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“I have dedicated my career to creating opportunities for women in law”

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LLB alumna and barrister Hamna Zain spoke to us about her recent nomination at the Study UK Alumni Awards, and her passion for using law as a tool for empowerment.

Congratulations on being recognised as a finalist in this year’s British Council Study UK Alumni Awards in the UAE. What were you nominated for, and what did the nomination mean to you? 

I was nominated for the Business and Innovation Award Category UAE, recognising my work as a corporate lawyer and entrepreneur, advising startups and mid-sized companies in the UAE, KSA and the USA. This nomination was incredibly meaningful because it acknowledges not only my legal expertise, but also my commitment to reshaping the legal industry through innovation and accessibility. 

As the founder of the first female-led virtual law firm in the UAE, I have worked to challenge the traditional legal landscape, making high-quality legal services more accessible, efficient, and tailored to the evolving needs of businesses. This recognition reaffirms the importance of technology-driven legal solutions and the need for a more inclusive and dynamic legal sector. 

Equally important is my passion for mentorship and women’s empowerment in the legal profession. I have dedicated my career to creating opportunities for women in law, advocating for leadership roles, and redefining what success looks like in the legal industry. This nomination was a testament to the power of innovation, diversity, and resilience in driving meaningful change. 

Hamna Zain, Study UK Alumni Awards

What have been some of the most rewarding moments of your career so far? 

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my career has been providing pro bono legal aid in rural areas of Pakistan, where access to legal support is limited, particularly for women and small business owners. Through legal literacy workshops and one-on-one counselling, I have helped women understand their rights in inheritance and workplace discrimination, while also advising small business owners on contracts, regulatory compliance, and dispute resolution.  

Supporting individuals facing workplace harassment and business challenges, and empowering them with legal knowledge, has reinforced my belief that law should be a tool for empowerment, not just a privilege. 

Seeing women and entrepreneurs gain confidence in their legal rights and successfully protect their businesses and livelihoods has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. 

Hamna Zain

What impact has your University of London degree had on you both personally and professionally? 

My University of London education taught me the value of hard work, resilience, and adaptability skills that have been crucial both personally and professionally. It prepared me for real-world challenges by fostering critical thinking, a global mindset, and the ability to navigate complex legal landscapes. 

Professionally, it equipped me to work with international clients, understand diverse perspectives, and challenge traditional legal models. This foundation gave me the confidence to launch a first-of-its-kind virtual law firm, proving that legal services can evolve just as businesses do. 

Personally, my education has fuelled my passion for mentorship and leadership.  

This page was last updated on 17 June 2025