We are celebrating International Women’s Day by highlighting successful women who inspire us daily. We sat down and talked to three successful women who are pioneers in their own fields and they shared with us the best career advice they’ve ever received and the lesson they want all young women to know.

ModelCo CEO and founder, Shelley Sullivan started ModelCo with the aim of creating something for women before they know they want it. Putting innovation and smart beauty at the forefront of her business, she has successfully grown ModelCo into a successful, global beauty brand.

Shelley shares with us the best career advice she’s received and the lesson she wants all young women to know.

Who are the women in your life that have inspired you and why?

I am constantly inspired by other female entrepreneurs and the hard work, dedication, commitment and passion that emanates from them, particularly in the fashion and beauty space as I know how it is to compete and create a point of difference in such a crowded market. My work ethic mentor would have to be my mother. She instilled a very strong work ethic in me from a very young age. I was definitely inspired to work hard and reach for my success based on the upbringing I had. To this day, mum still works in the MCoBeauty and ModelCo businesses!

Best career advice you’ve received.

Never be afraid to take risks, or make mistakes; you learn from everything that doesn’t go to plan!

What are the words you live by?

My motto is to never give in, never give up and never take no for an answer. If you know you’re onto something, keep pushing for it until you get there.  Oh and also trust your instinct – it has never failed me before!

What’s a lesson you want all young women to know?

Understand the business that you are going into. Surround yourself with people who have more knowledge than you and who can guide you through the process. Work out the funds you need to start up and then double them!