January's Journalist of the Month is Punteha van Terheyden. Previously the commissioning editor for Take a Break, she is a freelance journalist and ghostwriter with a particular interest in health, specialising in true-life features for the national press. She's taken a few minutes out of her day to answer our ten questions!
1. What are the 5 words that best describe you?
I suppose the ones I hear most often are tenacious, honest, strong-willed, determined and loyal.
2. What magazine do you love reading and why?
I have always been a Take a Break reader - I adore true life stories and Take a Break has a way of storytelling that really gets you in the feels. Or makes you laugh, or gasp in shock. Whatever the story, it’s written with authentic details that transport you into that person’s life and that’s very special. No other consumer publication writes quite like that.
3. What is your favourite book?
The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho. It’s beautiful, profound and life-changing.
4. Which song makes you dance?
I love a bit of every day pop. I currently have Rita Ora’s new track Anywhere on repeat, much to the chagrin of my long-suffering husband.
5. What has been your best career moment?
Gosh, there have been a few that have really meant a lot to me. Talking my way into my first journalist job on an agency was really satisfying. Being offered a staff job on my favourite mag was another. Seeing my first book for Penguin place in the top five of the Sunday Times Bestsellers list was really special.
6. What advice would you give your 20 year old self?
Every career decision you make will be the right one - just listen to your gut every time and don’t be afraid to take risks. It will get you where you want to be.
7. Where are you happiest?
At home with my hubs and our little girl.
8. Who would be your number one dinner guest be and why?
Now you’re asking. Hmm. Right now, I’d say Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. I’m a big fan of the Royals and by far, this couple is my favourite. In a world of cynical journalists, I’d love to see them defy the critics and just continue being in love and happy. Who doesn’t love a fairytale?
9. If you could have any superpower, what power would it be and why?
To heal. I’d start with my own chronic pain, then work my way around my friends and loved ones! Then I’d quit my job because clearly I would soon be minted…
10. If you had to ask us one question what would it be?
What item couldn’t you live without?
Our phones! The life of a PR means always being à jour with the latest news and events. We're forever tapping away on our little screens, reading articles, posting social media updates and chattering with journalists and organisations!