Gabriela Hearst launched her eponymous line in 2015, strategically growing the brand and making her mark on fashion with luxurious designs and creative details. Her dedication to her art has been widely acknowledged, most recently with the International Woolmark Prize for Womenswear in January.

What is one piece of advice that you would give someone who is at the start of their career?

Nothing in life that is worth it comes without hard work.

Who is your most admired cultural heroine? Why?

There are a few, one being Angela Davis, as well as three new female senators, Kamala Harris, Cristina Cortez Masto and Tammy Duckworth. They are all women who have overcome challenges and prevailed. Angela and our female senators embody the characteristics of the women that inspire me. They are females who have put their strengths towards the service of others.

What moment, in your career or personal life, are you most proud of?

Right now, I am most proud of my team as we stick together and we bond, not only in the creation of beauty which is important as it gives us hope, but also in the integration of what we can do for others.

Women’s roles in society have changed dramatically over the past several decades. How have these changes had a personal impact on you?

I come from a matriarchal family. My mother was about breaking every stereotype possible of what a woman should be. She competed in rodeos at age 18 and then became a second dan of Taekwondo in her 30s. While she was taking care of four kids, she became a Buddhist and broke the record for weightlifting in Uruguay for age 50 and up. She taught us to pursue our passions, no matter what other people think.

What future goals do you have for yourself?

As a citizen and a mother, I work towards the reality we all thought we were stepping into in early November, but had a rude awakening. I think it’s time to fight for what we believe and not take our freedoms for granted.  I repeat two things to myself everyday: “Ignorance is not bliss” and “Your silence won’t save you.”

As a person, I develop myself in every sense creatively, professionally, and personally. I want to be the best I can be at what I do, but I know that’s an infinite path. There is always more work, and the journey is the gift.

Editor’s Note:  In celebration of Women’s History Month, we spoke to several women who have spearheaded their way into the Fashion Industry.  Follow us through our series that highlights the accomplishments and words of wisdom that all of the women had to share.