Ana Thompson

I attribute my success to being raised by strong women and the invaluable mentorship I’ve received from my mother-in-law, Prudence, and my aunt Marlise. Their guidance, combined with a deeply instilled work ethic and a commitment to persistence, has shaped the way I approach challenges and opportunities in both my personal and professional life.

The best career advice I’ve ever received comes from two incredible women who have shaped my life and career. First is my mother-in-law, Prudence Thompson, a true force of nature. Prudence has been an inspiration not only through her family life but also her career. She approaches every challenge with confidence, determination, and humor, always ensuring the job is done right. People seek her out directly because they know her experience and knowledge are unmatched. Her example of leadership, dedication, and heart drives me every day, and I hope to emulate her as I grow in my own career.

I also owe a great deal to my aunt and fairy godmother, Marlise Zonta, who helped raise me alongside my mother and served as a father figure in my life. She taught me practical lessons in professional behavior and business etiquette, from the importance of a confident handshake to approaching work with persistence and integrity. Marlise has always guided, inspired, and supported me, and I am deeply grateful for the impact she’s had on both my personal and professional growth. Together, these two remarkable women instilled in me a strong work ethic, confidence, and the drive to lead with both competence and compassion.

Their guidance continues to shape the way I approach my career and the way I strive to support and mentor others.

The advice I give young women entering this industry is simple: Be bold. Take up space. Speak with confidence, even when your voice shakes. You belong in every room you walk into.

I was raised by powerful women, my mother and my aunt, who taught me resilience, strength, and how to stand tall no matter who doubts you. Don’t let anyone make you feel small. Find mentors who truly support you. Know your worth, and never negotiate it away.

This industry may be male-dominated, but that doesn’t mean it defines you. Work hard. Stay sharp. Be undeniable. When you rise, you’re not just building your own legacy; you’re kicking the door open wider for the women coming next.

Right now, the most significant challenges in my field are the age bias, the lengthy interview processes, and companies that have been under budgeting for salaries. Another challenge is balancing the responsibilities of motherhood while reentering the workforce, especially when doing so in a different country. At the same time, these challenges present opportunities: to advocate for greater equity, mentor other women, and help create systems and workplaces that support diverse talent and work–life balance.

Resilience, determination, and family are at the core of who I am. My husband Jake and our son are my foundation. I love creating activities/toys for him from scratch and bringing creativity into our home because those small moments matter most.

Returning to work after maternity leave has been one of the toughest times of my life. Balancing my ambition with the reality of someone else caring for my son is not easy, but with the support of my family, I stepped back into my career stronger than ever.

I want my son to grow up watching his mother build something meaningful, stand confidently in her industry, and never hold back her dreams. As I help build our family business, I am also building the example he will carry with him for the rest of his life.