Introduction
This International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the women of Arrow County Supplies and the spirit of Give to Gain, a reminder that when we share knowledge, support one another, and lift others as we rise, we create room for everyone to grow.
Our team members have reflected on their inspirations, their advice, and the lessons that shaped their careers.
Contents
Olivia Bullock: Customer Response Specialist
Who has inspired or influenced you most in your career?
A personal connection I have to a owner of a manufacturing company has influenced me the most due to their outlook on life/work. She has inspired me to overcome any challenge thrown at me and reminds me that if you work hard enough, it rewards you. She built success from very little, reminding me that hard work pays off and that belief in your dreams can take you further than you imagine.
What’s the best professional advice you’ve ever received?
To do everything, take every opportunity, no matter how big or small. Be different – stand out from the crowd! Bring something to your job that is unique, whether that is a personality trait or a skillset, different is good. Don’t always settle for something that is comfy, reach for the stars, and you may end up grabbing the moon.
What advice would you give to women starting their careers today?
Remember that everyone must start from somewhere. Progress doesn’t look like a straight line, it has bumps, it sometimes looks like its retracting back, it goes fast and slow, but it always continues. Take ambition seriously if you want growth, leadership, and impact – own it. Only you can make it happen. Remember to ask for opportunities and step outside your comfort zones. You will mess up, feel like an imposter at times but that doesn’t mean your failing, it just means you’re stretching.
Rebecca Blewitt: Commercial Bid Executive
Who has inspired or influenced you most in your career?
My biggest inspiration has always been my mum. She passed away in 2020 after a long battle with cancer, but her strength, resilience, and kindness continue to guide me every day. She showed me what it means to keep going even when things are difficult, and her example is a constant reminder to approach work, and life, with courage and compassion.
What’s the best professional advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice came from my mum, who always told me to “put your game face on.”
For me, that means showing up with confidence, resilience, and determination, even when things feel difficult or unfamiliar. It’s a reminder to stay focused, stay strong, and give my best effort, no matter what the challenge is.
What advice would you give to women starting their careers today?
Believe in your abilities, even on the days you doubt yourself. Don’t be afraid to take up space, ask questions, and put your ideas forward.
Rhianna Sohata: Stock Controller
Who has inspired or influenced you most in your career?
The person who has influenced me most in my career is my mom. Although she passed when I was very young, she was the first in her family to be educated through higher education and she had a very strong work ethic. This is something I aspire to carry with me throughout my career.
What’s the best professional advice you’ve ever received?
The best piece of advice I have received is to not be afraid to have confidence in myself and my own abilities. If you believe you can, you can!
What advice would you give to women starting their careers today?
I would say to just be themselves and don’t get deflated by any mistakes. It is very easy to get caught up with mistakes and errors, but it is all part of learning a new role. Everyone makes mistakes sometimes – it is the best way to learn.
Stephanie Harvey: Internal Customer Insight Support
Who has inspired or influenced you most in your career?
I’ve been inspired by many people throughout my career. Their guidance, encouragement, and support have helped shape the person and professional I am today.
What’s the best professional advice you’ve ever received?
Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.
What advice would you give to women starting their careers today?
My advice would be to choose a company that aligns with your values, visualise what success looks like for you and pursue it with confidence. And finally, seek mentors who can guide you along the way.
Chloe Smith: Category Buyer
Who has inspired or influenced you most in your career?
One of the moments that influenced me most in my career was attending an International Women’s Day event in a previous role. I had the opportunity to meet women working in a wide range of roles and industries, and hearing their stories was really inspiring. There was also a guest speaker, Dianne Darling, who delivered a powerful motivational talk about confidence and taking ownership of your own growth. Her workshop really stayed with me and has continued to influence the way I approach my personal and professional development.
What’s the best professional advice you’ve ever received?
Own your potential, don’t wait for someone else to validate it.
Recognising our own strengths and backing ourselves not only builds confidence, but also shapes how we grow, the opportunities we take, and the example we set for women around us.
What advice would you give to women starting their careers today?
I would say to trust in your abilities and believe in what you bring to the table. Don’t be afraid to speak up, take opportunities and learn from every experience, even the challenging ones! Surround yourself with supportive people and remember that your voice & perspective matters.
Conclusion
As we honour International Women’s Day and the theme Give to Gain, these stories show how sharing experiences and uplifting one another creates lasting impact. By celebrating our strengths, learning from those before us, and supporting those who follow, we continue to build a workplace where every woman can thrive.
