Meet Boudewijn Smit, the new Chair for SFNet’s Emerging Leaders Program. Boudewijn is a Dutch law qualified attorney working in NautaDutilh’s New York office. While Boudewijn joined the Emerging Leaders Committee in 2023, his impact extends back to 2021 when he helped found the European chapter’s Yo-Pro division. Excited to lead the group, Boudewijn shares what motivates him as a person and a leader, his goals for the group moving forward, and who would be on his SFNet Mount Rushmore.

What is one surprising thing most people would be interested in learning about you? 
I’m really an open book; I’m not sure that there is a lot that would surprise people. I assume the most surprising thing is just how deeply loyal I am. I’ve known my husband for 15 years, I’ve been with my company for 16 years and I’ve had some of the same closest friends since Kindergarten.

If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you be? 
A Flight Attendant. It combines two things I love: traveling and working with people. It is such a unique way to learn about different cultures.

If you could have lunch with someone famous, who would it be and why? 
New Zealand’s former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. Her campaign was run on the principle of kindness. Most people see that as a weakness, but she was able to switch the narrative into a strength. She showed she was open to learning and she was ok with showing vulnerability.

What is your goal for the Emerging Leaders group? 
I am focused on inclusion – I want to lower barriers for people to join and I want to demystify the profession. I hope more people utilize the resources available, whether that is a SFNet activity or education opportunity. Everyone should feel like they belong.

What would you title your biography? 
“A Life of Paradox.” I’ve always felt that who I am as a person doesn’t fit what people expect from an attorney, but I’ve learned that people appreciate my uniqueness and that those differences actually make an impact.

Quote you live by? 
“Kill them with kindness.” In the nicest way possible of course.

If SFNet had its own Mount Rushmore, who would you choose to be on it, based on the impact they had on your career?

Kathleen Parker – I feel like no explanation is needed. Kat is the embodiment of what the Emerging Leaders division strives to be.

Elizabeth van Schilfgaarde – Elizabeth is an amazing manager and mentor, who first introduced me to SFNet.

Terry Keating – He was the moderator at one of my first SFNet panels and he really focused on the importance of the views of young professionals as we are the future. Terry’s comments lit a fire in me to really make my voice heard and make an impact.

Jason Miller - Jason has invested an incredible amount of time and energy in mentoring me as part of the SFNet mentor program. I learned a lot from him and I value the knowledge he has given me.

SFNet's Mount Rushmore -  Pictured left to right: Jason Miller, Terry Keating, Elizabeth van  Schilfgaarde and Kat Parker.

Quick-Fire Round

Books, Games or Movies? Movies

Early Riser or Night Owl? Early riser on weekdays; night owl on weekends

Favorite Emoji? Heart

Pen and Paper or Electronic communications? Pen and paper

Monday meetings or Friday meetings? Monday

Online shopping or in-person shopping? In-person shopping

Apple or Android? Apple