appy new year! For all those making resolutions, good luck to you, personally I don’t believe in waiting for a new year to make positive changes to your life, I endeavor to make promises to improve my life every week of the year. But I have a lot to look forward to with the Manchester Lifestyle Awards returning in May along with an addition event kicking off g - The Liverpool Music Awards, think of it as the Brit Awards for the North West as I love championing our wonderful city. Finalists have been chosen and voting is now open!
In May I shall be holding my second fashion show in Cyprus and heading to Cannes for work as well so that’s exciting. Summer will of course be spent in Cyprus where I shall write both lifestyle magazines and run my PR and events from the beach. Autumn sees the return of Liverpool Fashion Week and the Liverpool Lifestyle Awards, and I am also hoping that the first Cyprus Lifestyle Awards willtake place in November when the holiday season ends, wrapping up a stylish year of celebrating businesses and entrepreneurs. Whatever you’re up to, stay blessed as ever and I hope 2025 brings you harmony, hope and happiness.
Amanda Moss
HELLO JANUARY
Copy deadline: 28th of the month FOR ALL SALES & SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES Email: amanda@amandamosspr.uk
The Association of Cyprus Banks has made a step forward with modernising its banking system with the introduction of instant payments, allowing customers to make crossbank and cross-border transactions within 10 seconds
The new system will operate across all SEPA zone countries, including the 27 EU member states and nine additional countries such as the UK, dramatically reducing current transfer times of one to two days.
Banks will enhance security measures, including a “Verification of Payee” feature from October 2025 to ensure account details match the intended recipient before completing payments
The regulation stipulates that banks cannot charge higher fees for instant payments compared to standard transfers. Plans are also under consideration for a common mobile payment platform using only phone numbers or email addresses.
This initiative marks Cyprus’s entry into a new era of banking, streamlining financial transactions for both citizens and businesses across the SEPA zone
The new system promises to increase efficiency while maintaining security in daily banking operations
Banks Cyprus will be required to offer instant payments at the same cost as standard domestic transfers, following new EU regulations aimed at equalising cross-border and domestic transaction fees.
Bank of Cyprus and Hellenic Bank are also planning to introduce measures including lower interest rates, new mortgage products for young couples, reduced fees for specific transactions, and expanded ATM networks in rural areas
The changes follow political pressure to improve banking services and boost lending
Both major banks will offer special provisions for customers over 65 and new account holders aged 18 and above, with particular focus on supporting vulnerable groups.
Staying Creative& InspiringThe World
An interview with Elizabeth Friedrich,
Art
Director of the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce
Are you originally from Cyprus and if not, what brought you to the island?
No, I am not originally from Cyprus I am Armenian with some German roots from my father’s side I came to Cyprus for a holiday, and I stayed because I fell in love with the island and its people Armenians and Cypriots have strong historical and cultural connections, which made me feel even more at home here
As Art Director of the Chamber of Commerce, what is your role?
I create and organize events that inspire, connect, and bring people together. My role extends beyond just art; I work on projects like the Red Diamond Business Club, a new business association for successful women from around the world It’s all about empowering, uniting, and creating something meaningful.
What is your business background?
I don’t come from a business background I am an artist at heart My creative journey began at a very young age when I would paint in my exercise books instead of doing schoolwork, much to the dismay of my teachers
When did you discover your love of art?
I discovered my love for art very early in life From a young age, I was drawn to painting and creativity
Instead of writing lessons in my schoolbooks, I would fill the pages with drawings That passion for art has always been a part of who I am
Where is the best place to view art in Cyprus?
Art in Cyprus has great potential, but I feel it needs more support and appreciation I would be very happy to contribute to elevating the art scene here to a new level
What inspires you to be a leader in business?
What inspires me most is the desire to make everything around me better improving quality, uniting people, and encouraging love and collaboration It’s about leading with passion and creating meaningful change
How do you help others within your role?
I created CrossRoads with Elizabeth Friedrich, a platform where we address various topics with the help of experts to provide support and guidance My goal is to help people in many ways, and I have plans to expand these efforts in the future
You introduced the Red Diamond Awards, tell us about them. The Red Diamond International Business Women Awards are about uniting women from all over the world My aim is to show that it’s not about nationalities or where we come from it’s about love, support, and embracing what it means to be a true lady.
What makes Cyprus such a special place in your eyes?
The people are welcoming, and the island itself is stunningly beautiful.
What are your wishes for 2025?
My wishes for 2025 are for people to focus on their souls, not just materialistic things. I hope for more kindness, unity, and a deeper understanding that our planet is our shared home. If we wouldn’t throw trash in our homes, why would we do it outside? I wish for more care for the environment, for others, and for ourselves. Together, we can create a kinder, more conscious world.
Inassocation with
FASHION SHOW
Following the huge succes of our debut Lifestyle Fashion Show in September, we are organsing our second show on3MayatBlueSpice.
We are currently on the look out for designers to participate, and they will receivethefollowing:
Models
Hair and make done by professionals
Setofphotos
Editorial presence in Lifestyle magazine
Brandingontheposter
PromovideoforYoutybe(not exclusive)
4tickets
Stylistbackstage PRsupport
The Fashion Show is brought toyoubytheteamwhocreate Liverpool Fashion Week and theyhavearobustfollowing, so this is guaranteed to elevateyourbrandandmake youmemorable.
Once again thank you to Island Homes for their support.
3MAY2025
TicketswillgoonsaleintheNewYear and we do expect this to be sold out. Partoftheproceedsoftheticketswill bedonatedtoPASYKAF.
Ifyouarealocalartist,jewellrymaker or craftsperson and would like to exhibit at the show then please get in touch.
GENESIS AI HEARING
ANEWBEGINNINGFORBETTERHEARING
Imagine a hearing aid that canprocesssoundtheway it’s meant to be heard andtruetolife.
Designed to always be a stepahead,soyou’reready for anything. And with the all-day power to help ensure you don’t miss a moment of life happening aroundyou.
Now, picture starting each day with confidence in knowing you will stay informed,feelindependent, and maintain connections with your friends, family, and community while embracing the simple joys of listening to nature, music, TV, movies and more
Guesswhat?
Genesis AI is that hearing aid.
Completely reimagined starting with the processor inside, Starkey’s all-new, groundbreaking Genesis AI hearing aids are designed to help more people than ever hear better and live better.
Experiencethemosttrue-to-lifesoundyet
Wearing assistive technology like hearing aids can take some getting usedto.Soyoucan’thelpbutgetexcitedbyahearingaidlikeGenesisAI that works and feels like an extension of you: Not only do Genesis AI hearing aids provide true-to-life sound quality, but they also continuously take care of your hearing needs as they arise just like yourbrainwould.
GenesisAIsbettermimicthewaywehear
Genesis AI hearing aids contain innovative Neuro Sound Technology, whichallowsthehearingaidstobetterreplicatehowthehumanbrain processessound.
They’resosmart,theythinklikeyoudo
By mimicking the cerebral cortex of your brain, Genesis AI “fills in the gaps”whenyourhearingisimpaired.Theyhelpyouhearthosemissed soundsquicklyandaccurately,soyouneverhavetomissamoment.
They’resofast,theyadaptbeforeyoucan GenesisAIhearingaidsmakeover80millionpersonalizedadjustments every hour So you can count on better hearing wherever you are or whateveryou’redoing withouthavingtodoanything
engaging with60,000 professional accountson socialmedia everymonth
IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS IN 2025
Want to get noticed in 2025?
I offer a course in public relations & self promotion that can be done online or in person
You will learn how to:
* Post effectively on social media and define which platforms work best for you for high engagement
* Grow your social media presence
* Promote your business effectively through winning strategies
* Make yourself invaluable to your clients
*How to structure a winning editorial
* Sell your services effectively
* Get published in local &national media
* Be memorable
About me:
NETWORKING GROUP: THE
I'm born a Kent girl and grew up in Folkestone. I moved to Cyprus in 2004 as my parents has moved here the year before as my dad worked in Dubai.
I met my husband Chris who is Cypriot but grew up in North London. Within a year we were married, pregnant and buying our first home! A few years ago I got my Cypriot citizenship woop woop!!
So....The Cyprus Blue Tits!!
Where I'm from in Folkestone there is a group called the Blue Tits that swim all year, the name always tickled me, so thought it would be perfect to have our own Cyprus group.
Why did I come up with the group?
To be honest I didn't actually think anyone would join. I was going to do it last year but talked myself out of it, because who is gonna wanna swim in winter with me? Erm apparently quite a few people!! Over 140 on the page now!! I live to bring people together, we need these social groups, people are lonely, and I think belonging to something is essential for humans to thrive. After covid we were isolated and divided, so we need to start pulling together again, we neeeeed each other!! Mental health is as essential as physical.
There is no criteria to join!! Any age, size it doesn't matter... just be female!! We meet every Wednesday weather permitting and I'm going to try to do at least 2 Saturdays a month for those not free in the week.
What else do I do?
I work all summer for a certain holiday company collecting suitcases.
I also run a ladies fitness group called Fab Fit Fun Frenaros. We are ladies doing home workouts from the TV together. We raise money to help support a non profit organisation called Ergastiri Apoplous. They provide very affordable clubs for children such as Taekwondo, chess, robotics, to name a few! The money we raise helps the club cover running costs.
Christmas will be spent here in Cyprus as one of my sons is doing national service so we don't know when he will be out. I will do the traditional Christmas dinner and drink my weight in Baileys ha ha!!
What do I love about my lifestyle?
What's not to love!!! I live on the most beautiful island, surrounded by amazing people, I'm safe, im Healthy, and have this amazing community that support me and my crazy ideas! Life is just perfect!!
Benefits of using a hot tub in winter
The experience of sitting in warmwateroutdoorswhenit is below feeezing is not only unique but also brings various benefits to your physical and mental wellbeing.Winterisoneofthe toughest times of year for many people and a hot tub provides an escape from harsh weather & dark days . Here are just some of the benefits:
ENJOYSTARGAZING
Gazingattheawe-inspiringcanvas of the cosmos activates a host of benefits.Indeed,awecontributesto making you healthier, happier, morehumble,andmoreconnected to the people around you. It also calms the nervous system and triggers the release of the “love” hormone oxytocin. For many, awe startsinchildhood.
SLEEPBETTER
Enjoyingasoakinahottubabout 90 minutes before bed will calm you and also signal to your body thatbedtimeisnear.Aftersoaking in your hot tub, your body cools, andasyourbodytemperaturefalls, younaturallygetdrowsy.Climbing into bed feeling calm and comfortable helps you fall asleep faster.
IMPROVESCIRCULATION
Ahottubcanincreasebloodflowin a similar manner to exercising. Thereforehottubbinginwinterand theincreasedcirculationitbringsis important to looking after your cardiovascularsystem.
WARMSYOUUP
Whatbetterwaytowarmupthan soaking in 38 degree water with hydrotherapy from the massage jetsrelievinganyachesandpains atthesametime!
LOSEWEIGHT
Wintercanbeatoughperiodfor motivation especially when it comes to exercise and healthy eating. After a period of indulgence during Christmas, January is a chance to set new fitnessandhealthgoals.Hottubs can be a great way to assist in your weight loss journey and 60 minutes in a hotel tub can burn 100calories.
IMPROVEMENTALHEALTH
Ahottubprovidesagreatwayto connect with family/friends and get away from the stresses of everyday life. This has a direct impact on mental wellbeing. It hasalsobeenprovenbyastudy that hot water therapy gives similar benefits to exercise in terms of blood flow, body temperatureandheartrate.This helps to increase serotonin and dopamine in your body while decreasing cortisol and epinephrine levels, which improves our overall mental wellbeing.
MUSCLERECOVERY
Soakinginahottubprovidesthe benefitofhydrotherapy.Thiscan increase the blood flow from the extremities into the core and speeduptheprocessingoflactic acid. which directly helps with musclerecoveryandhealing.
CONNECT WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS
We generally find ourselves indoors and relying on technology to keep us entertained during harsh weather however this technology can sometimes prevent deep and meaningful connection with others. A hot tub provides a space away from technology in order to connectwithfamilyandfriends and during winter this can be especiallyvaluable.
SPICEUPROMANCE
The warm water and soothing jets can create an intimate setting that is perfect for sharing your thoughts and feelingswitheachother.
CAN EASE SYMPTOMS OF A COMMONCOLD
The warm water raises your body temperature, which in turn dilates the blood vessels, improving circulation.It also stimulates nerves to boost the immunesystemandthesteam decongests a stuffy nose helping you breathe more easily.
