Mastering life's lessons takes time, so we asked accomplished Troy women about their journey from eager beginners to thriving professionals. Here, they reflect on life and business, offering advice to aspiring women — including their younger selves.
Michelle Choice, Event Sales Manager, Fogo de Chao
“In my 20s, something that mattered way too much to me was my title, Director of Catering and Events. What I didn’t realize is, the value and fulfillment that comes with success isn’t found in the title on your business card; it’s in the daily grind and people that surround you. Often in motherhood you hear, ‘It takes a village.’ Well, it also takes a village in your personal and professional career. I find myself closer to 40 than 20 and one of the greatest successes I find, looking back, is the people that helped pave the way for me to be where I am today. Without those in your corner cheering you on, you won’t achieve the same way. My biggest supporter is my husband. I can’t imagine my current work-life balance as a soon-to-be mother of two, wife and professional without a partner being my loudest cheerleader. Maybe yours is your mother, co-worker or neighbor, but we all need a cheer squad.”
Sheila Denstaedt, Vice President, Troy Chamber of Commerce
“I’ve been fortunate to learn valuable lessons from leaders and mentors whom I deeply respect. However, the most significant lesson I’ve learned is the importance of showing respect to everyone within an organization, regardless of their role, and learning that no task is ever beneath your position. This mindset allowed me to experience every aspect of the roles I’ve held. I firmly believe that to be an effective leader, it’s crucial to understand and appreciate the work of every position within the company. I’ve had the opportunity to clean bathrooms, carry cases of water and even set up displays much larger than myself. Each of these tasks, while seemingly small, has reinforced my understanding of their importance to our collective success, giving me a deeper appreciation for the dedication and hard work of all team members. This shaped my approach to leadership. All roles play a part in driving organizations forward. Respecting each contribution is essential in creating a cohesive, successful team.”
Ruksana Salam, Owner, The DRIPBaR
“For aspiring businesswomen, my advice is this: Be unapologetically ambitious — get it, girl! Find inspiring mentors, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Trust your instincts but also be open to feedback. Remember, success is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay focused, driven and never underestimate your own potential. If I could whisper something to my younger self’s ear, it would be this: ‘Give yourself some grace.’ I was so driven, determined to prove myself, that sometimes I’d forget to breathe. I held myself to impossible standards, constantly comparing my progress to others, but their timeline is not yours. Stop putting so much pressure on yourself to figure everything out immediately. Trust the process. Things have a way of working themselves out, even when it feels like they won’t. Be kind to yourself.”
Special thanks to Jeffrey Jucewicz, Jeffrey Floral Architecture, for inviting our Women Of Troy to mingle amongst his collection of life-size topiaries. Jucewicz, a natural-born creative, started as a hairstylist in 1981. His talent even took him to the set of Kelly and Co., doing makeover shows and styling Marilyn Turner’s hair. His boundless creativity bloomed to floral design in 2007, becoming florist to Art Van Elslander and the Townsend Hotel, before pivoting to custom planters for luxury homes and businesses. Adding an unparalleled element of opulence to his business, Jucewicz became the exclusive Michigan distributor of these awe-inspiring sculptural Bacho topiaries. To learn more about Jeffrey’s magical work, visit JeffreyFloral.com or call (313) 570.0737.