A very good [morning/afternoon] to all of you,

Thank you so much for having me here today. It’s truly an honor to stand before
such a promising group of young minds and future lawyers who will one day shape
the legal landscape. Coming from a background where discipline, resilience, and a
commitment to service were instilled in me from a very young age. I was taught
that nothing worth having comes easy, but with determination, hard work, and a
focus on the bigger picture, anything is possible. Those lessons laid the foundation
for my own journey into law, and as I look at all of you today, I see that same
spark, the same drive, courage, and potential.

Today, as we celebrate Women’s Day, we take a moment to acknowledge the

incredible contributions of women who’ve come before us and those who continue
to break barriers in fields like law. But this isn’t just about women; it’s about
everyone here, the students, the future of our legal system. Women have indeed
had to overcome significant challenges to make their mark in this profession, but
it’s important to remember that success in law, or in any field, isn’t about where
you come from or who you are. It’s about your abilities, your commitment, and
your passion for justice.

While today’s focus might be on celebrating the achievements of women, this

message is for every single student in this room, whether you’re male, female, or
identify in any way. Success in law comes from hard work, integrity, and the
courage to stand up for what’s right, no matter who you are. Your strength will be
measured not by the obstacles you face, but by how you face them, how you rise to
defend the truth and use your skills to make a difference in society.

When I think back to my own days in law school, I remember how overwhelming
everything felt at first. The pressure of exams, the weight of all the knowledge
you’re expected to absorb, and the constant feeling of being under a microscope.
There were times when I seriously considered giving up. But every time I hit a
wall, I reminded myself of my purpose, the belief that law isn’t just about passing
exams; it’s about fighting for what’s right, ensuring fairness, and standing up for
those who can’t do so for themselves.

The road ahead will challenge you in ways you never imagined. You’ll question
your choices, you’ll wonder if it’s worth it. But I can assure you, it is. The legal
profession isn’t just about memorizing statutes or acing exams. It’s about using
your voice to stand up for justice, to protect those who are vulnerable, and to make
a tangible impact on people’s lives. It’s about fighting for fairness, even when the
odds are stacked against you.

I know that many of you are first-generation law students, and I want to tell you
that’s a monumental achievement in itself. It means you’re breaking new ground,
setting new standards, and challenging old norms. You’re not just building a
career; you’re creating a legacy, for your family, for your community, and for
those who will follow in your footsteps. Yes, it can feel daunting at times, but the
very fact that you are here means you already have what it takes to succeed. And
even if you sometimes feel like you don’t belong or wonder if you’re out of your
depth, I want you to remember this: being the first means you bring something
fresh and valuable to the table. You are resilient, determined, and driven by
purpose, qualities that will carry you far.

I know from my own experience how lonely and tough this journey can be. I didn’t
come from a family steeped in law, so there were plenty of moments when I
doubted myself, times when the pressure seemed unbearable and I thought, “Am I
really cut out for this?” But as I look back now, I realize that every single
challenge, every sleepless night, every moment of doubt, it wasn’t a roadblock. It
was a stepping stone. It was during those tough times that I grew the most, both as
a person and as a professional.

And let me tell you this: every great lawyer I know has faced their own struggles.
The difference between those who succeed and those who falter isn’t the lack of
setbacks. It’s about perseverance. It’s about pushing through those difficult
moments and keeping your eyes on the prize. And that’s where you, especially as
first-generation law students, have a unique strength. You know what it means to
fight when the odds are against you. You’ve learned to carve your own path, and
that resilience will serve you, not just in your legal careers, but in every challenge
life throws at you.

I won’t sugarcoat it, it will be tough. But here’s the thing: the toughest roads often
lead to the most rewarding destinations. The legal profession demands a lot, but it
also gives back so much. You will have the chance to shape lives, to advocate for
justice, and to make a real impact on the world. In a society that often feels
divided, the law can be a unifying force, a way to ensure fairness and uphold the
rights of everyone, no matter their background.

I know there will be times when you feel alone, especially when you look around
and see others who seem to have more advantages, more resources, more
connections and more support. But I want to remind you, you are not alone. Look
around this room. You are surrounded by peers who share the same dreams, the
same challenges, the same goals. You will form bonds here, bonds that will last a
lifetime. You’ll find mentors who believe in you, professors who will guide you,
and colleagues who will become your lifelong friends. The legal profession has a
strong sense of community, and that will be one of your greatest assets.

As you continue your journey, always remember why you’re here. Law is a
profession that demands intellect, precision, and skill. But it’s also a profession
that needs compassion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Never
lose sight of the bigger picture, the reason you chose this field in the first place.
When things get tough, and they will, remind yourself that you’re not just studying
to pass exams; you’re training to be a voice for the voiceless, a protector of the
innocent, and a defender of justice.

In closing, on this Women’s Day, I urge you to remember that your success, both
as lawyers and as people, will not be defined by your gender, your background, or
where you come from. It will be defined by your commitment to excellence, your
passion for justice, your love for the law, and your ability to work tirelessly to
make the world a better place. As you face the challenges ahead, know that you are
not alone. You are part of a community of students, mentors, and professionals, all
working toward the same goal, to make a meaningful difference through the law.

I have no doubt that each of you, regardless of gender or background, has the
potential to make a lasting impact in this profession. Your journey is just
beginning, and I can’t wait to see all the amazing things you will accomplish in the
years to come.

My heartiest best wishes to all of you - the aspiring lawyers of tomorrow!