ClarkeKann welcomes it's newest Special Counsel on International Women's Day
Ahead of International Women's Day, we spoke with Deborah Boyd, Special Counsel at ClarkeKann within our Commercial, Intellectual Property and Technology group.
Recently joining ClarkeKann, Deborah is a highly experienced lawyer committed to providing exceptional client service. She has acted for several multinational companies across a wide range of commercial legal matters, and has served as a Director of disability advocacy organisation Reframing Autism Ltd.
We asked Deborah about her journey in law, and what this year's International Women's Day theme #EmbraceEquity means to her.
What did you want to become when you were growing up?
Either a vet in rural Australia, or a vet/animal researcher in Africa or Asia.
What attracted you to a career in law?
I like to say that I didn't intend to have a career in law, but a truer answer is that when studying a double degree in Science/Law at university, I decided to try a part-time job in a law firm. I then received an offer for a summer clerkship at the end of my fourth year of university, and as everyone from the clerkship program was offered a graduate position, I decided to try a career in law as this was a good opportunity and time to try it. And here I am!
Do you have any female role models that you look up to?
In terms of world leaders - Angela Merkel and Jacinda Ardern. I have many former colleagues that I also look up to, as well as my next door neighbour Margaret. Margaret is a registered nurse and mental health practitioner who has led the most extraordinary life, and is one of the most humble and generous people I know.
On International Women's Day, what is the most important message you want to send to women thinking about pursuing a career in law?
Be prepared to do "career" differently.
This year's International Women's Day theme is #EmbraceEquity, what does this mean to you?
Equity is critical to our collective economic prosperity, and I would like political decisions to show that equity is understood as a necessity rather than an optional ethic.
