We were lucky to catch up with Lisiane Birks-Hay recently and have shared our conversation below.
Lisiane, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
My journey of developing confidence and self-esteem has been paved with challenges, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of a better life.
I was born into a low-income household where the struggle to pay for basic necessities like water and electricity was a constant battle. My parents worked tirelessly, and I remember the heart-wrenching sight of my mother crying every night because of our financial struggles. Even at a young age, I felt a deep sense of responsibility to change our situation.
At the tender age of 7, I decided to take matters into my own hands. Armed with a tiny sewing machine, I began making Barbie clothes to sell during break time at school. This small venture ignited a spark within me. Over the years, I found various ways to earn a little cash, from selling door-to-door raffles to becoming an Avon representative. These endeavors allowed me to buy the small things I wanted, giving me a taste of independence.
When I turned 15, I heard about a beauty contest on the radio. The prizes—a car, trips, and jewelry—were too enticing to ignore. Despite not considering myself particularly pretty, I decided to give it a shot. Out of 500 candidates, only 30 were chosen for the big day, and somehow, I was one of them. Although I didn’t win the major prizes, I received the “Miss Smiley” title.
That day, something clicked inside me. If I hadn’t confronted my doubts, I would never have experienced that moment of recognition. Days later, I received a call from the organizers informing me that I had been chosen to go on a trip in place of one of the winners who couldn’t attend. That trip opened my eyes to the vast possibilities the world had to offer.
With my mother by my side, I started participating in more beauty contests. I managed to win a few, and with each victory came more experience and knowledge. At 16, I signed with a modeling agency, which kept me busy with work. By the time I was almost 18, I decided to leave home and explore opportunities in another state.
I told my parents that I wouldn’t return home, relishing the newfound independence. I traveled extensively, learning great lessons and making mistakes along the way. My parents’ unwavering support was my anchor. They always reassured me, saying, “This will always be your home. If anything happens, you can always come back.”
Their words gave me the strength to push harder and work tirelessly. Over the years, I’ve conquered many things but also faced numerous losses. Through the ups and downs, I gathered knowledge, experience, and friends. Most importantly, I built my self-esteem and confidence.
My mother’s advice still resonates with me: “The answer will always be ‘no’ if you don’t try. Why not try for the ‘yes’?” This mantra has guided me through life’s challenges, reminding me that taking risks and confronting doubts are essential for growth.
Today, as a mother, wife, and entrepreneur, I embrace the journey that has shaped who I am. My early struggles taught me resilience, my ventures instilled a sense of independence, and my parents’ support provided the foundation for my confidence and self-esteem.
To all the women out there, remember that your journey is unique. Embrace every challenge, every victory, and every lesson. Build your confidence brick by brick, and never forget to chase your dreams. If I can do it, so can you.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Bombom do Brasil: Empower Your Every Move
Are you constantly searching for clothing that balances practicality with femininity? Then Bombom do Brasil is your dream come true! That’s exactly why I created Bombom do Brasil—an activewear brand offering stylish and sensual leggings designed to fit your dynamic lifestyle.
The Bombom Magic
Our leggings are far from ordinary. Crafted with high-quality fabrics that provide UV50+ sun protection, and featuring folding waistbands, body shaping, and side pockets, they blend style with functionality. Each pair is lovingly made in my family’s workshop in Porto Alegre, Brazil, ensuring the highest care and quality.
Feel Confident, Feel Unique
Moving to California in 2012, I noticed a gap in the market for leggings that emphasized feminine sensuality. Bombom do Brasil fills that gap, offering designs that are limited in quantity, making you feel special and exclusive. These leggings aren’t just clothing; they’re a confidence booster.
Sustainable and Stylish
Our commitment to sustainability is as strong as our commitment to style. Our fabric factory in Brazil uses natural gas and reuses 100% of water in our treatment plant, holding an international Oeko-Tex certification. Durability means you buy less and waste less, promoting conscious consumption.
Loved by Celebrities
From talk show hostess Luciana Gimenez to singer Lucy Alves, celebrities adore our leggings. They symbolize style, sensuality, and empowerment, and it’s thrilling to see influential women embracing our brand.
Join the Bombom Movement
If you value practicality without compromising on style, Bombom do Brasil leggings are your perfect match. Step into a world where fashion meets functionality, and sensuality meets sustainability. Embrace your body, your style, and the confidence that comes with wearing Bombom do Brasil leggings.
Stay connected for updates on our latest products and special promotions. Follow us on social media (@Bombomleggings) to join the Bombom do Brasil community. Empower your every move with Bombom do Brasil – you deserve it.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Essential Skills I Had to Learn
Graphic Design: This skill is crucial for creating eye-catching content in marketing, social media, and content creation. It helps you communicate ideas visually and attract attention.
Financial Management: Knowing how to manage finances is essential for budgeting, tracking expenses, and making smart financial decisions. It ensures financial stability both personally and professionally.
Image Consulting: As an image consultant, I guide clients in dressing to achieve their goals. Understanding fashion and personal style helps enhance appearances and boost confidence.
These skills are diverse and incredibly useful in various aspects of life, showcasing creativity, self-sufficiency, and the ability to add value.
Tips for Developing These Skills
Use Online Resources: Explore free or affordable tutorials, courses, and forums. Learn from experts and connect with others on the same journey.
Practice Regularly: Improvement comes with practice. Experiment with new techniques and styles to find what works best for you.
Seek Feedback: Don’t hesitate to ask for advice from experienced individuals. Join communities, learn from their experiences, and seek constructive feedback to grow.
To master any skill, be proactive and dedicated. Embrace learning opportunities, practice diligently, and seek guidance. This approach will significantly enhance your skills and knowledge, benefiting both your personal and professional life.
What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?
In today’s fast-paced world, one of the most significant challenges I’m facing is the rapid rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The technology has arrived with such speed and complexity that it can feel overwhelming, especially for someone like me with no background in tech.
The sheer volume of things you can do with AI is astonishing, but it also adds to the challenge. However, recognizing the importance of this technology, I’ve decided to face it head-on. I am currently dedicating my time to researching various AI courses to identify the best fit for my needs and how I can effectively integrate this knowledge into my business.
The journey of learning AI starts with understanding its foundational concepts. I’m exploring different online platforms that offer comprehensive courses tailored for beginners. These resources break down complex topics into manageable lessons, making it easier for non-tech individuals like myself to grasp the essentials.
It’s not just about learning the theory; it’s about how this knowledge can be applied practically. I’m particularly interested in how AI can enhance my business operations, from improving customer service to optimizing marketing strategies. The goal is to leverage AI to drive efficiency and innovation within my company.
To ensure I’m on the right track, I’m also seeking advice from experts in the field. Joining AI-focused communities and forums allows me to connect with professionals who can offer valuable insights and guidance. Their experiences and recommendations are instrumental in helping me navigate this new terrain.
While the challenge is daunting, it’s also incredibly exciting. Embracing AI means staying ahead of the curve and positioning my business for future success. By committing to continuous learning and adaptation, I am confident that I can overcome this challenge and turn it into a significant advantage.
In conclusion, the rise of AI presents a steep learning curve, but with the right resources and a proactive approach, it’s an obstacle that can be overcome. By dedicating time to research and education, and seeking expert guidance, I’m ready to harness the power of AI to drive my business forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.Bombomleggings.com
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/bombomleggings
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Bombomleggings?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@bombomleggings
Image Credits
Photographer: Alex Matt
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
