Women in Law Honored at Prestigious LSK Event, Celebrating Triumphs and Legacy


Lady Justice Hellen Amolo Owino - Omondi, President, International Association of Women Judges - Kenya Chapter(left) and LSK President Faith Odhiambo.

Nairobi, Kenya – March 21, 2025

The legal fraternity came together for an inspiring and empowering evening to celebrate the achievements of women in law at a prestigious event hosted by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK). The event brought together legal professionals, thought leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders in a night of reflection, recognition, and networking. The evening was marked by insightful discussions, heartfelt tributes, and well-deserved honors for female advocates who have made a lasting impact on the legal profession.

The event emphasized the significant role of women in Kenya’s legal sector, acknowledging their contributions, resilience, and challenges. It also provided a platform for discussions on gender equality, mentorship, and leadership, ensuring that women's voices in law are heard and amplified.

The evening began with a networking session, photo opportunities, and refreshments, allowing attendees to interact, exchange insights, and build professional relationships. Legal practitioners, both seasoned and young, shared experiences and engaged in discussions about advocacy, leadership, and inclusivity in the legal profession.

As the formal proceedings commenced, Charles Owiti, the Technical Committee Chair, delivered the official opening remarks. He set the tone for an evening dedicated to amplifying the contributions of women in law and highlighted the importance of continued efforts toward gender parity and inclusion in legal practice.

A highlight of the evening was a thought-provoking panel discussion on the theme "Amplifying Unheard Triumphs." The panel featured distinguished female leaders in the legal profession: Lady Justice Hellen Amolo Owino - Omondi, President, International Association of Women Judges - Kenya Chapter, Esther Omulele –Managing Partner, MMC Asafo and Regina Anyika – Company Secretary and Director Legal, HF Group. Moderated by Linda Mwihaki, CIArb, who was recognized as the "Highly Impactful Individual in Mediation 2024," the discussion explored the motivations, passions, and challenges women face in their legal careers. Panelists shared candid experiences about navigating gender bias, overcoming workplace discrimination, and breaking through systemic barriers that often hinder women from advancing in leadership.

They also addressed the difficulty of balancing demanding legal careers with family and personal responsibilities, a common challenge for women in the profession. Their stories reflected resilience, ambition, and determination—qualities that have enabled them to excel and lead in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

Delivering a keynote speech, LSK President Faith Odhiambo inspired women in the legal profession to dream boldly and fearlessly. She emphasized the importance of setting ambitious goals and challenging societal expectations.

"Dream beyond your comfort zone. If your dreams don’t scare you, they are not big enough," she declared, encouraging young female advocates to break barriers, pursue leadership, and define success on their own terms.

Odhiambo also addressed systemic challenges that hinder women's progress in the legal field, including workplace discrimination, limited mentorship opportunities, and underrepresentation in leadership roles. She called for collective action to ensure that women are given equal opportunities to excel, lead, and shape the future of the legal profession.

A particularly emotional segment of the evening was a tribute to departed female legal professionals who made significant contributions to the legal field. NLA Trustee Jacqueline Manani led this segment, honoring the legacies of two exceptional women.

Roseline Odede, the former Chairperson of the Kenya National Human Rights Commission, was remembered as a fearless advocate for justice and equality. She played a pivotal role in championing human rights and legal advocacy, earning recognition as one of Nairobi Legal Awards' Top 50 Women Lawyers of the Year in 2024. Odede’s dedication to the protection of human rights and access to justice remains her enduring legacy.

Judy Thongori SC, a trailblazer in family law and gender equality, was also remembered for her remarkable contributions to women’s rights and legal reforms. She played an instrumental role in shaping laws that protect married women, including:The Matrimonial Property Act, The Marriage Act and The Protection Against Domestic Violence Act (2015)
Thongori was also the first lawyer to petition the Supreme Court in 2012 for the enforcement of the two-thirds gender principle in Parliament. Her relentless advocacy for gender equality and legal justice paved the way for stronger protections for women in Kenya.
Her legacy continues to inspire future generations of female lawyers to pursue justice and equality.

The event also celebrated the Top 50 Women in Law 2024, recognizing outstanding female advocates who have excelled in various legal disciplines. These women have been pioneers, mentors, and role models, shaping the future of Kenya’s legal profession.
The recognition of these legal professionals underscored the progress made in gender inclusivity within the sector while reinforcing the need for continued efforts to secure more leadership opportunities for women.

The evening concluded with an icebreaker networking game, allowing attendees to form new connections and strengthen existing ones. The event’s energy remained high as participants engaged in lively discussions about the future of women in law.

A celebratory session titled "Legal Divas on the Dancefloor" brought a sense of camaraderie and joy as legal professionals celebrated their achievements with music and dance. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, enthusiasm, and a shared commitment to empowering women in the legal field.

The event not only honored the trailblazers who paved the way for progress but also ignited critical conversations about gender equality, leadership, and the future of women in the legal profession.

By celebrating accomplishments, reflecting on challenges, and inspiring the next generation, the gathering reaffirmed a powerful truth, women in law are breaking barriers, shaping history, and ensuring that their triumphs are heard and remembered.


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