The purpose of the International Women's Day is to uphold women's achievements. We also recognize the challenges we have faced, and focus greater attention on women's rights and gender equality to mobilize their integral part of society. Here, we chat with Salon Owner and Beauty Therapist Morgan and her colleagues, Beauty Therapists Lauren and Samara, about what International Women's Day means to them.
Morgan, what do you feel has been your biggest achievement, in both your professional and personal life, so far?
In my personal life, this has to be having the courage to move country, without knowing anyone or visiting my new home beforehand. I found that starting fresh in a brand new city is so good for your confidence and soul. A professional achievement that I'm proud of would have to be starting my business from the ground up. I must enjoy getting out of my comfort zone, as I love being challenged and realising what I am capable of.
What has been your biggest challenge so far, and how did you get through it?
During 2019, I was diagnosed with cervical cancer. Being thrown such a curve ball with no symptoms or signs was so scary! I didn't know what the outcome would be and working in my business by myself was a huge worry for me at the time. I didn't know if I was going to need a lot of time off, but I knew I had to make a plan, just in case it turned into the worst case scenario. I always tried to remain positive but this was something so out of my control, so I had to have trust and have the right plans in place.
Luckily, I got the all-clear and, at the time, the universe was dropping some big hints that it was time to ask for help and hire my first superstar Beauty Therapist, Lauren, who I am grateful for everyday💕
What did you want to be when you were little and why?
I wanted to be an architect! I loved art, drawing and always dreamt of designing homes. It was a pity my graphics teacher in high school and I didn't along too well 😆 Growing up in my teens, I was influenced by my Mum, who always taught me and my sisters about self love and looking after ourselves, on the inside and the outside.
Working in the beauty industry, which can be seen as largely women-based, how do you feel women support each other in this industry?
The beauty industry is definitely a safe and supportive industry. Some of my best friends have salons and we often check in with each other, to share ideas and offer support and encouragement to each other. It's important to have a strong network of friends around you, not only in business, but also in life.
The Founders team, a mentorship and networking program, has been a real game changer for me personally. It has helped me learn a lot about my business, and connect with likeminded individuals. I also have a business mentor to look up to for advice and support within the industry/business.
How do you hope women's roles will change in the future?
I hope to see women engaging in more of a work/life balance. It would be great to see more women work from home so they can raise their families, if that's what they choose to do. I'm delighted to see some Dad's are now choosing to stay at home for the first year of their baby's life, which is really cool. I also think we'll see more equality moving forward within the workplace.
Lauren, what do you feel has been your biggest achievement, in both your professional and personal life, so far?
Professionally, my biggest achievement to date is finding my path as a Beauty Therapist. It’s always been something I love to do, but it took me a little while to follow through with it. Finding Morgan, and Self Love Lounge, has also been a huge professional highlight for me. A lot of our beliefs align and I am blessed to work in a space that feels more like home, and less like work.
It may sound cliché, but my biggest personal achievement is becoming a Mum. It was like the final puzzle piece fell into place when my boy Malachi was born and it’s become such a big part of who I am as a person. I’m a very proud Mumma.
What has been your biggest challenge so far, and how did you get through it?
As much as I love being a Mum, I have found it challenging at times. I think it’s common for women to feel as though they lose a part of themselves when they become a mum (I like to think that they give that love for themselves to their child instead) and it was no different for me. In saying that, my mission this year is to direct more of my energy into what feeds my soul, in an effort to regain my sense of self. I’m finding my way through this with a really amazing support system.
What did you want to be when you were little and why?
Like anyone, what I wanted to be when I was growing up changed a lot over time. If you asked me when I was 4 years old, I would have told you I wanted to be a firefighter! I guess, in some way, I’ve always wanted to help people and to make them feel safe.
As I got older I changed my career preference to a librarian. I’m a stereotypical only-child, and used to love being surrounded by books. Some of my favorite childhood memories involve going to the library with my Mum.
Fast forward a few years, and I wanted to be a writer. I feel like I have a lot to say, and have always felt much more comfortable with the written word, rather than the spoken. At 18, I wanted to be just like Frida Kahlo, as she is one of my biggest inspirations, and art has always been such a big part of who I am. I admire her, not only for her art and activism, but I love a woman who can stand up and be heard in a sea of men.
Working in the beauty industry, which can be seen as largely women-based, how do you feel women support each other in the industry?
I’m lucky enough to be a part of a team of amazing women, and work in an environment where we support one another and cheer each other on, both professionally and personally. Since I started working with Morgan, I have also been introduced to the Love What You Do Collective, which are events run by Christine Corcoran and an awesome team of lady bosses. It’s an amazing community and I’ve listened to some remarkable women talk passionately about what drives them in life, and have made some truly heart warming connections.
How do you hope women’s roles will change in the future?
While I hope that there is more balance at work, in the home, on the sports field or in parliament, my biggest hope is that there is a shift in how the world views women, and that we receive more respect. For me, this is the biggest change that needs to be made.
Yes, we are mothers, daughters and sisters, but we are so much more than that and deserve love, respect and a safe place to land, regardless of our gender. Women are amazing!
Samara, what do you feel has been your biggest achievement, in both your professional and personal life, so far?
I would say my biggest achievement in my personal life would be moving out of home and living on my own when I was 20. In my professional life, it was a really big moment for me when Morgan offered me a position at Self Love Lounge. I felt like I had spent a long time being unsure of where my career was heading in the future, so it was so exciting to have the opportunity to pursue my passion in the beauty industry.
What has been your biggest challenge so far, and how did you get through it?
Like most people, 2020 was a challenging year for me. It was especially difficult during the lockdown here in Brisbane. It meant that I wasn’t able to work for quite a while and that created a lot of stress and uncertainty. Even after the lockdown, the company that I was working for at the time had to significantly decrease my hours. It meant so much to me to be able to work at the salon and learn from Morgan and Lauren. Coming into the salon and seeing our beautiful clients always lifts my spirits and it definitely helped me get through those difficult times.
What did you want to be when you were little and why?
When I was little I wanted to be a primary school teacher! I always looked up to my teachers and wanted to be just like them. As I got older, I realised that it probably wasn’t right for me, but I definitely still admire the patience and hard work that teachers put in every day. During high school, I was drawn to the beauty industry, as I love to help people look and feel their best. Once I decided on the course I wanted to take when I graduated, it was an easy decision from there.
Working in the beauty industry, which can be seen as largely women-based, how do you feel women support each other in this industry?
There are so many events and groups out there based around connecting and supporting women in the beauty industry, which is amazing! I feel that I'm fortunate enough to be part of such an amazing team with Self Love Lounge, and Morgan, Lauren and I really support each other in our work and every day lives.
How do you hope women's roles will change in the future?
Our role in society as women has definitely evolved over the years, but I think we still have a long way to go. I would like to see women being able to have a work/life balance, be equal with their partners in raising a family together and to be included in careers, which are predominantly seen as male-based, such as the aforementioned sports and politics. It's up to us to change how future female generations are treated with equality and respect.
Speaking of International Women's Day, we have a very special event coming up on Saturday 27th March, from 5pm - 6.30pm - our Grounding Meditation Circle with Kirsten Morrison.
Come join us for an evening of guided meditation by candle light.
This special event is in aid of earth hour, which will help ground us and welcome the Autumn season in. Places are booking up fast, with limited numbers available, so be quick and book in here. Tickets cost just $49 each.
We will provide nourishing platters and delicious herbal teas, as well as a sense of connection and community. BYO yoga mat and blanket if you would like to be extra comfortable. Alternatively, there will also be comfortable chairs provided in our space.
We're looking forward to seeing you there, and in the salon soon💗