The 4th NBAWF Annual General Conference highlighted the imperative for female lawyers to attain their full potential financially within the legal profession. In a profession historically dominated by men, the conference aimed to address the unique challenges women face in achieving financial parity and success. One crucial aspect discussed was the importance of equal pay and opportunities for female lawyers, ensuring they are compensated fairly for their skills and expertise.
Speakers at the conference emphasized the need for female lawyers to advocate for themselves and negotiate effectively to secure equitable compensation packages. This includes not only base salaries but also bonuses, promotions, and access to high-profile cases or clients. By being assertive and confident in their value, women can break through barriers and achieve financial success in the legal field.
Another key theme of the conference was the importance of mentorship and networking for female lawyers. Building strong professional relationships with mentors, sponsors, and peers can provide invaluable support and guidance in navigating the complexities of the legal profession. Mentorship programs specifically tailored to women can offer insights into overcoming gender-specific challenges and advancing in their careers.
In addition to mentorship, the conference highlighted the significance of continuing education and skill development for female lawyers. Staying abreast of changes in the legal landscape, honing specialized expertise, and pursuing leadership roles within professional organizations can enhance their marketability and earning potential. Investing in ongoing learning and professional development is essential for long-term financial success.
Addressing systemic barriers to advancement for women in the legal profession was also a focal point of the conference. Panel discussions and workshops explored issues such as unconscious bias, work-life balance, and access to opportunities for career advancement. By fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment within law firms and legal organizations, female lawyers can thrive and reach their full potential.
The conference also underscored the importance of financial literacy and planning for female lawyers. Understanding personal finance, managing debt, investing wisely, and planning for retirement are essential skills for building long-term financial security. By empowering women with the knowledge and tools to make informed financial decisions, they can achieve greater autonomy and control over their financial futures.
During the second session, Mrs. Kofo Dosekun delved into the topic of how female lawyers can achieve their full financial potential. She emphasized the importance of understanding budgeting principles and implementing them effectively. This involves creating a budget that accounts for salaries, cash flow, and necessary expenses while also identifying areas where costs can be reduced without compromising survival.
Mrs. Dosekun highlighted the significance of financial literacy for female lawyers, empowering them to take control of their financial futures. By mastering budgeting skills, they can optimize their earnings, ensure stable cash flow, and strategically allocate resources to meet both short-term needs and long-term goals. Additionally, she stressed the value of prioritizing expenditures, focusing on essentials while minimizing unnecessary expenses to maximize financial stability and growth.
Panelists at the second plenary session include; Kofo Dosekun (Chairman, Aluko and Oyebode), Oluwatosin Olaseinde (Founder / CEO Money Africa), George Etomi (Principal Partner, George Etomi and Partners) and Bimpe Gisanrin (Unit Head Women Banking, Access Bank). The theme of the second plenary session was “Growing Your Business: What to know about people and financial Management”.
The Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum (NBAWF) Annual General Conference was held on Friday, 22nd March, 2023 at Oriental Hotel, VI Lagos with the theme: Beyond the Balance sheet; Redefining Success for Women in Law”.