Date published: 24th October 2024

This innovative program is designed to encourage young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, BAME communities, and other minority groups to explore and pursue careers in law. 

This initiative is designed to address the underrepresentation of these groups within the legal profession by providing them with the necessary inspiration, resources, and support to consider a future in law.  

Through engaging and informative school visits, the Diversity Collective wants to break down existing stereotypes about the legal profession and showcase the diverse career paths available to aspiring lawyers. By doing so, Jackson Lees hopes to inspire a new generation of legal professionals reflective of our society and the Merseyside community. 

What is the Inspiring Law Initiative?  

The heart of the 'Inspiring Law' initiative involves members of the Diversity Collective visiting secondary schools throughout the Merseyside area. 

These visits feature interactive presentations specifically designed for students in year 9 and above. The presentations challenge preconceived notions about the legal profession and introduce students to the many paths available within the field of law. 

The presentations cover a broad spectrum of topics, including: 

  • The roles of barristers and solicitors 

  • Various types of law 

  • Expectations vs reality of what a lawyer looks like  

  • Why pursuing a legal career can be rewarding 

On 23rd October 2024, the initiative's first presentation was delivered at The Academy of St Nicholas in Garston, Liverpool.  

The session was led by both Abishna Arunprakash, Covid Caseworker & Head of the Diversity Collective, and Zita Kiszko, Trainee Solicitor & a member of the Collective. 

Both teachers and students provided glowing feedback, praising the presentation for being both engaging and informative. 

Speaking on the Inspiring Law Initiative, Abishna Arunprakash, Covid Caseworker and Head of the Diversity Collective, said:  

 I am over the moon to announce the launch of ‘Inspiring Law’, an initiative that is very close to my heart.” 

“Coming from an underrepresented background, I know the challenges of entering the legal field and frequently felt there was no one who shared my experiences or represented my background.” 

“I believe it is important for the younger generation to see the evolving diversity within the legal sector and understand that a career in law is accessible, regardless of your appearance or social background.” 

Looking towards the future 

The goal of Inspiring Law is to send a powerful message to Merseyside's youth: regardless of race, disability, gender, background, or circumstances, they too can aspire to become lawyers. By showcasing the diversity within Jackson Lees, the initiative aims to help students see themselves in the legal profession and build the confidence necessary to pursue such careers. 

The Diversity Collective is eager to continue delivering presentations to more schools in the coming months and years. We believe that each session represents another step toward a more inclusive and representative legal profession. 

Schools interested in participating in the Inspiring Law initiative are encouraged to reach out to the Diversity Collective at Jackson Lees via email at diversitycollective@jacksonlees.co.uk.