Usman Fambuleh
Legal Access through Women Yearning for Equality Rights and Social Justice L.A.W.Y.E.R.S has celebrated its 29th anniversary of continuous impact in the legal profession, while formally welcoming newly admitted female lawyers at a grand soirée held at the New Brookfields Hotel on Friday, 13th February 2026.
The anniversary was commemorated under the theme: “From Commitment to Action: Female Lawyers Unite to End Gender-Based Violence in Sierra Leone.” The ceremony brought together judges, magistrates, senior and junior lawyers, as well as invited guests from various sectors.
In her address, the President of LAWYERS, Mennissa Sesay Esq., warmly welcomed members and guests to the Association’s 29th anniversary celebration. She described the journey of the Association as one marked by resilience, sacrifice, and strong advocacy for justice in Sierra Leone. According to her, despite facing financial and institutional challenges over the years, the Association has remained steadfast in its mission.
She highlighted some of the Association’s achievements, including providing legal representation for vulnerable women and girls and conducting awareness campaigns against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). “We are ready to do everything within our profession to put an end to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in Sierra Leone,” she stated. She also welcomed the newly admitted female lawyers into the noble legal fraternity and encouraged them to uphold the values of integrity and service
Co-founder of the Association, Honourable Justice Glenna Thompson, admonished the new female lawyers to maintain professionalism and ethical standards throughout their careers. She emphasized that the legal profession demands seriousness, discipline, and constant preparation. According to her, thorough case preparation builds both confidence and credibility in court. She further urged them to advocate with fairness and honesty in pursuit of justice. Justice Thompson also cautioned that the legal profession does not operate a pension scheme and advised the new lawyers to practice financial discipline and prudent savings for long-term security.
Honourable Justice Bintu Alhadi spoke on the cordial relationship between female lawyers and the Bench, noting that the judiciary appreciates seeing more women actively advocating in court. She stressed that the legal profession is guided by strict procedures and rules and encouraged the new lawyers to carefully review their processes and documentation before appearing in court. Respect for court procedures, she noted, enhances professionalism and strengthens the administration of justice.
Micky Spencer Esq. underscored the importance of pupilage and practical legal training. She described pupilage as a critical stage in a lawyer’s career that must be taken seriously. She urged young female lawyers to leverage their resilience and determination to excel in the profession. She encouraged them to learn diligently from their pupil masters, observe court proceedings closely, and build confidence in advocacy, noting that practical experience is essential to becoming a competent and successful lawyer.
Also speaking at the event, A.C.P. Joan Bull Esq. highlighted the importance of collaboration and institutional support in combating Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in Sierra Leone. She stated that the police cannot win the fight alone without the support of committed female lawyers. She lamented that many victims continue to suffer in silence and require strong legal representation. According to her, improved policing strategies and policies are being implemented to strengthen the fight against SGBV. She welcomed the new female lawyers and urged them to uphold the good image of the profession, describing law as a calling that demands one’s very best.
Sharing her personal experience, Michella Kadijatu Conteh Esq. reflected on her journey since being called to the Bar nineteen years ago. She acknowledged that the profession comes with challenges but also great rewards. She encouraged the new lawyers to strike a balance between their professional responsibilities and family life. She advised them to remain patient, consistent, and hardworking, stressing that perseverance is key to success in the legal profession.
The celebration climaxed with the cutting of a commemorative cake and the official launch of preparations for the Association’s 30th anniversary. The well-attended event was described as memorable, reflecting the continued growth and influence of female lawyers in Sierra Leone’s legal landscape.
