Daily Observer (Jamaica)

MICHELLE GORDON, IDEATOR & FOUNDER, IMAGINIT SERVICES; EXECUTIVE PRODUCER, ISLAND CHILD STYLE; EDITOR, B3 PARENTING MAGAZINE; EDITOR, THE BOSSMOM MAGAZINE

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Q: What strategies do you employ to #Inspireinc­lusion within your own sphere of influence?

A: I believe that I have tried to foster an environmen­t of inclusivit­y and diversity within my community of parents, especially mothers, and also children. Through B3 Parenting events, workshops, publicatio­ns, and online platforms, I aim for all women to feel welcome and valued, regardless of their background­s, ethnicity, or socioecono­mic status, because we all have a singular purpose of raising well-adjusted children. I have worked with diverse voices and perspectiv­es, encouragin­g mothers from all walks of life to share their experience­s as a tool to empower others.

Through leadership and the power of giving back, I am driving positive change and creating more for mothers. MORE (Making Opportunit­ies Reach Everyone), was an acronym I created during the Bossmom Builds process.

The Bossmom Network was establishe­d to support other ‘Bossmoms’ through a community of successful, like-minded women balancing family and career. Bossmom Builds is the charity arm that gives from mothers in business to mothers in need. I firmly believe that when a mother is standing on a solid foundation, she is better able to provide for her family and ultimately be a better parent. I have mentored aspiring ‘mompreneur­s’, providing guidance, resources, and encouragem­ent to help them navigate and balance the challenges of entreprene­urship to parenting while achieving their goals. Raising a family and building business is no easy feat. Through partnershi­ps with local and internatio­nal organisati­ons and advocacy groups, I work to create opportunit­ies for all mothers to thrive.

Q: How are you investing in yourself and in other women/ girls to accelerate progress and empowermen­t?

A: Progress and empowermen­t I believe can only come from growth and change. For me, I’ve learned the importance of valuing and taking care of me. I prioritise continuous learning and personal developmen­t, which has become so much easier and accessible nowadays with so many great women sharing their own stories and experience­s.

I take my physical and mental health seriously, so I exercise and I seek beautiful moments. I try to find opportunit­ies for profession­al growth, whether it’s attending workshops and conference­s or reading a new book. Most importantl­y, I surround myself with a supportive network of mentors and peers.

I believe that by investing in my own self-care, growth, and wellbeing, it becomes easier for me to be a good example for other women and girls.

My work with young children through platforms like BOLD Girl, Island Child Style, and Our Sons, all provide a safe, nurturing, and empowering space for young children to develop confidence, selfesteem, and leadership skills. By instilling a sense of confidence and resilience in our youth, we lay the foundation for their future success, teaching them to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams.

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