SEMLA and the Faculty of Advocates

The Scottish Ethnic Minorities Association (SEMLA) and the Faculty of Advocates jointly hosted a networking event in the Advocates Library on 12 September 2024. The popular event was attended by advocates, solicitors, students and other legal professionals. The event aimed to create opportunities for attendees to build and strengthen their professional networks, celebrate and support emerging talent in the legal sector and promote inclusivity at the Scottish Bar.

The two organisations have collaborated in the past, including the launch of Faculty’s Lord Hope Scholarship, aimed at alleviating financial restraints when training to become an advocate.

Barney Ross, Clerk of Faculty, said “If the Faculty of Advocates has a long and proud  history and tradition of providing access to justice for the people of Scotland, then it is equally true that – for our organisation to continue flourish in the future – it is vital for us to be able to encourage and attract lawyers of ability, from the greatest diversity of backgrounds and professional experiences,  to consider a career at the Bar”.

Usman Tariq KC, co-founder of SEMLA, said: “We were delighted to work again with Faculty. I was encouraged to see such a diverse group of attendees at the event from those studying law to those in senior positions in the profession. There is a famous quote: “You can’t be what you can’t see”. I am confident that events such as these connect those at the start of their legal journeys with visible role models in the profession and at the same time help those in the profession build their networks. SEMLA looks forward to organising more events and working with Faculty again.”