By Cheryl Durzy, Founder & CEO, LibDib -
Today is International Women’s Day. As one of the only female founders of an alcohol beverage distribution company, this is an incredibly important reminder to me that while women in this industry (and the workforce in general) have made amazing strides thus far, there is still work to be done. It makes me incredibly proud to say that LibDib has a 50% female workforce. And it is a pleasure to work with every single one of them.
LibDib recently launched a Women’s Leadership Program thanks to some amazing people over at Audrey Mcguckin Talent Solutions. Audrey and her team spent several months last year interviewing the women on our staff and participating in several listening sessions with our teams. We learned some things and put together a truly customized program to encourage our women leaders to learn and grow within their positions here at LibDib.
So, on International Women’s Day, I took a moment to ask LibDib’s women leaders “What does this day mean to you?” and I thought I would share some of their responses.
Roni Iacocca, Manager, Orders and Fulfillment: It’s a day for reflection and a reminder of how far we have come towards achieving gender equality, while recognizing how far we have yet to go. I’m proud to work for a company that supports me and is committed to helping women succeed and thrive.
Linda Stewart, Manager, Buyer Support: International Women’s Day to me means acknowledging and celebrating every woman’s story; where she comes from, what she has accomplished, what she has overcome and what she has learned along the way. Also what are her dreams and goals for the future? What does she like to do for fun? What keeps her awake at night? In all, International Women’s Day means to me supporting women and making sure we all feel heard in every aspect of who we are!
Helene Venegas, Sr. Director, Innovation Revenue: International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the amazing achievements of women in all spaces and sectors and rally for continued strides towards equality and inclusion.
Brandi Mullenax, Specialist, Orders and Fulfillment: International Women's Day to me is a day to celebrate the strength and determination of each and every woman. It is also a reminder that we need to increase our efforts and to help empower women everywhere at all levels. I am proud to work for a company that celebrates women for who they are and supports their growth and success!
Jennifer Hoang, Manager, Inventory and Warehouses: This is a day that reminds us of what we have achieved so far, and to celebrate the many women that came before us who have paved the different roads of opportunities for us to travel on. The day we celebrate every woman/girl’s strength, determination and achievement around the world. Working in a company with so many strong women has inspired me to raise the bar on my standards, elevate my goals and evaluate ways to improve myself.
Angelique Lopez, Manager, Market Curation and Buyer Experience: To me, International Women’s Day is about recognizing and applauding the impressive work that my female peers and friends do everyday. It is important that we remind each other that we are all equally strong and beautiful. Our voices matter and we need to continue to encourage and empower one another.
Carli Roth, Specialist, Customer Engagement: To me, International Women’s Day is a chance to highlight the importance of lifting up other women and their achievements. It’s also a reminder to continue the discussion of gender equality in the workplace, especially in a traditionally male dominated industry like ours. I’m proud to work for a female founded company like LibDib with strong female leaders surrounding me everyday!
Wow, I sure am lucky to be surrounded by some pretty incredible women! I am truly proud of our entire LibDIb staff and feel grateful to work with them every day. Everyone works really hard. This team is so committed to our vision of three-tier distribution for all.
Happy International Women’s Day to all the fabulous women in our industry and beyond.
Cheers!