Meet The Team

Ray-yan’s legal inspiration is shaped by the challenges his parents faced to bring him a better life. Having two immigrant parents journey from a third-world country to start a new life in Canada has profoundly shaped his judicial aspiration. Witnessing their resilience in the face of societal and governmental challenges, often compounded by their immigrant status, instilled in him a deep appreciation for justice and equality. His parents navigated a complex landscape of prejudice and bureaucratic hurdles, all with the unwavering goal of securing a brighter future for their children. Their perseverance in the pursuit of a better life has motivated Ray-yan to advocate for fairness and ensure a legal system that functions for all, regardless of their origin and background. 

Isra's legal hero is Amanda Nguen for her tireless advocacy in championing the rights of sexual assault survivors. Through her work, Amanda not only successfully lobbied for the passage of the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Bill of Rights Act in the United States but also founded the organization Rise to empower survivors worldwide. Amanda’s unwavering dedication to justice and her ability to effect legislative change serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for Isra, showcasing the power of one individual to make a profound impact on the legal landscape and society as a whole

Diya's inspiration for pursuing law stems from her desire to have the opportunity to make a difference in people's lives through the law. She aspires to advocate for the underrepresented and ensure their voices are heard through the legal system. Her strong sense of equity and justice serves as a daily motivation to strive for the change they wish to see in society.

Sephrah’s legal inspiration stems from her community, particularly among those who have made a lasting impact within the legal field. One person that Sephrah admires for her strength and resilience is Violet King Henry who was the first Black woman to become a  Lawyer in Canada. Violet King’s story inspires Sephrah to continue advocating for her community and pursuing future goals. Her story also reminds Sephrah that with determination and dedication, any barriers that may arise on the journey of becoming a lawyer, are possible to overcome. 

Guided by a deep commitment to service and community, Avanna has spent over a decade transforming lives through non-profit work in Belize. As a descendant of immigrants, she is also committed to reshaping the narrative for marginalized communities. Inspired by her late father’s activism, Avanna is driven to confront the over-representation of people of color in the criminal justice system and the under-representation of these communities in the legal profession. With her previous associate of economics degree and her newfound expertise in law, she has gained a profound understanding of how systemic racism generates profit. Avanna strives to be a powerful advocate for marginalized groups by inspiring crucial conversations on race and the law. Through her work she aims to be a representative in spaces where minority groups have been historically overlooked. 

My legal inspiration comes from the intersection between social justice and environmental protection. After watching the film, Erin Brokovich, in highschool, I realized just how big of an impact the environment has on people’s well-being, especially those from low-income communities. It’s no surprise that rapidly intensifying climate change is only compounding the social inequalities that marginalized people are facing, since they face the brunt of its effects. For this reason, I am interested in pursuing environmental law, as it gives me an outlet to protect vulnerable communities and the environment while holding corporations accountable for their actions towards the planet.

Santiago knew from a young age that the world is often unfair. Growing up in Mexico, he was aware of rampant corruption in legal systems and government. This awareness fueled his passion for justice and sparked his desire to pursue a law career since grade 5. Moving to Canada in 2017, he found support and inspiration from individuals, including his uncle-in-law, Karmel Sakran, who immigrated from a third-world country and established his own law firm. Recognizing that the Canadian legal system, though better than Mexico's, is still imperfect, Santiago is driven to make a positive impact. Motivated by his experiences with corruption, his interest in complex systems, and the inspiration from family, he envisions becoming a successful attorney who makes a lasting positive impact in the legal world.

Joel’s inspiration for the law stems from witnessing individuals facing profound challenges within societal structures. Inspired by stories of those who have overcome injustice, he is drawn to fields such as corporate, civil, and medical law. Motivated by the resilience of those navigating systemic challenges, Joel is committed to justice, equality and admires those who advocate for the underrepresented, and aims to use the law to transform society for the better. He sees law as a pathway to make a meaningful impact, ensuring equity and justice prevail.

Nicole’s inspiration to pursue law stems from her determination to help others through legal advocacy for human rights. Throughout her high school career, she had the opportunity to take influential courses where she connected with impactful educators who guided her in learning about pressing social issues, global injustices, and the power of utilizing one’s voice to challenge & change society. Nicole wants to use the compassion she holds for helping others, along with the fairness law can promote when implemented with justice, to harness the power of making an impactful difference in people’s lives.

Noah Richards graduated from Ajax High School in the Durham Region with notable achievements as President of my school’s Black Education Student Team, President of Debate Club, a recipient of the Outstanding Achievement in Canadian and International Law Award, and a 4 time Honour Roll student. Outside of academics, his hobbies are cooking (and eating), playing video games with friends and family, going to the gym, and simply unwinding by binging on TV and watching movies. His inspiration for entering the legal field was to ensure that within a society that often judges him on the colour of his skin rather than the content of his character, he must remain informed of his rights and be able to protect himself and those I care about from prejudice and discrimination. Noah also plans to work and be able to provide for his family and give back to his community in any way he can.

In highschool Caleb always had a strong belief in doing my best for myself, but slowly as he inched closer to his final year in highschool he came to realize that he enjoyed helping people find a reason to smile that much more. This deeply rooted mindset and curiosity in challenging the way others think about helping those who struggle in helping themselves soon became a passion for law and using debate to bring about a sense of principle to those around him. Now as a first-year representative of LANDS, using those communication and leadership skills, Caleb looks forward to continuing to find ways to help where he can but now a legal and social justice in mind. Overall, being the role model that he wanted to see in his community that would show others that they could have an impact on society and reach greatness no matter their origins, is what Caleb hopes to achieve here at LANDS.

Catherine Dudenko is a first-year Law & Society student. Her inspiration for pursuing law stems from her family's immigration background and her passion for justice and human rights. Participating in a co-op in high school has allowed her to gain an understanding of the legal system and delve deeper into criminal law. After watching films like Legally Blonde and Suits, Catherine was inspired to pursue a career in law, despite female stereotypes that could bring others down. She is passionate about participating in debates and collaborating with others to solve injustices. She is fluent in English, French, and Russian. She is highly motivated to make a lasting impact in the legal world.

Brianna’s dream to become a lawyer is a reflection of her self-interests and the events she faced growing up into building her personality. Early in her life, her mother who had to deal with the injustices that came with being a woman at the workplace was a major source of inspiration to her. Her strength and resistance made her embrace her femininity as well as strive to pursue a life in the justice course. She grew up seeing the legal system in her home country the Philippines as corrupted, and this triggered her to pursue law. She always tries to be the change and constantly working towards the change and making sure that there is justice in the society and the law is doing the right thing.

 From a young age, Lucille Milan has been determined to pursue a career in criminal law, driven by a profound sense of justice and a desire to help those in need. Her early interest in the field was strengthened through her volunteer work at a mental health foundation and a criminal law firm, where she gained valuable experience advocating for vulnerable individuals and addressing complex legal issues. These experiences have solidified her resolve to pursue law, with the goal of championing fairness and providing a voice for the underserved.

Liana's passion for law sprouted from the profound impact of influential legal figures such as Heather Lee O’Keefe and Camille Vasquez. As she delved deeper into the realm of law, her passion grew stronger as she saw the significant changes that these, and many other influential figures, were able to accomplish. It wasn’t until beginning her undergraduate studies that Liana was able to fully discover her passion for both business and law. She was captivated by the intricate dance of rules and negotiations that governed the business world and its alignment with the world of law. The blend of strategy, ethics, and intellect within business law resonated deeply with her, igniting a fire that continues to burn brightly in her professional pursuits.

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Arvin's legal inspiration is Clarence Thomas, whose influence on the U.S. Supreme Court has been impactful. As the second black justice to serve on the Court, he advocates for a strict interpretation of the Constitution and emphasizes state rights over federal authority. Clarence Thomas's strong views, particularly on constitutional and civil rights matters, have greatly influenced conservative legal theory in the United States, making him a key figure in American jurisprudence.

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Avyaa, a budding legal enthusiast from Dubai, draws her legal inspiration from a desire to tackle real-world challenges with wit and wisdom. One of her sources of inspiration is Harvey Specter from "Suits," whose confident courtroom presence, sharp wit, and decisive actions make even the toughest legal battles entertaining. Harvey exemplifies the importance of clear communication and strategic thinking, qualities Avyaa aims to embody in her pursuit of legal excellence.

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Her fascination with law goes beyond courtroom drama; it's about using legal acumen to address real-world problems with a touch of Harvey's charm and strategic flair. Additionally, Avyaa's interest in law deepened as she witnessed the global impact of legal issues, from climate change litigation to international trade disputes. Growing up in Dubai, a hub of diverse cultures and legal frameworks, has instilled in her a passion for understanding how laws shape societies and impact individuals. She aspires to leverage this global perspective to contribute meaningfully to the legal field, addressing complex issues with creativity and determination.

Maheen believes that law serves as the bedrock of civilization, providing structure, order, and protection to societies internationally. It binds communities together, offering a framework for resolving disputes, safeguarding rights, and ensuring justice. From upholding individual liberties to regulating commerce and fostering international relations, the law permeates every aspect of human interaction. As an aspiring legal professional, her inspiration lies in the importance of the law in day-to-day life. Embracing this ethos, she hopes to become a custodian of justice, an advocate for the oppressed, and an architect of a more just and equitable world. Maheen strives to make a tangible difference in promoting fairness, equality, and the rule of law through her work.

Abrar's legal inspiration comes from his parents, who immigrated to this country as a Muslim couple. Witnessing their sacrifices and struggles has profoundly shaped him. The resilience and perseverance of both his mother and father instilled in him a strong sense of justice and the importance of community support. As he pursues his legal career, Abrar is committed to making a meaningful impact by helping newcomers to Canada, particularly within his immigrant community, navigate the challenges they may encounter. He aspires to use his legal skills to advocate for their rights and ensure they have the support needed to build successful and fulfilling lives in this country.

Olivia Rossi, a third-year Bachelor of Commerce student specializing in management, has admired the dignified profession of law since she was young. Olivia is inspired by the profession's efforts to support those in need while protecting their human rights. Olivia is driven to apply what she has learned and will continue to learn as she pursues a career in law to contribute to a more equitable society. Olivia is a motivated woman with a keen eye for detail. She has extensive experience studying and working in fast-paced professional environments and possesses good communication and organizational abilities, as well as the ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Rebecca finds legal inspiration in Mia Amor Mottley due to her commitment to bringing about social justice and legal reform in her country. Mia inspires Rebecca to be the best she can be and perform to her highest abilities to accomplish the same.

​Kimberly's pursuit of her journey into the legal field is related to stepping into the forefront of justice, where every word spoken and every action taken holds the power to shape the course of society. Her inspiration comes from her immigration process and how difficult it was going through that process of calling Canada her new home. Through studying law, she gets the honor of becoming an advocate for inclusion, justice, and the promise of a new beginning for all who call Canada home. It gives Kimberly an opportunity to defend the vulnerable, advocate for change, and leave a lasting impact on the foundations of society.

OluwaJuwon was inspired to become a lawyer by the legal system in his country. He witnessed the injustices done to people, both privately and publicly, by individuals within the justice system. OluwaJuwon aims to use the law to bring justice, root out criminals, and defend the innocent, seeking to make a positive change in his community through legal advocacy.

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As a first-generation immigrant, Tony left his homeland seeking safety and stability after witnessing the collapse of a corrupt government and the breakdown of legal order. Canada became my new home, a place he believed would offer a fair and just society. Over time, he realized that challenges like corruption and injustice are not confined to any one place—they exist everywhere. This understanding has fueled his passion for confronting these issues head-on and advocating for meaningful change. Tony's journey has taught him that progress requires not just hope, but action.

​From a young age, Sidak has been fascinated by the world of law and justice. Her childhood interest in legal dramas and stories of people navigating complex legal issues grew into a passion for corporate law as she got older. Coming from an immigrant background, she saw firsthand how legal protections could foster fair business practices and economic growth, which further fueled her desire to pursue this path. This dream has been pushing her towards a career where she can make a real, positive impact in the corporate world.

Justin Chang enjoys looking for his inspiration wherever he can find it because he finds that there’s a bit of everything involved in law; he’s been inspired by the books he’s read, the news he’s watched, the traditions he celebrates, and even the music he listens to. Even the sentiments he holds towards small things, whether law-related or not, have long had a role in cultivating the value he places on fair, reasonable, and rational judgment and upon individual and civil liberty.

Uyiosa Eweka, a second-year criminology major at York University, is deeply inspired to become a lawyer due to her commitment to addressing critical issues such as discrimination, unlawful killings, and systemic injustice. Her passion for understanding these complexities drives her to advocate for fairness and human dignity. Her legal inspirations are Christian lawyers like Bryan Stevenson, who fights for racial justice and the wrongfully convicted, and the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Uyiosa aims to use the legal profession as a platform to challenge injustice and protect the vulnerable. An avid reader, music lover, and enthusiastic debater, she channels her interests in law, politics, faith, and the environment into meaningful insights. Through her studies and personal pursuits, Uyiosa strives to blend knowledge with compassion, making a positive impact on those around her and ensuring justice is accessible to all, not just the privileged few.

Zakia will be entering her third year at Schulich. She aims to specialize in finance and strategic management and is also passionate about corporate law. Zakia's interest in corporate law stems from her fascination with the intersection of business and legal frameworks. The opportunity to protect business rights while ensuring ethical standards are upheld has always captivated her.

​Tiana has always been an outspoken individual, advocating passionately for causes she cares about from a young age. Coming from a marginalized background, she seeks justice and aims to challenge legal barriers that suppress and discriminate against individuals. Tiana's passion for legal advocacy grew significantly after reading the novel "Five Little Indians," which vividly portrays the lives of Indigenous children in residential schools. Learning that the author, Michelle Good, pursued law school and graduated at forty-three to advocate for Indigenous groups deeply inspired Tiana to use her own expertise to amplify their voices and address their pain.

​Dev, as a finance student, appreciates law for its critical role in shaping the business environment and ensuring fair play in the market. Understanding legal principles enables him to navigate regulatory frameworks effectively and safeguard financial interests. His legal inspiration is Justice Elena Kagan, whose background in administrative law and former role as Solicitor General provides deep insights into the interaction between law and economics. Her ability to articulate complex legal and financial principles clearly and persuasively makes her an exemplary figure for someone with Dev's academic interests.

Angelina, in her final year of secondary school during her Canadian and international law course, watched a film. The 2016 movie Denial was a dramatized version of Irving v. Penguin books. After finishing that film, she wanted so badly to do what Anthony Julius did for Deborah Lipstadt, defending academic integrity and creating legal precedent regarding free speech versus historical fact. She wants to be a part of that kind of change, one that improves laws and gives justice to those who deserve it.

Owais, as an aspiring legal advocate, finds inspiration in pursuing justice and empowerment for marginalized communities within the legal system. Fueled by a deep-rooted commitment to fairness and equality, his goal is to set an example for those unheard in the justice system, ensuring they receive the support and representation they rightfully deserve. With a sincere belief in the progressive power of the law to effect positive change, he is dedicated to challenging systemic injustices and delivering legal consistency. By placing the rights and interests of the masked public in front of our community, Owais strives to not only uphold the principles of justice but also contribute to building a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

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As a future lawyer, Jessica Russo's journey into law is deeply inspired by her immigrant background and her passion for justice and human rights. Witnessing firsthand how legal protections safeguard individuals' rights and provide recourse against injustice has fueled her commitment. Studying criminology, public administration, and law has equipped her with a strong foundation to navigate the complexities of the legal system. She is driven to utilize her legal skills to advocate for marginalized communities, ensuring equitable access to justice and upholding human dignity, all with a profound aim to make a positive difference.

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Faridah’s passion for pursuing law stems from her climate advocacy. With the climate crisis intensifying each year, policies are urgently needed to reflect this emergency. Propelled by this fact, Faridah aims to pursue environmental law and make a tangible change that mitigates the effects of climate change. 

Anjali's legal inspiration centers around the realization that laws and policies are not neutral. Unfortunately, many marginalized groups face disproportionate barriers because of systemic discrimination. She was particularly inspired by her experience volunteering for a non-profit organization aimed at empowering people with disabilities. Anjali's goal in the legal field is to help implement accessible services and programs that promote inclusivity.

​Murwa's inspiration to pursue law is tied to her immigrant parents' sacrifices and struggles. They ventured into the unknown to secure a brighter future for her. Witnessing their resilience against discrimination, alongside experiencing firsthand the barriers of race and gender bias, fuels her passion for equality. Inspired by the bravery of those who've battled adversity, she is committed to breaking down these barriers and championing inclusivity. Her goal is to contribute to a society where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive.

Tahreem's inspiration for pursuing law is the awareness of her privileges and the understanding that there are people in the world who, frankly, are more deserving of every opportunity and comfort she has at her disposal. Her background has taught her that although mankind is created equal, not everyone is treated as such. As a result, she considers it a responsibility to those of us with privilege to create a better world for those without it.

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Giselle's legal inspiration is rooted in her desire to advocate for those who feel unheard, particularly children facing adversity. She views the law as a dynamic and powerful tool intended to bring justice and support to those in need. Giselle aspires to become a beacon of hope and guidance within the legal field, striving to make her family proud. Their selflessness and unwavering support have paved the way for her academic opportunities. Therefore, it would be a profound honor for her to commemorate their countless sacrifices by dedicating herself to advancing social justice, carrying on the spirit of their generosity and guidance.

Alisha Chowdhury, a third-year Criminology student, is inspired by Kim Pate, a leading advocate for women's rights within the Canadian criminal justice system. As a former Executive Director of the Canadian Association of Elizabeth Fry Societies, Pate has worked tirelessly to support and empower marginalized women, especially those facing incarceration. Her advocacy for prison reform, fairness, and social justice in the criminal legal system motivates Alisha to pursue a career where she can contribute to meaningful changes in how women are treated by the law. Pate’s dedication to defending the rights of vulnerable women inspires Alisha’s commitment to criminal law and social equity.

Harsheen's legal inspiration for pursuing law stems from her profound belief in the power of legal representation to amplify the voices of marginalized communities. She is dedicated to assisting and advocating for those in need while also upholding justice, equity, and the rule of law.

Kavita's legal inspiration is deeply rooted in her experiences with social discrimination and exclusion. Growing up as a second-generation immigrant, she faced numerous barriers within her education due to class, race, and gender discrimination. Becoming immersed in law provides her with the opportunity to surpass those barriers and secure the means to support herself and her family. Through law, Kavita intends to rise above the challenges of her youth and advocate for those who find themselves in similar situations, aiming to change the course of her life and the lives of many others.

Swati Prabakaran is a second-year student in the Law and Society program, recently recruited to the Special Projects Committee of the Law and Society Club. With a keen interest in legal studies and social justice, Swati is dedicated to exploring how legal frameworks impact societal issues. She brings a fresh perspective and enthusiasm to the committee, aiming to contribute to innovative projects and initiatives that bridge the gap between legal theory and practical application. Outside of her academic pursuits, Swati is actively involved in community service and enjoys engaging in creative activities like painting and pottery. 

Jaspreet finds her passion for law rooted in her deep-seated curiosity about the world and her

desire to contribute to something greater than herself. She draws significant inspiration from

strong, outspoken women such as American politician and activist Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez,

who boldly uses her voice to advocate for those who are often unheard and overlooked within

the legal system. Jaspreet admires AOC's courage and eloquence in addressing controversial

issues and challenging the status quo, even when faced with intense criticism or intimidation.

This dedication to rightfully confronting systemic injustices has and continues to inspire

Jaspreet to pursue a legal career where she aspires to advocate for justice in much the same

way– with integrity and conviction.

Abigail McAdam is embarking on her second year in the Law and Society program. Her legal aspirations are to help societal issues within the community with her strong sense of justice for all and integrity to create peace. She is very interested in the rules and procedures within legal systems. She also finds it empowering to do good to help others who are in need. Abigail feels great responsibility and strives to show integrity and honesty in everything that she does to create inclusivity and equality.

 Growing up as the child of immigrants, Laiba has always been acutely aware of the challenges faced by those navigating a new life in an unfamiliar country. Witnessing her parents work tirelessly to build a better life for her and her siblings instilled a strong motivation in her to strive for excellence in all she does, and made her realize early on that she wanted to give back to her community and help others like her parents. Laiba is committed to becoming a lawyer not just for herself, but to be a voice for those who feel unheard. Her experiences have taught her that the legal system can be daunting, especially for marginalized communities. She wants to advocate for their rights and ensure that everyone has access to fair representation and do her best to make sure justice is served. As a strong believer of God, he is just and fair, possessor of justice and fairness, from eternity to eternity. Laiba wants to carry on God’s work and do everything in her power to help people get the justice they deserve, and empower others through knowledge, empathy and support, just as her parents empowered her through their unwavering dedication.

From a young age, Mustafa has been deeply inspired by the principles of justice and equality at the heart of our legal system. He has always believed that law is not just a set of rules but a powerful tool for social change. Moreover, his passion for law is fueled by the stories of remarkable legal figures who have fought tirelessly for human rights and social justice. Their courage and determination in the face of adversity motivate him to pursue a career in law.

For Soofia, law is more than just rules and concepts; it’s about giving people life and justice. She often asks herself what her goal is in pursuing law, and over time, the answer became clear: to become a lawyer who helps those deserving of justice and provides support to those in need. To Soofia, law is more than a set of rules; it represents fairness and the vision of a better society. Becoming a lawyer is her way of serving her community and fulfilling her commitment to the principles of justice.

Parteek’s legal inspiration is shaped by the struggles and hardships faced by immigrants, and other underprivileged communities. As a first generation Canadian, she noticed that she, and others faced unique barriers when it came to their education, and in other similar environments. This was because of aspects of their social identity such as race, gender, and class. Throughout highschool and university, becoming engaged with law, increased Parteek’s knowledge in regards to her rights and privileges. Parteek hopes to become an advocate for those you do not have a voice, and intends to help those who are underprivileged

Growing up, Bianaca witnessed the impact of legal challenges on family dynamics, which ignited her desire to pursue a career in family law. These lived experiences shaped her commitment to understanding how the legal system influences relationships within families. Her passion lies in exploring the ways legal frameworks can either support or hinder family well-being, motivating her to advocate for fair and compassionate solutions in family law cases.

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Maha’s mother is her legal inspiration, not only because of her strength but also due to the incredible sacrifices she made as a lawyer in Pakistan. She fought for justice in a system that often silenced women, using her voice to defend those who couldn’t defend themselves. When she immigrated, she left behind a promising career but never let go of her commitment to justice. Watching her rebuild her life in a new country while still standing up for others—whether through community work or by teaching Maha the value of integrity—has been profoundly inspiring. She has shown Maha that the law isn't just about rules but about courage, compassion, and never giving up on doing what’s right, even when the odds are against you.

Pooja's legal inspiration stems from her personal experience as an immigrant and the challenges her family faced navigating the system and the law. These experiences have fueled her passion for addressing the lack of representation for minority groups, particularly those who are marginalized and struggle to access proper legal advocacy. Throughout her education, as a 4th-year Criminology and Human Rights and Equity Studies major, she has learned about the several challenges that have disadvantaged minority groups and strives to change that. She is driven by a desire to create a more equitable and just system that ensures all individuals, regardless of their background, receive the legal support and advocacy they deserve.