From small-town upbringings to the prestigious program of Dior X UNESCO these are the future female leaders...
You may have already noticed this month's blog post is a little different, well this August I sat down with my fellow mentees at the Women@Dior X UNESCO program. As part of the class of 2023-24 I am honoured to have made such valuable friendships and share this journey here. Women@Dior is an incredible chance to join a globally connected sisterhood with a drive for change where we empower one another in a program that encourages us to create a more sustainable future through an exclusive education platform, a year of mentorship from a Dior Talent and actioning with the Dream for Change project.
Being graced with the life-changing opportunity to join the prestigious program was such an honour, however, I was shocked to discover that there were simply a handful of us from small-town backgrounds and outside of fashion capitals who weren't referred to the program by our distinguished schools. I think it is so important to shine a light on the incredible yet few mentees who made their own way here to this life-changing program from their own small towns across the globe.
This open and raw discussion is a collaborative piece between the six of us, each sharing our unique stories, what it means to us to be the Women@Dior, how we overcome our limiting beliefs, the important values the program is teaching us and on becoming women leaders under Dior and UNESCO's wing. So meet the mentees from small towns across the globe…
Beatrice Scorza
Born and raised in the South of Italy, in the small town of Crotone (a town Beatrice describes as a place where everybody knows everybody). Moving away at just 19 for university, Beatrice embarked on a degree in economics and Management for Cultural Heritage in Milan. With travel in her heart, she then moved to Copenhagen to complete her Masters degree in Management of Creative Business Processes, she even spent a semester in Finland specialising in sustainability. Now she is working in Paris with a new generation of artists as she embarks on her Women@Dior journey.
What does it mean to you to be a Women@Dior Mentee?
"It means to be part of a community that wants to change the world and that aspire to great things. Building connections has always been an important asset for me and for developing myself."
What does self-care mean to you?
"Self-care for me means understanding limits. I learnt in the past years to take a step back down sometimes and relax (and enjoy all the moments). That is my own concept of self-care ."
How do you overcome your limiting beliefs?
"I have always been very analytical in my choices. I need to understand all the paths of the choices I am taking, and this is also applied to the limiting beliefs. I overcome them when I understand the best way to go beyond."
How would you like to see inclusivity and diversity evolve?
"It would be obvious to say that I would love to see more diverse and inclusive workplaces and other environments, but at the same time I think that the starting point for an evolution should be educational places like schools."
Do you believe you have ever felt like you had to prove yourself or faced challenges coming from a small town to building your career as a woman?
"Yes, I did, but this I think is more related to bullying situations that I experienced in high school. Sometimes, people still make jokes about "the mafia" because I am from the south of Italy, but I prefer to educate people about the situation rather than get mad."
What advice you would give young women who want to become leaders and empower their own careers?
"Be yourself in every context, your experience allows you to become who you are today. There is no need to change who you are only to fit in a context."
Audrey Pauline Farraudiere
Audrey grew up on the beautiful island of Martinique in the Caribbean. Specifically, in the costal town of
Sainte-Marie, a place she describes as a community where she felt fully immersed in Caribbean and Martinican culture. Which is something she credits greatly as a catalyst for her personal growth from lessons of perseverance to stories of her ancestors and exploring the heritage that shaped her. Recently Audrey is set to graduate with her Masters in Finance with a specialized focus on Hedge Funds & Private Equity, a journey she has cherished every moment of studying in Monaco. A time she is most proud of is studying in the US for a year of her undergraduate degree where she immersed herself in the life she once dreamed about on TV, she was among the handful out of 200 students who were granted the opportunity she thrived outside of her comfort zone.
What does it mean to you to be a Women@Dior Mentee?
"It's an immense honour for me to be a part of the Women@Dior cohort. To me, this opportunity isn't
just a personal achievement; it's a platform to amplify voices and champion causes close to our hearts.
The "Dream for Change" initiative that comes with it will serve as my canvas to shed light on important matters and create initiatives that empower women. The decision to join the program stems from a deep appreciation for the sorority dimension it offers.
The other driving force behind my application is financial education, when I conducted research for my thesis on the feminization of governance and decision-making in the French financial sector, I uncovered the existence of limited avenues for women's voices. This was not entirely new to me, but talking to women in the industry underscored the issue's gravity. Witnessing the challenges women face in a male-dominated sector compelled me to act.
Dior embodies elegance, creativity, innovation, individuality, courage, and the unapologetic freedom to
embrace one's authentic self. For me, this is an unparalleled opportunity to have a voice, occupy space, and finally be... unequivocally me, without holding back. And that, in itself, is absolutely invaluable."
What does self-care mean to you?
"That's a really insightful question. In today's world, there's a lot of emphasis on self-love and self-care, which is fantastic. However, often the focus tends to gravitate towards the physical aspect of things – the body as a whole – rather than the mind, the psychological aspect. To me, self-care encompasses the acknowledgement that we matter, that our voice matters, that we matter as individuals with our own uniqueness and intricacies. Sometimes (and even today, though it's a journey), I catch myself over-apologizing. Even something seemingly innocuous like starting a sentence with "This might be a silly question, but..." shows that we sometimes deny ourselves the right to exist fully. We hold back, feeling inadequate. We doubt our legitimacy to occupy space and express our opinions. And that, to me, is where
self-care begins.
It's about setting aside time for oneself, embracing who we are, and nurturing our mental well-being. It's being okay with raising your hand in a meeting, knowing that your contribution will align perfectly with the agenda, and understanding that your thoughts are valid as long as they're authentically you.
For me, self-care initiates a process of self-connection, engaging in activities that nourish our soul. This might involve practices like journaling, diving into spiritual texts (for me, that's the Bible – it's my guiding light), practising meditation, or/ and sometimes even checking in with a therapist to navigate life's various events."
How do you overcome your limiting beliefs?
"The journey to overcoming limiting beliefs begins with identifying them. After all, you can't combat what you're not aware of. For me, it's a surprisingly simple yet transformative process that I've
been practising. Every action I take, I scrutinize the intention behind it. Is it an intention to hide? To blend into the background? To avoid stepping on anyone's toes, conforming, or retreating into the cosy cocoon of my comfort zone? Is it the fear of being judged, or rejected?
This introspection is my compass. If, upon analysing the intention behind my actions, I don't find my true self within them – meaning, if they don't stem from self-love and if they don't elevate me – I step back. I prioritize myself, and let me clarify, it's not selfishness; it's remembering a truth: "You cannot serve from an empty cup." It's a powerful reminder that you can't pour into others if your own cup is barren.
In essence, my strategy centres around dissecting the intentions behind my actions.
Love, it's all about love – loving yourself and extending that love outward. That, my friend, is a driving force
that propels us forward. It's a simple yet profound formula: when you fill yourself with love, you'll find yourself reaching heights you never thought possible. It's a journey of introspection, intention, and above all, self-love that knows no bounds."
How would you like to see inclusivity and diversity evolve?
"My vision for inclusivity and diversity starts early, at school. Let's foster greater awareness about traditionally male-dominated fields among young girls. They're just as capable. There's no "fashion industry chromosome" designated at birth for women, just as there isn't a "finance chromosome" for men.
If we reshape mindsets from a young age, we won't need to resort to legislative quotas to fix the gender gap. I'd like to witness more scholarships for students who lack the means, because sadly, too often, dreams are abandoned due to financial constraints.
What I truly long for is a collective effort from corporations, governments, institutions, and public and private players alike, all investing in these young women, enabling them to become who they aspire to be. There's an old adage that says, "It takes a village to raise a child." Well, let's see that same village in action for young girls today, because they are the future of our nation, the adults of tomorrow. This is how I believe diversity and inclusion should evolve – from an early age, right within the school system. It's about nurturing a generation that understands their worth, capabilities, and potential to shatter glass ceilings and drive the narrative of progress."
Do you believe you have ever felt like you had to prove yourself or faced challenges coming from a small town to building your career as a woman?
"Certainly, the journey has been an exhilarating blend of determination and breaking through
barriers. Coming from a small town, I've faced my fair share of challenges. There's often a cloud of uncertainty that hangs over opportunities in such environments, making it easy to doubt one's own aspirations. And the challenges didn't stop there. Venturing into the world as a woman, there's this innate sense of having something to prove, something to showcase to the world. But add to that the layer of being a woman of colour, and suddenly the stakes are doubled. It's like carrying a responsibility to shatter perceptions and exceed expectations.
Picture this: the ambitious pursuit of a career in a field like finance – an industry that has, at times, been a bit resistant to diversity. Scepticism is a constant companion, and there were moments when I felt like I had to go above and beyond just to assert my capabilities. There's this romanticized view of my origins.
The world sometimes adorns us with notions of paradise – the sun-kissed beaches, the flavourful cuisine, the vibrant culture – but the underbelly of stereotypes occasionally emerges, like an unexpected undertow. "Oh, you're from there? Do you move at a slower pace, too?" or the ever-familiar, "You live there, so you’re always late ? " not funny at all.
However, let me tell you, these challenges have been more than stepping stones; they've been catalysts for growth. They've ignited within me a burning desire to strive for excellence, to shatter those stereotypes, and to prove that where I come from doesn't define where I can go. It's been about embracing my individuality, about transforming what may appear as weaknesses into strengths, and consistently approaching each endeavour with unyielding dedication and a relentless pursuit of personal development.
As I continue to walk this path, I'm not just building a career; I'm paving the way for others. I'm proving that one's origins aren't limitations, but rather starting points for extraordinary journeys. It's about creating a legacy that says, "You can go beyond the boundaries that society might set for you." And that's what keeps me moving forward with unwavering conviction."
What advice you would give young women who want to become leaders and empower their own careers?
"Absolutely, and let me tell you, there's a wealth of wisdom to share, but if I were to spotlight one piece that's struck a chord with me, it's this: "Work on mastering your emotions." Trust me, I speak from lived experience when I say this might just be the most prudent advice I can offer, given my own journey.
As women, we find ourselves wading through an ocean of stereotypes, often quite involuntarily. You might hear whispers that you're driven by emotions, that you're too sensitive. And here's the kicker – these labels can stick around, sometimes indefinitely (yeah, first impressions matter, they really do).
But hold on, here's the twist: I genuinely believe we shouldn't shun the characteristics attributed to us, even if they're accurate. Instead, let's flip the script and view them as strengths. You can absolutely be sensitive, and guess what? You can harness that sensitivity as a formidable asset. Use it to secure deals, to be more attuned to the world and the people around you, to fine-tune your discernment, to elevate your emotional intelligence. It's about being the captain of your emotional ship while navigating the vast sea of career possibilities."
Georgina
Georgina, known as Joy grew up in Vlora, Albania a small yet vibrant town nestled between the seaside. The friendly vibe of the community made Joy's upbringing a warm one surrounded by the unique backdrop Mediterranean Balkan atmosphere. With little to do in such a small town, she found joy in the little things creating fulfilling daily lives with her friends from after-school swimming to watching Italian TV Shows. Moving to Berlin, Joy studied a Masters in Business Informatics allowing her to bridge the gap between technology and various industries. She was even honoured with a Clare-von-Simson award for the best thesis for female students. Even being accepted to study in Germany was a dream moment for Joy to embrace new experiences and her aspirations, in nothing short of a transformative journey.
What does it mean to you to be a Women@Dior Mentee?
"Becoming a Women@Dior Mentee was an incredibly exciting and meaningful step for me. I applied to this program with the intention of entering the Fashion & Luxury Industry and embarking on a journey of self-discovery. The opportunity to engage with other young women who share similar strengths and aspirations was a motivating factor for me as well. The prospect of connecting with like-minded individuals and learning from each other's experiences was truly appealing.
Being a mentee in the Women@Dior program offers me the privilege of learning from experienced professionals who have excelled in their careers within the industry. Their guidance, insights, and advice can shape my journey and provide me with a clearer understanding of the path ahead. It's not just about the knowledge they can impart, but also about the encouragement and inspiration that comes from knowing I'm part of a network of talented individuals."
What does self-care mean to you?
"To me, self-care encompasses the essential practice of tuning into my heart, mind, and body on a regular basis. It involves actively listening to my needs and understanding how to nurture myself in various aspects of life. Self-care isn't just about indulging in occasional treats or relaxation; it's a holistic approach to maintaining my overall well-being.
By paying attention to my thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations, I can identify when I'm feeling drained, stressed, or overwhelmed. Through this awareness, I can then explore strategies and activities that help restore balance and rejuvenation. This might involve anything from taking breaks, engaging in hobbies I enjoy, practising mindfulness or meditation, exercising, maintaining a healthy sleep routine, or seeking out social connections."
How do you overcome your limiting beliefs?
"1. Reading and Learning: I find that expanding my knowledge and perspectives through reading helps challenge and reshape my limiting beliefs. By exploring new ideas, concepts, and experiences, I can begin to see beyond the constraints I've placed on myself.
2. Embracing New Opportunities: Saying "yes" to new experiences and challenges allows me to step outside my comfort zone and confront my limitations. Embracing the unknown can lead to personal growth and the realization that I'm capable of more than I initially thought.
3. Dreaming and Visualizing: I engage in active dreaming and visualization exercises. By imagining myself achieving my goals and breaking through my limitations, I can foster a more positive and empowered mindset.
4. Movies and Empathy: Watching movies and immersing myself in different narratives enables me to step into the shoes of characters facing their own challenges. This helps me develop empathy and gain fresh insights into how to navigate obstacles."
How would you like to see inclusivity and diversity evolve?
"I envision inclusivity and diversity evolving by shattering the barriers that confine individuals to predefined categories. The evolution I hope for involves building stronger communities that embrace the richness of human experiences and perspectives, regardless of one's background. To achieve this, it's essential to open doors to diverse and brilliant minds, creating an environment where talent and potential are recognized and celebrated above all else.
In this evolved landscape, I envision a world where individuals from all walks of life can gather at the same table, engaging in meaningful conversations and exchanges. I imagine a scenario where someone like me, alongside notable figures like Angelina Jolie, Delphine Arnault and Julie Sweet, can discuss ideas, share insights, and collaborate to shape a better future. This kind of interaction would be a testament to the power of diverse perspectives coming together to drive positive change."
Do you believe you have ever felt like you had to prove yourself or faced challenges coming from a small town to building your career as a woman?
"Yes, I have often felt the need to prove myself and have faced numerous challenges as a woman coming from a small town while building my career. Not only am I a woman, but I also come from a small country and a small city, which has presented its own unique set of hurdles. The strong work ethic instilled in me by growing up in a small city often drove me to go above and beyond. While this mindset has undoubtedly been beneficial, it also sometimes led to a persistent feeling of never being satisfied with my achievements. This intense pursuit of success is partly due to the competitive nature of growing up in a place where opportunities are limited, and striving for a better future is a necessity."
What advice you would give young women who want to become leaders and empower their own careers?
"1. Dream Big: Allow yourself to dream beyond the boundaries of your current reality. Visualize the goals and achievements you aspire to, and use those dreams as motivation to guide your actions and decisions.
2. Seek Inspiration: Movies and books can be powerful sources of inspiration. They offer different perspectives, scenarios, and ideas that can fuel your imagination and creativity. Draw lessons from fictional characters' journeys to apply to your own.
3. Take Calculated Risks: Empowerment often involves taking risks. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Assess the risks, make informed decisions, and be willing to take calculated leaps towards your aspirations.
4. Just Jump: When presented with opportunities that align with your aspirations, seize them. Don't let self-doubt hold you back. Sometimes, taking that initial leap is the key to unlocking a world of potential."
Bia Félix
Bia grew up in a small town in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, named Rio Bonito, while she moved out for school and secured a top spot at her dream university ESPM with her passion for communications, the pandemic led her straight back home. When finally moving back to university, she threw herself into university life and internships and even established her own podcast, "20 e poucos," a supportive community for women in their early twenties. As she is about to graduate with a degree in Communications and Publicity, her educational journey has been unforgettable for Bia. Her biggest achievement to date is the exceptional growth of her podcast, attracting over 50,000 women in just six months and making it to the top 200 podcasts in Brazil, is nothing but dedication and relentless hard work building a thriving community of women from scratch.
What does it mean to you to be a Women@Dior Mentee?
"It feels like a remarkable opportunity because when I applied, I was feeling very insecure. Although I have always been a hardworking person, I tend to compare myself to others who didn't start at the same place I did and didn't grow up in a small town without connections or networking. To me, being a Women@Dior Mentee means having the incredible opportunity to connect with some of the future leaders in the industry. It provides a chance to be part of an international environment, where I can learn and grow alongside like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, being involved with Women@Dior allows me to delve deeper into the luxury industry, a field that has always fascinated me.
One of the most inspiring aspects of this program is the opportunity to be mentored by someone who has already achieved success in the industry, someone who has "made it." This mentorship empowers me and gives me the confidence that I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to. Having a guiding hand from someone experienced in the industry can provide valuable insights, support, and encouragement along my journey."
What does self-care mean to you?
"To me, self-care means consciously dedicating time and attention to nurture my physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It's about recognizing the importance of my own needs and making a deliberate effort to address them, allowing me to recharge and improve overall."
How do you overcome your limiting beliefs?
"By actively working on morning pages, therapy sessions, and mindfulness meditation, I am taking proactive steps towards my personal growth and overcoming limiting beliefs. Through morning pages, I can freely express my thoughts and emotions, gaining deeper insights into my beliefs and thought patterns. Therapy sessions provide me with valuable guidance and support from a professional, helping me address and challenge limiting beliefs in a safe and constructive environment. Additionally, mindfulness meditation allows me to cultivate a more present-focused and non-judgmental mindset, reducing stress and allowing me to view my thoughts and beliefs with greater clarity."
How would you like to see inclusivity and diversity evolve?
"I envision inclusivity and diversity evolving in a way that geography is no longer a barrier for women from all over the world to claim their rightful place. As a woman from a developing country, I yearn for equal opportunities to flow here just as readily as they do for women from Europe and the US, for instance. It's disheartening to witness great minds not reaching their full potential simply because they lacked the opportunities that others enjoyed. In this evolving world, I dream of a level playing field where women from every corner of the globe can thrive and contribute their talents, ideas, and perspectives without limitations based on location."
Do you believe you have ever felt like you had to prove yourself or faced challenges coming from a small town to building your career as a woman?
"Yes, I do feel like I have had to prove myself and faced challenges as a woman coming from a small town while building my career. Even now, I still encounter challenges. Being away from home is not easy, as it affects both the professional and personal aspects of my life. The feeling of missing home can be overwhelming and challenging to cope with while pursuing my dreams without my family by my side. However, I remain determined and resilient, seeking support from friends and building a network of like-minded individuals who understand and relate to these experiences. Despite the difficulties, I am committed to overcoming these obstacles and continuing to strive towards my goals."
What advice you would give young women who want to become leaders and empower their own careers?
"Keep going even without seeing the results in front of you. Good things take time."
Asiphile Thandeka Magaqa
Asiphile was raised in Kagiso, an intimate and close-knit town nestled in the western reaches of Krugersdorp, South Africa. A town she describes as stuck in its ways, delineating the experiences of both the middle class and the lower class, encapsulating a spectrum of dreams, hopes, and struggles. Despite her family's financial struggles, her parents were committed to her growth and personal development. Studying a BA in Politics & International Relations from the University of Johannesburg, driven to improve her community. Becoming a youth policymaker stands tall as the most defining and proudest moment in her journey so far, recently embarking on the privilege of collaborating closely with other visionary young leaders in South Africa on an unprecedented mission to craft a ground-breaking policy framework – the inaugural Youth Gender Action Plan (SA YGAP).
What does it mean to you to be a Women@Dior Mentee?
"Enrolment in the Women@Dior program represents a truly exceptional prospect, uniting young women from diverse backgrounds in a shared journey towards becoming the trailblazers of the future, propelling them toward elevated aspirations. This initiative not only kindles a spark of inspiration within me but also furnishes a unique platform to foster connections with fellow participants, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. This is more than a program; it's an avenue through which the seeds of sisterhood take root, sprouting into a network that spans continents and fuels our collective drive for progress.
This empowerment isn't confined to my own endeavours; it cascades outward, enabling me to uplift and empower those who will follow in my footsteps.
This program fuels a virtuous cycle, where the strength and knowledge I acquire become the steppingstones for those who will walk this path after me. I aspired to serve as a beacon of inspiration for other young women, demonstrating that international boundaries are no match for the unwavering determination emanating from within, even for those hailing from marginalized backgrounds. The allure of Women@Dior resided not only in its association with a prestigious brand but also in its potential to shape me into a capable change-maker."
What does self-care mean to you?
"Self-care is a series of deliberate acts and routines that people follow to put their physical, mental, and emotional well-being first. It is a vital idea in my opinion that acknowledges the value of taking care of oneself in order to live a balanced and healthy life. Self-care doesn't follow an exact formula; rather, it entails choosing and partaking in activities that speak to a person's needs, interests, and circumstances. Self-care is essentially an intentional and ongoing practise that values your own health and builds a better foundation for overcoming obstacles and appreciating the good things in life."
How do you overcome your limiting beliefs?
"My approach to overcoming limiting beliefs is truly inspiring and reflects a powerful mindset shift. By envisioning possibilities beyond constraints. My curiosity about what lies on the other side of challenges serves as a motivating force, propelling me to transcend perceived limitations.
The practice of positive affirmations is a remarkable tool for reshaping my self-perception. By affirming my abilities, strengths, and potential, I consciously rewrite the narratives that might have once held me back. My belief in the success stories of those who share my background showcases the strength of representation and serves as a testament to the remarkable potential within myself. By focusing on possibilities, affirmations, and the accomplishments of those who've blazed trails before me, that is how I craft a narrative of empowerment that fuels my determination to overcome any obstacles in my path. My story exemplifies the transformative impact of embracing a mindset that dares to transcend limitations and embrace the boundless potential within."
How would you like to see inclusivity and diversity evolve?
"I see diversity and inclusivity developing in true representation, which would entail genuine inclusion of varied perspectives, experiences, and identities in decision-making. To achieve this, it will be necessary to actively seek out and promote marginalised viewpoints. Organisational, institutional, and governmental practises and policies should be inclusive. This entails providing equal opportunity, accessibility, and accommodations for everyone in addition to appreciating diversity.
Encouraging people and organisations to band together as allies in the struggle for inclusivity can result in significant change. To promote a more inclusive environment, people from various origins, identities, and experiences can band together."
Do you believe you have ever felt like you had to prove yourself or faced challenges coming from a small town to building your career as a woman?
"Navigating the journey of building a career as a woman from a small town has been a path fraught with challenges. The preconceived notions that often accompany one's background have cast a shadow over my efforts to establish myself. Walking into a room, the perception of being a "small town girl" seems to precede me, shaping others' expectations and limiting their perception of my capabilities. It's disheartening to recognize that this bias robs me of the chance to prove my worth and demonstrate the full scope of my abilities.
Even as I've progressed and achieved, the need to continually validate myself persists. Being both young and accomplished, having obtained my degree at the tender age of 19, compounds the complexity. For someone who is not only young but also hails from a small town, the dual struggle to dispel misconceptions about my origins and my age weighs heavily. Yet, with unwavering determination, I've pushed forward, each success acting as a testament to my perseverance and potential. It's a reminder that every achievement is earned through a great deal of hard work, grit, and resilience. I refuse to let these challenges define me. Instead, they serve as a constant reminder of the importance of breaking through stereotypes, not only for myself but for the many young women who face similar biases."
What advice you would give young women who want to become leaders and empower their own careers?
"Understand this: there is always a space for you – a place where your ideas, skills, and contributions matter. Never let anyone diminish your worth or make you question your belonging. Hold onto your belief and your hope. If you carry hope within you, there is no destination you can't reach. Remember, you have the strength to rise above the voices of doubt that may try to hold you back. You belong here, and you have the power to make your mark.
Lead by example. Let your actions speak louder than any doubt or hesitation. Embrace challenges without fear. Never let fear paralyze your ambitions. Instead, let empowerment be your guiding force. And when you find that empowerment, share it with others. Lift fellow women up, stand by their side, and give them the courage to chase their dreams as well. Together, we can break barriers, shatter stereotypes, and pave the way for a future where all women can thrive. Remember, you are not alone on this journey. You are a force to be reckoned with – a leader in the making."
Georgia Rhodes
Georgia grew up in the North of England, known as a miners and market town, Barnsley is a tight-knit town in the heart of Yorkshire. The small town that she still lives in today despite her career endeavours (she wouldn't have it any other way). Georgia greatly credits her upbringing as the catalyst for who she is today, finding joy in the little moments and developing her resilience in lessons that shaped her. Graduating in Fashion Marketing, Georgia is about to embark on studying her Masters remotely with UAL with a wealth of experience at companies such as Harper's Bazaar and Farfetch. She is the Founder of Small Town Girl, her biggest achievement to date, helping and inspiring young women from similar backgrounds.
What does it mean to you to be a Women@Dior Mentee?
"It is such an honour and an experience I still can't believe I am living, while I have always been a very driven person I often find myself doubting or talking down to myself, comparing myself to others who didn't share the same starting point as I did who grew up in London or New York surrounded by connections. Being a part of this global community breaks that barrier down and gives me the life-changing opportunity to connect with those with a similar mindset to learn and grow as future leaders together from all walks of life.
Being a Women@Dior is so much more than a name on your CV, it allows you to educate yourself on true values and is a place to empower one another and where we can truly put change into action to aid other young women. Dior to me is not only the fashion house I admire the most for its vibrant culture and creativity as the epitome of luxury (for someone who loves to immerse themselves in the luxury field of fashion for a career), but Dior to me is also a company that represents the future of women, enriching young women with self-development and empowering them to shape the future.
I am forever grateful to be a part of a sorority of such kind-hearted women and gain global perspectives on important topics from autonomy to how to use our menstrual cycle to make better decisions, it is truly an unprecedented opportunity to have a voice and be surrounded by like-minded individuals who also want to make an impact for a more sustainable future."
What does self-care mean to you?
"There is now more than ever a lot of emphasis on self-care, but for me, it goes deeper than bubble baths and face masks, self-care has to take care of your soul not just your body. It is about the little habits we implement into our day or how we speak to ourselves. It is about acknowledging your bad habits above all, from people-pleasing to not setting healthy boundaries, the first step is to recognize. If you don't take time to recharge, the energy you give to others will not be from your authentic self, you may notice you have a short fuse or didn't act how you wish you did. Taking time for myself can look like journaling, going to Reiki, reading a self-development book or meditating but it can also look like knitting, watching Friends, or cleaning my space. It is all about balance while taking small steps through your daily habits such as morning affirmations or always having your water bottle filled. Be aware of how you speak to yourself, and ask yourself would you speak to a friend that way? We spend our entire lives with ourselves, so why not be kind to ourselves? We can only emit the love and kindness we give ourselves to others."
How do you overcome your limiting beliefs?
"What no one likes to tell you is, it's hard work and consistency is key. I am always actively working on my personal development, journaling allows me to recognise my negative thought cycles and reflect on them. When tackling a belief you have to pick it apart, where did this come from? How long have I been holding onto this? How can I replace this limiting belief filled with positivity and self-love? Learn to stop judging yourself and watch your judgemental state for others also melt away. Remind yourself you are exactly where you are supposed to be, rejection is simply redirection. I consistently affirm to myself 'What is meant for you won't pass you by'. Self-belief comes from self-love so change that negative self-talk."
How would you like to see inclusivity and diversity evolve?
"I would love to see it begin with education, I think every woman should have access to an incredible education they dream of no matter of their background, country or financial support, this should not suppress any women's talents, ambitions or skills. Change should come surrounding a woman's ability to thrive equally no matter of their background, it's time to focus on eliminating the barriers and limitations standing in the way of equal education. No one's dreams should be limited to financial or geographical constraints, from women like us from small towns in thriving countries to those with encapsulated ambitions in third-world countries. Some people simply cannot afford to chase their passion no matter how self-driven they are and that truly breaks my heart. We often forget to express gratitude for the 'little' things we have such as a safe school or student loans in the UK or public transport. Everyone deserves an equal opportunity."
Do you believe you have ever felt like you had to prove yourself or faced challenges coming from a small town to building your career as a woman?
"When we break down a barrier, we are not only doing it for ourselves but all the young women who come after us. I often feel like coming from a low-income, 'nobody' town I find myself having to prove myself over and over. In fact, I focused so hard on not speaking in a common 'Barnsley' accent when exploring industry opportunities that I now get asked by people within my town where I am from. As someone who has no desire to live the London life, I often get strange looks as my drive for my career and my location 'contradict' one another which I think opens the important conversation of inclusivity and location as a woman building a career.
I simply could never afford to move or study in London and I truly believe your financial background should not determine your career. I couldn't be prouder as someone who had nothing handed to them, I worked a part-time job alongside unpaid internships and school, I built my own meaningful connections from scratch and I developed so much personally and professionally, I wouldn't change a thing and I am determined to stop people from similar backgrounds facing doubt or being looks at differently."
What advice you would give young women who want to become leaders and empower their own careers?
"Do not be afraid to have a voice and always be open to learnings, no matter what stage we are at in our career there is always something new to learn and that is a positive thing as future leaders to stay open-minded and lead with kindness in everything you do."
I am forever grateful to the House of Christian Dior Couture and UNESCO for taking a chance on me by offering me this eminent and inspiring education and believing in me as a future leader, the dedicated and liberating program needs more young women from all backgrounds to truly make a change.
The unique mentorship and education program allows you to connect with incredible young women across 58 countries to make lifetime friendships while building your professional and personal skills alongside a Dior Mentor to take the first steps in your career. The program is focused on five key values which allow you to create a value-driven initiative DFC project with the aim of empowering young girls.
If you are a final-year undergraduate student or postgraduate student, you can take a further look here and prepare to apply this winter...
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