We recently caught up with Nabil at HFW to find out more about the firm’s Race & Ethnicity Network…
Introduction to yourself and your route into HFW
Hello, I am Nabil, and I have been employed at HFW for approximately one year. Currently, I serve as a paralegal at HFW's London office, a role I assumed in December 2022. This position has provided me with valuable insights and has further solidified my aspiration to become a commercial lawyer.
In September 2022, I initially joined the firm's business services department, where I worked on an interesting research project for the marketing and compliance teams, focusing on HFW's top clients.
Prior to joining HFW, I completed my studies at BPP, where I obtained the Legal Practice Course. Subsequently, I gained practical experience through a legal internship at a prominent agricultural machinery manufacturer, with a market value in the billions. This opportunity allowed me to witness the impact that law firms like HFW have on business operations and strategy.
Before transitioning into the legal field, I worked as a consultant in the financial services industry, primarily providing advice to large construction and manufacturing companies on government tax reliefs for innovative projects and various grants. Although this was an exciting career path, I realised that my true passion lies in legal problem-solving, which prompted me to pursue a new career as a solicitor.
To summarise, my professional journey has been marked by a steadfast commitment to expanding my legal knowledge and expertise. With a proven track record, I am determined to advance my career and become a distinguished commercial lawyer, drawing upon the insights and experiences gained during my time at HFW and beyond.
What were the main reasons you wanted to join HFW over other firms?
While studying, I had the chance to explore a module dedicated to shipping transactions. It was during this time that my interest in shipping law was ignited. As a consultant, I had the privilege of working alongside top construction and engineering firms, which naturally drew me to HFW, a firm renowned for its expertise in these areas. Since joining HFW, I have found the friendly and supportive culture to be the perfect environment for nurturing my legal career.
Please could you give us a general insight into what diversity, inclusion, equity and belonging looks like at HFW
HFW has five employee networks that focus on range of topics including Race & Ethnicity, Social Mobility and Gender Equality to name a few. These networks form an integral part of the diversity and inclusion structure. Insight and suggestions from the networks are put forward to the Management Board with the aim to develop the firm's D&I strategy. These networks are open to all colleagues and run regular meetings and events.
Could you please share more detail on the Race & Ethnicity Network and how it is run?
The Race & Ethnicity Network is chaired by Sakina Chenot, Partner and Head of the firm's Risk, Compliance and Conflicts Team. The Network consists of over 90 members and has a small working group who meet monthly and take a lead on the planning of key events, dates, and activities. All ideas are then presented back to the wider network for feedback.
How does this network support employees at HFW?
The network has 3 key roles to play to support employees at the firm: provide a community for colleagues who support our aspiration to celebrate and value the diversity of cultural and ethnic heritage within our global network. Provide a conduit for the lived experience of colleagues to inform diversity strategy creation and take a lead in building awareness and engagement within the firm on relevant topics by delivering a calendar of events.
Anything else you’d like to add on diversity at HFW or anything else more generally?
Evidentially there is a lot of work that still needs to be done within the legal industry to increase diversity. Networks such as these are important starting points which help bring diversity related issues into light.