Navigating Law as a First-Generation Advocate

Rule number one for a first-generation lawyer: No one is coming to open doors for you. You have to learn to knock louder. Confidence is not a luxury; it's a survival skill.

At my desk during a discussion on women in academia. I shared my thoughts on mansplaining and gender bias, emphasizing that change happens when we empower one another.

Attending the American Society of International Law dinner. Seeing more women in leadership roles is inspiring. The long walk to making space for women in every sphere has to be done by both men and women.

Attending a symposium on inclusivity in law at the University of District of Columbia. I believe that to understand why youth enter the justice system, we must look at the failures of the education system.

My daughter Ana has always accompanied me on my work, including this visit to a night shelter for the homeless. It's important for her to see, to empathize, and to understand the need to do more.

A photo from a few years ago, a reminder of how far I've come. The path isn't always clear, but the trick is to keep walking and stay true to the promises you make to yourself.

A moment of reflection. Life changes you several times a day. It's important to step away from toxicity, whether it's people, places, or your own thoughts. Self-care is primordial.

A simple reminder: "If nothing changes, nothing changes. You want change, make some." So much of our growth happens in silence, fueled by faith and persistence.

Another view from my desk, with a "Boss Lady" nameplate. It's a small but powerful reminder of the identity I've built for myself as a professional and a mother.