International Women’s Day: Simone – Co-owner of Sigma Beauty

From an early age, I have always been very independent - it never really crossed my mind that I could not do something. My son laughs when he tells me he can't do something or that something is impossible and I tell him I don't even know what those words mean. What he doesn't know is that I am dead serious. I always believe something can be done, and that it's critical to develop new ideas. So, the answer to this question is:  I believe in myself and my thoughts and ideas, this is my main encouragement.

Creating concepts and products that will live longer than me. My husband and I are very proud to have introduced problem-solving products that represent a step forward in the cosmetics industry. I know there's no coming back from using one of our gadgets to clean your makeup brushes. That's how you do it today; that's how you will continue to do it in the future.

I really look up to other women in my family. My late grandmother and my mother are examples of strength, values and hard work. Both worked from an early age; seeing how they balanced work and family helped to set my own work expectations and values.

Confidence. Confidence comes from trusting yourself and knowing your strengths, knowledge, skills, character and principles. We all should know what our main strengths are and we should share these with confidence. Hold on to something you know you are really good at and let that be the pillar of your strength. Let that be your confidence booster and use your talent, whatever it is, to make your contributions to those around you and to the world.