Joy Omingo’s Trailblazing Path Through ‘Big Law’

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For Joy Omingo, the corridors of ‘Big Law’ were never part of the original blueprint. In 2011, she was pursuing ACCA, envisioning a future in accounting. A chance conversation with a relative, however, altered the trajectory of her life when she learned about Strathmore University’s plans to launch a law school. What followed was a daring pivot into the unknown, fueled by encouragement from family and her innate charisma that hinted at a natural fit for a legal career.

Fast forward to 2018, Joy was walking into the halls of Anjarwalla and Khanna LLP (ALN Kenya), one of the most prestigious law firms in the region, armed with her Strathmore Law degree and an unyielding drive to excel. Her story unfolds as one of resilience, transformation, and passion. A journey from being part of Strathmore Law School’s pioneer class to becoming a thriving in-house lawyer specializing in infrastructure development and project finance at InfraCo Africa.

Joy’s career in the legal world began a year after her graduation from Strathmore University. After completing her Kenya School of Law post-graduate program, Joy found herself in the corridors of ALN Kenya, one of the most renowned law firms in the country. Securing a spot was no small feat, as the firm was known for its intensely competitive hiring process. Joy recalls how Strathmore Law School’s growing reputation and the impressive performance of its alumni played a pivotal role in her success.

“The law firm had just heard of Strathmore Law School and how good the students were. The firm had also seen the impressive performance of several Strathmore Law School students who had interned there, which contributed to its high regard for Strathmore graduates. The process was intensely competitive, but yes, I managed to secure a spot,” Joy recounts.

Once at ALN Kenya, Joy was immersed in an 18-month training program designed to expose trainee lawyers to various legal departments. It was during this period that her interest in infrastructure development and project finance began to blossom. Joy attributes her adventurous nature and love for tackling complex legal issues to her passion for this niche field.

“It was intricate and a niche in the Kenyan market, and I loved it!” she says. Her five-year tenure at ALN Kenya provided her with a solid foundation, allowing her to excel in various roles and handle every task with commitment. This experience proved instrumental in her transition to InfraCo Africa, where she now thrives as an in-house lawyer advising on and supporting infrastructure projects across Sub-Saharan Africa.

Joy’s journey to Strathmore Law School was as unconventional as her path to ALN Kenya. Initially, she had no intention of becoming a lawyer. Her decision to pursue law was inspired by her family’s belief in her potential and Strathmore University’s rigorous reputation. “When I heard that Strathmore was starting a law school, I got very intrigued given the university’s high standards with its degree programs. With the influence and support of my mother and aunt, I decided to give it a shot,” she says.

The screening process was rigorous, but Joy successfully earned a spot among the 60 students selected for the pioneer class of Strathmore Law School. She joined the program in 2012 and was immediately struck by the university’s commitment to excellence. “Strathmore went to great lengths to secure the best lecturers in the country for us, which was incredibly impressive,” she recalls.

One of the highlights of her time at Strathmore was a two-week Europe tour, her first international trip, where she visited Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium. The experience offered her invaluable exposure to different legal systems and cultures. “It was an unforgettable journey that opened our eyes to different legal systems and cultures,” Joy reflects.

According to Joy, her greatest takeaway from Strathmore was the work ethic and values instilled in students. Integrity and commitment became the cornerstones of her professional and personal life. She fondly remembers the rigorous academic demands, including continuous assessments and the school’s strict attendance policies, as key factors in shaping her dedication and discipline. “Commitment is one major thing I got from Strathmore. The grading system, the two-thirds school attendance rule, and mid-semester tests taught me true commitment,” she says.

Beyond her career, Joy is equally committed to personal growth, particularly in fitness. Her fitness journey began five years ago and remains a vital part of her routine. “I love fitness, and whenever I don’t work out, I don’t feel okay,” she shares. This dedication mirrors her professional drive and zest for tackling challenges head-on.

Looking ahead, Joy plans to pursue a master’s degree in a project finance or sustainable finance program to deepen her specialization and skills. She is optimistic about her future in infrastructure development and project finance, fields that she finds both fulfilling and challenging. “I don’t know what the future holds, but I really enjoy being an in-house lawyer and working in the project finance and infrastructure development field. I love where I am at and the journey that I am on,” she states with conviction.

Article written by Gertrude Wachira

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