JKUAT Law Students Tipped on Navigating Legal Careers

JKUAT Law Students Tipped on Navigating Legal Careers
Dean of School of Law, Dr. Stephen Aminga(left), presents a prestigious law journal to the Head of Legal Standard Chartered, Davidson Mwaisaka.

JKUAT School of Law at Karen Campus held a moot court mentorship session on October 18, 2024, to offer valuable insights to law students who are preparing to embark on their legal careers.

The event provided students with an opportunity to learn more about the legal profession, challenges and strategies for success in a relatively competitive industry.

The mentorship comes at a time when the legal profession is under national scrutiny with high-profile cases and legal battles capturing widespread public attention..

The mentorship was provided by the legal team from Standard Chartered, who shared extensive experiences and practical advice on excelling in the legal sector. Topics covered included, navigating career paths, importance of networking, and coping with the ever-evolving demands of the legal landscape.

Dr. Davidson Mwaisaka, Head of Legal Department at Standard Chartered, encouraged students to embrace continuous learning as a vital part of their legal career. He acknowledged that challenges are bound to arise but capacity for adaptability and perseverance could set them apart from their peers.

“In this field, envision who you want to become. Take time to reflect on your aspirations and the type of lawyer you wish to be. Understanding your purpose will guide your decisions and help you stay focused during challenging times. Integrity and ethical responsibility will define your career, and these values should guide you throughout your professional journey,” said, Dr. Mwaisaka.

School of Law students actively engage speakers during metorship session

Dr. Stephen Aminga, Dean of the School of Law, urged students to be determined in their studies. He highlighted the importance of working smart in addition to working hard and the need to focus and pushing oneself to excel, reminding students that success in the legal field requires both effort and strategic thinking.

“The journey to become a successful lawyer is challenging, but don’t lose heart. Keep pushing forward, stay focused, and work smart. The hard work you put in today will open doors for you in the future. Trust in your abilities and remain determined, because success is within your reach if you stay committed,” said Dr. Aminga.

Ms. Evelyne Gachanja, Legal for Wealth, Retail, and Banking in Kenya and East Africa at Standard Chartered, shared insights from her own legal journey. She reminded students that the legal profession is fundamentally one of service, requiring complete commitment and dedication.

“As you embark on your journey in the legal profession, remember it is a profession of service; you must give your all and be prepared to fully commit to your responsibilities. Cultivate a sense of curiosity and never stop learning. Surround yourself with mentors who can inspire and guide you. Their experiences and advice will be invaluable as you navigate the challenges of your career,” said Ms. Gachanja.

Alvin Onchiri, School of Law Representative and a fourth-year law student, expressed his gratitude for the career mentorship during the moot court session. He said, the event was an eye-opener for all attendees and emphasized the importance of guidance from experienced professionals.

“I encourage my fellow students to actively apply the advice given as we strive to achieve our goals. It’s crucial for us to be proactive, seek opportunities, build our networks, and engage with mentors who can help us grow both personally and professionally,  support each other, overcome challenges, and ultimately succeed in our careers,” said Mr. Onchiri.

School of Law students, Legal department, and Standard Chartered pose for a group photo.
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