This blog is by Faith Osifo, an incoming pupil at Garden Court Chambers, who attended our ‘Black Silk’ Event.
Faith is currently a paralegal at Shearman Bowen & Co – a criminal defence firm in London. She assists the partners in a range of criminal matters and provides clients with support from the pre-interview stages through to sentencing.
Faith read Law at Cambridge University, and went on to complete her Barrister Training and Masters at BPP University in London. She was called to the Bar in 2023 and will be joining Garden Court as a crime pupil in October 2025.
In late October, I had the pleasure of attending Garden Court’s inaugural ‘Black Silk’ event. It was an honour to be in a room full of amazing legal professionals and hear from inspirational panellists who so kindly shared their wisdom, experiences, and advice.
‘Black Silk’ – We Must Celebrate Black lawyers
Despite the excellence of many Black barristers, the number who reach the profession’s highest ranks remains disproportionately low. An event like this one is crucial in shifting that narrative by placing Black barristers at the centre of celebration and empowerment. It honours the influential legacies of Black barristers who have paved the way, while also providing tools to create powerful legacies in the future. As an incoming pupil barrister, the evening was both inspiring and practical, offering a clear view of the heights I can aspire to, alongside concrete insights on how to navigate my career. The event fostered a collective reckoning: while progress has been made and this should be celebrated, much work remains, and we all have a role in shaping the future.
3 Key Takeaways to Make a Difference
The panel discussions and Q&A provided both inspiring and actionable insights. There were several key takeaways that particularly resonated with me:
1. Have a plan
As someone just starting out in my career, it can be difficult to think five, ten, or even 15 years ahead. However, as more Black barristers climb the ranks of the profession, the next generation of barristers have powerful role models to look up to. These successes did not happen by chance, but were the result of careful planning and strategy. Laurie-Anne Power KC emphasised the importance of making the most of each case by identifying nuanced legal arguments to stand out, while HHJ Judy Khan KC spoke about showcasing your skills and developing a track record of excellence. Whether applying for pupillage or silk, having a clear plan can make the most ambitious goals more achievable.
2. Legacy matters
We truly stand on the shoulders of giants. The life and work of Rudy Narayan were celebrated as a testament to this truth. Although his career predates me, his influence is undeniable, particularly through other legal role models who I admire. Hearing Rudolph Walker CBE and Kevin Metzger’s fond memories of Rudy was both wholesome and enlightening. I echo the gratitude for Rudy’s courage and defiance since it helped pave the way for future generations like myself—despite Rudy being denied silk because of it.
As Leslie Thomas KC stated, we must not forget where we have come from, or the stories that have influenced our own. These stories must be told because they will inspire generations to come, just as Rudy’s has done.
3. Be courageous
A key trait of a trailblazer is their willingness to face challenges others avoid. Whether standing up against injustice, speaking out against racism, or boldly defending clients and challenging prejudice, courage has always been at the core of progress. Keir Monteith KC’s encouragement to call out racism for what it is and never compromise on integrity was particularly compelling.
But courage also means taking that first step to make an application. For a mini-pupillage, a scholarship, a judicial appointment. These decisions require bravery because of the systemic barriers that exist for Black barristers, but it is this courage that opens doors for those who follow.
The Legacy Continues…
I want to say a huge thank you to Alex Taylor-Camara, Mark Robinson, Laurie Anne Power KC, Jason Pitter KC and everyone else who helped to organise this event. This is an event that must live on. By uncovering the legacies of the past and hearing from examples of excellence in the present, a spark is ignited for the lawyers of tomorrow to forge their own legacies. It is hoped that this is just the beginning of new histories being shared, legacies being celebrated, and contemporary giants taking the stage as panellists. As we continue to celebrate our achievements, let us remember our responsibility to lift others as we rise – this is the true essence of legacy.
The Black Silk event recording is available to watch here.
