Dear Ella,

As we come to the end of 2024, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we’ve been on together, and I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride. Rebel Thriver has grown in ways I could never have imagined, and it is all because of the strength and love within this community.

When I look at what we’ve built—this sisterhood of women from all over the world—I am in awe. There is nothing else quite like Rebel Thriver. We are reaching women who may never have been able to travel or access the resources they need, but they have found us. They’ve found healing. They’ve found support. And they’ve found each other.

What truly sets us apart is that when women heal, they don’t leave—they stay. They stay to help the women who are new to their healing journey, committed to continuing the circle of giving. This sisterhood is not just a space for healing; it’s a space for growth, empowerment, and passing on the wisdom and love that we’ve received.

The growth of this community, the contributions, the support we offer one another, and the sisterhood we’ve created are what make us so strong. Together, we are creating something transformative—not just for individual women, but for the world at large. Every time one of you reaches out to support a sister in need, every time we share a piece of wisdom or a word of encouragement, we are making an impact.

I am so incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished, and I know this is just the beginning. There is so much more to come. As we move into the new year, I am excited about all the possibilities—about continuing to lift each other up, to grow, and to create a world where every woman feels supported and empowered.

This holiday season, let’s continue to celebrate the strength, the growth, and the unbreakable bond of our Rebel Thriver family. Together, we are changing lives.

With deep gratitude and love,

Ella

Ella Hicks, founder of Rebel Thriver, is a trauma and mindfulness teacher and coach dedicated to empowering women on their healing journeys. Her mission extends beyond individual transformation, and is committed to fostering a global community where women can find solidarity, strength, and hope. At the heart of her work is a belief in the unshakable resilience of women and the power of connection to create brighter futures.

*If you would like to work with Ella individually or in a small group, reach out to her here: ella@ellahicks.com

The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.  - Coretta Scott King

The Invitation by Oriah Mountain Dreamer

It doesn’t interest me what you do for a living. I want to know what you ache for, and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart’s longing. It doesn’t interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool for love, for your dream, for the adventure of being alive.

It doesn’t interest me where you live or how much money you have. I want to know if you can get up after the night of grief and despair, weary and bruised to the bone, and do what needs to be done for the children.

It doesn’t interest me who you know or how you came to be here. I want to know if you will stand in the center of the fire with me and not shrink back.

Bûche de Noël

This classic French dessert traces its roots back to ancient European midwinter celebrations when families would burn logs decorated with holly and ivy to celebrate the winter solstice. The log symbolized the sun's return as the days began to lengthen after the darkest part of the year. As hearths and fireplaces became less common in homes, the tradition of burning a Yule log gradually evolved into creating an edible version of the log—thus, the Bûche de Noël was born.

Ingredients:

For the sponge cake:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp baking powder

For the chocolate ganache:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For decoration:

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Marzipan mushrooms, fresh holly, or chocolate shavings

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sponge Cake:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15x10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, beat the eggs on high speed until thick and pale. Gradually add the sugar, beating until the mixture forms ribbons when lifted from the whisk.
• In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, ensuring not to deflate the batter.
• Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the cake springs back when touched.
• Invert the baked cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment and carefully roll the cake with the towel to form a log shape. Let it cool completely.

1. Make the Chocolate Ganache:

• In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Stir in the butter until fully combined. Allow it to cool slightly before spreading on the cake.

1. Assemble the Cake:

• Once the cake is cool, unroll it and spread a layer of ganache over the surface, leaving a small border at the edges. Gently re-roll the cake, placing it seam-side down on a serving platter.

1. Frost and Decorate:

• Use the remaining ganache to cover the outside of the rolled cake. Create a bark-like texture using a fork or a cake comb. For a festive touch, decorate with marzipan mushrooms, fresh holly, or chocolate shavings. Dust the cake with powdered sugar to mimic snow.

As we prepare to usher in a new year, lets reflect on the progress we’ve made and the lives we’ve touched, thanks to your generosity. Every donation that we receive is a powerful statement of hope. It’s a chance to ensure that more women have access to the Village —our private online community where so many of you have found support, healing, and the strength to move forward.

Together, we are creating a world where abuse is no longer a cycle, where women and children can flourish in safety, and where every survivor has the support they need to heal and thrive. Thank you for being a part of the Rebel Thriver family and for your unending support of survivors around the world.

This time of year can bring added challenges. The pressure to feel joyful, the memories of loss, or the struggles with financial and emotional burdens can feel overwhelming. But please remember, you are not alone. If you are struggling, reach out. A hand is always here waiting for you.

The beauty of our Rebel Thriver community is that it spans the globe. The light is always on, because there is always someone here, in this sisterhood, offering support, encouragement, and love. No matter where you are, you have a place here—someone is always "home," ready to help lift you up.

As we close out the year, we’re reminded that the holidays are about connection, love, and support. We are stronger together, and together, we continue to create a world where no one has to face their journey alone.

See you in the New Year!