Empowering Women in Advertising: A Week of Inspiration
This week was undeniably for the girls, and it encapsulated the vibrant spirit of women in the advertising industry. A serendipitous confluence of events led me to engage in meaningful conversations with numerous inspiring women. As I reflect on the week, one word stands out: inspired.
The Hype Women Movement: Breaking Barriers
Erin Gallagher, the dynamic CEO and founder of the Hype Women Movement, is currently on her “pre-book book tour” for her much-anticipated debut, Hype Women: Breaking Free from Mean Girls, Patriarchy and Systems Silencing You. I had the pleasure of attending an intimate gathering hosted by Kimberly Bernhardt of The Lede Company, where the atmosphere buzzed with empowerment and excitement.
A Candid Conversation with Charlotte Owen
During this event, I witnessed Gallagher being interviewed by Charlotte Owen, the editor-in-chief of Bustle. They delved deep into Gallagher’s incredible journey through ad agencies, entrepreneurship, and her personal experiences. As she shared her story, one moment particularly resonated with me: her honest admission about approaching Hype Women Movement muse, Jamie Lee Curtis, for the book’s foreword. It’s moments like these that remind us of our shared vulnerabilities and aspirations.
The Takeaway: Gallagher’s advice hit home for many of us. Her insights on reframing mindsets, seeking support, and navigating the tensions between burnout and career ambitions were not just insightful but transformative.
Balancing Work and Life: The Power of Presence
While catching up with Gallagher, I couldn’t resist asking how she manages her busy life with two young kids. Her response: “I’m present now”, struck a chord. Reflecting on her time spent in the advertising world, she noted that her children often received only shreds of her attention. It’s an all-too-familiar scenario for working mothers, where multitasking often compromises the quality of presence.
Insights from the Inspiring Women Event
Our Inspiring Women event at Edison Rooftop in New York City further amplified these discussions. Amidst the shining sun and an esteemed group of honorees, I had the privilege of conversing with Carolina Céspedes Virguez, SVP and GM of U.S. for GoGo Squeez, and Alejandra Rubio, SVP and head of business and brand strategy at OneHorizon. The discussion revolved around career journeys and sources of inspiration.
Virguez’s response to a question about work-life balance, "life is life," was met with enthusiastic nods. Rubio reinforced this sentiment, sharing how she rejuvenates by being genuinely present with her children. Such insights are memorable conversations that resonate deeply with professionals striving for balance.
Celebrating Everyday Heroes in the Workplace
On a personal note, I draw immense inspiration from the women I work alongside daily. Our editorial team, with its diverse experiences and personalities, consistently uplifts and respects each other’s contributions. During our Inspiring Women event, we received glowing compliments about how we treat one another, fostering a collaborative spirit that enhances our work environment.
Our events team, often working tirelessly behind the scenes, exemplifies the essence of unity and dedication. They ensure that events run smoothly, showcasing the power of teamwork.
Conclusion: Here’s to Empowerment
This week has truly been a testament to the incredible strength and spirit of women in advertising. As we reflect on this journey, it’s evident that one team, one dream encapsulates our collective ambitions and aspirations.
This one’s for the girls—let’s continue to uplift and empower each other in every step we take.
For more insights on empowering women in the workplace, you can check out Campaign’s Inspiring Women Event or explore the Hype Women Movement.
