Our Interview With Noemi Muya, Founder Of For Women in Law

Noemi Muya is the founder of For Women in Law.

Which barriers do you believe still exist for women in law, and how can the next generation of female attorneys work to overcome them?

While significant progress has been made, women in law still face barriers such as underrepresentation in leadership positions, unequal access to high-value opportunities, unconscious bias, and the ongoing challenge of balancing professional and personal responsibilities. A few weeks ago I was invited as panelist by a tertiary institution and I was the only woman in a panel of 6 people. Many women also continue to struggle with visibility and sponsorship within the profession. The next generation can overcome these barriers by intentionally building strong networks, seeking mentors and sponsors, advocating for themselves, and supporting other women along the way. Collaboration rather than competition is one of the most powerful tools women can use to create lasting change within the legal profession.

Which qualities or skills set women lawyers apart in competitive environments, and how can law students begin cultivating those now?

Women lawyers often bring exceptional emotional intelligence, resilience, adaptability, communication skills, and the ability to build meaningful relationships. These qualities are increasingly valuable in a profession that requires both technical expertise and people skills. Law students can begin cultivating these strengths by actively participating in leadership opportunities, networking events, mentorship programs, public speaking engagements, and practical legal experiences. Equally important is developing confidence in their abilities and learning to communicate their value effectively.

What is a recent For Women in Law initiative that you are most proud of and why?

One of the recent initiatives I am proud of is the launch of our Men in Law Mentorship Program. For years, For Women in Law has focused on empowering and supporting women in the legal profession, but we consistently received requests from male law students and young professionals asking for similar mentorship opportunities. We listened, and we delivered. The program reflects our belief that meaningful transformation within the legal profession requires inclusive development and collaboration. By creating a platform that supports aspiring male legal professionals while maintaining our commitment to empowering women, we are fostering a stronger, more connected legal community for everyone.

From your own journey, what advice would you give to women currently in the law school admissions stage?

My advice would be to believe that you belong in the legal profession before anyone else tells you that you do. The journey into law can feel intimidating, but your background, experiences, and unique perspective are valuable assets. Focus on building strong academic foundations, seek mentorship early, and remain open to learning from every opportunity. Most importantly, do not allow self-doubt to limit your ambitions. Law is not just about academic excellence; it is also about perseverance, integrity, and the willingness to keep showing up even when the path becomes challenging. The legal profession needs more women who are prepared to lead, innovate, and make a difference.

We're proud to feature insights from leaders like Noemi Muya to help inspire women on their journey to law school.