The 2021 SYLA AGM will take place on Thursday 27 May at 6pm. During the AGM members will elect a new committee for the year 2021/22.

Perhaps you’re wondering whether you should apply, what the benefits are or how you could make a change. We’ve asked our current committee what they’ve gained through being on the SYLA committee. “The thing that I enjoy the most about the committee is an opportunity to develop a network with other young professionals and meet people practising other areas of law. I’m most proud of the criminal traineeship event I organised which was sold out and showed the level of interest in pursuing a career in criminal law. There are far too few opportunities to do that and hopefully the Scottish Government’s traineeship fund will help to rectify the situation” – Matthew McGovern, Criminal Lawyer, Wishaw

“Being on the committee has grown my confidence through contacting possible sponsors and approaching speakers. I’ve built relationships with sponsors across Scotland and beyond – I’ve even been in touch with Lady Hale of Richmond, who retired last year as president of the Supreme Court, and secured her as the keynote speaker at our Women in Law 2021 event.” – Laila Kennedy, Trainee Solicitor, Aberdeen

“I think one of the great benefits of being on the SYLA Committee has been the opportunity to meet and get to know so many new people both in terms of my fellow committee members but also the various solicitors and Advocates from across different practice areas we work with to deliver CPD events for members” – Euan Forbes, Solicitor, Edinburgh

“Joining the committee gives you the opportunity to represent the thoughts, feelings and concerns of the junior members of the profession. Being on the committee gives you a platform to actually make a difference, which is extremely rewarding. My biggest achievement is developing our social media platforms meaning out reach has increased
significantly and we help more and more members with each post.” – Chiara Pieri, Solicitor, Glasgow

“Being part of the SYLA committee allows you to effect the change you want to see in the legal profession. It allows you to hear the wants and needs of that profession and to consider how you can improve it, for the benefit of your members. It offers the opportunity to collaborate with likeminded individuals; to share and being new ideas to life. During lockdown I am really pleased to have curated and launched a new events series “Coffee with the Committee”. This series serves as an informal networking / mentoring function, whereby members can tap into the Committee’s experiences, and use the same as a resource. We have so far run sessions on the NQ application process and Interview Skills.” – Patricia Taylor, Solicitor, Edinburgh / Glasgow

“As a student, joining the committee has enabled me to build my personal and professional networks in the legal world. Despite being online, I was able to host my first ever SYLA event to over 100 people which was slightly terrifying but a great experience. I am eternally grateful to my fellow committee members for giving me support and reassurance throughout the planning stages and the event itself.” – Maddie Thomas, Student, Dundee