As this unique April comes to an end — a month marked by reminders of both our responsibilities, like tax season, and our rights, like federal voting — we reflect on what it truly means to live in a democracy. In this episode of Lady Justice Talks, we’re joined by Amber King, Social Justice and Advocacy Coordinator at the Women in Law Association (WILA), for a deep conversation about her unique passion towards the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms; what it really is, why it matters, and how it continues to shape the lives of Canadians today.

Co-hosted by WILA First-Year Representative Lucille Milan, we explore everything from freedom of expression and religion to digital privacy and equality. Amber shares what drew her to the Charter, why she believes it should matter to everyone, and how both law students and everyday citizens can better understand the rights we’re granted — and the responsibilities that come with them.

We also reflect on how the Charter adapts to modern challenges and ask: is it flexible enough for today’s world?

This episode is a reminder: knowing your rights —and living them responsibly, is the first step toward protecting them. Let’s break it down, together.

From the Left: Lucille Milan, Amber King, Anita Afraz

We recently wrapped up Women’s Empowerment Month in March—but the conversation doesn’t stop there. Empowerment goes beyond a single month, and in this episode, we’re keeping that momentum going.

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  Join us on this episode of Lady Justice Talks, as we sit down with Hamza Taleb, Vice President of Academics, and Hadi Matar, former Social Justice and Advocacy Coordinator, to talk about the role men play in uplifting women. From allyship and advocacy to challenging stereotypes and showing up in meaningful ways, we dive into how men can be active participants in creating more equitable spaces—not just in law, but in any environment. We explore mentorship, unconscious bias, inclusive leadership, and the importance of creating spaces where women feel safe to voice their ideas and concerns. Our guests reflect on how increased awareness around gender and identity benefits the broader community and why true allyship requires ongoing education, reflection, and action.

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  Take this episode as a reminder: equity isn’t about hiring or including someone because of their identity—it’s about making sure that identity is never a barrier to opportunity, growth, or inclusion. And when we consider intersections of race, gender, and privilege, it becomes clear—this isn’t just a women’s issue. It’s a collective responsibility. Join us on this exciting journey!

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  From the Left: Hadi Matar, Hamza Taleb, Anita Afraz

As we approach the middle of March, reality sets in—it’s internship application season! We know many of you could be saying “yay..?”, with a shaky voice, realising how overwhelming it can be, so we’re here to help. Think of this episode of Lady Justice Talks as your internship guide, packed with insights to help you navigate the process with confidence.

Joining us are Julissa (Jules) Alvarez Vargas, Events Coordinator, and Neelab Noory, who recently transitioned from Student Engagement & Success Coordinator to VP of Student Engagement & Success at the Women in Law Association (WILA). They’re sharing their journeys—from securing law firm internships to the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

We’ll dive into how they approached applications, the key skills that made them stand out, and what a typical day as a legal intern really looks like. Plus, they’ll reflect on the challenges they faced, how they overcame them, and how these experiences are shaping their future careers.

If you’re applying for legal internships—or even just starting to explore them—this episode is for you. Let’s break it down together!

From the left: Rubaljeet Kaur (Rubal), Julissa Alvarez Vargas (Jules), Neelab Noory, and Salwa (Susu) Beheiry

As Black History Month comes to a close, we sit down with Hiba Yassin, VP of Admin, and Sephrah Luke, Co-VP of Marketing (formerly Graphic Designer) at the Women in Law Association. Together, we explore the unique experiences of Black women in the legal profession—the systemic barriers they navigate, the power of mentorship, and the paths to success.

Hiba and Sephrah share personal insights on how their identity has shaped their journey in law, highlighting the importance of representation and the ongoing challenges Black legal professionals face. We also celebrate the triumphs and contributions of both historical and contemporary Black legal pioneers.

Beyond reflection, this conversation offers action. Our guests discuss how the legal industry can become more inclusive and the role organizations like WILA play in driving change. They also provide practical advice for aspiring Black lawyers on building confidence, resilience, and meaningful careers.

Whether you're considering law school or already practicing, this discussion sheds light on the power of representation and the work still needed to create a more equitable legal system.

Join us on this light episode of Lady Justice Talks, for an inspiring conversation on Blackness, law, and the leaders shaping the future of justice!

From the Left: Sephrah Luke , Hiba Yassin , and Salwa (Susu) Beheiry

In this episode of Lady Justice Talks, we tackle a crucial question in the competitive field of law: How can I stand out? We had the honour of speaking with Bethany McKoy, Counsel and Director of Professional Resources at Cassels, who breaks down the key qualities of a strong candidate while challenging common misconceptions about hiring managers’ expectations. From academic achievements and work experience to soft skills and networking, Bethany shares expert insights on what truly makes applicants stand out in the legal industry.

As part of our Black History Month feature, we also explore the challenges BIPOC candidates face in advancing their legal careers. Drawing from her lived experiences as a Black woman and her extensive work in mentorship and advocacy—through roles with the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers (CABL), Black Law Students Association, and Group of Racialized Women Litigators (GROWL)—Bethany offers valuable insights on representation in law. We discuss systemic barriers in recruitment, the impact of mentorship in shaping diverse talent, and the steps firms can take to build a more inclusive legal profession.

• Tune in for an insightful conversation on career success, representation, and the future of diversity in law.

  
  

  From the Left: Rubal Kaur, Bethany McKoy, Salwa (susu) Beheiry

On this spicy episode of Lady Justice Talks, we tiptoe the fine line of freedom of speech and “trying not to get cancelled” as we dive headfirst into controversial laws that stir up some strong opinions. From gender roles at work and education to family dynamics, pregnancy, abortion, maternity leave, and even religious views, nothing is off the table.

Join us with our two guests, Mehakpreet Singh, an Events Coordinator and now moonlighting as the Events Liaison for the Academic Department at the Women in Law Association, and Sanzala Achakzai, who is also an Events Coordinator at the association. Together, we break down how these laws impact real lives and showcase how the thing that brings us together (i.e. Law) could also be something that separates us in opinions and views!

From the Left: Sanzala Achakzai, Mehakpreet Singh and Anita Afraz

In this episode of Lady Justice Talks, we kick off the new year with an extraordinary story of resilience, redemption, and reinvention. We had the pleasure of interviewing Emily O’Brien, the founder and CEO of Comeback Snacks, a gourmet popcorn brand with a mission to challenge the stigma of incarceration and provide second chances. Emily turned her time in prison into the spark for an incredible entrepreneurial journey, using her experiences to inspire change by hiring and empowering others with similar pasts.

As the perfect guest for our first episode of the year, Emily truly symbolizes new beginnings. She shares how she overcame the challenges of rebuilding her life, shattered stereotypes, and built a business that stands for hope and opportunity.

Join us as we dive into Emily’s mindset, her perseverance through adversity, and her vision for the future of Comeback Snacks. The Lady Justice Talks team wishes you a prosperous new year—one where you’re reminded that no mistake defines your future!

During holiday seasons, many of you might be spending time with your families—the people who have shaped our values, beliefs, and the paths we take. In this holiday’s special Lady Justice Talks episode, we dive into the powerful connection between family upbringing and a career in law. Joined by Maleeha Aslam, former VP of Events and current Co-President of the Women in Law Association, and Gisselle Yammine, Director of Administration, we explore how family beliefs influence career paths, shape perspectives on justice, and even impact the types of cases one might take—or avoid.

• Tune in for an inspiring discussion on how family shapes the lawyers we become and the decisions we make, both in life and in the courtroom!