Most Inspiring Business Leaders to Watch in 2023

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AMERICAN EXPRESS: A Journey that Revolutionized the Financial World

EDMONTON, ALBERTA: Exploring through a Red-Rented Bicycle

Most

INSPIRING BUSINESS LEADERS to Watch in 2023

SHANNON

YERKIC TruMa ntra Education Group Chief Executive Officer

A Multifaceted Visionary

TRANSFORMING EDUCATION

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This edition of The Enterprise World of Most Inspiring Business Leaders to Watch in 2023 highlights the remarkable stories of such inspiring leaders in business for 2023.

Their visionary leadership, strategic prowess, and courageous initiatives are making an enduring impact on the business landscape, motivating others to envisage and contribute to the industries of the future.

For the cover read about As a graduate of Valdosta State University, Shannon has consulted both domestically and internationally for public, private, and proprietary colleges, companies, and universities. His extensive experience has contributed immensely to the success of the organization’s faculty, students, and staff.

Being a successful business leader, Shannon focuses on creating meaningful value with and for all stakeholders in TruMantra Education. As the CEO of TruMantra, he functions as a visionary, architect, coach, and catalyst for the organization. Moreover, he brings Energy, Expertise, and Enthusiasm to the organization. He approaches every situation with the same dedication and determination that has enabled success for his team as well as himself. At TruMantra, he continues to foster these results to the students and the staff.

“We teach the way YOU learn…”

The TruMantra family of Schools, which includes the Academy of Lymphatic Studies and the Arizona School of Integrative Studies was created to genuinely preserve a unique, integrative approach to massage therapy education, and lymphedema treatment.

For over 20 years, schools that subscribe to this philosophy have honed and refined their curriculum, teaching styles, classroom dynamics, and culture to serve students and create an atmosphere of learning excellence. “We know that not every student learns the same way. That’s why we like to say, we teach the way YOU learn,” says Shannon.

Shalmali W.

From Editor’s Desk

I

n the ever-evolving realm of business, inspirational leaders are not merely navigating the present; they are actively shaping the industries of tomorrow. These dynamic individuals stand at the forefront of innovation, boldly charting new territories and redefining conventional norms. As catalysts for change, these business leaders not only propel growth within their respective sectors but also pave the way for aspiring professionals to follow suit.

CONTENTS

10

Shannon Yerkic

EDMONTON, ALBERTA: Exploring through a Red-Rented Bicycle

upshot

20 article

6 Innovative Tools for Social Media Recruitment

AMERICAN EXPRESS: A Journey that Revolutionized the Financial World 4 Last Minute Christmas Dessert Recipesto Save the Day!

30 CASE STUDY

34 Blog

44

COVER STORY

SHANNON

YERKIC A Multifaceted Visionary Transforming Education TruMa ntra Education Group Chief Executive Officer

10 | December 2023

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Energy, Expertise, and Enthusiasm

A

As we move further toward a more technologically driven world, the role of business leaders is becoming more important than ever. The dynamic business environment, driven by the changing customer demands and market trends, has increased the competition by multiple folds. Thus, today’s leaders have to continuously be on their toes and shoulder various responsibilities simultaneously.

Like many other industries, the education sector is also undergoing a transformation, highlighting the important role of leadership.

Shannon Yerkic (Chief Executive Officer at TruMantra Education Group) is one of the few visionaries who possess the quintessential skills to be an effective education leader today.

In our latest magazine issue, “Most Inspiring Business Leaders to Watch in 2023,” we are shedding light on how Shannon Yerkic rose to prominence as a respected name in the education leadership sector.

12 | December 2023

As a graduate of Valdosta State University, Shannon has consulted both domestically and internationally for public, private, and proprietary colleges, companies, and universities. His extensive experience has contributed immensely to the success of the organization’s faculty, students, and staff.

Being a successful business leader, Shannon focuses on creating meaningful value with and for all stakeholders in TruMantra Education. As the CEO of TruMantra, he functions as a visionary, architect, coach, and catalyst for the organization. Moreover, he brings Energy, Expertise, and Enthusiasm to the organization. He approaches every situation with the same dedication and determination that has enabled success for his team as well as himself. At TruMantra, he continues to foster these results to the students and the staff.

“We teach the way YOU learn…”

The TruMantra family of Schools, which includes the Academy of Lymphatic Studies and the Arizona School of Integrative Studies was created to genuinely preserve a unique, integrative approach to massage therapy education, and lymphedema treatment. For over 20 years, schools that subscribe to this philosophy have honed and refined their curriculum, teaching styles, classroom dynamics, and culture to serve students and create an atmosphere of learning excellence. “We know that not every student learns the same way. That’s why we like to say, we teach the way YOU learn,” says Shannon.

The organization incorporates Perceptual Training Patterns in all aspects of its school so that each student is presented with the information in the best way they absorb it. These training patterns are one of the most important aspects of a TruMantra School. Shannon adds, “This should mean the most to a prospective student, that they are not just merely a number at a TruMantra Education Group School”

COVER STORY COVER

“It is NOT the same old classroom where you may have struggled. It is a richer and deeper experiential learning that allows schools to teach the way students truly learn,” adds Shannon. www.theenterpriseworld.com | 13

A Blueprint of Massage and lymphedema Education TruMantra schools are based upon a successful blueprint of the space and education necessary for their students to become amazing massage therapists and lymphedema therapists. Both massage and lymphedema treatment have been used throughout history as a treatment for pain and disease. It promotes the circulation of blood, lymphatic flow, muscular relaxation, a greater base in standing and moving, and increased sensory awareness. Through the practice of massage and lymphedema therapy, students can also become aware of lifestyle and psychological patterns, which may be causing or perpetuating painful and limiting ways of being.

Perpetual Thinking Patterns TruMantra encourages schools to offer a variety of feedback opportunities for students to discover how they best learn. To that end, Perceptual Thinking Patterns (PTP) are central to its educational philosophy. PTPs are the ideas that each person learns through visual, auditory, and kinesthetic means (with varying degrees of immediacy).

Therefore, an effort is made in each class to present the curriculum in all three modes. This simple philosophy greatly enhances students’ grasp of the materials and concepts presented.

“It is NOT the same old classroom where you may have struggled. It is a richer and deeper experiential learning that allows schools to teach the way students truly learn,” adds Shannon. He mentions that it is very common for students who have struggled to achieve in high school and college to flourish and prosper within such a learning system.

14 | December 2023

Fostering Talent from Within The incredibly adept team is one of the prominent reasons behind TruMantra’s success over the years. Being at the helm, Shannon plays an instrumental role in building a team of talented professionals. His approach to talent development is marked by a preference for internal promotions.

Enunciating his views on hiring external talents, he says, “When you hire external talent, I have found that it will take longer to adapt and generally leave the company at higher rates of voluntary and involuntary exits.”

Shannon firmly believes that internal candidates, having a deep understanding of the company’s culture and dynamics, adapt more readily and exhibit higher levels of success. This approach not only retains talent but also boosts employee engagement as they witness the promotion of their peers. They will tend to be more loyal and committed to the company.

Leading with a Purpose Change is the very nature of businesses and in many instances, Shannon has been in situations that required change and rebuilding. His experiences have taught him that employees always seek a purpose for the business and a plan of action to be implemented. He mentions that employees appreciate knowing their part and what they can do to keep operations running smoothly.

The key is to involve employees and keep them informed of the plan.

Shannon further adds that employees need to continue to feel valued and like a part of the overall organization. According to him, a leader must lead with a purpose that encourages

COVER STORY

www.theenterpriseworld.com | 15

employees to brainstorm improvements and offer solutions to management. He has found this to be the most successful approach in leading teams to success in challenging situations.

The Potential of Hybrid Learning The pandemic outbreak presented a flurry of challenges for organizations of all sizes. The lockdown disrupted several businesses and increased the need for technology adoption. In the education sector, it promoted the concept of hybrid learning. More and more schools/educational institutes started to adopt a hybrid model as it combined the best of both worlds—traditional in-person instruction and the flexibility of online learning.

Hybrid learning allows for greater personalization and adaptability, as students learn at their own pace and access materials from anywhere with an internet connection. It promotes active participation, fosters independent learning skills, and prepares students for the digital age by integrating technology into the educational process. Moreover, it offers a balance between the structure and social interaction of traditional classrooms

16 | December 2023

and the convenience and accessibility of online learning, making it a compelling option in today’s educational landscape.

Understanding the benefits of hybrid learning, TruMantra is committed to harnessing the potential of hybrid learning to create engaging, inclusive, and effective educational experiences for its students.

Customized Learning Experience The dedicated team of educators at TruMantra has created a dynamic curriculum that maximizes the potential of hybrid learning. Students can access course materials and interactive resources and collaborate with peers and instructors through its intuitive online learning platform. This digital ecosystem enhances the learning experience by providing multimedia content, virtual simulations, real-time feedback, and opportunities for asynchronous and synchronous interactions.

Flexibility lies at the core of TruMantra’s hybrid learning approach. Students can customize their learning journey according to their unique needs and preferences. They can attend on-campus classes, participate in virtual sessions, or opt for a combination. This flexibility

COVER STORY STORY COVER empowers learners to balance their academic pursuits with work, personal commitments, and other responsibilities, ensuring a learnercentric experience.

Ambitions for the Future Shannon mentions that an important lesson he learned from the pandemic is to acknowledge the pace at which technology evolves and the extent to which the traditional model limits access to education. In the future, Shannon envisions a less structured model that makes room for more variety. This includes developing new paths, multiple streams, and a wider array of credentials. He sees the TruMantra Education Group as one of the premier leaders in utilizing the available new technology.

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# STORIES TOLD WITH A NEW PERSPECTIVE!

If you haven’t learned any lesson from the crisis, it’s time to think about it before it happens again.

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-Michael Gareau CEO / Founding President STARPAX BIOPHARMA

20 | December 2023

EXPLORING THROUGH A RED-RENTED BICYCLE

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22 | December 2023

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24 | December 2023

“An Aesthetic Afternoon of Alberta” On my way to the Edmonton Corn Maze, I encountered herds of people visiting the Prairie Gardens. Friends holding hands and children cracking their voices — all excited to see the 35 acres of pumpkin farms and market. However, the child inside me was excited to get lost in the maze of cornfields. The correct pathways can be walked in under 30 minutes, but most of us took about one hour to travel through more than 5 km of twists and turns and 85 decision points.

Ÿ

Ÿ

Don't forget the sweet smell of corn that diluted our sense of direction. Lost in the middle of an unknown city surrounded by confused faces, brings up a thrill through your spine.

This corn-tastic place also reminded me of my ignored stomach, it was time to eat! Ÿ

Flavors of Heaven at Edmonton: My grandfather once told me to not judge a place by its history, people, or even culture but by the food. He was right, the first bite of Perogies and I tasted heaven. The one I had was filled with bacon, onion, sauerkraut, mushroom and cheese. As the flavors melted my eyes gave up and the lids were closed. By now I was seeing colors like the rat from Ratatouille. Trying out the famous Green Onion Cake right after was like a fat kid jumping on one end of a see-saw, while I was on the other end. I was launched into the sky of new flavors. Ÿ

As I was still soaring in the clouds, Endamon was ready to bring me down like lightning by the local's favorite Donairs. A pile of seasoned ground beef, wrapped in pita, drizzled with milky sweet sauce, and sprinkled with tomato and onions. “This is going to be hard to forget” I mumbled to myself. Well, it is and the stain on my grey shirt forbids me to. Ÿ

With the same stained shirt, I reached the doorsteps of the Art Gallery of Alberta. The sun was up and bright by this time and I needed the shadow of a roof anyway. While the rented beauty of my bike was still soaking some of the heat, I evaded into another dimension of art in Edmonton.

Quickly I found myself surrounded by more than 1500 photographs involving some of my favorite artists like Karl Blossfeldt, Walker Evans, and Yousuf Karsh. Ÿ

Witnessing the strokes of Tom Thomson in - Frasers Lodge 1915, and Autumn Filiage, 1916 felt like an honor.

However, this one particle piece by him made me forget how to walk. I stood still as people passed around like ants. I was bothered by the depth of this piece that pocked the loneliness within me. “How lonely must this man be?” is what came out of me after seeing — Fisherman - winter 19161917. “One foot at a time” and I walked out of my loneliness.

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26 | December 2023

“An Evening of Ecstasy at Edmonton” Ÿ

By the time I learned how to walk again, the sun was about to disappear. I forgot that the time outside was still in the marathon as I wandered into the timeless dimension of art. I then quickly took the red ride of mine and flinched towards my next milestone in this magic world. As if I was chasing the sun reflecting upon the North Saskatchewan River laid alongside like a lazy snake in Edmonton.

Ÿ

I passed by the hoorays and cheers of thousands of people for the Edmonton Oilers at the NHL. Then went by the 4th Street Promenade, as the road changed colors by the neon signs.

However, this race of mine took a break as a red-sided garter snake crossed my way. Common in this region these snakes are harmless and have the respect of localities here. I waited patiently until he crossed my path and disappeared as he might be chasing stars too.

Yes, all this hustle for I was chasing stars!

Ÿ

As I reached the Elk Island National Park, I had finally escaped from the temptations of the Edmonton city. I was standing in the heart of the Beaver Hills dark sky preserves magnificent beauty.

Tents were laid and fire was born into the darkness as the stars twirled above our head. All the glowing lights of the city were far forgotten as we saw a live stage performance starring “The Stars.”

The sound of the bison's woke me up from this starry dream and I found my way back to my own body.

Conclusion Here she was, tilted to the same night lamp. Who knows how many people have admired her before me and how many times she visited everywhere I've been. I admired her some more but it was time for return. Maybe someone like me will see her tomorrow, to dive into this never-ending culture of Art, festivals, and young spirit and fall in love with her — the Red-Rented bicycle. With or without this bike I firmly believe one must visit this life-changing experience, a city of youth and a fairyland for artists, the capital of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada. A place where one can bask in the sunshine than most other Canadian cities. Where people from around the world gather on the streets for over 50 festivals annually. North America's largest stretch of urban parkland and home to Canada's largest planetarium. A place you would never forget — Edmonton.

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SOCIAL MEDI SOCIAL MEDIA

6

30 | December 2023

Innovative Tools for

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The Most INSPIRING BUSINESSWOMEN to Follow

Keeping time with elegance and precision, there exists a name that stands above all others—Rolex watches. These timepieces are not merely instruments, they are finely crafted chapters in the rich history of horology—a place of weaving a legacy of sophistication and innovation in between metal pieces. The mere utterance of “Rolex watches” creates an atmosphere of timeless luxury, where painstaking craftsmanship meets state-of-the-art technology From the iconic Oyster Perpetual to the illustrious Submariner, every Rolex creation is a living legend and a symbol of unwavering dedication to excellence. Such accuracy would have baffled Einstein himself in his theories of time and relativity.

Let us unravel the mystique concealed behind the crown, where each tick of a Rolex watch resonates with the heartbeat of horological mastery.

The Beginning of a New Era Founded by Hans Wilsdorf, rather than any “Hans Rolex” as any of us would have guessed, in the year 1905, in London. He aimed to make it short and simple, a name that was easy to pronounce in any language. Moreover, the term “Rolex” possessed onomatopoeic qualities, echoing a sound like the winding of a watch. It is practicality shone through, given that the name was compact enough to effortlessly grace the face of any watch.

Wilsdorf’s profound appreciation for precision timekeeping paved the way for the Rolex watches to surge in popularity in 1910. That pivotal year marked a historic milestone as Rolex became the inaugural wristwatch to bear the esteemed Swiss certificate of chronometric precision, bestowed by the official Watch Rating Centre in Switzerland. This certification proved transformative, sparking a notable uptick in sales.Read More...

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AMERICA

EXPRESS

A Journey That Revolutionized

34 | December 2023

AN

S

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W We all have that one friend, whom you can always rely on when stuck in a financial crisis. Whether it be facing an issue in a transaction, or falling short on cash, just summon the savior. I once too had this friend, always ready with his cape on, to grab my hand when drowning in the puddle of failed transactions. Sooner, the college was over drifting everyone apart, and along with them, I lost that one friend too.

Later on, when enslaved in the corporate world I found that helping hand again but without a cape and crooked face this time.

Rather, it was someone in a fancy tie and shining boots, who was convincing me to get a credit card. As appalling as his offer was, I had to turn him down as this concept was new to me. After painstaking research and understanding the concept of credit cards, something stuck with me. That something was a diversified global financial services company – American Express. This article is your guide to take you on the journey of American Express and the story behind it.

The Beginning of a New Era During the mid-19th century, there was a significant demand for the transportation of parcels, documents, and valuable items across the United States. With the westward expansion, businesses needed a trustworthy and efficient means of sending and

36 | December 2023

receiving these items. This was the time when security and reliability were major concerns for businesses and individuals. The risk of theft or loss of valuable items during transit was a genuine problem and people were looking for a dependable solution. In this chaos, on the bustling streets of Buffalo, New York, a daring idea was conceived by three visionary entrepreneurs. Henry Wells, William Fargo, and John Warren Butterfield founded American Express in 1850, which would soon become a global icon in the financial services industry.

After its formation, American Express (also known as Amex) skyrocketed because of its speed and reliability.

Started as an express mail business, its iconic stagecoaches, driven by fearless drivers became a symbol of trust and efficiency. Embracing its services to send parcels, currency, and valuable items across the country, Amex flourished to a greater extent. With the uncertainty of the financial market, Amex evolved too, transforming the way people conducted financial transactions. This evolution later became the foundation for several innovations in the financial sector that set the course for a new future.

contributed to the growth of international tourism.

•

First Charge Card (1958): The company introduced the first charge card — the American Express Card.

This card required cardholders to pay their balance in full each month, paving the way for future credit and charge card products.

•

Membership Rewards Program (1991): Amex launched the Membership Rewards program, which became one of the first comprehensive credit card rewards programs. Cardholders could earn points for their spending and redeem them for a wide range of rewards, including travel, merchandise, and more.

•

Airport Lounge Access (1994): American Express began offering cardholders access to airport lounges as a card benefit. This was one of the early examples of premium travel perks associated with credit cards.

•

Expansion into Banking Services and Digital Services: Amex expanded its offerings beyond cards to include various banking services.

This includes personal and business loans, savings accounts, and certificates of deposit (Cds). Amex also embraced digital innovation like developing mobile apps and online services to provide easy access to account management, payment options, and exclusive offers.

•

Partnerships and Co-Branded Cards: Amex formed partnerships with various retailers, airlines, and hotels, offering co-branded credit cards. This allowed the cardholders to enjoy exclusive benefits, discounts, and rewards.

Revolutionary Innovations: American Express has been a pioneer in the financial services industry. By introducing several innovations and changes that have had a significant impact on the market. Some of these key innovations and changes are listed below: •

Introduction of Traveler’s Cheques (1891): Innovation of traveler’s cheques, which were widely accepted as the means of carrying funds while traveling.

This innovation greatly reduced the risk of carrying cash and

•

All these innovations helped American Express remain a symbol of financial prowess and customer service excellence.

Out-of-the-box marketing campaigns: American Express has been known for its successful marketing campaigns and strategies over the years. Here are some smart marketing campaigns employed by Amex: •

“Don’t Leave Home Without It”(1975): One of the most iconic marketing campaigns in the credit card industry. This slogan emphasized the idea that Amex cardholders should never leave home without their card. It became synonymous with the brand’s exclusivity and the peace of mind it offered when traveling.

•

Centurion Card (Black Card): American Express created a sense of mystique around this Centurion Card. By limiting its issuance to high-net-worth individuals by invitation only, Amex built an intrigue about the card.

•

“Membership Has Its Privileges”: This marketing slogan emphasizes the exclusive benefits available to the cardholders creating a sense of belonging and prestige. This included access to airport lounges, concierge services, and unique experiences.

•

Small Business Saturday: American Express introduced Small Business Saturday. A marketing campaign aimed at encouraging consumers to support small businesses. This initiative not only promoted Amex but also supported local businesses.

These are just a few examples of smart and trend-setting marketing strategies acquired by the company. These strategies also include partnerships with influencers and celebrities to reach a broader audience, co-branded cards, a customer-centric approach, and many more.

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Famous Personalities using American Express (or vice versa): By forming partnerships with various famous personalities which contributed to the brand’s image, and customer engagement. Some notable personalities who have had associations with Amex include: •

Jerry Seinfeld: Comedian and actor Jerry Seinfeld was featured in American Express’s advertising campaigns, particularly in the “Unstaged” series.

These campaigns featured live concert performances and allowed fans to engage with artists.

•

Tina Fey: Tina Fey, an actress and comedian has been a spokesperson for Amex, endorsing various its cards and campaigns.

•

Shaquille O’Neal: Retired NBA basketball star Shaquille O’Neal was a part of Amex, during a “Shop Small” campaign which encourages people to support small businesses.

•

Lin-Manuel Miranda: The creator of the hit Broadway musical “Hamilton,” Lin-Manuel Miranda, was a part of the “Membership Experiences” program, which offered cardholders access to exclusive events.

•

Ken Chenault: While not a celebrity in the traditional sense, Ken Chenault was the CEO and Chairman of Amex from 2001 to 2018. His leadership and strategic vision played a significant role in shaping the company’s direction during his tenure.

These personalities have contributed to Amex in various ways, from endorsing its products and services to participating in marketing campaigns. Their involvement has helped the brand connect with diverse audiences and reinforce its image as a premium and exclusive financial services provider.

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List Of

AMERICAN EXPRESS CARDS:

Centurion Card

Annual fee $5,000

Since 1999

Platinum Card

$695

1984

Card

Gold Card

$250

1966

Green Card Cash Magnet

$150

1969

$0

Everyday Card

$0

2018 2014

FAQs: 1. How do American Express credit cards differ from traditional credit cards?

Its credit cards are often charge cards, which require cardholders to pay the full balance at the end of each billing cycle. This distinguishes them from traditional credit cards that allow carrying a balance with interest.

40 | December 2023

2.Where can I use my American Express card?

Amex is widely accepted in the United States and around the world. You can use it at a variety of businesses, including retailers, restaurants, and for online purchases. However, acceptance may vary by location, so it’s a good idea to check with the merchant.

3. How do I apply for a card?

You can apply for the card on their official website or by visiting a local bank branch. The application process typically includes providing personal and financial information for a credit check.

4. What benefits do American Express cards offer?

Amex cards often come with various benefits, including rewards programs, travel perks, purchase protection, and exclusive access to events. The specific benefits can vary between different card offerings.

5.How does the American Express rewards program work?

The Amex rewards program, known as Membership Rewards, allows cardholders to earn points for every dollar spent on their card. These points can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, or used to pay off card balances.

6. Do these cards have annual fees?

Many of its cards have annual fees, but the amount varies depending on the card type and its associated benefits.

Some cards may offer no annual fee for the first year.

Today, American Express remains a symbol of financial prowess and customer service excellence. More than a company it’s an institution trusted by millions and known for its commitment to innovation and corporate responsibility. As the company enters its third century of existence, it carries a legacy of trust, service, and progress.

Always ready to meet the changing needs of its card members and shape the future of finance or to be that one friend to someone.

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4 Last Minute Christmas Dessert Recipes to Save the Day! In the midst of chaotic Christmas shopping, merry decorations, and the perfect Christmas Eve planning, we hope you haven’t forgotten about the cherry on top. Yes, we are talking about those lip-smacking desserts that have people melting with joy. If that’s the case, you need not worry for we have got you covered with some of the best last-minute Christmas dessert recipes.

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INGREDIENTS

A Night Before Christmas Pudding To Fool Them All! What’s Christmas without a little pudding? But, don’t worry. We aren’t talking about the one that takes you hours to prepare for. This simple version will taste just as delicious and heavenly. Grab a pen and paper because here’s everything you need to do:

Ÿ 125g each of boysenberry & redcurrants Ÿ 100g dark chocolate, chopped Ÿ 1/4 cup (60ml) maple syrup Ÿ 150ml pure (thin) cream Ÿ CHRISTMAS PUDDING Ÿ 4 cups (725g) mixed dried fruit Ÿ 400g store-bought Madeira or sponge cake, crumbled Ÿ 100g dark chocolate, melted, cooled Ÿ 1 tbsp cocoa Ÿ 50g unsalted butter, melted, cooled Ÿ 1/2 cup (125ml) sherry or brandy Ÿ 1 tsp each ground cinnamon & freshly grated nutmeg Ÿ 1/2 tsp each allspice & ground cloves

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Serves: 12 Prep Time: 25 Mins Ingredients: 8 Difficulty: Easy Amount: $1.93 per serving Christmas without gingerbread would seem incomplete, right? This simple, no-bake, and tasty addition to the Christmas Dessert recipes is here to make things merry.

INGREDIENTS Ÿ 900ml thickened cream Ÿ 1 cup (330g) dulce de leche (or other caramel sauce) Ÿ 250g sour cream Ÿ 1/3 cup (40g) icing sugar, sifted Ÿ 800g gingerbread cake (or other bought cake) Ÿ 90ml Marsala or brandy Ÿ 1½ tsp cinnamon Ÿ 200g gingerbread biscuits (or gingernut), crumbled

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Christmas special Rum balls, but with a twist!

Serves: 12 STEP 1: Prep Time: 1 Hour 20 Mins Divide the thickened cream into two equal parts. In one bowl, add the dulce de leche and whisk till it gets a thick consistency. To another bowl of thickened cream, add sour cream and icing cream. Whisk it till it is thick.

Cook Time: Ingredients: 11 Difficulty: Easy Amount: $1.59 per serving

STEP 2: Cut your gingerbread cake into slices of about 2cm each. Take a 3L trifle dish, and layer one-third of these slices over the bottom. Drizzle a third of the marsala, sprinkle about a third of the cinnamon, and finally add a third of the gingerbread crumbs.

Imagine it's 30 degrees outside, and you are craving for a dessert that won’t sink you to the bottom of a pool, THIS is the one you are looking for! And well, of course, we did not forget the Christmas traditions! Here is a special next one from our book of Christmas dessert recipes.

STEP 3: To this layer now, add a third of the dulce de leche mixture, over that add a third of the whipped cream mixture.

Repeat this layering process two more times and top it off with the remaining biscuit crumbs.

What did it take? Half an hour? You’ve got the dessert ready all while your guests are settling in. Bookmark this as one of the decadent Christmas dessert recipes, something that you can whip out quickly, and then enjoy after a hearty dinner!

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INGREDIENTS Ÿ 1 2/3 cup (150g) desiccated coconut

Ÿ 1/3 cup (80ml) melted cacao butter

Ÿ 2 tbsp maple syrup

Ÿ RAISIN BASE

Ÿ 1/2 cup (125ml) melted coconut oil

Ÿ 1 cup (160g) blanched almonds, roasted

Ÿ 3/4 cup (185ml) coconut milk

Ÿ 1/3 cup (30g) desiccated coconut

Ÿ 1 cup (170g) pitted Medjool dates

Ÿ 1/2 cup (85g) raisins

Ÿ 1/2 cup (40g) cacao powder, plus extra to serve Ÿ 1 tbsp rum

STEPS STEP 1: Take a loaf pan and grease and line it up with baking paper. Leave about 5cm overhanging long sides of the pan.

STEP 2: You first need to prepare the raisin base. Whiz some almonds and coconut in a small food processor until it’s finely chopped.

To it, add some raisins and about 2 tbs of water, and mix again till it’s well combined. Get a pan and add this base to it.

STEP 3: Next, get the desiccated coconut, maple syrup, about a 1/4th cup of coconut oil, and 1/4th cup of coconut milk, and add all this to a small food processor and give it a fine spin. Spread this mixture over the raisin base evenly. Cover it with a plastic film and set it in the refrigerator till it firms up.

STEP 4: Now, place the dates and 1 tbs of boiling water in a food processor. Mix it until it’s smooth. To this, add cacao powder, rum, cacao butter, a pinch of salt flakes, and the remaining coconut oil and coconut milk. Mix it till you get a nice and smooth texture.

STEP 5: Pour this mixture over the slice, cover it again with a plastic wrap, and chill overnight. (4 hours can do too if you don’t have enough time) STEP 6: Remove the slice from the pan, and sprinkle some extra cacao powder (and a little love). And Voila! It’s ready to serve.

Now, sometimes the best and the easiest desserts might take time. But hey! Imagine, it’s snowing out and you are sitting in front of the fire, sipping some hot cocoa and enjoying a rum stick dessert. Isn’t that the Christmas dream?

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MINI MINCE PIES

Your mini mince pies are ready to serve!

Christmas is all about the merry times and delicious foods. You could be a master of savory foods, but it does not mean you can miss out on desserts. With these traditional Christmas dessert recipes, you are sure to win over the hearts of your guests and family!

What are you waiting for? The sweet smell of holidays awaits you. Get the holiday season started!

Ÿ Serves: 24 Ÿ Prep Time: 8 Hours Ÿ Cook Time: 25 Mins Ÿ Ingredients: 16 Ÿ Difficulty: Medium Ÿ Amount: $1.52 per serving Up next from our last-minute Christmas dessert recipes treasure is the one gem everyone adores. You guessed it right!

Christmas would just be fly without some pie! Here’s how to make mini mince pies.

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INGREDIENTS Ÿ 1 apple, grated, excess water squeezed out Ÿ 100g unsalted butter, melted Ÿ 100g brown sugar Ÿ 100g drained morello cherries in juice (see notes), finely chopped

Ÿ 2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest, plus 2 tablespoons lemon juice Ÿ 1 teaspoon mixed spice Ÿ 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon Ÿ 1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg

Ÿ 100g slivered almonds

Ÿ 100ml brandy

Ÿ 100g candied peel, finely chopped

Ÿ Icing sugar, to serve

Ÿ 100g each of currants, seedless raisins, and sultanas PASTRY Ÿ 2 2/3 cups (400g) plain flour, sifted Ÿ 200g chilled unsalted butter, chopped Ÿ 1 egg yolk, beaten with 2 teaspoons milk STEP 1: In a bowl, combine all the ingredients except the icing sugar.

Keep stirring well to make a smooth mixture. Cover this with a plastic wrap and let it cool overnight, just to get a little extra flavor.

STEP 2: The next day, for the pastry, mix flour, butter, and ½ teaspoon of salt in a food processor until the mixture is crumbly. To it, slowly add 80-100ml of cold water till the dough comes together. Halve the dough and shape it into 2 discs. Wrap it in a plastic film and let it chill for about 30 minutes.

STEP 3: Now, drain the fruit mince and then mix it well in the food processor to finely chop it.

STEP 4: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Roll out a pastry disc to about 3mm thick. Cut out circles, approximately 24x7cm. (Don’t throw away the trimmings!) Now in a muffin pan, place them and fill each of them with about a ½ teaspoon of fruit mince.

50 | December 2023

STEP 5: Roll out the remaining pastry disc and cut out circles of the same size. Brush its edges with a little water. Place these lids over the ones stuffed with filling. Gently push the edges to seal and soak it in egg wash.

STEP 6: Re-roll those pastry trimmings and cut out stars.

Top the mini pies with stars and again brush with some egg wash.

STEP 7: Bake this for about 20-25 minutes until it gets its rich golden brown color and crisp. Cool it down before you dust it with icing sugar!

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