International Women's Day: Our Inspirational Women
Today is International Women’s Day, so we are taking a little time to appreciate the women that we look up too. Whether it's someone that influenced us growing up, someone who helped shape our career or someone we admire for changing the world, we all have inspirational women in our lives. We asked some of the Babymel team to tell us about a woman they admire and why.
My Grandma Lizzie - Lisa, Customer Service Manager
Throughout my life I’ve had a number of wonderful people to look up to however one person has had the most significant impact on me was my grandma Lizzie. She was a force to be reckoned with, Born in 1920 she grew up and worked as a secretary. When the Second World War broke out she learnt to drive and was actually the first woman to drive in Beccles. She then assisted in the war effort by driving ambulances in the evenings to assist the casualties of bombings. After the war she began a new job as a secretary for an electrical company Matthews. In a short amount of time she rose her way up the ranks and became Company Director. Lizzie was an inspiration, and an example as to what can be achieved through hard-work and sheer determination. She worked hard and made her impact in a male dominated environment. Yet still managed to be a loving wife and mother to her two daughters. She is someone I look up to every day and hope that I’ve made proud.
Maria Grazia Chiuri - Emma, Designer
When I visited the Dior exhibition at the V&A, it was hard not to fall in love with Maria's creations. Her designs are like a spa day for your eyes - delightfully indulgent. It is truly inspirational to see someone who can continually create such beautiful work. Even just by looking at them, they elevate your mood. She is truly a genius.
My Granny - Frances, Assistant Merchandiser
My inspiration is my Granny. She’s one of the most friendly, loving and caring people I know. She trained as a nurse in the 1950’s and has been taking care of people ever since. Working as a midwife and district nurse she used to set up support groups within her community. She was well loved and is still in touch with many of the people she served within the community. Alongside working she took care of her family and has always created a loving environment that we can all call home.
My Mum - Paula, International Account Manager
Our life has been a bit complicated in some aspects but my mum has always been there as the only parent I’ll ever need and is always supportive about my decisions without interfering. My mother is a strong woman and helps me to understand we achieve things through actions. She also shows me how important is to live in the present (even if it’s hard) and how important being patient is. I know I wouldn’t be the woman I am without all her emotional support and for that I am completely grateful.
My Grandma Peggy - Mel, Co-Founder
She was totally inspiring. She had three children, but divorced my grandfather and lived as a single mother, which in the 50’s was quite something. She was a very strong person, but also extremely kind and gentle. Always wanting to listen to people and see their points of view. She got on so well with people of all ages, and I think this was a testament to her progressive and open nature. Tragically my mother died before her, and I always wondered how she managed to keep it all together. She was my rock really. She looked after me for most of my baby years, as my mother wasn’t well, so we always had a very special bond. One of the many wonderful things she would say is ‘Look after yourself dear, as otherwise you won’t be able to look after anyone else’.
Greta Thunberg - Jemma, Social Media & Marketing Executive
Someone that really inspires me is environmental activist, Greta Thunberg. In the last few years, and now only 19, she has changed the perception of young people across the world to create a better future for us to live in. Her modesty is what is most inspiring, as she challenges world leaders but uses her platform to promote the science, referring to herself as a voice rather than a leader. She is the future, leading the next generation forward into a greener and more sustainable world.
My Grandmother - Adriana, Accounts Manager
The person who has inspired me the most is my grandmother. She has inspired me to be the best person I can, to not only strive for my goals but to accomplish them. She has been a glue for the family thanks to her immense wisdom and generosity. My grandmother has taught me the importance and value of family, resilience and to always stand up for what I believed in. She has shaped my life in so many ways than I can explain and her unconditional love and goodness have taught me that loves always prevails over everything and that people deserve to see the best version of ourselves.
Share with us on Instagram who the inspirational woman in your life is!
