Editor’s Note

FOR EVERYONE, 2020 has witnessed too many changes to list. Like so many workplaces, we changed to a remotebased office within just a few short weeks. Face-to-face meetings became Zoom productions (see picture, right). I’m proud to say the initial disruption was not reflected in the magazine. In so many positive ways, the magazine remained the constant focus that kept us all sane.

Despite the uncertainty and loss that we’ve witnessed across the world, the importance of local concerns has never been more pronounced. Individual to individual we are stronger and even though some leaders may have faltered in their indecision, our families, neighbours, colleagues, healthcare workers, shopkeepers and teachers have never been more valued.

This issue we meet Alexander Albon, a young Formula One driver (page 36), encounter a family living on a Christmas tree farm (page 30) and marvel at the COVID-19-related acts of kindness among strangers that have occurred over the past year (page 132).

Quality customer service is a vital part of business – more so during this year’s pandemic. We are proud to announce the Quality Service Awards for 2021; each winning business has risen to the daily challenge of making the customer’s experience a positive one (page 163).

A special note of thanks goes to Raimo Moysa, International Editor-inChief, who retires this month after 40 years. His mentorship and dedication to Reader’s Digest magazine has kept its DNA intact for generations.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!