Women Who Rock: Berluti Master Bootmaker Paula Perier-Latour on Why Empowerment Begins With Listening

Paula Perier-Latour, master bootmaker at Berluti, was honored as part of FN's Women Who Rock 2026 initiative. Perier-Latour stated that empowerment in the workplace, particularly in traditional craft industries, begins with active listening. She emphasized the importance of understanding individual needs and fostering a supportive environment where employees feel heard and valued. This approach, she believes, is crucial for building trust and encouraging professional growth. Her philosophy centers on creating a culture of respect and collaboration, which she sees as foundational to success in any field, including the highly skilled and historically male-dominated world of luxury shoemaking. Perier-Latour's recognition highlights the growing acknowledgment of women's contributions to artisanal crafts and leadership roles within heritage brands.