24 standouts have made a significant impact not just on their clients, but across the industry
Twenty-four outstanding individuals have been crowned as this year’s Most Influential Lawyers by NZ Lawyer.
The fourth edition of the award recognises members of the legal profession who have made a significant impact not just on their clients and practice areas, but across the industry. Among these is James & Wells’ Tonia Brugh, who uses her IP law knowledge to bridge gaps across cultures.
“It’s about empowerment and my clients’ need for knowledge in navigating the predominantly Western framework, which isn’t necessarily aligned or complementary to a Pasifika and Māori worldview of a more collective approach”, the 2024 Changemaker said.
Meanwhile, fellow Changemaker Selina Jane Trigg went from litigator to an advocate of collaborative law.
“I kept feeling that there had to be a better, more holistic way to nurture the future relationships that parties still had to have. Once the lawyers are gone, these parties still have to be able to work together”, she said.
Changemaker Anjeet Singh aims to see more women succeed in the profession.
“I am passionate about advancing women in law and society, and I have received widespread recognition for the pro bono work I carried out, including the For Fiji project, that assisted young female law students in Fiji”, she explained.
Young Influencer Amanda Bedford hasn’t let her age hold her back from holding a key leadership position as one of the youngest directors at McCaw Lewis. She has also used her knowledge to give back to the community through working with charitable trust ConneXu.
“There’s been such a period of growth since I’ve been involved with ConneXu, and it’s been exciting to be able to help so many people from so many different communities”, she said.
Joining these incredible women as Most Influential Lawyers is barrister Samira Taghavi.
To see who else made the cut, the full list of winners is here.
