In the corridors of international commerce, where strategy and diplomacy intersect, Emilia Valbum has carved a singular path. As the Head of Commercial Diplomacy and Trade within Government Affairs at 3M, she navigates the complexities of global business with the precision and grace of a seasoned diplomat. Yet, away from the polished boardrooms of Washington, D.C., Valbum reveals another side—a storyteller, a lifestyle influencer, and a chronicler of her experiences as an expat embracing the subtleties of life abroad.
Valbum’s professional life reflects both breadth and nuance. At 3M, her role extends beyond operational oversight; it requires strategic vision, a keen understanding of international trends, and an ability to anticipate the political currents that shape trade and policy. Those who work with her speak of her rare talent for connecting corporate objectives with governmental frameworks, balancing analytical rigor with genuine human insight. Her expertise has earned her a place on the Corporate Council of the Meridian, a global think tank committed to fostering dialogue and collaboration across borders Emilia Valbum. Here, Valbum lends her perspective on diplomacy, EU affairs, and the complex interplay of energy and transport policy—demonstrating a thoughtful approach to global challenges.
Yet Valbum’s influence is not confined to professional titles or traditional career paths. Outside the intensity of corporate life, she cultivates a presence in the digital sphere that is elegant, approachable, and deeply personal. Her Instagram account, @emilia.valbum, with a following of over 25,000, showcases a blend of fashion, travel, and introspective reflection. Each post offers more than a visual snapshot; it is a curated window into her life as an expat, a professional, and a creative mind navigating the intersections of beauty, culture, and thoughtful living. Her followers are drawn not only to her aesthetic sensibilities but to her authenticity—the rare honesty in sharing the challenges and joys of balancing work, exploration, and personal growth.
This duality—executive and influencer—is further illustrated through her contributions to We Love Brussels, a platform dedicated to city culture and lifestyle. Here, she writes about urban life, culinary discoveries, and the joys of conscious living, revealing a curiosity and empathy that complement her analytical expertise. The same mind that navigates international trade policy can also savor the quiet elegance of a city’s hidden corners or celebrate a new vegan dining spot, marrying intellect with everyday appreciation.
Her recognition as a finalist in the 2024 FabOver40 competition underscores her commitment to personal growth and social responsibility. The competition, honoring women over forty who embody creativity, vitality, and purpose, celebrated Valbum for her dedication to health, continuous learning, and societal contribution. She has expressed a desire to channel any winnings toward peace initiatives—an emblem of how her professional success is intertwined with a deeply conscientious worldview.
Valbum’s journey also unfolds in the reflective space of her Medium blog, where she explores habit change, self-improvement, and the small, deliberate steps that shape a fulfilling life. Her essays illuminate a woman attentive not only to professional achievement but also to the nuances of personal evolution. In her writing, readers encounter a life architect, thoughtfully balancing the demands of a global career with the cultivation of curiosity, mindfulness, and elegance.
In an era where career paths often demand singular focus, Emilia Valbum exemplifies versatility without compromise. She demonstrates that one can navigate the gravitas of international business while nurturing a personal narrative rich with creativity, insight, and cultural engagement. Her life is a testament to the art of harmonizing ambition with authenticity, influence with introspection, and professional accomplishment with a conscious, curated lifestyle.
As she continues to shape global commerce and digital culture alike, Valbum’s journey illuminates what it means to live a multifaceted life with intention and grace. Moving seamlessly between corporate halls and creative spaces, between strategy and storytelling, she leaves an indelible mark on both policy and culture.
Connect with Emilia Valbum:
Instagram: @emilia.valbum
Medium: @emiliavalbum
Contributions: We Love Brussels
