Final 100 days as President – Reflections of the Immediate Past President of KLS
How time flies when one is having Fun!! A week ago, at our AGM, I passed the Kent Law Society Presidential baton over to Mary-Joyce Insaidoo, and our new VP Michael James Cressey and new DVP Keeley Lengthorn were elected.
It has been quite a journey, and as I take some time out to reflect on the Final 100 days of my Presidency, I am grateful to everyone who walked with me, supported me, and hopefully enjoyed the Events and experiences that I brought to the table. Thank you also to all my Sponsors, your sponsorship was vital in helping us run our events.
The highlights since my last post in January, are,
* A round table style event for employers in March, hosted by The College of Legal Practice, where several Senior Members of local Law Firms shared their concerns about the SQE and learned how best to support their staff through the SQE process.
* A delicious Lunch at Café de Soleil, Canterbury for the Partners of our top member Law Firms, sponsored by my Platinum Sponsors, who highlighted the contributions they can make to our member Firms. The animated conversations were a joy to watch.
* Being Guest Speaker at our Canterbury Christ Church University Law Dinner, where I shared my journey with our students, encouraging them never to give up on their dreams.
* The Cross Professional Networking Awards and Dinner hosted by the Southeast Branch of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (Ciarb) where one of our student members, Bashar Alasmar was deservedly recognized as Young Arbitrator of the Year.
* The Aspiring Solicitors Event held at Canterbury Christ Church University, where our student members from both universities were inspired and encouraged by the journey of Mark Evans, President of The Law Society and by the very frank Panel Discussion on SQE that followed. Grateful thanks to all Panel Members and to The College of Legal Practice, the event Sponsors.
* The last week of my Presidency was quite a whirlwind – Attended a Mamma Mia theatre production with The Law Society President and several members of various Local Law Societies, and a highly informative all-day Local Law Societies Townhall meeting the next day. On the Saturday, I delivered a presentation about KLS to members of the public who attended the Open Day at the Maidstone Combined Court with Jon Pitt, Scott Neilson and I manning the KLS stall. The feedback was incredible.
* My final Newsletter showcasing the remarkably interesting International Practice of some of our members and highlighting the support available from the International Division of The Law Society.
As I join the League of Former Presidents, I look forward to continuing to serve this great Society in whatever way I can, and I’m excited to see what Mary-Joyce’s Presidency brings. Thank You to the GPC, the SPC and to my fellow KLS members, for according to me the Honour of being President of Kent Law Society 2025-2026.