This month, we celebrate the accomplishments of all women and recognize those who have paved the way for our generation and generations to come.
The origins of this historic month can be traced back to New York City in February of 1908 when 15,000 women workers went on strike and marched through the city to protest for shorter hours, better pay, voting rights, and an end to child labor. The efforts of these women sparked attention and admiration from women all around the world. These strikes continued for over a year, and to celebrate the anniversary of that first march, people celebrated the first International Women’s Day in the U.S. on February 28, 1909.
German campaigner and socialist Clara Zetkin approached the International Conference of Working Women in 1910 with the idea to turn the day into an international movement that advocates for universal suffrage.
It is because of women like Zetkin, and those 15,000 women who marched the streets of New York City, that women are now viewed as equal members of society. There has been so much progression through the years as women are now leading their own companies and being respected in the workforce.
In honor of International Women’s Month, we are spotlighting two of our incredible leading ladies, Bonnie Taylor and Jennifer Ross. Bonnie is the Vice President of Strategy and Communications and Jen is Head of Strategic Sales and Partnerships here at Talent Resources and Talent Resources Sports. They are one of the reasons why this company is so successful, and their commitment to their work is undeniable.
Interview with Bonnie Taylor
What has your journey been like in this industry before working for Talent Resources?
My journey has very much been like a game of Chutes and Ladders. I would set off in one direction only to find my role not be a good fit, or my position not align with my true passions. After navigating a path and narrowing down on what I truly love to do, I finally ended up where I am supposed to be.
Who have you looked up to, whether when you were young or now, that has motivated you to be successful in this industry?
My mom. She always did everything she could to be there for my brother and I when it mattered. She taught High School Special Education Math, tutored and did home instruction at night, and never missed a game, dance recital, competition or important event. Because of her I know that it is possible to balance my career, family and not lose sight of pursuing my own dreams. To this day she is my biggest cheerleader, and I am hers.
What do you think is the biggest issue facing women in this industry, if any?
Being able to lead the charge and disrupt a male-dominated industry. There has always been this boys club mentality, and I like to say I not only earned a seat at the table- but watch out because I'm going to run that meeting.
What does International Women’s Month mean to you?
It's nice to have a month where women are truly put first and are top of mind and celebrated. But, I believe that women should be recognized for their advancements and leadership every day. If it takes a special month to start the conversation, then it is certainly worth it.
What is the most important message you want to send to young women thinking about their careers?
Take risks! Just because you got a degree in a subject, does not mean that it will define you for the rest of your career. I always dreamed of being a lawyer, and after one semester of law school, my entire life changed. It's ok to change paths, that just makes your story more exciting.
Bonnie’s responses provide great examples as to why we celebrate International Women’s Month, and why we should encourage and uplift women in this industry. We also asked Jennifer Ross these exact same questions whereas her backstory is quite different from Bonnie’s since she works on the sports side of Talent Resources.
Interview with Jennifer Ross
What has your journey been like in this industry before working for Talent Resources?
I started my career in Boston working with Fox Sports focusing on the Boston Celtics. I spent some time at an experiential agency and then almost 10 years at the NBA before joining Talent Resources Sports in late 2020.
Who have you looked up to, whether when you were young or now, that has motivated you to be successful in this industry?
I have always admired women in sports, both athletes and executives. As a little girl, I remember watching Mary Lou Retton win gold in the Olympics and thinking how cool it was that girls could win in sports. My father was also a big inspiration to me, he always encouraged me to take chances and never made me feel I couldn't do anything my brother couldn’t do. He would always let me have a catch with them, play soccer with them, or anything that involved sports which got me into athletics early in life.
What do you think is the biggest issue facing women in this industry, if any?
There is still the financial in-equality issue. It's hard to know that professional women's basketball players are making 1% of professional men's players. There is really no justification for it.
What does International Women’s Month mean to you?
It is a celebration of all the amazing women in my life. My colleagues, my friends, my family. The ladies who have paved the way for me supported me and empowered me to be my best self.
What is the most important message you want to send to young women thinking about their careers?
Be a fearless female! Don't be afraid to network. Talk to others. Ask for help. Seek opportunities. Life is all about who you know and you never know when someone will be able to help you out!