Our School is delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievement of Dr. Gift Sotonye-Frank, Lecturer and our School’s EDI Lead, who was named ‘Workplace EDI Champion’ at yesterday’s inaugural NI Hummingbird Awards 2025. These prestigious awards recognize individuals and organizations that are making a significant impact in advancing Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion across workplaces and communities in Northern Ireland.x
In a competitive field, Dr Gift Sotonye-Frank was named Workplace EDI Champion for her outstanding leadership in fostering inclusivity at Queen’s University Belfast’s School of Law. Since becoming EDI Champion in 2023, she has implemented impactful initiatives, including establishing the EDI Working Group, advocating for inclusive decision-making, and driving curriculum diversity through resource materials and an EDI module review checklist. She has also tackled BAME underrepresentation in employer engagement, connecting students with legal professionals to improve access and visibility. Beyond the School, her efforts in bystander training, mentorship, and EDI-focused events, such as the Black History Month webinar, highlighted her dedication to creating a more equitable and inclusive environment.
Our School extends its heartfelt congratulations to Gift on this well-deserved recognition. Her success serves as an inspiration to all, reinforcing the importance of advocacy, representation, and the ongoing pursuit of equity and inclusion.
Pictured above: Professor Joan Loughrey (Head of School), Dr Gift Sotonye-Frank (Lecturer/School’s EDI Lead) and Deirdre Timoney (Employability Officer), who nominated Gift for this award.
Five QUB law students were recently selected to attend the annual Lincoln’s Inn ‘Information Afternoon and Dinner’ in London - an invaluable experience for those considering a career at the Bar. The event provided an exclusive insight into life as a barrister, covering key topics such as training pathways, scholarship opportunities, and diversity at the Bar. Students engaged with experienced legal professionals and gained first-hand knowledge of the supportive and prestigious environment Lincoln’s Inn offers.
Reflecting on the experience, participating student Eva shared her enthusiasm for the event, highlighting the invaluable insights gained:
“An incredible evening at the Honourable Society of Lincoln's Inn University Information Dinner! I had the privilege of attending this insightful event alongside my fellow peers Usman Aslam, Anjana Chengun, Hannah McGirr, and Derick Liew, where we had the opportunity to engage in thought-provoking discussions about a career at the Bar, the pathways to qualification, and life as a barrister.
Throughout the evening, we had the chance to speak with Jack Meek and Aqsa Hussain, who generously shared their time, experiences, and advice with us. Their insights into advocacy, pupillage, and the realities of life at the Bar were truly invaluable. I am incredibly grateful for their openness and willingness to offer guidance—it made the evening both inspiring and informative. A huge thank you as well to Alexis Friday and everyone at Lincoln's Inn for organizing such a fantastic event. Your hospitality, warmth, and dedication to supporting aspiring barristers made the evening not only insightful but also thoroughly enjoyable. It was an amazing opportunity to engage with such accomplished professionals in a welcoming and encouraging environment.”
***Eva Livadaris (2nd year, LLB Law student)***
Pictured above, L-R: Anjana Chengun, Derick Liew, Hannah McGirr, Jack Meek (QUB alumni/Barrister at Government Legal Department), Usman Aslam and Eva Livadaris.
Attention law students! Are you eager to advance your legal career? Don't miss the Clyde & Co. ‘Paralegal Academy - Belfast Virtual Insight Session’ on 1st April 2025. This event is specifically designed for those interested in joining their Belfast office. During this session, students will learn about the Paralegal Academy's development pathway, application process, and recruitment steps. They will also have the chance to network with Partners and Paralegals and participate in a Q&A session to get all their questions answered.