Building What Comes Next: My Vision for Surrey Law Society as Vice President

As mentioned, over the past year, I have had the opportunity to experience Surrey Law Society from two perspectives: first as a member, and now as part of the committee. That shift has completely changed how I understand the society. Not just as a space that offers opportunities, but as one that must actively create them, refine them, and ensure they reach as many students as possible.

Me giving a speech to the Law Society members before the commencement of the second round of the Surrey Internal Negotiations Competition.

As Negotiations Officer, I have already begun contributing to that process. Reviving the Negotiations Competition was not just about bringing back an event; it was about redefining what the competitions sector could look like. I focused on making it more structured, more professionally aligned, and more valuable for participants. Through this, I also worked to strengthen external connections, most notably establishing a relationship with TWM Solicitors for the Negotiation Finals Networking Event. That experience showed me how impactful it is when opportunities are not only well-organised, but also directly connected to the legal profession.

As Vice President, my goal would be to build on this foundation and expand it across the entire society.

One of my key priorities would be strengthening all sectors of the society as a whole by facilitating and supporting all my fellow committee members. For instance, competitions such as mooting and other practical exercises are some of the most valuable experiences students can engage in as we have seen from the revival of negotiations and client interviewing. I want to ensure these opportunities are increasingly assisted and more frequent, encouraging internal as well as external competitions in all sectors next year. This could include introducing preparatory workshops, mentorship pairings, and clearer progression pathways so that students feel confident participating regardless of their experience level. Additionally, I would be eager to link the competition officers with any legal connections I make in order to ensure that the competitions sector only soars upwards from the immense progress which I have had the privilege of contributing to this year.

Alongside this, I would focus on expanding opportunities for practical legal experience beyond competitions. This means developing more skill-based workshops, such as advocacy training and commercial awareness events. These are the types of experiences that bridge the gap between academic study and the realities of the legal profession, and they are essential for students looking to build both confidence and competence.

Another major focus would be strengthening and expanding relationships with law firms and legal professionals. The partnership with TWM Solicitors demonstrated how valuable these connections can be; not only for networking, but for creating opportunities that feel tangible and relevant. As Vice President, I would aim to build on this by establishing more long-term partnerships, increasing the number of networking events, and creating more direct engagement between students and professionals.

Equally important is the internal functioning of the society. A successful Law Society depends on strong collaboration within the committee. As Vice President, I would work closely with the President, Treasurer, and all committee members to support their initiatives and ensure events are delivered effectively. This includes improving coordination, streamlining communication, and ensuring that each role is supported in bringing their ideas to life.

Community is another area I would prioritise. While professional development is essential, a strong society is also one where members feel connected and supported. I would encourage more collaboration with other societies and universities, creating opportunities for students to engage beyond their immediate circles. This not only enhances the social aspect of the society but also broadens perspectives and networks.

In addition, with my experience as Arab Society Events Manager and Social Secretary for the second year running, I would be delighted to help in the organisation of more themed socials next year, with fun events to further foster our society's sense of community, encouraging socialisation and building stronger connections between members across all year groups. Acting in the Cupid Mock Trial was a hilarious experience that I feel is necessary in a Law Society to remind members that balance is always the best way forward when navigating your degree and legal career. These events would not only provide a space for students to unwind, but also help create a more inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable engaging with the society.

Most importantly, I want to ensure that the society continues to reflect the needs of its members. This means actively listening to feedback, creating open channels of communication, and adapting initiatives based on what students actually want and benefit from. A society should evolve with its members, and that requires consistent engagement and responsiveness.

What I have learned this year is that meaningful change does not come from isolated events, but from sustained effort and intentional development.

As a member of the society last year and now a committee member, I have observed that the progress we have seen in the society is the result of building on what came before, and I am committed to continuing that trajectory.

As Vice President, I would not only aim to maintain the growth of Surrey Law Society, but to elevate it further, creating a society that is not only active, but impactful. Not only inclusive, but empowering, and one that genuinely supports students in both their academic and professional journeys.