In honor of International Women’s Day, we want to take a moment to celebrate some of the amazing women who work behind the scenes at Bugaboo North America. With a team that's 80% women and 60% moms, there's a lot to celebrate today and everyday. Read on as they share some insights they’ve gleaned throughout their careers, motherhood and everything in between.

On careers:

"Focusing on the 1% is my daily philosophy when it comes to career and motherhood. Sometimes the big tasks can seem daunting, so I just focus on being a 1% better mom and leader, and eventually those small things that seem to make no difference in the moment, added up create profound change over time."

- Jeanelle Teves, General Manager, North America

"The biggest contributor to getting me where I am today has been hard work and never thinking one task is too small. Always be a team player."

- Emily Davis, Service Coordinator

On growing up: 

"Don’t worry so much about what other people think of you. I used to be so fixated on being likable that at times I wasn’t my most genuine self. You certainly can’t control how everyone perceives you, but when you’re comfortable in your own skin that seems to matter less and less."

- Katie Augustine, Customer Service Supervisor, Americas

"Time goes by fast. While the hard and challenging and stressful times will pass before you know it, so will the amazing and fun and awe-inspiring times. So, soak up every moment and take lots of photos and videos!"

- Amy Mason, Senior Digital Marketing & Media Manager

On self-care:

"Self-care is my favorite way to recharge. Whether I take time at night to read a book or have a Friday night in to do a face mask and watch my favorite movie. Taking care of myself on the outside helps me to feel better on the inside."

- Alexa Esposito, Social Media Manager

"I try to take time for myself even if it’s just 10 minutes to walk around the block to get some fresh air and change of scenery."

- Kyra Handelsman, Senior Account Manager, Canada

On motherhood:

"I think that becoming a mom has shown me that I am capable of more than I ever dreamed. I can withstand challenges. I can rise to the occasion. And, I can defend with the best of them when it comes to taking care of my children and my family. It’s honestly instilled a newfound sense of strength on the inside that I didn’t know I had."

- Sarah Steele, North America Brand Marketing Director

"I used to think everything should be planned, pretty, and perfect. Having children has taught me that being present and in the moment means more to them – and me."

- Christina Holt, Specialty Account Manager

On being a working mom:

"Don’t be afraid to ask for help or additional support. There is a perception that women, especially moms, have to be able to do it all – the reality is that this is an unrealistic way of thinking. Moms and working moms (and society!) need to move away from that way of thinking and be comfortable with asking for support, whether that’s from your employer or outside help."

- Jessica Ponchak, North America HR Consultant

"Find the tasks you hate the most and create a system so it’s not overwhelming…I pack water bottles and snacks the night before, always run the dishwasher at night so it’s empty for the day, do one load of laundry every morning, etc. I try to stay on top of little things that can become big things. And most importantly…no one has it all together. Find people who will not be afraid to share the ugly parts of their life with you in addition to the pretty."

- Jodi Gulik, North America Sales Director