Discrimination in the workplace; March 2024
I had the privilege of presenting sessions on discrimination in the workplace to year 12 students at Thomas Rotherham College. As part of this year's Street Law programme, myself and other students attended local colleges or sixth forms to inform A Level law students on discrimination and free speech issues that are present in a workplace environment.
Each session aimed to inform the students on the nine protected characteristics, understanding what direct discrimination is, and to discuss free speech issues in a workplace context through a case study. As an aspiring barrister, I am constantly looking for opportunities to improve my advocacy skills and self-confidence. At the beginning of our first session I was not entirely confident in my own ability to present to a class room full of strangers. I have always had the ability to put on a brave face and hide these feelings to others, however having confidence in myself and feeling comfortable enough has been a key priority.
By the third, and last, session of the day I felt that my confidence has improved significantly and was evident in my body language. I am grateful for this opportunity provided by Leeds Law School and am thrilled to have improved my advocacy skills by the last session.
Thank you to the students at Thomas Rotherham College for being so engaging during this important discussion. Through sharing thoughts, insights and asking questions they were a lovely cohort to discuss such topic with.
I look forward to applying for this opportunity again next year and continuing to spread awareness on these crucial issues.