Ethnic minority lawyers' group moves towards formal launch

The Scottish Ethnic Minority Lawyers Association is a step closer to its formal launch following the first meeting of its newly appointed steering group.

Supported by the Law Society of Scotland and the Faculty of Advocates, SEMLA is currently being piloted by a five strong group comprising Usman Tariq (advocate, Ampersand Stable), Omar Ali (partner, Harper Macleod), Naeema Sajid (partner, Aberdein Considine), Sheekha Saha (solicitor, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and a Law Society of Scotland Council member), and Imran Bashir (procurator fiscal and Equality Ambassador for Race at the Crown Office & Procurator Fiscal Service).

It is hoped that the formal launch will take place in the coming months.

Mr Tariq, who has promoted the idea for the Association, commented: “I was delighted to host the first meeting, and many great ideas were shared. SEMLA will focus on mentoring, networking and support of all ethnic minority lawyers in Scotland. We are grateful to have received the support of the Faculty and the Law Society of Scotland to date, and look forward to working with both organisations as the association starts to take shape.

"The hard work starts now for the steering group as we begin to make concrete plans for SEMLA’s future, including obtaining sponsorship, developing a website and organising a formal launch event with speakers from the profession. We have received a lot of goodwill from the profession and are interested to hear from any individuals or firms who can help SEMLA achieve its objectives.”

Anyone interested in the group is invited to contact Mr Tariq at usman.tariq@ampersandstable.com.