A great event on 8 November showcasing opportunities for all of our black female undergraduates and recent graduates
WCAN x Travers Smith Annual Law Conference 2023 is focuses on empowering young black female talent aspiring towards careers in Commercial Law
The Women in the City Afro-Caribbean Network (WCAN) is proud to share the remarkable success of our recent law conference, hosted in collaboration with our Gold Sponsor, Travers Smith, and supported by other esteemed sponsors including Slaughter and May, Mills & Reeve, TLT LLP, Baker & McKenzie, and PMC. This event was a testament to the strength of our mission to empower black female university students and recent graduates who aspire to thrive in the commercial law sector.
Our event was a dynamic and inspiring law conference aimed at empowering black female university students and recent graduates aspiring to excel in the field of commercial law. The event featured a comprehensive agenda designed to educate, encourage, and facilitate meaningful connections within the legal profession.
Setting the Stage
Following a delicious breakfast, the event kicked off with an engaging icebreaker, instantly fostering a sense of camaraderie among attendees. It was evident from the beginning that this conference was not only about gaining knowledge but also about building a supportive network and finding inspiration in the journey ahead as many black women need during their entire career.
Travers Smith's Opening Presentation
As a Gold Sponsor, Travers Smith delivered a compelling presentation that highlighted their commitment to diversity and inclusion in the legal sector. They emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive workplace and providing opportunities for black women to thrive in commercial law. They also highlighted the aspects that differentiates them from their peers such as there no billable hours policy.
Keynote Speaker: Akma Paul Lambert, Litigation Partner
A true highlight of the day was the keynote address by the remarkable Akima Paul Lambert. Her passionate speech left a lasting impression, touching on her personal journey and the challenges she overcame to reach her current position. Her address candidly and honestly described her journey to find a comfortable middle ground between being her authentic self and being taken seriously in the corporate world. The Q&A session that followed allowed attendees to interact directly with a trailblazer in the field.
Mastering the Application Process
Attendees then had the opportunity to participate in sessions aimed at honing their application skills, with a focus on drafting successful applications. These sessions were invaluable for those looking to secure coveted positions in commercial law firms.
Networking Lunch: A Feast for Connections
The networking lunch was a delightful occasion where attendees mingled with peers, sponsors, and speakers. It provided an ideal platform for forging connections and gaining insights from seasoned professionals.
Crushing the Case Study Challenge
The "Crush Your Case Study" session, led by Senior Associate "Success with Steph", equipped attendees with essential skills and strategies to excel in case study interviews. The guidance offered was practical and empowering.
Black Women in Law Panel
Another highlight of the afternoon was the "Black Women in Law" panel discussion. Featuring Heidi Jempeji from Travers Smith and trainee solicitors Toju Adelaja, Kehinde Oyebola, and Brittany Laryea, this panel offered a candid and insightful exploration of the challenges and triumphs experienced by black women in the legal profession. It offered a realistic approach for the women to see where they could be within months if they approached this recruitment season with focus.
Closing Remarks and Networking Session
The event concluded with closing remarks that left attendees inspired and motivated. It also marked the beginning of an extended networking session, allowing participants to connect with their peers, panelists, and sponsors. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm, empowerment, and anticipation of the opportunities that lay ahead.
In summary, Travers Smith's Law Conference, as a Gold Sponsor of WCAN, not only provided black female university students and recent graduates with a wealth of knowledge but also created an environment that nurtured diversity and inclusion. Attendees walked away with valuable insights, practical skills, and a network of supportive contacts. This event was not just an opportunity; it was a pivotal moment in their journeys toward success in securing vacation schemes and training contracts within commercial law. We look forward to seeing the positive impact that this conference will undoubtedly have on their futures and will hopefully be reporting on this via the Blog by the end of the academic year.
Gratitude to Our Sponsors
WCAN extends its heartfelt appreciation to all of our sponsors, whose unwavering support made this empowering event possible:
Travers Smith: A special thank you to Germain VanGeyzel and Travers Smith for their exceptional commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the legal field.
Mills & Reeve
TLT LLP
Slaughter and May
Baker & McKenzie
Penningtons, Manches & Cooper
Your sponsorship not only made this event a reality but also demonstrated your dedication to creating a more diverse and inclusive legal community.
WCAN have many more follow ups to this evening including our Insight Evening and also our Law Dinner - if any firms or women want to get involved just shoot us an email at info@wcan.uk and sponsorship@wcan.uk!
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