Welcome to the twentieth blog post for The Lawyer Files!
Thank you, as always, for subscribing and following the journeys of tomorrow’s legal leaders. Each edition brings you honest reflections, practical insights, and inspiring stories from aspiring solicitors carving out meaningful careers in the legal profession.
✨ In this edition, we feature Davina Tuma, a Future Trainee Solicitor at Stephenson Harwood LLP, whose legal journey is rooted in compassion, cultural insight, and a deep commitment to advocacy. From growing up between Kuwait, Uganda, and the UK, to witnessing first-hand her mother’s pro bono work freeing domestic workers, Davina’s story is both powerful and personal — a testament to the transformative impact of law in people’s lives.
Her decision to pursue law came after initially resisting the path her trailblazing parents had set; both of whom are commercial lawyers in Kuwait. But after observing the life-changing work her mother did for vulnerable communities, and leading advocacy panels in school, Davina realised that law could amplify her voice, values, and mission to serve others.
What makes Davina stand out is her reflective approach to leadership and her desire to lead with empathy and integrity. From her corporate governance internship at HSBC to her passion for Islamic law and cross-cultural understanding, she brings a global perspective and emotional intelligence to every space she enters.
Her insights into rejection, identity, and the power of being strategic with your applications offer a timely reminder that success in law doesn’t have to follow one route — it just has to be true to you.
Let’s dive in 🚀
- What inspired you to pursue a career in law, especially given your multicultural background between Kuwait and the UK?
It was actually my mom who played a pivotal role in shaping my path. I have the honour of saying that both my parents are lawyers who work in the commercial field in Kuwait and are trail blazers at that with my mom being the first African female partner and my dad being the first Black African Managing partner at a top law firm. Growing up, I was initially opposed to “following in their footsteps” both because of how accomplished they were in the field but also because I wanted to feel like I was doing my own thing separate from them and spent most of my formative years believing I would become a neonatal paediatrician instead.
While shadowing my mother’s pro bono work in Kuwait, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact that the law can have. I saw her legal expertise and compassion help free East African domestic workers in Kuwait from difficult situations with their employers. Watching her consult with embassies and women’s shelters, and ultimately improve these women’s lives, made me realize the transformative power of the law. I was in awe of how her knowledge and fluency with the law literally saved people’s lives. In addition to observing my mother’s work, I found my own ways to support these women, such as connecting with them, offering sympathy and technological guidance. However, I felt limited in my ability to truly help due to my lack of legal knowledge, and I made a mental note to learn more about the law to be able to assist in greater ways in the future
This experience made me start to see the more empathetic and compassionate side of being a lawyer. I began to understand the deep well of understanding and care the legal field requires, and how it can be wielded as a powerful tool to protect the vulnerable and to protect yourself, knowing the system you are governed by is a superpower to me.
As an outspoken advocate who has always taken pride in speaking up for important causes, I knew that adding a comprehensive understanding of the law would only amplify these skills. Whether it was tackling assumptions (fostered by a lack of knowledge) at my international boarding school by creating a student-led panel to address matters of race, religion, and sexuality, or honing my abilities through debating and public speaking, I recognized that legal expertise would be a natural complement to my passion for advocacy.
In these experiences, I fostered a safe environment that encouraged curiosity, open dialogue, and amplified student voices. I saw firsthand how cultivating understanding and respect within a community could drive meaningful change. Applying those same principles within the legal system would allow me to be an even more impactful advocate for the vulnerable and marginalized.
Ultimately, it was the convergence of two driving forces that steered me towards a career in law: my mother’s inspiring example, and my own innate qualities of empathy, advocacy, and a deep desire to understand the law.
Witnessing my parents’ remarkable achievements as trailblazing lawyers and observing the profound impact my mother had on the lives of the vulnerable, left a deep and lasting impression on me. I saw firsthand how the law could be wielded as a powerful tool to safeguard the rights of those in need, and I was awed by my mother’s fluency in navigating the legal system to secure life-changing outcomes.
At the same time, I recognized my own calling to be a voice for the voiceless. As an outspoken advocate and passionate defender of important causes, I knew that mastering the intricacies of the law would amplify my ability to drive meaningful change. My innate empathy and compassion compelled me to leverage the law as a means of protecting the vulnerable and marginalized, rather than simply a matter of civic duty.
It was this dual motivation that converged to steer me towards a fulfilling career in law. This is why pro bono work held such significance for me when looking at law firms at the time; I sought an opportunity to marry my legal knowledge with an opportunity to be a voice for people and to foster change.
- How did your placement as a Corporate Governance Intern at HSBC influence your understanding of commercial law and corporate structures?
This opportunity was truly a privilege, as many aspiring lawyers know that legal and corporate internships are often short-lived. Being able to have a longer-term placement at a leading global institution like HSBC was invaluable. This opportunity however was on the regulatory side not so much the legal, so I learnt more about regulatory compliance aspect rather than commercial law.
Through this role, I gained a much deeper appreciation for the complex web of policies, processes, and regulatory frameworks that govern the operations of a major financial institution. Working alongside the governance teams, I was able to see firsthand how corporate structures and board-level decision-making work to ensure that a company like HSBC maintains the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct.
Corporate governance, in essence, refers to the system of rules, practices, and processes by which a company is directed and controlled. It encompasses everything from the composition and responsibilities of the board of directors, to the internal controls and risk management procedures that a company has in place. Effective corporate governance is crucial for protecting the interests of a company’s stakeholders, including shareholders, employees, customers, and the broader community.
Delving into the nuances of corporate governance has given me a more holistic understanding of the challenges that large organizations face in navigating an increasingly complex regulatory landscape. I’ve come to realize just how critical it is for lawyers to have a strong grasp of not just the legal technicalities, but also the practical, real-world implications of how corporate governance is implemented.
Beyond the technical aspects, this internship has also allowed me to witness firsthand the importance of effective communication, strategic thinking, and collaborative problem-solving when it comes to navigating the corporate world. Sitting in on high-level meetings and observing how the legal team partners with other business units has been an eye-opening experience and has further reinforced my desire to develop these critical soft skills alongside my legal expertise.
Overall, I feel incredibly fortunate to have had this opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the world of corporate governance. It has undoubtedly expanded my understanding of the multifaceted nature of corporate structures and the crucial role that governance plays in ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of a business.
- You’ve held several leadership roles — including being a campus ambassador and a senior prefect. What does leadership mean to you, especially in a legal context?
Leadership to me starts from within, with setting an example through my own actions and beliefs before being in a position to lead others. This is something I learned early on, particularly during my time as a senior prefect in high school. I made sure that the way I portrayed myself and the values I upheld created a strong foundation within myself before I could start guiding my peers.
In those leadership roles, what I learned most was the importance of listening, being willing to learn about other people, and understanding the way they think and act. I didn’t want to be rigid in my approach; instead, I took pride in leading authentically, drawing on my strengths of compassion, drive, and self-belief. My goal was for those around me to feel empowered and inspired by my example.
My parents, who are both partners at a law firm, have also been pivotal in shaping my understanding of effective leadership. They have demonstrated how to be kind and friendly while still maintaining a strong sense of drive and determination to be the best. I love to take inspiration from leaders like them and am always eager to learn and implement new strategies in my own life.
It’s no coincidence that a significant number of leaders in various fields, from business to politics, have a background in law. The knowledge, critical thinking skills, and problem-solving abilities that lawyers possess make them well-equipped to take on leadership roles. In fact, some of the most influential and inspiring leaders of our time have been lawyers, such as Michelle Obama. Her unwavering commitment to social justice, her ability to navigate complex legal and political systems, and her empathetic yet authoritative leadership style have made her a role model for aspiring leaders like myself.
In a legal context, I don’t have a definitive answer yet, as I’m still in the early stages of my career. But I can say that I strive to lead myself first and foremost, ensuring that I structure my days and approach my work with the same level of discipline, focus, and integrity that I would expect from those I hope to one day lead. I’m excited to continue developing my leadership skills and finding ways to positively influence others as I progress in the legal field.
- Growing up Ugandan in Kuwait and the UK must have offered a rich cultural mix — how has this diversity influenced your legal approach and personal values?
Growing up Ugandan in Kuwait and the UK has undoubtedly shaped my cultural identity and worldview in profound ways, my time in Kuwait, particularly attending international schools, was formative and taught me the power of merit-based success.
In this cultural melting pot, I was surrounded by peers from all walks of life – Kuwaitis, Africans, Asians, and more. What I quickly learned was that in this environment, one’s worth was not defined by the colour of their skin or their country of origin, but rather by the content of their character and the quality of their contributions. It was a place where “what you brought to the table” was celebrated, rather than focusing on superficial differences.
Navigating this diverse setting as a young African woman was not without its challenges. However, I chose to channel any complex emotions I grappled with into a steely determination to excel. I quickly learned that the best way for me to shine was through diligence, academic excellence, and letting my qualities, grades, and achievements speak for themselves. This formative experience instilled in me the belief that true merit, not one’s background, is the key to success and I carry this philosophy with me in everything that I do.
Attending an international boarding school in the UK further reinforced this lesson, as I continued to interact with peers from a wide array of cultural, racial, and religious backgrounds. I became an advocate for ensuring that everyone, regardless of their identity, was heard, respected, and given the opportunity to thrive.
In the legal realm, my multicultural background has made me acutely aware of the need to consider how cultural differences, and systemic inequities can impact the application and interpretation of the law. I’ve learned to approach issues with an open mind, actively seeking to understand the unique circumstances and lived experiences of the individuals or communities involved. This has made me more well-rounded and effective, as I’m able to anticipate potential points of contention or misunderstanding and proactively address them.
Moreover, my multicultural background has profoundly shaped my personal values and ethical framework. Growing up with exposure to different belief systems, social norms, and ways of life has instilled in me a strong sense of cultural relativism and a commitment to respecting the dignity and autonomy of all people, regardless of their background. At the same time, my Ugandan heritage has also given me a strong sense of identity and pride, which I strive to bring to my work in a way that is authentic and empowering. I see my diverse cultural experiences as a source of strength, not a limitation.
My diverse cultural experiences have also influenced my decision to pursue Islamic law at university. Growing up in the Middle East has given me a foundational understanding of the intricate relationship between law, religion, and society in this region.
I recognize the privilege of having both a social and legal understanding of the culture and community that I call home. In the Middle East, religion is deeply intertwined with the legal system, shaping the norms, values, and structures that govern daily life. By studying Islamic law, I will be able to develop a nuanced appreciation for how the law mirrors and reflects the social fabric of this part of the world.
This specialized knowledge will be an invaluable asset as I navigate a career in law. It will allow me to approach legal issues with a heightened awareness of cultural context, religious influences, and the lived experiences of the communities I serve. Ultimately, my multicultural upbringing has instilled in me a unique legal philosophy and personal ethos that I’m eager to apply in my future career. I’m excited to continue learning and growing, drawing upon the richness of my diverse background to make a meaningful impact in the legal field and beyond.
- What advice would you give to law students hoping to secure internships and a training contract like you have?
The advice I would give to law students is to approach the process strategically and authentically, while also being patient and persistent.
Initially, I made the mistake of simply applying aimlessly, without a clear plan, and felt a lot of pressure to just land any training contract. After facing multiple rejections, I lost hope in it being a reality. It was the unwavering belief and reassurance from friends and my parents that helped me get back on track in my second year.
The turning point for me was when I decided to genuinely want the training contract for myself, rather than just pursuing it for the prestige or name recognition of the firm. This meant taking the time to research and identify the environments where I felt I would thrive the most, both in terms of the firm’s culture and the quality of the training they could provide. Attending open days, both in-person and online, was invaluable in helping me get a feel for the different firms and what they could offer.
I also found it extremely helpful to network with as many trainees and lawyers as possible, to gain a deeper understanding of the firm’s culture and learning environment. This allowed me to make more informed decisions about where I wanted to apply, rather than just chasing the “big name” firms.
When it came to the application process, I would recommend having a strategic game plan with clear deadlines. Websites like Legal Cheek and Bright Network were incredibly useful in helping me stay on top of the various vacation scheme and training contract deadlines. I opted to focus on around 10 firms that I felt most drawn to and made sure to give myself enough time to tackle the applications to the best of my ability.
Having an accountability partner, such as my parents, also played a crucial role in keeping me on track and ensuring I was meeting my deadlines. Additionally, I started small by completing virtual internships over the summer, which helped bolster my CV and boost my confidence, even when I wasn’t securing in-person opportunities.
Finally, I would advise taking your time and being authentic throughout the process. Don’t rush your applications or try to simply write what you think the firms want to hear. Instead, let your unique experiences and personality shine through. Remember that any experience, whether directly related to law or not, can contribute valuable skills and perspectives that firms will find valuable.
Ultimately, the path to securing multiple internships and training contracts is not always linear, but with strategic planning, persistence, and a genuine commitment to finding the right fit, it is absolutely achievable. Stay true to yourself, and the right opportunities will follow.
Davina Tuma – https://www.linkedin.com/in/davina-tuma-547071218/
Future Trainee Solicitor at Stephenson Harwood LLP| Corporate Governance Intern at HSBC| Final year LLB Law with Professional Placement Student
I hope Davina’s story has inspired you — especially if you’re navigating your own identity across cultures, balancing academic ambition with compassion, or wondering how leadership and empathy can align with a successful legal career.
Her journey is a reminder that purpose, perspective, and soft skills are just as vital as black-letter law — whether you’re working in corporate governance at a global bank, advocating for the vulnerable, or leading with authenticity in high-pressure legal environments.
From international boarding schools to shadowing pro bono work in Kuwait, Davina shows us that a global mindset, lived experience, and cultural fluency are powerful tools for today’s lawyers. Becoming a great solicitor isn’t just about technical skill — it’s about standing for something, staying grounded, and using your voice with intention.
🎧 Stay tuned — our podcast episode with Davina is coming soon on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music & Audible (TheLawyerFiles), where we go deeper into her multicultural journey, her experience at HSBC, and how her upbringing shaped her values around justice, advocacy, and integrity.
We’ll also talk about her thoughts on leadership, studying Islamic law, and how she’s preparing to make meaningful impact as a future trainee at Stephenson Harwood.
Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss it.
Until next time — stay curious, stay reflective, and keep showing up with purpose. 🎙️📚💼
— Denice Obeng 🙂
