Today we’d like to introduce you to Azie Aziz.
Hi Azie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I led and curated Womble Bond Dickinson’s Art & Diversity Initiative, a series of rotating art exhibitions organized to engage with local artists and create visibility for them in our Houston office. This rotating art exhibition will feature local artists reflecting their interpretation of select themes during a two-part series annually launching December 2023. The theme for the first series is “Nos Populi: We the People.”
The initial installation, “Nos Populi: We the People,” exhibits works of art that highlight the diverse cultures, perspectives, and identities of Houstonians. The exhibition will bring together works of accomplished Houston artists John Bernhard, Luisa Duarte, Farima Fooladi, and Nel Gaskin, installed across the main floors of Womble Bond Dickinson’s Houston office, recently relocated to the 717 Texas office tower to provide additional office space for its growing Houston legal practice.
The installation is available to be viewed virtually.
Why Art & Diversity- The common thread is that we recognize the importance of diversity and inclusion, and we believe that art can be a powerful tool for promoting the following values.
1. Promoting representation and inclusion: By showcasing the work of diverse artists, we’re sending a message that people of different backgrounds and experiences are valued and welcome at Womble. This can help to create a more inclusive environment where everyone feels seen and heard.
2. Challenging perspectives and sparking conversation: Diverse artists often offer unique perspectives and insights that can challenge our preconceived notions and spark meaningful conversations about important issues. This can lead to a richer understanding of the world around us and foster empathy and connection across different cultures and experiences.
3. Enhancing creativity and innovation: Diversity of thought and experience is essential for driving creativity and innovation. By engaging with the work of diverse artists, Employees at Womble can be exposed to new ideas and ways of thinking, which can lead to more creative solutions and breakthroughs.
4. Supporting underrepresented communities: By featuring diverse artists, we’re not just showcasing their work; we’re also supporting underrepresented communities. This can have a positive impact on the artists themselves, their communities, and the overall cultural landscape.
5. Setting a positive example: By taking a stand for diversity and inclusion, we’re setting a positive example for other companies and organizations. This can inspire others to take similar steps and create a more equitable and inclusive society.
I grew up in Malaysia in a small town called Teluk Intan. I am the first in my family to go to college. I remember understanding quite young that I would have to grow up very fast if I wanted to improve my life.
I have worked so hard to even get to the same starting point as many of my peers. We did not have a television at home, and I remember that the only entertainment available was a textbook from school.
I did not have a professional role model growing up. And the idea of going to college sounded like a foreign concept.
My life changed when I was selected to enroll in a government-funded Fully Residential School, where I learned about going to college.
This Fully Residential School system was established in Malaysia to nurture outstanding students to excel in academics and extracurricular activities.
After graduating from college, I received a scholarship from the national oil and gas company of Malaysia, PETRONAS, to complete my postgraduate degree at George Washington University. I later transferred to University of Minnesota to study Electrical Engineering.
I returned to Malaysia in 2005, and I spent over three years with PETRONAS, where I taught Electrical Engineering and performed research.
While working for the oil company, I opened and ran a Dutch restaurant during the weekends as a challenging hobby.
I moved to Houston in 2008. I decided to stay in Houston to pursue a Ph.D. in Geophysics at the University of Houston.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The biggest challenge was simply that we had never staged an art exhibition before. While I’ve been involved in the arts outside of the office, we still had to learn the logistics of staging an exhibit.
Also, our office is not a public space like a museum or art gallery.
That’s why we made the exhibit available virtually. We want the public to be able to see and enjoy this outstanding artwork.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Professional Work Currently, I am working for a law firm, Womble Bond Dickinson US LLP, as a Patent Agent, helping technology companies to obtain patents for their inventions in a broad range of technologies, including the electrical engineering space.
I feel fulfilled helping companies to protect their inventions.
Volunteer work
I feel fulfilled when I am able to provide opportunities and offering supportive guidance to help others grow.
I am spearheading Womble’s involvement with ADAPT.legal to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the intellectual property profession.
I am leading Womble’s Art and Diversity program by curating local artists to exhibit their artwork at Womble’s Houston office.
I am actively involved with the Asia Society of Texas. I spoke at the Young Leaders Institute.
I am involved with the Menil Collection as a Corporate Sponsorship committee.
What I am proud of
To be where I am today, considering my immigrant background, growing up in a small town in a foreign country.
Proud to be part of Houston legal and creative community
What sets me apart
I am skilled at creating stimulating environments, providing opportunities, and offering supportive guidance to help others grow.
Intellectually curious and never stop learning outside of what I am doing while focusing on the development of others.
I value connectedness and achievement
What does success mean to you?
Ultimately, success for me is about helping others reach their goals. My definition of success centers around the growth and potential of others.
It’s not so much about achieving personal accomplishments as it is about witnessing and fostering the development of others to reach their full potential.
My primary motivation is to help others unlock and develop their potential. I find immense satisfaction in witnessing even incremental progress and am quick to acknowledge and celebrate even the smallest achievements.
I am constantly scanning for opportunities for growth and improvement.
I truly believe in the power of investing in others (time, knowledge, and resources to help others develop their skills and reach their goals.)
I find success in the transformation and blossoming of others. It’s a deeply rewarding experience for me to see people I have invested in flourish and reach their full potential.
I thrive in environments where I can work alongside others to create a culture of growth and development.
All these are reflected in my community work:
Art & Diversity
EMERGE Fellowship
Asia Society of Texas
ADAPT
The Menil Collection
Contact Info:
- Website: www.azieaziz.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azieaziz
- Other: https://www.womblebonddickinson.com/us/art-and-diversity-series
Image Credits
A.D. from Elite Photography
Marlene Valderrama
Chris Gillett
