April is a month all about growth and change. We see it in the weather, our wardrobes and even in ourselves. We are celebrating April by marking it as “CollegeFashionista’s Empowerment” month. Check back throughout the month for special features, series and exclusive content all aimed to inspire you to be your best self.
To kick-off the month, we are excited to feature Claudia Chan. Chan is a social entrepreneur who started S.H.E. Global Media with the purpose to empower women to lead their optimal personal and professional lives so that they can bring about change in their own lives and the world. Like us, Chan believes that the world needs strong women leaders and role models.
We caught up with Chan as she talked about what inspired her to start S.H.E., the bright future of feminism in 2015 and more. Get inspired!
CollegeFashionista: When did you decide to start S.H.E and what was the inspiration behind it?
Claudia Chan: I launched [S.H.E. Global Media] three years ago in March 2012, [which is] women’s history month, of course.
I had noticed a lack of diverse female role models and empowering messages in the media, and realized this directly hindered how women and girls perceived their own potential in career, life, and self-confidence. As a response, I launched S.H.E. Global Media Inc. to offer digital content, conferences and curriculum to make empowerment and mentorship accessible to all women worldwide.
CF: What are your dreams for feminism in 2015?
CC: In 2011 to 2012 feminism was still controversial—remember Anne-Marie Slaughter’s “Why Women Still Can’t Have It All” or the judgment of Marissa Mayer’s work life balance decisions at Yahoo?
In 2013, feminism became popular again from movements like “Lean In” to Malala becoming a global symbol for girls’ rights. In 2014 the actual word feminism became cool with celebrity endorsements.
Every year builds on the next so my dream for feminism 2015’s theme is ACCELERATION and to see more participation from all parties to step out and speak up for women’s empowerment. More corporations and advertisers launching women’s initiatives. More celebs using their fame as a microphone. More women exercising their power and voice through social media. More men taking action for women and so on.
CF: As an entrepreneur, who is your role model/who do you look up to?
CC: My mother for her relentless work ethic, entrepreneurial savvy and the sacrifices she made to set her children up to thrive in western culture.
CF: What has been your biggest achievement/challenge thus far?
CC: My work in making women’s empowerment and role models accessible…creating a global women’s conference that attracts viewership in over 100 countries, and living a life that is fully aligned with my passion and purpose.
CF: How would you describe your leadership style?
CC: Familial, transparent, maniacal, horizontal and spiritual.
CF: What are your plans for the continuing success of S.H.E?
CC: I want to be the Richard Branson of women’s empowerment. I see many S.H.E. businesses that I will raise through partnerships—all filling a different white space for women’s advancement.
CF: What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
CC: Be prepared for your first business to be your first child. It requires much more risk, uncertainty and, therefore, courage than working for a company, so know your stomach. Create it to solve a big social problem and be led by that purpose…it will keep you going.
CF: Tell us about your involvement with the “Use Your And” campaign and why it is so important to you and to young women around the world?
CC: I am so proud to be Gillette Venus’ global spokesperson for this campaign. #UseYourAnd provides a woman with a powerful tool to first reflect on how she may have been labeled, then be honest with herself in identifying her truest multi-dimensions, qualities and passions. This helps her remove false beliefs that were imprinted on her…and replace them with new truths defined by her. The campaign empowers her to realize her most authentic self—which is the ultimate starting point for limitless potential. Check out the inspiring video here.
