Change Someone’s World

The amazing Ali McEwen is a driven and successful businesswoman. McEwen launched Baby On Board Apparel in 2009 and now she’s encouraging the entrepreneurial spirit in others. She’s not looking to change the world, but she is looking to change someone’s world. Ali has a wonderfully resilient attitude that is so important for young entrepreneurs to learn. It’s an attitude that is quite impressive. Here’s more from Ali McEwen.

Name: Ali McEwen   

Business Name:  Baby On Board Apparel (BOBA)

Business URL: www.babyonboardapparel.com

Where are you from: Regina, Saskatchewan Canada

Where do you live now: Toronto, Ontario Canada

HappyCrawlers (aka kids with ages): Proud auntie of Bryton (3) and Georgia (1)

HC: Tell us about how your business fulfills you and your dreams. 

Ali: My business fulfills many of my dreams, but one of my biggest dreams is to mentor and encourage entrepreneurship in young women. For the past few months I have been working with a centre in Toronto for teenage moms and dads; developing a program that will encourage, inspire and mentor some of these young moms. Owning Baby On Board Apparel gives me this opportunity to share my knowledge and encourage amazing future entrepreneurs.

HC: Tell us about your lifelong dream.

Ali: I have so many dreams but one dream that I have been dedicated to for a very long time is educating children around the world. I have had the opportunity to teach English in Cambodia, Taiwan and Haiti and with each of these experiences I know the amazing impact that a big smile, a high-five and a hug can do to a child. I don’t want to change the world, just change someone’s world.  

HC: We love that. What helped encourage that type of positive attitude in you?

Ali: I grew up in a family of people who volunteers. My Mom was involved in the art gallery. My dad & brother volunteered at a soup kitchen.  

HC: Most difficult obstacle you had to overcome to do what you love?

Ali: I have faced quite a few obstacles and I know there will be many more, but now instead of getting upset if something didn’t go as planned, I find a solution, change the plan and carry on.

HC: That’s a beautiful attitude…a great one to pass along to young entrepreneurs too.  

HC: Advice to others who might find themselves in similar situations?

Ali: My advice – understand that we can’t control everything and be flexible because things happen for a reason.

HC: What’s the most rewarding aspect of your professional life?

Ali: The people I am meeting along the way and the growth I see in my business and myself. Hard work pays off.

HC: How do you balance family and work?

Ali: Turning off my Blackberry when I am with those I love has made a huge difference in my life balance. I have also become a lot kinder to myself and take time out to enjoy the things I love.

HC: What motivates you to work harder?

Ali: There are several things that motivate me but I think the one that really keeps me going is the vision I have made for my business and my life in the future. Understanding what I want and where I want to take my business helps push me to work hard.

HC: Tell us about a role model in your life?

Ali: My dad has always been a role model in my life. He was a true entrepreneur that built a very successful company and an amazing father. Today he proves to be an amazing business advisor and a fabulous sounding board for me when I need someone to talk to.

HC: Tell me about a role model who you have yet to meet?

Ali: I love Oprah, but who doesn’t? I love her strength and perseverance but most of all I love that she has used her power to bring attention to the importance of education for women in certain nations around the world.

HC: Favorite story about a little happy crawler (aka kid)?

Ali: The day I opened up my email and saw the first ultra sound picture of my nephew Bryton changed my life. He has brought so much joy to my life. It is incredible to think that he is only three. It was my sister’s pregnancy with him and her frustration with maternity clothing that gave me the idea for Baby On Board Apparel.

Is there someone who motivates and inspires you? Who would you like to see profiled on the HappyCrawlers’ blog? Email us at: hello@HappyCrawlers.com with your recommendations. Happy travels!