Envision a world where diversity is valued, differences are recognised and appreciated; and one where women's achievements are celebrated.
As we celebrate International Women's Day this coming March, we would like to use this opportunity to commemorate the accomplishments of women and strive towards a world which #EmbracesEquity for the future generations to come.
This month, we kick off #GlowfullyEmpowers and our Inspiring Series with Charlene, our founder.
(Charlene was fueled by her passion to create a brand that aligns with her values: simple, effective and non-toxic skincare.)
1. Can you tell us a bit more about yourself?
Hi everyone, I am Charlene! If you are reading this, I started this page and brand 4 years ago. I am the founder of Glowfully, a local clean beauty brand that focuses on creating skincare products that are lightweight and efficacious. Glowfully was started in 2018 at a time when I was researching on what ingredients to avoid as I was caring for my mum who was undergoing chemotherapy for her breast cancer. I wanted her to only use products that are beneficial to her. It struck me that we might have been applying a lot of controversial ingredients that could be toxic to our skin when used daily. I was determined to create a brand that resonated with my belief that skincare could be simple and effective.
Besides creating clean beauty products, Glowfully also hopes to have formulations that would cater specially to our hot and humid environment. Thus, when we formulate the Glowfully products, we always make sure that the products are nourishing yet not too rich or overpowering for daily use in our climatic conditions.
2. When you first started your career, did you imagine yourself being in this role?
When I first started my first job, my goal was to climb the corporate ladder. I was a Go-getter and consistently achieved the KPIs that I have set for myself. However, my priorities have changed ever since I became a mom. I wanted flexibility in my role to ensure that I can be available for my children. Creating a balanced lifestyle is also part of my yearly goal setting.
3. What is an important piece of advice you wish to give to young women in their careers?
Get started. Many times, we have great ideas, but we are afraid or wait too long for any action.
4. How would your friends and people around you describe you?
Disciplined, Determined, Energetic, Impatient
5. With more opportunities being given to females, what do you think are the challenges that modern females are facing today?
As a working mom, I would think navigating between career and maximizing motherhood is one of the challenges that modern women are facing. With the rising cost of living, most families have both parents working to support the household. However, women are often being seen as less competitive due to their caregiving duties to the family.. Eg, the stigma on a working mom who has to rush off work on time to pick up her child and prepare dinner vs a male colleague who is able to stay back to complete the task.
6. Using one word, what would you describe yourself as?
Strong-willed
7. Of these few shades, which do you feel represents yourself the most?
I truly love all 5 shades as the colours were decided by me. If I really have to pick one which represents myself the most, I would say its Signature Rose. I would like to think of myself as someone on-the-go and having a colour that is able to bring me from day to night is definitely a plus point.
About #GlowfullyEmpowers International Women's Day Campaign
Throughout the month of March, Glowfully is featuring a series of interviews with 4 successful local female leaders who have overcome challenges, demonstrated strength and leadership, and achieved great success in their respective industries. Each Monday, we'll introduce a new prominent female figure and explore the stories behind their professions, including the unique challenges they have faced as modern women. Our goal is to celebrate their achievements and inspire women and young girls to break barriers and achieve their own success.
Together at Glowfully, let's #EmbraceEquity and drive gender parity.
Follow our blog post and Instagram at @glowfullyskin and stay tuned for new episodes every Monday of March 2023.
