Myriam Leslie Bamba on building confidence through pro bono

Was there an individual who significantly influenced your development? How has that shaped your approach to mentorship?

Throughout my journey, there have been several people who have significantly influenced my development, but one that stands out is a senior colleague who took the time to break down the profession for me when I was still finding my footing. They answered my questions openly, shared their experiences honestly and reassured me during moments of self-doubt.

More broadly, I’ve also been supported by teachers, friends, mentors and family members who consistently invested time and encouragement in me. The collective support gave me the confidence to pursue opportunities I might have otherwise hesitated to take and played a meaningful role in shaping the trainee lawyer I am today.

It has shaped my approach to mentorship in a very practical way. I try to be transparent about both the challenges and the opportunities within law. I try to create a space where people feel comfortable to ask the questions they might otherwise keep to themselves and aim to provide the kind of reassurance I once needed. Representation and visibility matter, and sometimes simply showing someone that a path is possible can make a real difference.

What does the International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain,” mean to you and how does it resonate with your experience of giving back?

To me, “Give to Gain” reflects the idea that generosity isn’t one-directional. When we give our time, knowledge, or support, we often gain perspective, growth and connection in return. I get to see the direct impact of my contributions in the communities I care about.

Through mentoring and pro bono work, I’ve gained confidence, deeper empathy and a broader understanding of how the law impacts people’s lives. Giving back has never felt like an obligation, it feels like a privilege that continues to shape me both personally and professionally.

What has inspired your ongoing commitment to pro bono work, and can you share the range of pro bono activities you’ve been involved in?

My commitment to pro bono work comes from a genuine belief that access to justice and opportunity should never depend on someone’s financial position.

At Kennedys, I’ve had the privilege of getting involved in a wide range of initiatives that reflect this belief. I have supported young aspiring lawyers through mentoring programmes such as Upreach and the Aspiring Solicitors panel, volunteered in schools through initiatives including Future Frontiers speed networking sessions and Causeway Education “flash internships”, and taken part in the Chapter One reading scheme. I have also contributed to community-focused initiatives, including participating in a Black History Month panel and delivering a workshop with BPP Law School to primary school students, where we ran a mock “Goldilocks” trial to introduce them to the legal system in an engaging and accessible way.

Alongside these outreach initiatives, I’ve been involved in the Amicus casework programme, contributing to complex international legal matters and supporting individuals facing significant legal challenges.

Each experience has allowed me to give back in different ways, from providing early-stage career guidance to working on substantive legal casework, and continues to shape my understanding of the wider role we play as lawyers.

What key message would you like everyone to remember from this year’s International Women’s Day?

“Give to Gain” is a reminder that investing in others is never a loss. When we create space for others to grow, we strengthen our profession and our communities as a whole. Giving back isn’t separate from success – it is a part of it.

What role does pro bono work play in your professional development?

Pro bono work has played a significant role in accelerating my development. It has strengthened my confidence and advocacy skills, while also refining my drafting and analytical abilities. It has pushed me to think more creatively about problem solving and to approach legal issues with a broader, more practical perspective.

It also reinforces why I entered the profession in the first place: to use the law as a tool to help people. That sense of purpose is invaluable and continues to motivate me.

Can you explain what the Amicus programme aims to achieve?

Amicus works to assist individuals facing the death penalty in the United States by providing legal support and research assistance to defence teams. It was founded to support some of the most vulnerable people in society, many of whom are impacted by economic inequality, history and race. 

The programme aims to ensure that defendants receive fair representation, particularly in cases where resources are limited. It focuses heavily on detailed factual and legal research that can have a real impact on outcomes.

How have these different pro bono experiences helped you develop new skills?

They’ve strengthened my research skills, attention to detail and ability to communicate complex issues clearly. Working on matters outside my usual practice area has also improved my adaptability.

Mentoring, in particular, has helped me develop confidence in speaking about my journey and offering practical guidance to others.

What message would you share this International Women’s Day about supporting others and giving back?

“Supporting others doesn’t always require grand gestures. Sometimes it’s a conversation, a review of an application, or sharing your experience openly. It is very important to always give back. Small acts of support can have long term impact!”

What has been most meaningful or impactful about this work for you?

The most meaningful aspect has been recognising that the research and drafting we contribute to can directly support someone’s life and liberty. It brings a very real human dimension to the work.

It has also been impactful in reminding me that the law carries weight beyond commercial disputes - it can quite literally be life-altering.