I always wanted my own magazine. Nearing 15 years in the industry, I’ve worked in almost every role within print — I’ve used masking tape to protect the soles of shoes on fashion shoots, written the celebrity feature, and become fed up with big media companies and gone freelance. Starting as an editorial assistant, I worked my way up with the goal of becoming an editor. But when I reached editor in chief, I discovered I wanted more. I’d never dared to imagine I could own my own media company, until late last year when I finally got up the courage to pursue and acquire the legacy title that is Fashion Quarterly.

It’s a business model I know well, having been the editor in chief at the title for two and a half years. I have an innate understanding of publishing in the 21st century and know the often dynamic but delicate intersection between creativity and commerce that keeps a title like Fashion Quarterly in print. Even so, it’s a baptism of fire. I am, for lack of a better word, uncomfortable. But I keep reminding myself that this is what I wanted.

It’s fitting then that I themed my first issue under my new parent company Elcoat Media, the ‘Ambition’ issue. With that in mind, we compiled an ode to entrepreneurship in our ‘Be the Boss’ feature (page 54) which showcases the stories of nine inspiring Kiwi businesswomen who work across a range of industries, steering businesses of all sizes.

While I in no way feel like I am on their level, I’m inspired to learn from their musings. So here’s to the trailblazers, the thinkers, the disruptors, and the dreamers. May their stories inspire you to take bold steps, and live your dreams too.