The Women Who Shaped Me – A Tribute On International Women’s Day

Today is International Women’s Day. It’s a day to celebrate women’s achievements and raise awareness on the challenges that still hold women back. This year’s theme is #AccelerateAction. They say it takes a village to raise a child. I believe the same applies to building a career. On this International Women’s Day, I want to celebrate the incredible women who shaped my journey from my home to the workplace.

It all started with my mother, the strongest, most resilient woman I know. She makes me believe I can achieve anything, not only by telling me but by showing me through her own life. She taught me that strength isn’t just about endurance but about knowing your worth and going after what you deserve.

Then there’s my oldest sister, a true force of nature. She became an Acting School Head at just 26, proving that sometimes, you don’t get the luxury of easing into leadership, you get thrown into the deep end, and you learn to swim. She did it with grace and determination, and from her, I learned that when challenges come, you rise.

My career  has also been shaped by remarkable women. My first two line managers  during my year-long industry attachment started me off well. They didn’t just give me small menial tasks. They gave me real exposure to marketing. I was managing a brand as an intern. They trusted me enough and handed me projects that interns wouldn’t typically manage. This gave me a confidence boost that has stayed with me to this day.

When I graduated, I returned to the same company, and that’s when I met two powerhouse women, my new line manager, and her own manager. They were more than just leaders; they mentored me, sponsored my career, and showed me what it meant to lead with both strength, excellence, and empathy. To them, I am forever grateful.

And then there are the unsung heroes, the women who held the fort at home. As a working mom, I have been supported by nannies who have cared for my children, kept things running, and given me the peace of mind to focus on my career. Often underappreciated, yet they are crucial, lifesavers for so many working women

My career has also been greatly enriched by colleagues who have become friends. Far too many to mention, from workplace bestie to Lean In Circle friends, these women have supported me, challenged me, and shared laughter and encouragement and being a listening ear during venting moments!

Here’s to the women who lift as they climb! Happy International Women’s Day! #IWD #WomenWhoInspire  #AccelerateAction