Olivia Padilla

Associate Digital Marketing Manager

The 2023 theme for International Women's Day was Embracing Equity. What does embracing equity mean to you personally and professionally?

Embracing equity means to me understanding and uplifting everyone’s unique differences. No one person is the same—we’ve all grown up with different backgrounds, different family dynamics, different opportunities presented to us along our career journey. There is no one size fits all when it comes to addressing the needs of everyone (personally and professionally). In celebrating International Women’s Day, and Women’s History month, it’s our responsibility to acknowledge this fact and open our minds to the diversity that surrounds our everyday lives. We all have a part to play in embracing equity.

Which woman inspires you in your life and/or career and why?   

My mom. She has always shown what it means to be a strong, independent, and driven woman. She showed me that there’s nothing you can’t accomplish if you keep your head up and stay true to yourself. If I’m ever doubting myself, whether it be personally or professionally, I know I can always turn to her for support. And for a reminder that I am capable, no matter how scary something may seem in the moment.

How can we better support women in the workforce?   

Highlight and uplift women outside of just Women’s History Month. Continue this conversation year-round and create actionable ways to Embrace Equity. Some specific ways to support women in the workforce outside of equal pay, include providing resources that encourage flexible working environments, some of which we already have here at OWI! Such as, paid family leave, remote work, flexible start/end times, etc. It goes beyond the direct day-to-day interactions with women—if we can be supported more broadly, we’re allowed the capacity to fully be our best selves in the workplace.

What career accomplishment are you most proud of?   

I’ve been with OWI a little over a year now, and I’d say I’m still learning every day. A career accomplishment I’m most proud of is the transition I made from my previous role to where I am now. I came from a national nonprofit focusing on the prevention of child abuse and neglect and never considered my next career move would be for an automotive company. I went out of my comfort zone in joining OWI, and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

What does Women’s History Month mean to you? 

Women’s History Month means to me, taking a step back and celebrating the women in our lives and the women who have made great strides for us in history. It means acknowledging how far we’ve come in women’s equality but also knowing that there’s still so much more work to do, because there is. It can be easy to get overwhelmed and wonder where to start or where you can help—but starting small is still starting. Still helping.   

Best advice you’ve ever been given? 

Life is short, do what you love.