Thanks to generous support from the Law Foundation of Nova Scotia, the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society successfully delivered the Indigenous, Black & Mi’kmaq (IB&M) Internship Pathway — an exciting new program that introduced high school students from across the province to the legal profession.
This internship gave Black and Indigenous students an opportunity to connect directly with members of the legal community, including judges, lawyers, sheriffs, court staff, and current IB&M students at the Schulich School of Law. Students explored how to apply to law school, what it’s like to study law through the IB&M Initiative, the range of legal careers available, and the path to becoming a judge.
Participants shared overwhelmingly positive feedback. One student reflected:
“My experience with this program was perfect. I learned so much and hearing judges share their stories really inspired me. I even met a corporate lawyer who gave me his card to stay in touch. I hope to return as a chaperone one day — when I’m a first-year law student.”
The program was created through the vision of the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers (CABL) and brought to life by a dedicated group of steering committee members and supporting organizations.
We extend heartfelt thanks to:
- Canadian Association of Black Lawyers, with special recognition to Lola Williams-Afolabi, Alisha Fagan-Brown, Charys Payne, Ryan Brothers, Shaniqwa Thomas, Fenessa Williams, and Chika Chiekwe.
- Steering Committee Organizations, including The African Nova Scotian Justice Institute, the Department of Education’s African Canadian Services Branch, the Mi’kmaq Legal Support Network, the IB&M Initiative, the Canadian Association for Black Lawyers (CABL) Nova Scotia Branch, the African Nova Scotian Decade of People of African Descent Coalition, and The Prep Academy.
- Project Coordinator, Marissa Prosper
- Chaperones, Law Courts staff, volunteer speakers, and donors from across the legal community, including from the Canadian Association for Black Lawyers (CABL) Nova Scotia Branch, IB&M Initiative, Schulich School of Law, Stewart McKelvey, McInnes Cooper, Dalhousie Legal Aid, Nova Scotia Legal Aid, Court Services, Public Prosecution Service, African Nova Scotian Justice Institute, Mi’kmaq Legal Support Network, Burchells Wickwire and Bryson, Cox and Palmer, Department of Education – African Canadian Services Branch, and the African Nova Scotian Decade of People of African Descent Coalition.
This internship has left a lasting impact on students and strengthened pathways into the legal profession for historically underrepresented communities. The Society is proud to have played a part in this important work.