Special Counsel Sam Jackson speaks about diversity and barriers with the Law Institute of Victoria

Workplace Special Counsel, Sam Jackson, along with three other lawyers, recently spoke with the Victorian Law Institute Journal to celebrate, and advocate for, diversity in the legal profession and to also talk about some of the barriers they’ve faced in their careers – whether it be in completing their degrees, making the connections they need to get that first job or dealing with unconscious bias or outright discrimination.

In Sam’s own words:

“You can't be what you can't see. Growing up as a young disabled kid in Tasmania, I didn't have any lawyers, doctors or executives with disabilities to look up to and show me what was possible.”

“We aren't all born to be Paralympians, so it is so important to show young disabled Australians that anything is possible, regardless of the path you choose. The powerful stories shared by Idil Mohamud, Karri Walker and Khoodadad Mohammadi show the importance of being proud of and talking about our diversity in the legal profession. But also recognising we still have a long way to go.”

“The important and potentially career defining role that can be played by mentors comes through so strongly in each of their stories. Thanks to the LIJ, Karin Derkley and the leadership shown by LIV President, Sam Pandya, for giving diversity in our profession the prominence it deserves.”

The full article can be read for free here.