Every December, I turn a fresh page and try
once again to reflect on the year that is coming to an end – what it brought
us, what it taught us, what challenges it placed on our path, and what gifts it
quietly left in our hearts. This year, these reflections feel especially
intertwined with the warm glow of Hanukkah and the hopeful anticipation of a
bright and promising 2026.
With time, I’ve come to understand
something very clearly: our magazine is far more than a collection of articles,
photos, and recurring columns. It is a living, welcoming home – built by each
one of you. A home lit by countless little lights: the readers, the writers,
the supporters, the helpers, the creators, the ones who care and the ones who
participate. And as the holidays approach, it feels especially important to
honor this shared light.
Hanukkah is more than a holiday. It is a
deep and enduring symbol – a reminder that even the smallest flame can
transform reality, turning night into morning, fear into hope, and uncertainty
into confidence. As we light the Hanukkah candles and watch their calm, steady
glow, we are reminded that miracles happen wherever there is faith, resilience,
connection to our roots, and – most importantly – unity.
This year brought our community a full
spectrum of emotions. There were joyful gatherings, the arrival of new voices,
new talents, and new initiatives. And there were moments that reminded us of
loss, of responsibility, of the need for compassion and strength. Looking back,
I feel tremendous pride in the way we stood together, supported one another,
and preserved warmth and humanity even during the more difficult days. That,
too, is a miracle: despite every challenge, we continue to shine – each in our
own way, and all of us together.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our
readers, authors, and friends of the magazine – everyone who keeps Ladies' World vibrant, meaningful, and relevant. Thanks to you, the magazine
remains a window into our community’s life: its hopes, its energy, its
creativity, its voice.
A special note of appreciation goes to our
editorial team. This year, we welcomed a new group of young, dynamic
professionals and enthusiasts. You have already seen their names in these
pages, and their contributions are a true gift to every reader. They share
their experience and expertise to support your health, family harmony,
spiritual well-being, and quality of life. Their work is truly invaluable.
My sincere thanks also go to our
advertisers, whom I consider the patrons and benefactors of our publication.
Their advertising is more than a presentation of their businesses – it is
meaningful financial support for Ladies' World, and I deeply value it.
Some of them have been with us almost from the very beginning – for more than
25 years. For a nonprofit magazine sustained solely by the dedication and
passion of its team, their loyalty is nothing short of extraordinary. Media is
the face of a community, and the fact that our “face” is thoughtful, bright,
and dignified – that is your accomplishment.
To all who stand beside the magazine – the
readers, the writers, the correspondents, the participants in our events and
projects, those who call, write, share stories, and show care – thank you.
Because of you, the magazine continues to grow and flourish. Because of you,
our community thrives, welcomes new voices, grows younger in spirit, yet keeps
its treasured traditions and roots.
The New Year always arrives with the
promise of a blank page. And my deepest wish is that your new page will be
filled with light, peace, love, health, and good fortune. May it bring
inspiration to everyone who creates, teaches, nurtures, builds, preserves our
heritage, and simply tries to make the world around them a little kinder.
May the light of the Hanukkah menorah shine
warmly in every home and every heart.
And may 2026 bring you blessing, joy, serenity, and warmth.
With love, respect, and hope,
Dr. Zoya Maksumova, Editor-in-Chief
