“As a professional woman of color, I would like to leave a legacy of knowingness — that the next generations know that they are worthy, they matter, and that everything is possible because they are limitless.” — Dr. Shirley Madhere

Oftentimes, when we reflect on ourselves internally and talk about what makes us “us” and how we define “success” as a brand, the team has always come to an agreement that one of the greatest contributing elements — is YOU, our beloved customers who have touched our hearts and inspired us.

That’s why we’ve decided to start a series on our blog to shine the spotlight on the empowering women from our #MSCommunity. And today, we’re starting with Shirley Madhere — the first customer to return for a second Deco Travel Jumpsuit order!

Read on to learn more about Shirley, a plastic surgeon based in New York City who promotes beauty from within, and our Inspiration of the Week. 

Q: Please tell us a little about yourself. 

A: I was born in Haiti and have lived in New York since I was one year old.  My multicultural background has helped to shape who I am and whom I am working to become.  Studying science, literature and language led me to pursue a career in medicine.  I am a plastic surgeon whose practice is founded upon a holistic approach — that beauty emanates from within and is complemented by the external.  In living a full life, I also enjoy traveling, reading, learning, and collaborating. 

Q: What is something you've achieved in the past that you're very proud of? Why does the achievement mean so much to you?

A: Through hard work, perseverance, sweat, and tears, I achieved a career in plastic surgery.  I am grateful to have helped to forge a path forward in this field. Also, last year, I launched a podcast, Forever FAB, that is dedicated to fashion, wellness, and beauty.  It felt important for me to launch it as it marked my moving beyond my comfort zone into something new to express myself in a way different from what I am accustomed to. In creating a platform where I may speak my truth and connect with others is, for me, an act of self-empowerment.

Q: Who is your role model and why? How has your role model influenced you?

A: I draw inspiration from a number of people.  In general, these attributes move me: compassion, generosity, courage, knowledge, resilience, honesty, and love.

Q: What influence do you wish to have on the younger generation?

A: As a professional woman of color, I would like to leave a legacy of knowingness — that the next generations know that they are worthy, they matter, and that everything is possible because they are limitless. 

Q: If you can time-travel to go back 10 years and tell yourself something, what would it be?

You are more than enough.

Q: What is the favorite piece you've ever purchased from Marta Scarampi? Why is it your favorite and for what kind of occasion(s) do you wear this item?

A: Travel has always been one of my passions and one of the ways that I learn about people, cultures, places, and myself.  Fashion also is one of the things that I enjoy and use to connect with others, as I do with travel. During the pandemic, travel was rendered inaccessible.  After I read about the Marta Scarampi's travel jumpsuit, I was immediately drawn to it.  I saw the jumpsuit as a way to facilitate my safe participation in two of my passions.

Q: Anything else you'd like to share with the #MSCommunity?

A: Lead with love.

We at #MartaScarampi are so thankful for Shirley’s time and willingness to share her story with us. We can’t wait to introduce more inspiring women from our #MSCommunity with you!

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