Aura Network Celebrates South Asian Women in Law During Heritage Month

Leeds recently hosted a significant event to commemorate South Asian Heritage Month, highlighting the achievements of women in the legal profession. The event, titled “Roots to Routes,” was organized by Aura Network, a platform founded by solicitor Sarah Khan-Bashir MBE, in collaboration with Walker Morris LLP. It aimed to foster a dialogue among legal professionals and allies, focusing on heritage, identity, and career development.

Taking place at Walker Morris’ office in Leeds, the discussion centered around this year’s theme of South Asian Heritage Month. Participants engaged in meaningful conversations about their career paths, the impact of their heritage, and the necessity of visibility for aspiring legal professionals. The event also celebrated the recent appointment of District Judge Sobia Hussain, a landmark achievement recognized as a step towards improved representation in the judiciary.

The panel discussion was hosted by Shabana Muneer, a partner at Walker Morris, and led by Sarah Khan-Bashir. It included insights from four accomplished South Asian women in law: Muneer, who focuses on immigration and employment; Kiranpreet Kaur, a trainee solicitor at Walker Morris; Professor Sheba Affridi, a leadership coach at Darkspark Coaching; and Harjit Rait, a partner specializing in family law at LCF Law.

Launched in 2023 at the House of Lords during the South Asian Women Gamechangers in Law event, Aura Network has rapidly developed into a vital resource for mentoring and peer support. Its mission is to elevate the narratives of South Asian women in law, ensuring their experiences inspire and create opportunities for others.

Reflecting on the event, Sarah Khan-Bashir remarked, “Twenty years ago, an event like this simply wouldn’t have happened, which shows how far we’ve come.” She emphasized the ongoing need for such platforms, stating that the discussions resonated with both seasoned professionals and those new to the field. “Aura Network is about ensuring those stories are shared and that women at all stages of their careers feel seen and supported,” she added.

The evening highlighted the progress made in creating opportunities for South Asian women in the legal sector. Attendees acknowledged the importance of collaboration across the profession, emphasizing how it can further strengthen pathways for future generations. The discussions not only celebrated achievements but also reinforced the commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment in the legal field.

As the evening concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and connection, inspired to continue advocating for representation and support within the profession. The event illustrated the powerful impact of community and shared experiences in shaping the future of law for South Asian women.