Today, we’re thrilled to feature Rumsha Syed-Waterman, a first-time mom and operations manager who’s learned to manage it all—work, motherhood, and self-care—with grace and style. Rumsha’s story shows how multi-tasking beauty products can help you look and feel amazing, even with a toddler in tow!

Let's catch up with Rumsha

As a first-time mom with a busy work schedule, how do you manage to incorporate beauty into your routine without sacrificing time?

Honestly, with a toddler, time is of the essence! Simplifying my routine is key, meaning minimal or multitasking products that still make me look alive and put together. It’s important to prioritize that time—even if it’s just 5 minutes!

What’s the biggest change in your life since becoming a mom that you didn’t expect?

How much I worry and never turn off. As a mom, I’m my baby’s comfort and home, and he always wants me. Sometimes, I just watch him sleep and think about his future—it makes me so emotional. It’s scary to have a piece of you in this world, and I just want to protect him forever.

What’s the funniest thing your baby has done that totally threw off your day?

My baby has a habit of putting his toys in anything that looks like a box. One day, I went to throw out the recycling, and to my surprise, everything under the recycling was his toys! I ended up using a ladder to fish them out of the big bin—definitely wasn’t expecting that! I’m more mindful of where he puts his toys now.

What’s your ultimate beauty hack for looking fresh-faced, even when you’ve been up all night with the baby?

Hydration, moisturizing, and coffee! Hydration is so important for your skin, and even if you haven’t slept, your skin will thank you for all that water. Making sure my skin is moisturized and hydrated is essential for looking well overall. And then there’s coffee for support, of course!

If your baby could describe you in three words, what do you think they’d say?

That my mom is my best friend, my comfort, and fun! At least that’s what I hope!

What’s your ‘mom-on-the-move’ beauty product that helps you stay polished, even with a toddler in tow?

Honestly, I’m super basic. I’d say Embryolisse Lait Creme Concentrate is a staple in my house. I use it every day, along with a good lip balm, especially in this Canadian climate. And of course, Loola’s Multitasking Hybrids —they give me that pop of color in an instant when I need it!

What’s your advice to other first-time moms?

Believe in yourself and set your boundaries! As a first-time mom, it’s so easy to doubt yourself because it’s new territory. But mom instinct is real—use it! Motherhood is the toughest but most rewarding job in the world. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and remember, it’s okay not to know everything.

Also, set boundaries! People forget that not only is there a new baby in the world, but also a new mother. Everyone wants to see the baby, but the mom needs attention too! Stand up for yourself and set boundaries for your well-being. It’ll be your saving grace on this new journey.

In this edition, we’re excited to feature Bolatito (Tito) Alawode, a Merchant Success Manager at Shopify and Co-founder of MyChopChop.ca, a one-stop shop for African groceries. She’s not only an entrepreneurial powerhouse but also a beauty lover who embraces simplicity in her routine. She's passionate about making life easier for busy people, offering convenient access to African groceries. It all started with wanting to simplify the process of getting authentic African ingredients without the hassle of searching all over town.

Let's catch up with Tito

How does "More with Less" apply to your hectic beauty routine?

Simplicity is key for me! I rely on multi-purpose beauty products that save time, like a lipstick that doubles as a gloss or blush. I don’t have time for long routines, so I focus on products that offer versatility without compromising on results.

What’s the most rewarding thing about running MyChopChop.ca?

Knowing that I’m helping people save time while preserving their culture through food keeps me motivated. It’s rewarding to know that I’m making life easier for so many people.

What’s the weirdest or funniest question you’ve gotten from a client in your role?

One time, a customer asked why the goat he’d been cooking for over 25 minutes wasn’t soft enough! It was hilarious and completely unexpected. I had to explain that it takes a lot longer to cook goat meat properly!

What’s the one product in your makeup bag that you can’t live without?

I can live without many things, but I always have my lip gloss in my bag. It’s the perfect quick touch-up, and I love how it can give my look an instant boost.

If you had one extra hour in your day, how would you spend it?

I would definitely sleep! But on a more serious note, I’d probably use it to exercise more. Finding time to work out can be challenging, so that extra hour would make a big difference.

How do you ensure your self-care doesn’t suffer when managing multiple roles?

I prioritize setting boundaries and carve out intentional time for myself, even if it’s just a few moments a day. Sometimes, it’s taking a walk around the block or meditating, but I always make time to do something that makes me feel good.

What’s your guilty pleasure when you need a break?

When I need a break, I’m either binge-watching Netflix or reading a book on my Kindle app. There’s nothing better than unwinding with a good show over ice cream!

What advice would you give to other busy women balancing career and side hustles?

Prioritize what truly matters and delegate when possible. Stay organized, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. It’s okay to share the load—no one can do everything alone.