16 April – Bi-Monthly meeting + workshop: Unlocking Neurodiversity Power
Thank you Ferdaous Lahrichi for enlightening us, during our bi-monthly meeting, on the crucial aspects of DE&I; for stimulating our thoughts and initiating a conversation on the transformation into a neuro-inclusive workplace. Recognizing neurodiversity and striving for a neuro-inclusive workplace is not only important, but also fundamental in fostering a truly inclusive environment.
We are grateful to Fieldfisher Belgium for hosting the event, and to Fragomen for introducing an exciting new initiative, DT4E. It is a promising venture that we look forward to exploring in greater depth.
In addition, Kathleen M. (Kat) Van Nuffel concluded our remarkable meeting with the latest news regarding the LDIA Lab, which is poised to embody multiple pillars to transform our words into actions. More to come.
14 March 2024 – International Women’s Day – Panel discussion (All Together event)
BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS: A DEEP DIVE INTO INITIATIVES FOR IMPROVING GENDER REPRESENTATION AT SENIOR LEVELS OF THE LEGAL PROFESSION, hosted and organized by Wilson Sonsini
We extend our gratitude to Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati for orchestrating a truly inspiring event for all LDIA members: “𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗕𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗿𝘀: 𝗔 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗵𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗲𝗻𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝘁 𝗲𝘅𝗲𝗰𝘂𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗳𝗶𝗲𝗹𝗱.” The panel featured distinguished speakers Laura De Boel, Caroline Louveaux, Nathalie Laneret, and Beatriz Martinez Molina, with moderation by Hattie Watson in celebration of International Women’s Day.
Throughout the discussion, the panel underscored the significance of telecommuting, flexible work schedules, part-time arrangements, office dynamics, and optimal event planning for fostering inclusivity. The dialogue also emphasized the necessity of mentorship and sponsorship programs in advancing the careers of female attorneys, alongside initiatives for coaching, leadership training, and confidence building.
The panel offered valuable insights, encouraging attendees to embrace imperfection, support one another, seek guidance, and learn from shared experiences. Highlighting the importance of fostering a firm culture where women are not only valued, but where their personal needs are accommodated. The conversation stressed the mutual benefits of diverse and inclusive work environments. Effective communication was emphasized as pivotal in facilitating collaboration between all stakeholders.
Acknowledging the persistent challenges faced by women in the legal profession, including talent management, the disproportionate representation of women in leadership roles, and the trend of female lawyers transitioning to in-house roles for improved work-life balance, both the panel and audience resolutely called for action.
To conclude, Kathleen M. (Kat) Van Nuffel, Co-Chair LDIA, emphasized that this discussion signifies the inaugural session of the upcoming LDIA Lab’s “𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗽,” signaling a proactive step towards addressing these issues and fostering positive change within the legal community.
1 February 2024 – 5TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF THE LAUNCH OF LDIA
As we stood on the threshold of celebrating the 5th anniversary of the launch of LDIA, we found ourselves reflecting on the incredible journey we have embarked upon together.
“On 31 January 2019, we set out with a vision, a mission, and a shared commitment to making a positive impact. We now mark this significant milestone and can look back with a sense of accomplishment at the collective achievements, the challenges overcome, and the unwavering dedication that has brought us to where we are today. In celebrating this anniversary, we took a moment to reflect on the collaborative spirit that defines us. It is the combined effort of every individual, each unique skill set, and the diversity of thought that has fueled LDIA’s growth and success.”, noted LDIA Board members Caroline Williams (she, her, hers), Els Lagasse, Anna Duron (She/Her/Hers) and Kathleen M. (Kat) Van Nuffel.
We are very grateful for the invaluable contributions to the panel discussion on mental health, led and moderated by Muriel Marseille, Global Chief Risk Officer, Ashurst.
The insights of our panelists Julie Ivaldi, clinical psychologist and certified psychotherapist, Dr. Milie Nwoye, gynecologist and expert in endocrinology Stephanie Davidson, vice-présidente de la commission bien-être psychosocial de l’Ordre, membre de la commission professionnelle et sociale de l’Ordre, Line De Decker, Transformational Business Leader | Global HR and Sustainability Executive, and keynote speaker Richard Martin, Executive Officer of the MBC, made the event both enlightening and impactful. It was truly inspiring to hear each of them sharing perspectives, experiences, and knowledge on such a crucial topic. Their willingness to address the challenges surrounding mental health, break down stigma, and promote open conversations is commendable. The information shared not only increased awareness but also empowered many of us to approach mental health with a more informed and compassionate outlook.
‘Inclusion is not just a concept; it’s a way of life’, and the closing remarks of Els Koninckx, Board Member Order of the Flemish Bar, beautifully articulated that. Her passion and sincerity left a lasting impact on all of us, motivating us to actively contribute to creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
Finally, Alexander Decrans/Lola McQueen, graced the evening with an enchanting performance of ‘Million Dreams’ after sharing his personal journey through mental health challenges. As an advocate for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals and a professional drag queen, Lola captivated us all with the powerful message that resonated: “Don’t just dream your live, but live your dreams! Never stop believing, never give up!”
More photos you can find here by MaximuZ.
2019 – 2023 EVENTS
