Honoring the Women Who Inspire Me on International Women’s Day
Every year on March 8, we celebrate International Women’s Day, a time to recognize the incredible achievements of women and the profound impact they have on our lives. It’s a day to reflect on those who have shaped us, challenged us, and inspired us to become stronger, more confident versions of ourselves. For me, this day is about honoring the remarkable women who have been my mentors, teachers, and friends who have left a lasting mark on my journey.
Above all, the woman who has been there since day one is my mom. She has been my biggest supporter, my constant source of strength, and the person who has always pushed me to be the best version of myself. Whether through encouragement, wisdom, or simply leading by example, she has shown me what it means to be strong, kind, and determined. From childhood dreams to professional ambitions, she has been there every step of the way, reminding me that I am capable of anything I set my mind to.
Beyond my family, I’ve also been fortunate to learn from incredible mentors like Pallavi Kumar, my professor and guiding light from the American University School of Communications. Through her mentorship, I gained not only technical skills like design thinking and how to critically analyze and write case studies but also built my confidence in my ability to solve problems creatively. She pushed my SOC3 team to transform a client’s app into a polished, thoughtful project, showing me how to turn ideas into real, impactful solutions. More than that, she helped me understand my own strengths and how to apply them with purpose.
Another woman who has profoundly shaped my growth is Laurie Ann Phillips, my Principles of Strategic Communications professor. I walked into her class uncertain of what would be next after my master’s program, but she saw potential in me before I even saw it in myself. Through her feedback and encouragement, I gained confidence in my writing, my ideas, and my ability to craft meaningful messages. Her class didn’t just sharpen my communication skills; it gave me the self-assurance to trust my voice in every aspect of my work.
My time with Laura Evans and the Laura Evans Media Team was another turning point in my journey. They didn’t just teach me what it means to be a public relations professional, but each powerful woman on that team showed me how to use my voice with purpose. Working with them gave me a firsthand look at the power of storytelling, the importance of meaningful connections, and the responsibility we have as communicators to shape narratives that matter. Their influence has left me with a deeper understanding of PR, not just as a career, but as a tool for creating impact.
Beyond my professors and mentors, I am constantly inspired by the strong, supportive women in my sorority, Sigma Kappa Lambda Eta chapter. These women have been my motivators, my cheerleaders, and my lifelong friends. Through every challenge and success, they remind me of the power of uplifting one another and the strength that comes from being part of a community that truly believes in you.
International Women’s Day is about celebrating the women who shape our world—those who challenge us, support us, and help us grow. I am endlessly grateful for the incredible women in my life who have guided me, inspired me, and helped me find my voice. Their influence has shaped not only my career but also the way I see myself and the impact I hope to make.
To the women who push us to be better, who stand beside us, and who remind us of our own strength—thank you. Today, we celebrate you.
