INSPIRING STORIES - Foreign Lawyers working in New Zealand -

Fernanda works for a not-for-profit environmental organisation and policy think-tank. She prepares submissions on amendment bills and other government proposals on environmental matters (climate change, resource management, forestry). 

Fer carries out research to support policy projects which help inform the public about related environmental issues and participate in mediations regarding regional policy planning.

Jorge works in the Music Industry overseeing a portfolio of over 40 background music suppliers that provide music services to approximately 6,000 businesses in New Zealand. He also handles the music licences for songwriters and composers in all cinemas across NZ and resolves legal disputes between OneMusic NZ and licensed businesses.

Jorge's job also involves analysing business data relevant to financial management, sales performance, and other business areas.

Rob is in the in-house legal team of a large NZ bank where his work focuses on corporate and governance. Prior to this, he was a Senior Associate in the Corporate Team of a leading NZ law firm, where his practice was largely mergers & acquisitions work. 

Rob found it relatively easy to adapt to working in the NZ legal industry. This because the legal systems of South Africa and NZ are very similar, so adapting to an NZ legal environment is relatively straightforward for South African qualified lawyers (especially in transactional practice areas). His commercial experience from transactional work in South Africa carried across well to NZ. 

Mauricio is a highly qualified solicitor specialising in commercial, trust, and conveyancing matters. Originally from Brazil, he has leveraged his networking skills to establish himself in the New Zealand legal industry. From volunteering at law firms to building strong connections with fellow lawyers, colleagues, and clients, Mauricio is one of the few Brazilian lawyers actively assisting Brazilians with their legal issues in New Zealand.

Mauricio has also completed the NZCLE process to become a solicitor and barrister of the High Court of New Zealand, where he is now admitted. His story highlights the value of bilingualism and cultural awareness that foreign lawyers contribute to the New Zealand legal industry.

Sophya has a background in the private and public legal sectors, working in commercial and family law. Her journey to New Zealand was driven by a desire for a new lifestyle and professional growth. 

After completing a post-grad in Business Administration, she found an unexpected opportunity in the immigration industry, where she now thrives as a Business Development Manager. Sophya is also exploring future ventures that align with her passion for helping migrants. Her story demonstrates that the opportunities and rewards come with taking bold steps in one’s career.

Shamika is a solicitor, working with local government clients across New Zealand. Her work includes regulatory compliance, resource management, and alcohol licensing.  

Shamika is a solicitor and barrister admitted in New Zealand. However, balancing full-time work and legal studies wasn’t easy, but Shamika credits her success to embracing change, staying adaptable, and seeking help when needed. Now, she’s excited to mentor junior lawyers and specialise in a niche area of law.