Why is CEW Membership important to you?
CEW is the preeminent organization in the world for professionals across a wide spectrum of companies related to and supporting the Beauty industry. Being a member of the organization has provided numerous opportunities to engage with other members in the industry through live events and the ever-expanding digital platforms. In addition to valuable interactions with peers and other like-minded professionals, the events, seminars and webinars have allowed me to increase my knowledge base and grow professionally. Thanks to Cancer & Careers, I was a beneficiary of one of its earliest initiatives.
What advice would you give someone who is inspired by your career and one day wants to be in a similar position?
When choosing a career, if you have the luxury, follow your interests, passions and talent. The old saying “if you do what you love, you will never work a day in your life” I have found to be true. While my career has been extremely demanding and stressful, filled with long hours, it has allowed me to enjoy what I do and what I do best every step of the way.
In addition, my advice to those entering the work force is to examine and research the individuals that you will be working with. With so many tools available to you, one can ascertain if you share the values of your potential managers. Do you see learning from them? Will they be good role models who will allow you to grow in your career? It is often in adversity and in the greatest challenges that we learn and grow the most. So, don’t necessarily chose the comfortable or easy path.
What do you feel is the most important quality for someone to possess in order you have a successful career?
I do not believe that there is one most important quality, but resilience is certainly at the top of my list.
How important has mentorship been in your career journey?
The most personally gratifying aspect of my career has been mentorship. I am so thankful to have been an important part of the professional journey for so many of my colleagues and I am so proud of so many who have accomplished what they set out to achieve. A true reflection of that bond is that I am so fortunate to count many professional colleagues among my closest personal friends.