Can you tell us a little about your journey into law and what inspired you to pursue this career?

I grew up in Zimbabwe and moved to Scotland in 2019 to pursue a career in law. I completed my LLB and postgraduate diploma in professional legal practice at the University of Edinburgh, before beginning my training contract with Shepherd and Wedderburn in 2024.

I chose to pursue law because it sits neatly between principle and practicality. It’s a profession that demands intellectual rigour, yet ultimately serves a human purpose by helping people, businesses and societies move forward with confidence. The ability to balance critical analysis with empathy is something I found quite unique about law.

In what area of law do you practise, and what drew you to it?

As part of my training contract, I have rotated across different practice areas – completing seats in private wealth and tax, rural property and business. I am currently in banking & finance.

Growing up in Zimbabwe and starting my legal career in Scotland, I was particularly drawn to the international and collaborative nature of commercial law. I find that this area of law has a unique way of connecting people, markets and perspectives across different cities and countries and this is something I truly value.

What does it mean to you to be a Black lawyer in Scotland today?

Being a Black trainee solicitor in Scotland is both a privilege and a responsibility. Diversity within the legal profession is still a work in progress, which makes my presence in this space feel significant. At the same time, I recognise that with visibility comes responsibility. This motivates me to support and encourage others who aspire to follow a similar path. I hope that my presence in the legal profession shows that your identity and skin colour is not a barrier, but it is a strength that brings valuable perspective and richness to the profession.

What has been the proudest moment in your legal career so far?

One of my proudest moments has been starting my training contract with Shepherd and Wedderburn. Having taken part in a number of work experience opportunities with the firm during university, I was confident that I was joining a firm whose values aligned with my own. Beginning my professional career at one of Scotland’s leading law firms is a significant achievement and a moment of real pride. It represents a big milestone, not only for me, but also for my family and friends who have supported and encouraged me throughout the journey.

What does Black History Month mean to you personally and professionally?

In a personal context, Black History Month is a time of reflection, gratitude and taking pride in your identity. It reminds me that the opportunities and rich culture we enjoy today came from the sacrifice and creativity of those who came before us. It is also a time to celebrate not only historical figures, but also the everyday people who continue to inspire and advocate for a more diverse society. It serves as a reminder of how far we have come and how much further we can go together.

In a professional context, Black History Month offers an opportunity to highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion within the workplace. It encourages us to have meaningful conversations that might not happen otherwise. It also encourages us to think creatively about how we can continue to promote genuine inclusion across the profession.

Is there a Black historical figure or someone from the profession who inspires you in your work, and why?

Dame Linda Dobbs was the first Black woman to be appointed as a High Court judge in the UK. Not only did she break barriers, but she did so whilst earning respect for her fairness, integrity and commitment to justice. She has been a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in the legal sector and has played a key role in mentoring and inspiring aspiring legal professionals.

Her journey inspires me to approach my own career with purpose, confidence and the understanding that progress within the legal sector is not just personal, but collective. She has shown that every step forward helps create space for others to follow.

Looking ahead, what changes would you like to see in the Scottish legal sector in the next 10 years?

Scotland has seen encouraging progress in diversity in recent years, and I would like to see the legal sector continue to become more reflective of the society it serves. It would be empowering to see greater diversity at every level, from trainee solicitors through to partners.

In the years ahead, it will also be important to focus on improving accessibility to the profession. We are fortunate to have influential organisations such as the Scottish Ethnic Minorities Lawyers Association, Black Professionals UK, 10,000 Black Interns and other organisations that strive to promote diversity and inclusion within the workplace. I hope their continued efforts and excellent work will continue to help open more pathways into law for aspiring solicitors.

A more inclusive legal sector will allow the profession to continue to grow from strength to strength.