Dear Kosterina Family,
This week, in the Kosterina household we celebrated International Women's Day. As a female founder and a mom to two beautiful little girls (and one sweet boy!), it's a day that holds a special place in my heart.
For those of you who don't know, International Women's Day is a national (and global) holiday celebrated each year on March 8th, and was established all the way back in 1975 - though its roots took hold almost 100 years earlier. Its purpose is to "celebrate women's achievements, raise awareness for women's equality" and so much more. To me, it's a reminder of something most of us take for granted: women and girls around the world were not always seen as equal - and it's our responsibility to keep fighting for a more equal, just and healthy world for all.
But, for as much progress as we have to celebrate, we still have a long way to go. And, this year it's especially important: the pandemic's impact has hit working moms the hardest. For example, over 60% of the jobs affected by the pandemic were women's, and the female labor force participation rate dipped below 55% - the lowest we've seen in the U.S. since 1986.
I like the way this piece in Mindbodygreen captured the way we can practice, uplift, celebrate and advocate for the women in our lives in a healthy, mindful way - especially given all that we've collectively been through this year. I am especially excited to support women-owned businesses this month (and always!). I've included one of my new favorites below.
And on a personal note…in response to the most popular adult query of children everywhere – “what do you want to be when you grow up?” – my 4.5 year old daughter, Ellie, used to respond with “a princess”. But since the pandemic resulted in my working from home, she’s spent lots of time in my office with me and I’m proud to say that her latest response is “a businesswoman”. It makes me so proud!
As it relates to our children, it’s important to remember that they need to see it to be it. We all have work to do to make sure we are the real life examples of what our children can aspire to be. This is a reminder that I'll continue to share with our largely female team at Kosterina, with my daughters and with you all. Here's to women!
Peace, Love, & EVOO
Katerina
