International Women’s Day with Dawn Abbamondi, SMB Franchise Advisors
As a woman-owned business, we are honored to share the stories and messages of incredible woman leaders across a variety of industries for our International Women’s Day blog series.
This interview is with Dawn Abbamondi, VP of Marketing and Brand Development at SMB Franchise Advisors
Why do you think it’s important to celebrate International Women’s Day?
Sometimes, the smallest piece of information, a story told or a new achievement is something that will inspire someone to be ready for a new role, take a risk or reach their potential. Women, and young girls especially, need to have reinforcement and support that they can do anything they set their mind to do.
What motivates you to be a leader in your industry?
I had family and friends of my family who encouraged me to do what I wanted: become a doctor, study engineering, own a business, land on the moon… They told me I could be whatever I wanted throughout my life from a young age, but not everyone is fortunate to have that kind of support. (I know that more today than ever). Today, I’m able to give back by helping entrepreneurs set and achieve their goals. I remind them and reinforce that they can do it – whatever they set their mind to doing. They need to hear it. So I keep saying it.
Are there any female leaders that have inspired you throughout your career?
My great grandmother who graduated from Brooklyn College about 100 years ago, both of my grandmothers, my mom, and several managers whom I had in each of my roles in various companies. They were all older and supported me, reinforcing my decisions. They let me “stand on their shoulders” without the obstacles that they had in their lives and careers.
What advice or message would you share with young women who are looking to build their careers?
Building a career will take time, and you will hopefully take turns and make decisions that were not initially in your plan. Sometimes, sacrifice is needed, but ask for what you want and be fair – to yourself and to the ones you ask. You do have to earn your future, but you do not have to start from scratch. Learn from others and from mistakes you make. Ask for help, be humble and always say thank you. Also, women need both women and men, younger and older people around them for inspiration and to truly be successful.
Read the rest of our International Women’s Day blog series here.
