In this winter issue we are sidestepping so much negativity that’s seeped in, and celebrating success and passion, compassion and philanthropy.

We talk to the 31-yaer-old powerhouse Daisy Knatchbull about her women’s tailoring store, The Deck, the only one of its kind on Savile Row, Knatchbull understands tailoring inside out and has created a welcoming, safe place for women to get kitted out in perfectly fitted, elegant suits and more. We also catch up with Tilly Wood, who has recently launched her own fragrance company, and discuss how she’s turning her passion into a business. In the tercentenary of Sir Christopher Wren’s death, we visit the stunning St Stephen’s Walbrook, wedged between Bloomberg and Rothschild, named one of the 10 most important buildings in England. Always a place of sanctuary, the church has the distinction of being the place the Samaritans began. Now in its 70^th year, it continues to provide spiritual and emotional solace in the centre of the City.

And, staying in the heart of things, we’re proud to announce our annual listing of Brummell’s Inspirational Women in the City. Each has made ground-breaking efforts to spearhead positive change in whatever they are involved with; they pioneer new ways of working and thinking while encouraging others to do similarly. Thought leaders in their respective fields, these women drive significant institutional change and blaze a trail in the pursuit of gender equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace and beyond. We thank our panel of distinguished judges, who had a tough job selecting from an impressive longlist, and salute the super-achievers who made the cut.

Slowing the pace, elsewhere in this issue we journey round the salt pans of Botswana on safari with travel writer Ian Belcher. We explore creativity and craftsmanship with a batch of boutique brands and enjoy the growing success of English sparkling wine, a real contender in the face of traditional champagne.

Let’s tune in to this season of goodwill and do our bit, however small, to help make the world a better place. We hope you will give as good as you get this holiday and wish you a happy and altruistic new year.