INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY 2023 | #EMBRACEEQUITY

EMILY STENBERG

MODEL

What stigmas or adversities have you experienced in your career, industry or life that you would like to see dismantled? A stigma I would like to dismantle is the insecurity women face within my particular industry. Over the years, I have seen one distinct misconception; the belief that women are not supposed to be each other's friends but are meant to be competition. Insecurity is a deep-seated issue for many women and girls. I tell myself, 'they are only like this because they have insecurities or feel threatened by my presence' however, this is not the case. Each woman is beautiful in their unique way. The unspoken competition pushes us against each other, creating internal discomfort and a lack of confidence. This issue needs to be dismantled at an interpersonal level, starting with women looking within themselves to address whatever makes them feel the need to compete. Industry leaders must also lead by example to help push this incorrect narrative. Women and girls must empower one another, work together, and not be against each other. 

If you could have dinner with an inspirational woman, dead or alive, who would they be and why? Amy Winehouse, I feel so inspired by her. Amy is a woman that has battled mental illness and substance abuse throughout her life and succeeded in her music. If I were sitting across from her, I would love to ask her how she did it, how she used the bad to create the good, and if she ever had a point where she thought she wouldn't make it. Amy is so inspiring to me because even though she consistently struggled, she still slayed and did her best until her death. She put everything into her art. 

Emily wears the Vivienne Organic Cotton Trapeze Midi Dress in Optical White.