Mother’s Day is a day to celebrate motherhood and show appreciation for not only mothers but caregivers, from (great-) grandmothers, stepmothers, foster mothers, to mother figures. Being a role model and caregiver requires daily commitment and attention - regardless of gender – it requires courage, hard work, and perseverance through adversity. This Mother's Day, we celebrate ALL the people in our lives who have shown us how to be the best versions of ourselves.

At dentsu X, we are proud of our continuous work in creating an inclusive and dynamic environment, where every employee can bring their unique self and strengths to the forefront. We strive to ensure all our employees are empowered to be their best self in the office and beyond. This includes supporting our parents in every way we can, whether it be offering an extensive parental leave, caregiver leave, therapy, and specialist support in adoption and surrogacy to make parenthood accessible to all those that wish to partake in the journey.

It's the shared and differing experiences that bring our people together and bring to life the best work.

This Mother's Day, we are proud to highlight some of the caregivers at our agency who are the foundation for their families and have helped to build the foundation of dentsu X.

What is the biggest challenge/benefit to working from home and being a parental figure? 

I get to make my daughter breakfast, get her ready for the day, walk her to school and greet her when she comes home at the end of the day. I missed most of the experiences of her first two years of life because I spent countless hours in the office each week.  I’m building core memories for me and for her now and I love it. 

- Malena Bustelo, EVP Managing Director

My favorite part about being a working mom from home is that our mornings are not chaotic. My 3-year-old and I get to eat breakfast and watch TV together in the morning before our nanny arrives. The quiet 1x1 time is the best beginning to often very busy days.  

- Rae Wixom, Associate Director, Programmatic

How does being a parent/role model for young children influence your leadership style?

I hope that my empathy, patience and understanding in my leadership style are a result of being a parent to three wonderful children. Throughout my entire career, I’ve had to multi-task, become creative and manage a work-life balance and it is important to me to support my team members that are working mothers (and fathers) as they navigate through the same thing. My children have also influenced me to work hard and set an example for them as they grow into adults and enter the workforce.

- Heather Gundry, SVP, Local Investment

How do you explain your job to the young children in your life?

Being a strategist, I have told my son that it is my job to help people buy and discover things that they need. It has helped to curb his constant desire for new toys because we can then talk about whether he needs them, or just has an impulse for something new. 

- Alexandra Scebold, Director, Strategy

Who has been an influential mother figure or role model in your life that has had a lasting impact on you?

Leah Meranus has been an inspiring force. When her little one pops on the screen demanding attention, it is a nice healthy reminder that she understands firsthand what many of us go through. She holds it together with grace but knows when it’s time to shift gears.

- Kristen Baker, VP Planning

How has dentsu supported you as a working mother/parental figure?

Dentsu has always been understanding, flexible and forgiving when it comes to parental sacrifices, and I appreciate that more than anything. 

- Malena Bustelo, EVP Managing Director