In a remarkable tale of determination and resilience, Jessikah Inaba has defied the odds to become the UK’s first black and blind barrister. Born with bilateral microphthalmia, a rare eye condition, Jessikah’s journey is an inspiring narrative of triumph over adversity. This post delves into her extraordinary story, detailing her challenges, achievements, and aspirations as she paves the way for inclusivity and diversity in the legal profession.
From a young age, Jessikah harboured a passion for law and justice. Born and raised in Lewisham, southeast London, she navigated challenges associated with her visual impairment, attending local schools with units supporting visually impaired pupils. Her journey reflects a relentless pursuit of her dream to become a barrister.
Jessikah faced numerous challenges on her path, from delays in receiving study materials in Braille to addressing stereotypes and prejudices. The journey required proving herself as a capable lawyer and justifying her need for specialized equipment. Her resilience in the face of a “triple-glazed glass ceiling” is a testament to her determination.
Despite the hurdles, Jessikah excelled in her academic pursuits. Graduating with a first-class honors degree in law from Surrey University in 2019, she continued to achieve distinction in her master’s degree in 2020. Her success extended to the Bar Professional Training Course, where she earned very competent grades in 2021.
Jessikah’s academic excellence and advocacy skills have not gone unnoticed. She received the prestigious Lord Denning Scholarship from Lincoln’s Inn, along with the Access to Justice Foundation Award for her pro bono work. These accolades underscore her commitment to justice and societal impact.
With a passion for various legal fields, Jessikah has garnered experience in criminal law, family law, human rights law, and public law. Her roles as a legal assistant, researcher, and mini-pupil at various chambers reflect a dedication to understanding and contributing to different facets of the legal landscape.
Participating in moots and mock trials, Jessikah showcased her advocacy skills at national and international competitions. Her representation of her university in renowned competitions like the Oxford University Press Moot and the International Criminal Court Moot demonstrates her prowess as a legal advocate.
Beyond her personal achievements, Jessikah aims to break barriers for people with disabilities in the legal profession. Her ambition is to be a trailblazer, demonstrating that disability is not an obstacle but an opportunity to overcome challenges and achieve lofty goals.
Jessikah is acutely aware of the disparities in the legal profession. The statistics reveal a need for increased diversity and inclusion, especially for black women. She envisions a future where black women are better represented in leadership positions, the judiciary, and various roles within the legal landscape.
Jessikah’s story is a beacon of hope for individuals facing adversity. As she prepares to apply for pupillage in January 2022, she is poised to continue making a difference in society. Her goal is to use her voice to speak up for those who can’t and to inspire others to believe in the limitless possibilities within their reach.
Jessikah Inaba’s journey is far from over. Her pursuit of pupillage aligns with her aspirations to work on cases involving human rights, social justice, and equality. As she seeks to make a lasting impact, her story stands as a testament to the transformative power of determination, passion, and a commitment to positive change.
In a profession where diversity is still evolving, Jessikah Inaba’s narrative shines as a beacon of progress. Her journey serves as a testament to the potential within each individual, irrespective of background or physical challenges. As she continues to break barriers, Jessikah leaves an indelible mark on the legal landscape, inspiring future generations to strive for their dreams against all odds.
