On January 14, the Women and the Law Society at the University of Toronto hosted their annual Professional Networking Cocktail Event in the atrium of the Jackman Law building. The event focused on celebrating the contributions of women in law and fostering connections between students and legal professionals.
The event aimed to highlight and celebrate the achievements of women in the legal field while providing students with opportunities to engage with experienced professionals. Scheduled a few weeks before the various 1L recruit deadlines, this opportunity allowed first-year law students to connect and network in a familiar and empowering environment. Speaking of the environment, Simone Grimaldi (1L) stated that “[T]he atmosphere was incredibly welcoming, filled with inspiring women who truly uplifted one another.”
The event saw an impressive turnout, with over 80 lawyers from more than 25 law firms and upwards of 150 law students in attendance. Students were able to interact with lawyers from a variety of practice areas and backgrounds, gaining valuable insights into the legal profession. The presence of accomplished female lawyers offered a unique perspective on both the challenges and opportunities that women face in the legal industry.
The success of the event was no accident. It was the result of careful planning and teamwork by the Women and the Law Society. Key efforts included arranging catering and refreshments, venue selection, extensive outreach to firms, and consultation with previous participants and society alumni. As part of the organization process, the team also consulted with current 1Ls to ensure the event would be most responsive to their needs.
The evening went smoothly, a reflection of the dedication of the organizing team. Grimaldi stated, “[A]ttending the Women and the Law networking session was an incredible experience. It provided me with invaluable exposure to accomplished lawyers who shared their diverse career journeys and insights into the legal profession. […] I had the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions about the various paths within law and explore potential career opportunities. This event not only expanded my professional network but also empowered me to pursue my ambitions in a supportive community. I left feeling motivated and excited for my future in law!”
The Women and the Law Society extends its appreciation to all attendees, particularly the lawyers and firms whose participation made the event possible. This event reaffirmed the importance of creating spaces where women can connect, share experiences, and build networks in the legal field.
We hope you all enjoyed yourselves and left the night with new connections. We hope to see you all at our next event!
