Praise Nweke
“Every setback is an opportunity to learn, adapt, and overcome - be patient with yourself, and stay true to your why.”
Lawyer, greenwood roche
2022 - 2023 Women In Law Executive
Can you tell us a little about your journey since leaving university?
Since finishing university, I have been working as a commercial real estate lawyer at Greenwood Roche. Having studied public health alongside law, I developed a strong interest in the social determinants of health and it was important to me that my work contributed positively to people’s wellbeing. By working on projects that influence the spaces where people live, work and connect, I’m able to help create environments that support healthier, more connected communities.
What challenges have you faced, and how have you navigated them?
Two of the biggest challenges I have faced so far are building confidence as a junior, and feelings of imposter syndrome. Both are landscapes I am still navigating, but reflecting on the effort it has taken to get to where I am, and speaking to friends, mentors and family helps with grounding.
hOW DID YOUR TIME IN WOMEN IN LAW SHAPE OR INFLUENCE YOU?
In connecting me with like-minded peers through my roles as Advocacy and Intersectionality officer in 2022 and Co-President in 2023, Women in Law provided a much-needed sense of community at law school. Further, through the wider law-school clubs’ network, I was lucky to make friends that I will have for life! I am always open to connecting with people- whether through the Women in Law alumni network, students, or in the community, who support the kaupapa of improving diversity, equity and inclusion at law schools and within the profession.
Outside of work, what brings you joy or keeps you grounded?
Friends, family and hobbies. Keeping busy and keeping life interesting is so important!
What advice would you give to students and young professionals entering the legal profession today?
You are in the infancy of your career and have an infinite number of possibilities, challenges, and accomplishments ahead of you. Every setback is an opportunity to, learn, adapt, change and overcome. Be patient with yourself. Above all, stay true to your why, as each experience you accumulate will shape you into the professional and more importantly, the person you aspire to be.
Is there a mantra, value, or piece of wisdom you carry with you in your work?
On the last day of Intermediate, my teacher played Baz Lurhmann's video adaptation of Everybody's Free To Wear Sunscreen for the class. Most of the wisdom contained within might not seem as applicable to day-to-day work, but I often often think about the nudge to “do one thing every day that scares you" as a reminder that growth usually sits just outside my comfort zone.