Meet The Team

Cassandra witnessed the profound effects of police misconduct, substance abuse, and gang violence in her marginalized community during her upbringing. Driven by a strong desire to aid the vulnerable, she aspires to become a Criminal Defence lawyer, focusing on supporting individuals who have suffered injustices at the hands of the state. 

Cassandra is a passionate advocate with lived experience in sex trafficking, domestic violence, and sexual assault. Growing up in the child welfare system, Cassandra has dedicated her life to fighting for justice and supporting those who have suffered injustices at the hands of the state. Her unique perspective and unwavering commitment drive her efforts to create positive change and raise awareness about these critical issues.

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. 

Maha aims to tackle legal and humanitarian issues pertaining to the Muslim community.

Kareena's legal hero is Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Her impact on society, particularly in the realm of gender equality, is unparalleled. As the second female justice of the United States Supreme Court, Ruth's unwavering dedication to justice and equality created powerful precedents that supported women's rights in a very difficult time. Throughout her career, Ruth advocated for gender equality, fighting tirelessly to dismantle discriminatory laws and practices. Ruth Bader Ginsburg's resilience in the face of adversity and her commitment to justice serve as a beacon of inspiration to Kareena.

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.

Anushka's current inspiration for pursuing a career in law comes from her personal legal counsel, who has been a significant presence in her life since she was 10 years old. He has consistently demonstrated the qualities and principles of a successful lawyer, inspiring her to aspire to similar heights. His influence has shaped her understanding of the legal profession and motivated her to work toward making a positive impact in this field. Another major source of inspiration is her mother, who has always encouraged and supported her. Her mother embodies resilience and determination. Despite Anushka's unconventional educational background, her mother's belief in her potential has fueled her ambition to pursue a career in law. Anushka is determined to achieve her goal of becoming a lawyer, thanks in large part to her mother's unwavering support and guidance.

Tony's legal hero is Manuel J. Ruiz Jr. As the first Hispanic attorney to argue before the US Supreme Court, he not only secured a place in history but also paved the way for other Latinos to pursue a career in the legal field. The arduous journey he led to achieve his remarkable success in a time where racial prejudice against minorities was high demonstrates the value of resilience, commitment, and hope. His contributions to civil rights and advocacy, especially within his fight against urban and rural poverty, reflect his profound dedication to social justice and his belief that law can be a tool for positive change.

Maleeha's grandfather, Muhammad Aslam Saleemi, was a civil lawyer in Pakistan who mostly represented NGOs. He practiced at some of the top courts in Pakistan, including the Supreme Court. He placed huge value on women’s education and always encouraged the women in their family to become leaders in their fields, believing their voices would make waves in today’s society. Just like him, Maleeha wishes to advocate for the underprivileged and campaign for a more equitable society.

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.

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.

​Abrar loves the legal field and hopes to attend law school one day.

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.

Hiba's heroes and inspiration are her parents. There are no words to describe the impact they continue to make in her life. They instilled her with confidence, strength, and happiness. They push her to go after what she wants, and she hopes to achieve that for them.

Jiya has been captivated by the field of law since watching "SUITS" and witnessing Harvey Specter's presence and leadership in every case. His ability to navigate both business and legal realms deeply resonated with her, inspiring her aspiration to develop his confidence and expertise. She has always wanted to make a meaningful impact on others' lives and witness change unfold. Law, with its power to advocate for justice and empower individuals, provides the perfect avenue for her to pursue this passion. Jiya aspires to be a voice for those who seek theirs and contribute to positive transformations within society.

​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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​Onkar's legal inspiration is Nelson Mandela. Nelson Mandela's fight to bring justice and equality to South Africa during apartheid through legal reforms and advocacy deeply inspired him to stand up for others. Despite enduring 27 years of imprisonment, Nelson Mandela always advocated for peace. Onkar hopes to embody Mandela's bravery and resilience in advocating for justice and equality one day.

​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.

​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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​Growing up in a diverse environment in many aspects of life, and witnessing a legal system in Kenya, a 3rd world country, I recognized the importance of Law and regulation as a method of assistance and protection rather than control. Judge Frank Caprio, known from the TV show “Caught in Providence” and a distinguished jurist known for his compassionate and wise approach to justice, is one of the many individuals I look up to as a source of legal aspiration. His unbiased approach, and way of treating each individual with respect as a professional, while also understanding how he as a judge has such a great impact on an individual's life, attentive and empathetic while also performing his duty as a judge diligently, but conveying his verdicts gracefully; that is what I look up to, and will always promote acts of integrity, compassion, and kindness, generally and in the Legal system.

​Kavita's legal inspiration is ingrained in her experiences with social discrimination and exclusion. Growing up as a second-generation immigrant, she faced many barriers within her education due to class, race, and gender discrimination. Becoming immersed with law gives her the opportunity to exceed those barriers and have the means to provide for herself and her family. Through law she intends to escape the means of her youth and fight for those who were once in her position, intended to change the course of her life and as many others.

Muhammad Ali Jinnah, his unwavering commitment to justice and equality, coupled with his strategic legal abilities, serves as a beacon of inspiration for Muhammad in the legal field. His persistent advocacy for the rights of marginalized communities and his belief in the transformative power of law deeply resonate with his own aspirations. Jinnah’s use of legal skills to advocate for the creation of a nation underscores the significant role that legal expertise can play in societal change. His legacy reminds him of the profound impact that dedicated legal practitioners can have, fueling his determination to make a meaningful difference through his own legal career. His example instills in him the values of integrity, resilience, and visionary leadership, as he aims to use his skills for justice and meaningful impact.

Jessica's journey into law is deeply inspired by her immigrant background and 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 our 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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​Tony, as a first-generation immigrant, left a country that was brought to its knees due to a lack of legal structure and an uprising against a corrupt government. Canada was supposed to be the safe place we could trust to have our backs. However, I have come to realize that corruption is everywhere, injustice is all around us, and there’s no running from it but confronting reality and pursuing change.

Hamid's inspiration to pursue law comes from his background in coming from a marginalized immigrant background and the sacrifices his parents made for him growing up. He has witnessed and continues to witness great injustices happening around the world, in his country, and in his community that often provokes a righteous indignation. The outrage of injustice fuels his passion and belief in a justice system that ought to be accessible and inclusive of everyone, and it is this mission statement that guides his belief and work.

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.

​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.

​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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Victoria Perchal is a second-year undergraduate student, who currently serves as an associate editor of the Writ of Certiorari, with the Law and Society Student’s Association (LANDS) at York University. After four years at Newmarket High School, during which she volunteered as a peer tutor and mentor, she graduated in June of 2023 with honours, a French Immersion certificate, a subject award for Excellence in Music, and the Austin Brammer Memorial Award for contribution to the music program. In September of that year, she began her undergraduate studies in Law and Society at York University. She is fluent in Polish, English, and French. She has volunteered as a leader with scouts since 2019, where she currently serves as a local commissioner in Scarborough, and she is a self-employed private music teacher. She has held her current executive position with LANDS since July of 2024, and will be starting Political Science as a second study major in September 2024.