Keele Law People: Afshaan Hena

It was during my final year of my law degree that I was sure that any legal career I pursued would be in the Human Rights field. The reason being was the inspirational International Human Rights module that I undertook. I was so excited to have the opportunity to have the option to take such a module - I had always had a passion for Politics and Human Rights. I think I was so inspired that I still, to this day have the module handbook, which I can't bear to put to rest in the recycling bin! It appears the foundations were laid upon completing the module and having the world of human rights and politics opened to me.  

I suffered, as others did, the frustration of finding the ideal job when graduating. Over time I realised that there is no ideal job for a recent graduate and it takes time to find an opening in your area of interest. Sure enough I leapt upon a job with the Official Solicitor's, where I worked on some of the most varied and interesting cases to date -  acting as Litigation Friend to those without capacity and minors. I then moved on to specialise in Asylum and Immigration law, I rejected a commercial law firm job, to take on a more difficult and challenging role. I was just so pleased to continue working in the legal aid field which by this stage I had become passionate about. My dedication to legal aid work eventually lead to me attaining my pupillage with Renaissance Chambers in London and becoming a Fellow for legal action charity Reprieve.  

It all began at Keele.