Congratulations to our Legal Heroes 2024 shortlist

Kishma's commitment to Birmingham Black Lawyers (BBL) has meant it has reached national prominence over the years. BBL promotes diversity and provides opportunities for aspiring black legal professionals. Her remarkable work has helped countless individuals secure work placements, training contracts and mini pupillages. Her dedication and influence are an inspiration, showcasing the power of hard work and determination.

Pauline is a principal lawyer, a published social justice author and a Windrush advocate. She chairs the Race Equality Network, created the Safe Space Clinic and worked on the ethnicity pay gap, mentoring and appraisal scrutiny groups. Pauline's pro bono work includes providing free legal advice to Windrush victims and as the legal adviser for Justice4Windrush.

Charlotte has passionately championed neurodiversity, dedicating her time and expertise to both the legal profession and broader society. She tirelessly advocates for neuroinclusion, extending beyond her 'day job' to voluntary work, social media advocacy and public speaking. Despite challenges, she fearlessly stands for neurodivergent empowerment, reflecting profound dedication and altruism.

Concetta has become a prominent advocate for neurodiversity in law after being diagnosed with autism in 2022 during her legal training. As co-chair of the Pinsent Masons Neurodiversity Network and Legal Neurodiversity Network, she's raised awareness through speaking engagements and co-organising events, notably contributing to the Buckland Review of Autism Employment. Concetta's personal journey inspires others and drives tangible change.

Tamara used her legal expertise to set up two organisations – Perceval and Knights Foundation and PachaMama Foods – to combat malnutrition in Nigeria. They provide vital support for communities where poverty, malnutrition and gender inequity are commonplace. Tamara's work has helped significantly decrease malnutrition rates, increase student retention and create job opportunities for local farmers and cooks.

Alexia is a pivotal figure for both legal and charitable causes. She advocates for diversity, equality and inclusion and is an influential figure for change. Alexia founded a mental health network and contributes to strategies with global reach. She works tirelessly making impactful contributions, with volunteer posts at GOSH and Blood Cancer UK.

Stephen co-founded Law for Change to support people who would not otherwise be able to access justice. The initiative, combining philanthropy and strategic legal approaches, has enabled important cases to be heard. Through his work, Stephen exemplifies the profound impact that one individual, armed with compassion, expertise and determination, can have on the lives of many.

Andrew revolutionised efforts to tackle overseas sexual abuse, securing parentage declarations and support orders through a team of pro bono lawyers. His tireless commitment, spanning continents and personal resources, has brought fundamental changes to affected children's lives and systemic deterrence against future abuses.

Kevin's dedication to supporting families with special educational needs and disabilities shines through his pro bono work, workshops, webinars and offering vital legal guidance and empowerment. Being partially sighted himself, Kevin has a genuine appreciation of the difficulties faced by both children and adults with disabilities. He mentors colleagues and provides free training, embodying resilience and compassion, significantly impacting countless lives.

Duncan has lead groundbreaking efforts to protect all vertebrate species, including Asian elephants, and combat dangers to humans. Through Save The Asian Elephants, he mobilised global support, resulting in the landmark Animals (Low-Welfare Activities Abroad) Act. Duncan's personal commitment, spanning media engagement, political lobbying and legal expertise, has been instrumental, dedicating hundreds of hours annually since 2014.

Hilary's groundbreaking legal work for armed forces members spans landmark cases, campaigns and support initiatives. With over 1,000 hours of pro bono support in two years, she leads trials against the Ministry of Defence, advocates for veterans wrongly accused of war crimes and creates systemic change for better post-service support.

Reena is the chair of the Law Society's Disabled Solicitors Network and a leading figure in promoting disability and neuroinclusion in the legal profession. She mentors and supports others while raising awareness through panels, legal press articles, networking and social media. Her influence extends beyond the profession as she also seeks to drive inclusive change in the financial services industry.

Kirsty is an exceptional legal professional who is committed to making a positive impact. As the director and head of family at the National Legal Service (NLS), she provides legal aid advice for domestic abuse cases in England. Kirsty conducts pro bono work, runs a prison family law advice clinic and established an academy within NLS. She regularly shares her knowledge through publishing articles and webinars, inspiring aspiring legal professionals.

Siobhan's legal expertise has helped secure necessary changes and support for those affected by housing issues and homelessness in Liverpool, including securing an ombudsman decision and numerous successful legal challenges. Apart from her relentless efforts on behalf of her clients, she has also collaborated with other organisations, such as healthcare professionals and front-line advice and support organisations who assist the city's homeless population, to bring the council's attention to structural issues within its housing division.

Michelle established the Exceptional Case Funding (ECF) Clinic at the Liverpool John Moores University, helping clients access the civil legal aid scheme. She has a 100% success rate in applications submitted to the Legal Aid Agency. Michelle is a role model who has devoted much of the last 10 years of her career to working on ECF, including completing doctoral research alongside part-time practice as a legal aid housing solicitor.

Michael's London Irish Lawyers Association Trailblazer Programme aims to improve social mobility by providing young people in Ireland from lower income backgrounds with insight into a legal career. Despite his job as a commercial dispute solicitor, he has created opportunities for young people to showcase their talents. His dedication to pro bono and community work is exemplary and inspiring.

Jonathan's immense impact spans legal advocacy, community engagement and mentoring. He invests time in family law, mentors students and fundraises for Romsey Opportunity Group. He spearheaded Winchester University's pro bono clinic, advocates for grandparental rights and fosters a supportive culture within his firm.

Khalil's pro bono work supporting refugees in Thailand and Sri Lanka has had a significant positive impact on more than 1,300 refugees fleeing persecution in Southeast Asia. He has spearheaded training, met with UNHCR officials and influenced policy revisions, offering hope and practical support. Khalil's selfless commitment, exceeding 500 annual hours, epitomises his dedication to justice beyond his legal role.