In our "Meet the Team" series, we introduce you to the incredible people who drive Raw Stadia's success. Next up is Valeria, who brings a unique blend of creativity, adventure, and a passion for performance optimisation. Let's get to know her better.
Can you tell us a little about your background and what brought you to join our team?
Absolutely! I’m originally from the vibrant and colourful country of Peru, where the culture is as rich as the food. After earning my Master’s degree from UHasselt in 2023, I was on the lookout for a place that felt like a perfect match for my passions and skills. That’s when I heard about Raw Stadia through a close friend and former classmate. During our studies, I worked on a project for another startup at Corda Campus and was struck by the energy and innovation there. I remember thinking, "Wow, it would be incredible to be part of something like this!" Fast forward a year, and here I am—excited to contribute to Raw Stadia’s growth and be part of this dynamic team.
Do you have any previous experience or projects that you're particularly proud of and would like to share with us?
I’ve had an interesting journey coming from a sales background in the tourism industry—a field that’s fast-paced and constantly evolving. This experience has taught me how to wear many hats, and I’ve had the opportunity to take on large-scale projects where I was involved in everything from negotiations to sales, operations, accounting, and even marketing. One project that stands out involved revamping the sales strategy for a hotel chain. It was a whirlwind of coordination, but seeing the strategy come to life and boost our sales was incredibly satisfying.
Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies or interests?
I’m a bit of an adventurer at heart! Travelling is my absolute passion, and I’m always on the hunt for the most unique and far destinations to immerse myself in new cultures. There’s something magical about stepping out of your comfort zone and opening yourself up to different perspectives and ideas. I’m also a foodie to the core—after all, I’m Peruvian, and we’re known for our incredible cuisine! I love cooking and trying out new dishes, whether it’s in my kitchen or at a hidden gem of a restaurant. And yes, I firmly believe Peru has the best food in the world!
Is there anything unique or unexpected about you that you think the team would find interesting?
Here’s a fun fact: I’ve been hired to do cooking classes, both on and off-camera! So, if anyone on the team ever wants to learn how to whip up a delicious Peruvian dish, I’m your person. Beyond that, I’m always up for an adventure—I’ve swum with sea lions, gone bungee jumping, paragliding, and rafting. Life’s too short to not chase a little thrill every now and then, right?
What excites you the most about your role here?
What truly excites me about my role is the daily challenge and the chance to be both creative and think strategically. One moment I’m brainstorming innovative ideas, and the next I’m tackling complex issues head-on. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the tangible impact of my work, knowing that my efforts are contributing to the success of Raw Stadia and making a positive difference in the sports industry. I love that I’m given the opportunity to take projects from concept to completion, often without a predefined path. It allows me to forge my own way, research optimal outcomes, and continuously learn. And let’s be honest, learning new things and sharing that knowledge with others is what keeps me energized!
What are some of your key strengths or areas of expertise that you bring to the team?
One of my key strengths is my ability to maintain focus on the end goal, even when juggling multiple tasks. It’s easy to get overwhelmed when there are so many moving parts, but I pride myself on keeping a clear vision of the objective. My background has trained me to prioritize effectively and manage my time to ensure that everything aligns with the overall strategy. I’m also a creative thinker, always looking for new ways to approach a problem and bring fresh ideas to the table. This blend of focus and creativity is something I believe helps me support the team.
How do you envision contributing to the team's goals and objectives?
I’m really excited about the opportunity to help solidify the Raw Stadia brand in a way that truly reflects our values and forward-thinking vision. My goal is to ensure that our brand resonates not just with our current audience but also with new markets and demographics. I want the world to know about the incredible work this team does in enhancing sports performance and reducing injury risks. By aligning our brand strategy with our growth objectives, I hope to play a key role in driving our mission forward.
Are there any specific challenges or opportunities within your role that you're looking forward to tackling?
Absolutely! I’m particularly eager to explore new markets and expand our presence into uncharted territories. There’s a world of opportunity out there, and I’m thrilled at the prospect of bringing Raw Stadia’s message to new continents and sports. This isn’t just about growing our business; it’s about breaking new ground, learning new skills, and challenging ourselves to think differently. I’m ready to take on these challenges with enthusiasm and a bit of fearless innovation!