broker, MB Associates, talks about her values and beliefs in business. Running a successful business is not just about keeping clients happy, although of course that’s hugely important. An equally crucial aspect of being a business owner and ensuring things run smoothly is keeping staff motivated and making them feel valued. If your staff don’t feel appreciated, they may grow demoralised and eventually you could lose them entirely. This was demonstrated in a 2018 survey from online learning company Udemy. Its survey revealed that nearly half of all employees said they’d quit a job due to a bad manager. Some 60 per cent of staff said they thought their managers needed managerial...

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11Nov By Stella Olivia KikoyoNo Comments

Cover Story, Thriving

Ceil Stanford on Success and Leading With Passion

Ceil Stanford is a coach, leader, business owner, entrepreneur, investor and mother. She is consistently recognized as a leader who teaches applicable and revolutionary processes for personal and professional development, helping others to develop their “inner champions.” Ceil transforms lives in extraordinary ways across the globe with entrepreneurs, business leaders, investors, go-getters, parents, athletes and performers alike. In this interview with Stellar Woman Magazine she opens up about what success means to her and so much more. See excerpts below So what does leadership mean to you? Leadership to me is walking the talk. I don't respect someone that tells me to do things that they've never done or that they don't know how to do, or that they don'...

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11Nov By Stella Olivia KikoyoNo Comments

Cover Story, Thriving

Daniela and Annette Felder on Gaps in Leadership in the Fashion Industry

Twin sisters Daniela and Annette Felder launched their womenswear line Felder Felder whilst studying at Central Saint Martins. Following their graduation in 2006, they were selected by Gen Art to showcase their collection during New York Fashion Week, and swiftly won the attention of the international fashion press and buyers, including Selfridges and Browns Focus. The sisters' signature style–feminine silhouettes toughened with chunky knitwear and bold accessories–garnered support from Simon Robbins of Russian Vogue, photographer Lorenzo Agius and stylist Patti Wilson. The German-born siblings received support from the Topshop/NewGen scheme three times, including for S/S 09. They were also featured in Hywel Davies' book 100 New Fashion Designers, published 2008. Daniela &a...

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11Nov By Stella Olivia KikoyoNo Comments

Cover Story, Thriving

“Leadership is about having a vision and inspiring others to help you turn it into reality” – Amy Williams

Amy is an award-winning entrepreneur, thought-leader and mentor, she has spent 20 years working across the media, publishing and advertising industries. Amy has extensive experience in raising investment for both startups and corporates and secured significant seed capital within the first year of launching Fem Foundry. She is passionate about sharing this expertise by championing female capital and amplifying female-owned businesses. An expert in building, scaling and operating digital brands, Amy has worked across a number of industries creating disruptive growth strategies, driving revenue generation and establishing new networks. She has held senior positions at leading corporations such as Vice & The Daily Mail and startups promoting diversity, inclusion and parity at every sta...

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11Nov By Stella Olivia KikoyoNo Comments

Business, Cover Story, Thriving

“Great Leaders are Great Listeners” – Rachel B. Lee

Rachel B. Lee is a fearless #ladyboss. She started her career with Walton Isaacson, a marketing agency with expertise in multicultural segments, and managed Unilever’s first social media driven consumer activations including AXE One Night Only. After receiving her MBA from the University of Texas, Austin, McCombs School of Business, she entered the technology industry at Microsoft.  She has led branding, social media strategy, content development, blogging, influencer communities, podcasts, experiential, paid media and more for the Microsoft Partner Network, a 300K partner ecosystem of small to enterprise size businesses digitally transforming the world. Rachel B. Lee As social lead for Microsoft Inspire, she achieved over a billion impressions in 2017 and in 2018 won the Speake...

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11Nov By Stella Olivia KikoyoNo Comments

Cover Story

“Attention all Stellar Women, 2023 is Your Year to Shine!” – Dr. Shanessa Fenner

You live by the life mantra - “We were placed here to do great things and that is what I am going to do by the grace of God.” Why did you choose to live by it? Being complacent has never been my thing. I don’t believe in leaving any stone unturned. I often think of people who have passed away and there were so many things they wanted to do and never got a chance to do it because of fear, naysayers, insecurities, lack of motivation, or not knowing how to do it. I don’t want to be one of those individuals. Time does not wait for anyone and the older you get, the faster time goes by. I have always believed that God wants us to abide in his word, do great things, be kind to one another, and help one another. He is the Lily of the Valley and my everything. You define what someone would...

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11Nov By Stella Olivia KikoyoNo Comments

Cover Story, Mind & Body

Is It True That Your Thoughts Determine Your Life Experience?

What are you thinking right now? If we’re here to live fully and our thoughts are said to be key in determining our life experiences, then we can say that we are fully responsible for what we experience in life. Do you agree? If this is so, what can we do to empower ourselves to have a great life experience? Stella Olivia Kikoyo ‘ Cogito Ergo Sum’ – ‘I think, therefore I AM.’Rene Descartes.  We start this by agreeing to the fact that we’re the thinking entity. We think, therefore we exist. Who thinks? You and I. Can you sperate the thinker from the thinking? Yes you can. Click and watch the video clip below to learn more https://youtu.be/0A6UKoMcE10 Our understanding of thought and the thought process could be key in helping  us to change our life trajectory. Are you e...

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30Jun By Martin KagweriNo Comments

Cover Story, ISSUE 12

Peace Mitchell & Katy Garner : The Sisters Powering a Global Women’s Movement

Peace Mitchell Who is Peace Mitchell?I’m first and foremost a mother, a woman, a dreamer, and an entrepreneur. I love people, I love to travel, and I especially love being surrounded by incredible women doing big things. That lights me up. I believe in the power of community, connection, and creating platforms that help women rise. What did you dream of becoming as a little girl? Were there early signs that you were destined to play big?As a child, I dreamed of becoming a teacher. I always wanted to make a change, to empower young minds. I eventually became a teacher, but I quickly realized that the biggest impact on a child’s life often comes from their mother. That realization shifted everything. I thought: if I can empower women, especially mothers, I can create ripple effects...

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30Jun By Martin KagweriNo Comments

Cover Story, ISSUE 12

Julie Foster on Playing Big, Leading with Heart & Building Legacy Beyond Reebok

Introduction: The Woman Behind the BrandJulie Foster may not be a household name, but her story offers valuable insights about partnership and perseverance. Married to Joe Foster, founder of Reebok, for 27 years (and together for 34), Julie describes herself as "the engine room behind Joe." In this interview, Julie shares her practical approach to supporting her husband's work while maintaining her own identity. From her early days in logistics to coordinating global projects, she reveals how adaptability and quiet determination have shaped her unique journey. Early Foundations: From Bolton to Global Business Q: What dreams did you have as a young girl? Julie Foster: Like most young girls at that time, I wanted to be an air stewardess. But back then they had strict height restrict...

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30Jun By Martin KagweriNo Comments

Cover Story, ISSUE 12, Thriving

Farah Mak on Sparkle, Survival & Self-Worth Leadership

Where did you grow up, and how did your upbringing influence your values and worldview today?I grew up mostly in South Australia, but I also spent time in Sri Lanka and India as a little girl. That experience of being between cultures and expectations really shaped me. I learned early on that home is not always a place, it’s a feeling. My upbringing taught me to adapt to listening between the lines, and to speak up for those still finding their voice. That ability to bridge silence and story influences everything I do today. Were there early signs in your childhood or teen years that pointed toward your passion for performance, leadership, or advocacy?Absolutely. I was the little girl turning living rooms into stages, heartbreak into poetry, and playgrounds into performances. I had a de...

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30Jun By Martin KagweriNo Comments

Cover Story, ISSUE 12, Mind & Body

Ellie Shefi on Playing Big, Overcoming the Odds, and Creating Ripples of Change

Who is Ellie Shefi? What is your backstory? I’m a survivor. I’ve eaten out of trash cans. I’ve lived under a fake name. I’ve defied multiple medical death sentences for over 20 years. But I’m not my scars. I’m a force for good. I’m also a human rights attorney, bestselling author, business strategist, publisher, and speaker. My purpose is clear: I help others use their voices, own their stories, and build lives they love. Tell us about founding MTC Consultancy, your publishing house, and your nonprofit. How do you manage such an expansive portfolio? Each endeavor grew from a deep desire to serve. MTC Consultancy is where I strategize with businesses and governments. My publishing house is an all-women team amplifying women’s voices, protecting their IP, guiding their message, and ...

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30Jun By Martin KagweriNo Comments

Cover Story, ISSUE 12

Editor’s Note – Issue 12: “Play Big!”

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 ge...

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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...

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21Dec By Martin Kagweri1 Comment

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...

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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...

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9Jun By Martin KagweriNo Comments

Cover Story

Welcome to issue 9 of stellar woman magazine!

I can't believe it's already our ninth issue. Just yesterday, we started publishing and spreading knowledge to empower women, helping them discover new possibilities, learn, and strive for greatness to make an impact. It is a tremendous privilege and honor to tell stories of the fantastic stellar women featured in this issue. Issue 9 is all about striving for excellence.   The women interviewed in this issue come from various parts of the globe, including Australia, Singapore, the US, Norway, and the UK. They represent diverse sectors such as Marketing, Personal Development, Business, Logistics and Supply Chain, and Education and Learning. I do not doubt that after reading, listening, or watching these interviews, you will be completely transformed as a woman, a professional, and ...

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1Dec By Martin KagweriNo Comments

Cover Story

Gretchen Casey On Being a Boss and The Holidays!

Gretchen is passionate about connecting with her clients to uncover their values and needs. She then creates a plan and recommends the best mortgage products that align with your values and goals. Herphilosophy is to be your advocate in the short and long term, striving for excellence in achieving your desired results. With her 16 years of experience, she is able to quickly determine your best option andpresent her recommendations in a clear manner. Gretchen specializes in providing the right option for the Self-Employed borrower, with access to 65 lenders including banks. This means you can borrow more than the bank would lend and at reasonableinterest rates. She also has 16 years of experience, using her expertise to help Real Estate Investors seeking to increase their cash flow a...

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