About Us
BLD, also known as the Black Lawyers Directory, was founded in 2006 with the fundamental aim to highlight, promote and champion diversity within the legal profession and to raise aspirations, empower and create a dynamic forum of information and network opportunities. It was the brain-child of Debo Nwauzu. The idea for BLD took root and stayed firmly planted after she attended the first ever Black Women Global Conference in Paris, France, in June 2004.
Why BLD? Black minority ethnic lawyers and law students are disproportionately disadvantaged in obtaining training contracts, pupillages and tenancies and they are also less likely to be offered partnership. They are less likely to reach the highest levels of the profession compared to their white counterparts. There can also be a feeling of isolation and a sense that limited information is available. There is little information for users of legal services to gauge the diversity of the different organisations they instruct or wish to instruct. This can and must change.
BLD's aim is to make a real difference. We will highlight areas where a lot is being done and those who can do better, provide information to all, including organisations, individual lawyers, law students and members of the general public. We will showcase the talent of black minority ethnic lawyers. The aim is not to name and shame but to encourage, cajole and ask: "Why not?"
We will also raise the profile of the myriad of groups and associations, events, schemes and awards available for black minority ethnic lawyers, many of whom are unaware of such developments.