In the midst of the #MeToo movement, women from all stripes of life are coming forward, rightfully claiming their place as a vital force to be, finally, reckoned with. From Hollywood A-listers to executives to athletes to college students, women have not only spoken out about sexual harassment, they have redefined what it means to be strong, determined and successful in today's world.
This activism somewhat inadvertently came into a sharp focus in March, the National Women's History Month. And yet, without the need of a special recognition, women have always started businesses, climbed the ladder of prominence and nurtured families. To mark this quiet fortitude as well as the newfound voice of resilience and sisterhood, Haute Beauty talked to three accomplished businesswomen about their inspirations, struggles and achievements.
Yara Bashoor is a Miami-Based handbag designer who draws on her career as an architect to create luxurious pieces that stand out with their meticulous silhouettes. Bashoor, who also holds a Juris Doctor degree, not only blends textures and hues into designs that immediately grab the attention, she oversees all aspects of her eponymous label — from sourcing to marketing to market and sales analyses. Committed to social and environmental responsibility, the Los Angles-born, South Florida-raised designer seeks excellence — in her work and life — that speaks for itself.
What inspires you?
Human ingenuity. I like to take stock on how the everyday things I see and use were invented. I think, oh, someone somewhere thought of that and figured it out.
What has been the biggest challenge in your career? How did you overcome it?
Believing in myself. I often thought everyone knew better than me even though I got good grades and worked hard. I also felt less deserving than others. I think this kind of challenge is quite common for women everywhere. What most helped me overcome my self-doubts was literally learning to fly. I got my private pilot’s license, and I fly a Cessna 172.
What is one beauty product you cannot do without?
Vitamin C Facial Serum by One Love Organics. I use it every night. It’s an excellent natural serum that moisturizes my skin like no other. This company was developed by a woman who, like me, first practiced law before becoming an entrepreneur.
How do you sustain a work-life balance?
My productivity level actually increases after I spend quality time with loved ones. I do allocate a lot of time for work. Fortunately, I have some flexibility in my schedule and a lot of support from my family. I am happy working odd hours of the night and on weekends. I take pride in what I do and that makes the time fly by.
How do you see the role of women in business today?
Women’s role in business is absolutely essential today since we are now breadwinners and have the same qualifications as men. The paradigm has changed. Women are speaking up, demanding equality in the work place and supporting each other much more than before. Even so, we have a ways to go. I also think a lot of women do support women in business. Let’s keep reminding them that we are to be treated with respect and with equality in opportunity and in pay.
What advice do you have among young professional women?
Be financial savvy. Money matters a lot. Define your financial goals intelligently and achieve them. Know when to speak up. Document important things as they happen. Do excellent work. Dress for success. Be classy. Know that not everyone is your friend, and don’t share too much information. And again, keep your eyes on the money.
The founder of OC Jewellery, Orianne Collins commenced her professional life as a marketing and communication manager for a venture firm. Soon after, however, she decided to follow her dreams and start her own business. Today, the Switzerland native heads a company that is known for its exquisite designs that reflect Collins' dreams and travels. She is also helping others attain their dreams in art, sport and music through the Little Dreams Foundation, which she established almost two decades ago with Phil Collins.
What inspires you?
My children, family and friends.
What has been the biggest challenge in your career?How did you overcome it?
To be walking again; I was paralyzed head down they told me I will never walk again.
What is one beauty product you cannot do without?
My eye cream from La Prairie
How do you sustain a work-life balance?
Half and half - work, therapy and Family.
How do you see the role of women in business today?
Be more inventive, straight to the point and make a difference.
What advice do you have for young professional women?
Find something you like and make goals to achieve. Never give up! Follow your dreams.
Drawing on her own experience and those of her loved ones, Marylin Dans set out to revolutionize the detection of breast cancer. The long-time entrepreneur created Pink Luminous Breast, a hand-held devise that utilizes RED LED light to detected lesions early in cancer development. Prior to this, Dans poured her energy into a boutique mortgage center and worked on some of the most lavish developments in Miami. Throughout the years, whatever venture she embarked on, Dans nourished success for herself and those around her.
What inspires you?
At the tender age of 17, I discovered a hard lump in my breast. Fortunately, the mass was later removed and diagnosed as a benign breast tumor. I remember all too well the fear leading up to the diagnosis, as well as the relief when I received the good news that it was benign. This terrible experience left an imprint in my life forever. Twenty years later, my sister-in-law was diagnosed with breast cancer shortly after turning 40 years old. She was lucky enough to find the lump early but had to undergo a double mastectomy. After her experience I vowed to do anything in my power — and from that moment on, supporting other women battling this terrible disease became my life inspiration.
What has been the biggest challenge in your career? How did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge in my career has been to find the interception between my passion and my entrepreneurial spirit. Throughout my career as an entrepreneur, I have been involved in several business ventures, but it wasn’t until I founded SilkPro USA, that I was able to merge my passion for business and dedication to empowering women to be proactive with their health. I am grateful to have the opportunity to continue spreading the word about breast awareness as a lifestyle for all women. Turning a blind eye to the reality of breast cancer is not an option, and I feel very strongly about that.
What is one beauty product you cannot do without?
I wouldn’t call it a beauty product, but I cannot live without my Pink Luminous Breast by SilkPro USA! Pink Luminous is a breakthrough technology designed to give women a never-before-possible look at the inner workings of their breasts — illuminating deep breast fibers and tissues through patented RED LED-light technology. The device allows women to visually check for lesions in breast tissue. The company’s goal is to promote early detection of breast cancer in as many women as possible, through self-breast-exams and routine mammograms. I keep mine right next to my toothbrush and use it often.
How do you sustain a work-life balance?
I am a single mother of twins, therefore, it is imperative for me to find the perfect balance between my family life and my work. In order to maintain the equilibrium, I am constantly prioritizing, and I have learned to manage my time effectively. I pick up my kids from school every day, and I am very creative with my time. Once they go to bed, I sit down and work on the projects that are close to my heart.
How do you see the role of women in business today?
In today’s business world, women entrepreneurs are redefining the meaning of success. We are leading the way and setting an example for others to follow in the future; creating our own path can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming. I try to focus all of my energy on empowering women to take charge of their health, by being proactive instead of reactive.
What advice do you have for young professional women?
My advice for young women: follow your dreams no matter how many doors close. You will learn from every failure you face and ultimately, you will realize that the experiences end up not being failures at all, but more like life lessons to get ahead. Most importantly, find your passion and shape your career around it; it will be rewarding and meaningful.
