THIS IS YOUR STORY AND YOU ARE IN CHARGE OF HOW IT UNFOLDS

This issue has become something of an ode to resilience, with three very different women showing how they have faced the issues that life has thrown at them, and not only overcome them but actually used them to their advantage. Our cover star Sybil Mulcahy took a huge gamble when she decided on a career change, going from TV screens to behind the scenes at a then-burgeoning website. On page 10, she tells us how she has gone on to make Evoke one of the country’s most popular sources of news, fashion and beauty for women, and has even bigger plans for the future. Next, on page 40, we meet Tamara Mellon, the inspirational co-founder of the Jimmy Choo luxury shoe brand – we all want a peek inside her shoe closet! She has faced addiction issues, bankruptcy and divorce, but never let any of them stop her. She had another setback earlier this year when her ex-husband and father of her daughter Minty, Matthew Mellon, died from an overdose. Once again proving she can’t be beaten, she has joined forces with the mother of Matthew’s other children to form an unlikely family who all look out for each other. Her incredible story will shock and inspire you. Last but not least, on page 44 we meet Patricia Bright, a social media superstar who had a very shaky start in life but used the grit, strength and determination her mother instilled in her to build an empire. All three are proof that no matter where you start in life or what happens you along the way, this is your story and you are in charge of how it unfolds. You could have a privileged start like Tamara and face hardships later on, or an impoverished start like Patricia and use that as a springboard to better yourself – but whatever life throws at you, use it, learn from it and turn it to your advantage. I guess with all these incredible women in today’s issue, I had to make room for one man. And at this time of year, what better man than Jamie Oliver? Forget the presents, time off work and the parties, my favourite thing about Christmas is hands down my mam’s dinner. I wouldn’t miss it if I was offered a seat at a table with Santa himself. And the only thing better than Christmas cooking is when it’s given an Italian twist. You’ll be drooling reading some of the recipes in our 24-page pullout – I can’t wait to give some of them a go. Just not on the big day itself of course – I’ve already got a seat reserved at the best restaurant in town, Mammy’s Table! Enjoy the issue.