The Women that Shaped Us: Celebrating International Women's Day

The Women that Shaped Us: Celebrating International Women's Day

Every year on March 8, people around the world observe International Women’s Day. What began more than a century ago as a rallying cry for women’s rights has grown into a global movement honoring the courage, creativity, and resilience of women everywhere. 

At Nations Photo Lab, we’re inspired by the many incredible women who shape our industry, our community, and our lives — from trailblazing photographers to the makers, thinkers, and storytellers who bring moments to life through the lens. Today isn’t just about celebration — it’s about recognition, reflection, and recommitment to a world where every woman’s voice is seen and heard.


David Cress, Customer Support Agent

Who is a woman in your life who shaped you into the person you have become?

The other half of me, Laurier Cress.

Because of Her…

I’ve learned to recognize my own potential and how to push myself to realize it. She’s taught me how to take pride in myself, how to challenge myself, and how to move toward becoming the person I want to be.

What trait or value did she model that you now bring to work?”

Laurier has helped teach me to recognize a situation from all angles and to find value in all perspectives. Having this in mind has made it easier for me to understand a situation and how it may appear with a different perspective, which has allowed me to better understand customers and their situations.

 

Lisa Foreman, Senior Marketing Director


Who is a woman in your life who shaped you into the person you have become?

Of course, the woman who has shaped me into the person I am is my mother! 

Because of Her...

Because of her, I care deeply about animals. We’re both vegan and always stop to help an animal in need.

What trait or value did she model that you now bring to work

Growing up, my mom had us proofread everything we wrote. Grammar and punctuation have always been important and I think of her often when I’m writing at work!

 

Customer Support Agent, Tara Smith

Who is a woman in your life who shaped you into the person you have become?

The woman who shaped me into the person I am today is my mom.

Because of her...

I've learned how vital compassion and empathy are. Not just for others, but for myself too. She taught me to be kind, to love myself, and to extend that same kindness to everyone around me. 

What trait or value did she model that you now bring to work?

One of the most significant values she modeled that I bring into my work every day was her work ethic. She showed up consistently and carried herself with professionalism and kindness, and that's something I strive to do in my role every day.


Customer Success Agent, Silvia Segura 

Who is a woman in your life who shaped you into the person you have become?

My sister Michelle.

Because of her…

Even though she is younger than me, Michelle has been a steady and positive influence in my life. She is kind, supportive, and dependable.

What trait or value did she model that you now bring to work?

Kindness and patience.

Annie Bruzzese, Executive Director

Who is a woman in your life who shaped you into the person you have become?

My Mother, Linda Bryan


Because of her…


Because of her, I learned to lead with honesty, treat others with kindness, value myself, and move through life with confidence and faith. Her strength and wisdom shaped the foundation of who I am, and the fullness of the life I’m blessed to live today.

What trait or value did she model that you now bring to work?

Integrity. She taught me that credibility isn’t built on words but on consistent actions. At work, that means transparency, accountability, and choosing what’s right over what’s easy.


Ashley Chase, Director of Client Relations

Who is a woman in your life who shaped you into the person you have become?

My Mom!

Because of Her...

She taught me how to be strong in the face of anything, to lead by example, and to work hard. She showed me that I can do anything I set my mind to, and that there is strength in softness. She encouraged me to ask questions and to be comfortable in my own skin. She is kind and unwavering, and she will do anything for the people she loves. I strive to carry myself with the same grace she does.

 

Jordan Rupp, Customer Support Agent

 

Soojin Kim, Customer Service Manager

Who is a woman (or women) in your life who shaped you into the person you have become?

My tribe; my besties!

Because of Her (them)…

Because of them, I am unapologetically myself.

They gave me a safe space to show up exactly as I am; loud, quiet, confident, uncertain, evolving. Their compassion, consistency, and unconditional love taught me what I deserve in relationships in my life.

Because of them, I learned the power of stepping outside my comfort zone. They encouraged me to try new things, see new perspectives, and embrace growth even when it felt uncomfortable.

Because of them, I continue to live with an open mind, open arms, and honesty.

They showed me what selfless friendship looks like; loyalty without condition, acceptance without judgment, and support without hesitation.

Because of them, I understand the value of women uplifting women.

They didn’t just stand beside me, they believed in me, challenged me, and reminded me of my strength.


Andrea Michinski, Senior Director of Customer & Employee Relations


Brandon Moore, Customer Support Agent

Who is a woman in your life who shaped you into the person you have become?

Brenda Stewart, my mother.

Because of Her...

She didn’t just teach me life skills like responsibility and cooking — she taught me to treat others with the same love, kindness, and respect I would want in return.

What trait or value did she model that you now bring to work?

We share that playful, goofy streak. We love making people laugh and seeing their faces light up — there’s nothing better than knowing we helped create that moment. Bringing smiles to others genuinely makes us happy. Their joy becomes our joy.

 

 

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