SheSays Spotlight on the Chicago Committee: Do it like a lady!
In part three of our April Q&A of our committee, we learn more about why we need strong female leaders in the Chicago community by speaking with these trailblazers: Lidia Varesco Racoma, Brittany Campbell, and Anna Olsztynska.
Photo by TK Photography
Lidia Varesco Racoma, Writer and Voice for Working Moms
Art Director and Designer at Lidia Varesco Design, Founder and Editorial Director of the Biz Mamma Online Community
What brought you to the SheSays Committee?
After my kids were born, I took a break from being active in the creative industry so this was the perfect opportunity to get involved again. It has been a great way to meet fellow creatives (including fellow moms) and has inspired me to be more active in the local creative community.
What past SheSays speaker left the biggest impact on you? Why?
As a mom of two (5 YO and 18 MO), the Working Moms in Advertising panel really resonated with me. Being a working mom can sometimes feel isolating, so I loved hearing from other women who are dealing with some of the same challenges that I am.
What do you love about being in the creative and marketing industry?
I love coming up with ideas and making things, being able to take (a sometimes abstract) concept and bring it to life visually. And I love knowing that my design work makes a difference. I'm inspired by the people I work with, as well as the fellow creatives I meet (especially those who have lots of interesting projects going on, like myself!)
On March 8 we celebrated International Women's Day. How will you #BeBoldForChange in 2017?
This year, I plan to share my branding and marketing knowledge—as well as my 16+ years of small business experience—through speaking and mentoring. I would also love to plan a design event at my son’s school to encourage budding artists and designers.
Brittany Campbell, Designer and Voice for Mentors
Art Director and Designer at United Airlines
What woman in history would you like to have a drink with? What would u ask? And of course, what would you drink?
Julia Child. In addition to learning her cooking skills later in life, she created a movement with other women in a field that was predominately men. I would ask how she kept moving forward and what advice she has for competing in an industry where you are the underdog. I'm not sure what we'd drink but I'd hope there would be some French Nosh!
What brought you to the SheSays Committee/ why do you choose to volunteer for this?
SheSays was a networking group that I actually felt connected me to other professionals. Everyone in the group honestly looks out for each other and wants to help each other succeed. It's such a positive environment that I couldn't help but want to be a bigger part of it.
What experience did you have in your career that opened your eyes and began your search for a group like SheSays?
I started noticing that other networking groups in Chicago were using the same speakers who would give the same talks. A lot of these talks were done by men. I heard of SheSays' first event and how they would have a panel of amazing Chicago women I have always looked up to. The event was more organic and less rehearsed than other groups. Every event is one of a kind and I know I will learn something unique and meet new people.
How has SheSays influenced your career?
It has given me access to a whole community of mentors. I have gained jobs offers, career advice, and friends. I have been able to quit a job, recover from a layoff, and ask for a raise. All of these things were done with support from the SheSays community.
How will you #BeBoldForChange in 2017?
Truly listen to others and share their stories. Women, especially women of color, have so many empowering stories that have been left out of our history books. There are women today that have already left a legacy. My friends and I have started a blog called doitlikealady.com where we share stories of bravery and perseverance from trailblazing women.
Anna Olsztynska, Marketing Maven and Event Photographer
Senior Admissions and Marketing Coordinator for British International School of Chicago
How has SheSays influenced your career?
I feel stronger and empowered. I am more confident because I am part of the SheSays Chapter. Thanks to my work with SheSays, I had the courage to work as a project manager for an EPIC rally with a team of creatives, and I am currently co-mentoring a group project with the AIGA Chicago mentor program.
What do you love about being in the creative and marketing industry?
I get to work with awesome people and share ideas. Those ideas are never bad ideas.
How would you like to see SheSays evolve over the next year?
I’d like to see more workshops with smaller audiences. It would be interesting to hear from someone who got a job because of SheSays, and how the group helped them become a better creative.
Looking to impact your community? We are currently looking for committee members to join our team who can help lead the charge for Diversity and Inclusion. Reach out to [email protected] for more information!
