In a profession that often demands resilience and adaptability, the Miami-Dade Chapter of the Florida Association for Women Lawyers (MDFAWL) and the Gwen S. Cherry Black Women Lawyers Association (GSCBWLA) have developed a transformative initiative: the Women’s Leadership Academy. This program, the brainchild of Diana Mendez, former MDFAWL president, in partnership with Michele Samaroo, former GSCBWLA president, is more than just a series of professional development sessions; it is a crucial step towards empowering women lawyers to assume leadership roles and enhance their impact in South Florida’s legal community and beyond.

MDFAWL and GSCBWLA’s vision for the Leadership Academy extends beyond individual development. The program encourages us to engage in meaningful community service projects, further amplifying our impact. To graduate, leadership fellows must attend all sessions and volunteer at events held by both MDFAWL and GSCBWLA, fostering a culture of service and leadership. The inaugural class, which commenced in January, graduated on June 4. The graduation ceremony was held at the law offices of Bilzin Sumberg and featured a keynote address by the Honorable Nushin G. Sayfie, chief judge for the Eleventh Judicial Circuit of Florida.