By Mei Gong and Subhashree Sundar -
Did you know that even though the ocean is a familiar territory, marine animals face daunting challenges when navigating it in search of a new habitat?
For many migrant lawyers, the practice of law is like navigating the ocean. It is familiar yet daunting as they charter a new course in a new country. The common theme in both scenarios is resilience and adaptability. Both are essential qualities that are needed to thrive in challenging environments.
In the ‘2023 annual profile of solicitors in NSW’ published by Urbis for the Law Society of NSW, 31 per cent of solicitors in NSW were born overseas, not accounting for second generation migrants.
As two migrant lawyers, we share some hard-earned insights on our first generation migrant experiences and how we chartered our course.
How has your migrant experience shaped your lawyering journey?
Mei: As a first generation migrant, I carried a bit of migrants’ guilt where I wanted to justify the sacrifices my parents made so I worked very hard to achieve my goals. I really enjoyed helping others who were disadvantaged or who were in a state of transition, including junior and foreign qualified lawyers.
Su: My migrant experience profoundly shaped my journey as a first generation lawyer. Studying law in the UK and working in various jurisdictions has helped me adapt to work with other cultures. Growing up with hard-working parents instilled a deep sense of responsibility and a strong work ethic. Seeing others’ similar journeys has fostered empathy and understanding, igniting my passion for supporting individuals navigating their own transitions.
What is a misconception that people may have about lawyers who are migrants?
Mei: I think the biggest misconception that people make about lawyers who are migrants (particularly those with ethnic names, me included) is that our English is not good or that we may not easily adapt to Australian work culture. There is a lot to admire about the work ethic or versatility of someone who mastered a language that isn’t their first (or even second) language.
Su: In my experience, a common misconception about migrant lawyers is their ability to navigate the Australian legal landscape due to lack of local experience. However, many migrant lawyers bring valuable international experience, cultural awareness and language skills that enrich their overall legal practice. They offer unique perspectives and innovative solutions enriching the practice and add value to clients and legal teams alike.
What is one thing that migrant lawyers who are starting their legal career in Australia should remember?
Mei: Have big dreams, believe in your potential and chase after these dreams with all your might. You might find yourself in spaces where you are underrepresented (or even unrepresented). Dismiss the doubters, cherish your supporters, be brave in blazing your own path, and define your own story.
Su: Migrant lawyers starting their careers in Australia should prioritise networking and building professional relationships for crucial insights and support. They often face cultural integration challenges, but these experiences build resilience. As Billy Ocean’s song goes, ‘When the going gets tough, the tough get going’. Resilience, and diverse perspectives, make migrant lawyers valuable assets to the legal profession.
