Breaking Stereotypes, One Success at a Time

Hello, readers! Today, I want to share an experience that left me both baffled and, quite frankly, disappointed. It also stirred a conversation we need to have more often—one about credit, assumptions, and the value of hard work, especially for women in business. Recently, during an industry conversation, someone suggested that my success today could be attributed to a man—specifically, my father. This isn’t just a one-off remark; it’s indicative of the challenges women face in our industry, where assumptions and stereotypes linger like an unwelcome shadow.

For a little background, my father was a Ford Warranty Manager, and my mother managed a retail store. They both worked hard to provide me with love and guidance. And while I’m endlessly grateful for his love and the support of my dad, as he is the most valuable man I have in my life, it was my journey, not his, that brought me here. However, neither of them laid out a golden path to my success. My achievements are the result of my dedication, resilience, and hours of work, as I pushed past obstacles and charted my course.

It’s frustrating—and telling—that some people men in particular, still believe that if a woman has achieved success, a man must have been behind it. This kind of thinking is outdated, but it persists, subtly eroding the recognition and respect that women have earned and deserve.

Being a successful business owner isn’t just about having the title; it’s about the vision, drive, and grit to make things happen. It’s about building something from the ground up, my garage to be precise, making decisions that keep the ship afloat and moving forward, and constantly adapting to stay relevant and innovative. This journey, my journey, has been fuelled by my own efforts. My parents, as much as I love them, didn’t build my business. I did with Laura Stockwell and the recognition for that work should be mine.

We need to challenge these tired narratives and recognise that women are not just playing a supporting role in their success stories—they are the leads. The business world must become a place where women are seen as the architects of their achievements, not mere beneficiaries of someone else’s influence or aid.

So here’s my call to action: let’s uplift and recognise the hard work of women in our industry. Let’s reject stereotypes and start looking at accomplishments through a lens of fairness and respect. By doing so, we can build a more inclusive, equitable industry—one where every voice, regardless of gender, is heard and valued for the unique contributions it brings.

Here’s to resilience, to grit, and to redefining success on our own terms. Let’s keep moving forward and keep proving them wrong.