March 8th is International Women’s Day, a time to recognize the social and economic achievements of women across the world. In celebration, Cranson Capital’s Antonella Brogno-Miceli, connects with influential women in leadership to discuss the opportunities and challenges faced in their careers in this interview mini-series.

For over 35 years, Margit Hefele and Marlene Makowka have broken industry barriers, as the leading forces behind an award-winning interior design firm, Hefele Makowka Design Associates Inc. Their commitment to meet every need for every client has yielded trusted, long-term relationships with major developers and corporations, impacting some of the most prominent buildings across Canada.

ABM: Why did you choose to work in interior design? What made you want to open your own design firm?

MH: I always was intrigued and fascinated by the creative processes of Architecture and Interior Design, even as a child I was drawing floorplans and rearranging my dollhouses. This led me to study and graduate in Architectural Technology in Germany after high school where I also worked in structural engineering. After immigrating to Canada, my first job was working for a large insurance company in Montreal where I was given the opportunity to assist on their office renovations and new construction projects throughout North America, which opened the door for me in interior design. When Marlene and I met in 1986, we quickly became best friends, sharing similar visions and goals about our professional future.

MM: I was always drawn to artistic and creative things in life. I studied at the University of Manitoba after high school and was quickly drawn to the school of Interior Design. Many years ago, Interior Design was not a well-recognized profession, in the market, it was considered a luxury, but now things have changed so much that many people consider it a need. Because of this, when I first started in the industry, there were not many job opportunities. When I met Margit and our values were so aligned, taking the next step to opening our own firm felt right. We were determined to succeed.

ABM: What makes you proud to be a part of the design and real estate industry?

MH: I’m extremely proud that our firm is a major contributor in creating functional and innovative environments that work for all kinds of people – from residential to corporate to senior living communities. It is a great and very satisfying feeling to see the result of our work, as well as very happy clients.

MM: HM Design is fortunate to have a diverse portfolio of projects which are showcased across Canada. We are a part of numerous developments and major landmarks that make an impact and can be enjoyed by many people. One of our favourites was the historical restoration of the James Cooper Mansion in Toronto.

ABM: What lesson did you learn that shaped your career?

MH: My thorough, technical training from Germany was a huge asset in kick-starting my career in North America. There were some barriers along the way and adapting to the different Canadian lifestyle and different ways of working in the construction industry was at times a challenge. I was very fortunate to receive strong mentorship and guidance from my superiors and colleagues in my early professional years.

MM: I learned early on not to put all my eggs in one basket. To be diverse enough to survive through a recession or lose a client. Persevere and look on the bright side of all challenges to find the lessons.

ABM: What does the International Women’s Day Campaign #BreakTheBias mean to you?

MH: To achieve equality without bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. Collectively we should strive to support women’s equality and break the bias in communities, workplaces, and schools - everywhere.

MM: Margit and I can honestly say, we broke the bias a long time ago, and keep doing it every day. Breaking the bias is about looking for the opportunity in everything. Never close the door to possibilities because of what stereotypes say.

ABM: What do you think is the most significant barrier for women in leadership?

MH: Women leaders are still a minority in the business world. They are often required to serve in multiple roles, as primary breadwinners and primary caretakers of the household. We need to provide women with more opportunities to find acceptable work/life balances.

MM: Balance and empathy are key. We see this changing a lot, when we are hiring now, the majority of the candidates are females that work and have full family lives and fit everything into very busy schedules. It’s been a slow change and there is still a lot more to be done so women can have it all.

ABM: What is one piece of advice you would give to a young woman starting out in the design industry?

MH: Be persistent, diligent, and work hard, especially in the beginning of starting your carrier. Always be honest and fair towards your clients, your team, and follow your dream.

MM: Be open to every possibility that comes your way and take chances, because you are in charge of shaping your own future.

ABM: On International Women’s Day, what is the most important message you want to share with young women?

MH: There is really no limit to what we as women can achieve if you set your intentions and work towards your goals. With opportunity and perseverance, women can go beyond gender biases.

MM: Find what you are passionate about and chase it. You can have it all.