A Journey to Showing Up With Power
I had the privilege of photographing Valerie (Val) Paverd, a new Partner in the New York office of BCLP She shared some of her story.
“My practice focuses on digital transformation and outsourcing. But ‘what’ I do isn’t as important as ‘how’ I do it. My approach is very collaborative, and I work with teams to problem-solve and build networks to drive innovation and create positive change.
What does that mean? Typically, my clients are undertaking complex tech transformation programs with goals like optimizing customer experience, improving organizational functioning, and establishing partnerships to create exciting new solutions. I believe it is crucial to establish a deal process that intentionally builds trust and drives value for both sides— key aspects needed for the program to achieve the ‘cool stuff’ it promises.
I consider myself a Transformation Enabler and a Figure-It-Outer and I find change and transformation fascinating. Humans face change constantly. Sometimes it happens and we resist, but sometimes we seek it out. I am in the 'seeking phase' right now.
Looking back, my childhood self was very vocal, unafraid to be seen and heard. UNDOUBTEDLY ME. But over time, I grew quieter, less bold. I felt unsure and more concerned about other’s opinions. Unwelcome change! And I know I’m not alone in this experience.
Into adulthood, and even professionally, I sometimes found myself hesitating to speak up or struggling to break into a conversation. Other times, I’d speak and somehow seem to go unheard. I’ve even been called out as “too quiet”. Now, I DO believe there is a time to listen—something I am very good at. In my practice, listening can be a superpower because it’s needed to build the narrative for success. But assumptions are made when you aren’t always talking, particularly as a woman: you’re not a leader, not creative enough, you’re just a note-taker.
The battle to be heard in the conference room isn’t a new issue, but it persists for many of us. In this next stage of my career, speaking up and making room for others to do so is a priority. As I advocate for my clients, I intend to do the same for myself and to push to create spaces where other humans fighting for the ‘mic’ no longer have to.
Essentially, my personal rebranding will answer the question: where can I (and we) show up in power?
At BCLP, I believe I have a platform to successfully achieve my goal. The firm has a demonstrated history of supporting female and diverse attorneys—with many in established leadership positions. They’ve even instituted ‘BCLP Podium’, a bespoke leadership communications program for next-gen women lawyers from BCLP and its clients.
I was also very fortunate to have connected with Alissa. When I saw her headshots on LinkedIn, I knew I had to work with her. In every image, Alissa captured the bold ‘me’ that I want to convey to the world – a bit of class, a touch of rockstar, and a whole lot of butt-kicker. Thank you, Alissa!"