Selena Gomez’s mom Mandy Teefey is hitting back after a male investor allegedly made a remark that diminished her achievements.
Teefey, who is 48 years old, took to Instagram on Monday, March 10th, to share her recent experience. She recounted being in a business meeting where an investor made a remark, suggesting that her greatest achievement was giving birth to Gomez, who is 32 years old.
Starting her post with a message to fellow female entrepreneurs, Teefey shared a throwback photo of herself holding a baby Gomez. She advised women to stay strong in the face of discrediting comments and to use such situations as motivation.
Reflecting on her journey with Wondermind, Teefey acknowledged the challenges she has faced while fundraising for her dreams. She emphasized the importance of believing in oneself, even when doubts arise, and noted that despite the hurdles, she has remained committed to giving her all to her pursuits.
Teefey wrote, “I had a pitch, we nailed it, I was the only woman in the pitch. The investor went on and on about the other players and looked at me and said, ‘And Mandy, you gave birth to Selena.’ I took a minute and just laughed while saying,’Yes, hell yes I did and [Gomez’s sister] Gracie and [13] Reasons Why and Wondermind and I must say, that’s a bigger accomplishment [than] being charismatic.’”
“‘I’m a mom, CEO and co-founder to a company that is made to better people’s life,’” the entrepreneur continued. “Don’t try to shame me or downplay motherhood. I’m quite happy with how my life turned out. I hope he gets happy with his and learn to respect all people and not Bro out to get the courage to attempt an insult. Missed the mark, my guy.”
Teefey gave birth to Gomez when she was just 16 years old and served as the singer and actress’ manager early in her career. Since then, Teefey has partnered with Gomez to executive produce Netflix’s 13 Reasons Why through her production company, Kicked to the Curb, and cofounded the mental health organization Wondermind with her daughter.
“We hope to be the one-stop shop for all aspects of mental fitness. We have taken an unexpected and innovative chance on the way people can understand and participate in a creative foundation to show anyone that a shift is possible,” Teefey said in an April 2022 press release announcing Wondermind. “Far from medical or preachy, we’ve struck a balance between education, media and self-reflection that truly inspires growth.”
“Every person has their own mental health journey. If we ignore them, glamorize them or hide them from the world, it doesn’t change that the journey is very real,” added Gomez. “Wondermind is extending a larger mental health conversation that began for so many during this pandemic.”
