BLSA CANADA
34th ANNUAL
NATIONAL CONFERENCE

The Westin Calgary - Calgary, Alberta

Thursday, February 13, 2025 - Sunday, February 16, 2025

600

+

Attendees

50

+

Speakers

23

+

Law Schools

30

+

Employers

About the National Conference

As our crowning event of the year, the National Conference serves as a forum that brings legal professionals from across the country and is the largest gathering of Black law students in Canada. The Conference serves as an unparalleled opportunity for Black law students to network among themselves and the wider legal community, build lasting relationships in an inclusive environment, and gain meaningful insight into the practice of law from Black professionals across Canada.

See snapshots from the 2024 National Conference here:

2024 Conference Photos and Videos
2024 Conference Magazine
2024 Conference Schedule

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Innovating Today, Impacting Tomorrow

Our theme for the year, "Innovating Today, Impacting Tomorrow," beautifully encapsulates our commitment to honouring our Black history while reimagining the future of legal practice. Drawing inspiration from the rich legacy and resilience of our ancestors, we are empowered to challenge existing paradigms and drive innovative solutions that address contemporary legal challenges. By doing so, we strive to preserve our heritage and shape a more equitable and forward-thinking future, ensuring that our contributions leave a lasting impact on the landscape of the profession and future generations of Black law students.

Sponsors

Platinum National Partners

National Partners

Diamond Sponsors

Platinum Sponsors

Panel Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors

Gala Table Sponsors

Refreshment Sponsors

Law Foundation and Grant Sponsors

Reception Sponsors

We are still accepting sponsorship and would love to partner with your organization.

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor for the National Conference, please contact Uche Umolu, the National Sponsorship Director, at sponsorship@blsacanada.com.

Uche Umolu
National Sponsorship Director
sponsorship@blsacanada.com

Agenda at a Glance

February 13, 2025 14:00
February 13, 2025 18:30
speaker headshot

Shanice Teape
BLSA Canada

February 13, 2025 19:30
February 14, 2025 08:00
February 14, 2025 07:30
February 14, 2025 08:30
February 14, 2025 09:15

This panel brings together distinguished legal professionals who have successfully navigated the journey from law students to partners in leading firms. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the skills, strategies, and mindset required to advance within the legal profession. Panelists will share their personal experiences, discuss the challenges they have faced, and offer practical advice on career development, mentorship, networking, and leadership.

February 14, 2025 09:15

This panel highlights the critical role of Francophone voices in the fight for social justice and activism. Featuring prominent Francophone leaders and advocates, the discussion will explore how language, culture, and identity intersect with the pursuit of justice within the Black community. Panelists will share their experiences in driving change, tackling systemic inequality, and mobilizing communities within the Francophone community. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Francophone activists in advancing social justice movements.

February 14, 2025 10:15
February 14, 2025 10:20

This panel examines the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and racial bias in the legal field, focusing on how AI technologies and algorithms can affect marginalized communities. The panelists will explore ethical challenges and recent developments, for example, predictive policing, legal research and discuss the role law students and future lawyers can play in advocating for ethical and fair technology practices.

February 14, 2025 10:20
February 14, 2025 10:20

This panel offers a deep dive into what it takes to build a thriving career in litigation and advocacy. With insights from experienced litigators, attendees will learn about key litigation strategies, advocacy techniques, and career progression. Law students will walk away with actionable advice on how to navigate and the complexities of litigation and kickstart their careers.

February 14, 2025 11:30

This luncheon honours the trailblazing legacy of Violet King Henry, Canada’s first Black female lawyer, while celebrating the achievements of women in the legal profession. The event will highlight stories of leadership, resilience, and impact from women who have paved the way for future generations. Men are also strongly encouraged to attend, as the luncheon fosters a collective dialogue on the importance of gender equity and the shared responsibility of advancing women in law.

February 14, 2025 13:10

This panel addresses the importance of mental health and wellness in the legal field. Panelists will discuss the pressures lawyers face, strategies for maintaining well-being, and how the profession can better support mental health. Law students will gain practical advice on managing stress and achieving a healthy work-life balance as they enter the legal profession.

February 14, 2025 13:10

This panel explores the unique experiences of Black queer lawyers in law and advocacy. Panelists will discuss challenges, representation, and their impact on social change, offering law students insights into the importance of diversity in the legal profession.

February 14, 2025 13:10

This panel focuses on how lawyers and law students can effectively use social media to build and enhance their professional brands. Panelists will share strategies for creating an authentic online presence, networking, and navigating the legal ethics surrounding social media use. Attendees will gain practical tips on leveraging digital platforms to advance their legal careers.

February 14, 2025 14:10
February 14, 2025 14:20

This panel offers attendees a deep dive into the criminal justice system through the perspectives of both Crown attorneys and criminal defence lawyers. Panelists will discuss their ethics, roles, strategies, and the challenges they face in advocating for justice from opposing sides of the courtroom. Attendees will gain insights into the key skills needed to excel in criminal law, whether in prosecution or defence.

February 14, 2025 14:20

This panel explores the experiences of Black lawyers in the field of securities law and their role in shaping the future of financial regulation. Panelists will discuss the challenges they’ve faced, the progress being made toward greater diversity in the financial sector, and how Black lawyers are influencing change in this complex field. Law students will gain insights into opportunities in securities law and how they can contribute to the evolving landscape of financial regulation.

February 14, 2025 14:20

This panel showcases the influence of in-house counsels in shaping corporate policies and promoting diversity. Panelists will discuss their journey, experiences and how they drive change from within organizations, offering law students insights into the challenges and opportunities in corporations.

February 14, 2025 14:00
February 14, 2025 14:00
February 14, 2025 16:30
February 14, 2025 17:30

Local Market/Raffle

LGBTQ+ Mixer at

February 14, 2025 17:30
February 14, 2025 18:30
February 14, 2025 19:30
February 14, 2025 19:30
February 14, 2025 19:30
February 14, 2025 22:00
February 15, 2025 08:00
February 15, 2025 08:30
February 15, 2025 08:30

2024-2025 Board presents portfolio updates. Nominations for 2025 - 2026 National Executive Board.

February 15, 2025 10:30

This panel brings together Black male leaders in the legal profession to share their experiences, challenges, and successes. The discussion will focus on mentorship, leadership, and strategies for overcoming barriers in the legal field. Law students will gain inspiration and practical advice on navigating their careers while building a strong support network.

February 15, 2025 10:30

This panel brings together successful Black women in law to discuss their career journeys, challenges, and leadership experiences. Panelists will explore topics such as mentorship, breaking barriers, and building networks of support. Law students will gain inspiration and practical guidance for thriving in the legal profession and supporting other Black women along the way.

February 15, 2025 12:30
February 15, 2025 12:30

Elections Q&A /Debates.

February 15, 2025 14:10

This panel highlights the important work lawyers do in government and community advocacy roles. Panelists will discuss how legal professionals can drive social change, shape public policy, and serve underrepresented communities. Law students will gain insights into career paths in public service and the impact lawyers can have in both governmental and community sectors.

February 15, 2025 14:10

This panel delves into the challenges and opportunities of practicing law in various jurisdictions. Panelists will discuss their experiences with cross-border legal work, managing regulatory differences, and navigating international legal landscapes. Law students will gain practical advice on building a career that spans multiple legal systems and how to adapt their practice to diverse legal frameworks.

February 15, 2025 14:10

This panel is designed to equip aspiring lawyers with essential financial literacy skills for managing their personal and professional finances. Panelists will cover topics such as budgeting, student loan management, investing, and long-term financial planning. Law students will gain practical tips and strategies to help them build a secure financial future as they enter the legal profession.

February 15, 2025 15:10
February 15, 2025 15:30
February 15, 2025 15:30
February 15, 2025 18:30

Photo Booths, Pictures

February 15, 2025 20:00

The Westin Calgary Downtown - Calgary, Alberta. 320 4 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 2S6

February 15, 2025 23:00
February 16, 2025 10:30
February 13, 2025 14:00
February 13, 2025 18:30
February 13, 2025 19:30
February 14, 2025 08:00
February 14, 2025 07:30
February 14, 2025 08:30
February 14, 2025 09:15

Ce panel réunit des éminents professionnels du droit qui ont brillamment réussi leur parcours, passant d’étudiants en droit à partenaires dans des cabinets renommés. Les participants auront l’opportunité d’acquérir des connaissances sur les compétences et les stratégies nécessaires pour progresser dans la profession juridique. Les panélistes partageront leurs expériences personnelles, les défis auxquels ils ont été confrontés et offriront des conseils pratiques sur le développement professionnel, le mentorat, le réseautage et le leadership.

February 14, 2025 09:15

Ce panel souligne le rôle essentiel des voix francophones dans la lutte pour la justice sociale et l'activisme. Avec des leaders et défenseurs francophones réputés, la discussion explorera comment la langue, la culture et l'identité s'entrelacent avec la quête de justice au sein de la communauté noire. Les panélistes partageront leurs expériences de lutte contre l’inégalité systémique et la mobilisation des communautés au sein de la communauté francophone. Les participants bénéficieront d'une compréhension approfondie des défis et des opportunités uniques auxquels font face les militants francophones dans l'avancement des mouvements de justice sociale.

February 14, 2025 10:15
February 14, 2025 10:20

Ce panel examine l’intersection de l’intelligence artificielle (IA) et des préjugés raciaux dans la profession juridique, avec un accent sur l’impact des technologies et des algorithmes d'IA peuvent affecter les communautés marginalisées. Les panélistes exploreront les défis éthiques et les développements récents, tels que la police prédictive, la recherche juridique Ils discuteront du rôle que les étudiants en droit en tant que futurs avocats peuvent jouer dans la défense des pratiques technologiques éthiques et équitables.

February 14, 2025 10:20
February 14, 2025 10:20

Ce panel propose une discussion approfondie sur ce qu’il faut pour construire une carrière réussie dans le domaine du litige et de la plaidoirie. Grâce aux conseils d'avocats expérimentés, les participants découvriront des stratégies clés en matière de litige, des techniques de plaidoirie et des perspectives sur le développement professionnel. Les étudiants en droit repartiront avec des conseils pratiques sur comment naviguer les complexités du litige et démarrer leur carrière.

February 14, 2025 11:30
February 14, 2025 13:10

Ce panel aborde l'importance de la santé mentale et du bien-être dans le domaine juridique. Les panélistes discuteront des pressions auxquelles les avocats sont confrontés, des stratégies pour préserver leur bien-être et des manières dont la profession peut mieux soutenir la santé mentale. Les étudiants en droit recevront des conseils pratiques sur la gestion du stress et l'atteinte d'un équilibre sain entre vie professionnelle et vie personnelle lorsqu'ils entreront dans la profession juridique

February 14, 2025 13:10

Ce panel explore les expériences uniques des avocats queer noirs en matière de droit et de défense des droits. Les panélistes discuteront des défis, de la représentation et de leur impact sur le changement social, offrant aux étudiants en droit un aperçu de l'importance de la diversité dans la profession juridique.

February 14, 2025 13:10

Ce panel se concentre sur la manière dont les avocats et les étudiants en droit peuvent utiliser efficacement les médias sociaux pour construire et améliorer leur marque professionnelle. Les panélistes partageront des stratégies pour créer une présence en ligne authentique, créer un réseau et naviguer dans l'éthique juridique entourant l'utilisation des médias sociaux. Les participants obtiendront des conseils pratiques sur la façon de tirer parti des plateformes numériques pour faire progresser leur carrière juridique.

February 14, 2025 14:10
February 14, 2025 14:20

Ce panel offre aux participants une discussion approfondie sur le système de justice pénale à travers les perspectives des procureurs et des avocats de la défense. Les panélistes discuteront de leur éthique, leurs rôles, leurs stratégies et des défis auxquels ils sont confrontés dans la défense en faveur de la justice depuis les côtés opposés du tribunal. Les participants auront un aperçu des compétences clés nécessaires pour exceller en droit pénal, que ce soit en tant que procureur ou avocat de la défense.

February 14, 2025 14:20

Ce panel explore les expériences des avocats noirs dans le domaine du droit des valeurs mobilières et leur rôle dans l'évolution de la régulation financière. Les panélistes discuteront des défis auxquels ils ont été confrontés, des progrès réalisés vers une plus grande diversité dans le secteur financier, et de la manière dont les avocats noirs influencent le changement dans ce domaine complexe. Les étudiants en droit acquerront des perspectives sur les opportunités en droit des valeurs mobilières et des manières dont ils peuvent contribuer à l'évolution du paysage de la régulation financière.

February 14, 2025 14:20

Ce panel présente l'influence des avocats d'entreprise dans l'élaboration des politiques corporatives et la promotion de la diversité. Les panélistes partageront leur parcours, leurs expériences et les manières dont ils engendrent le changement au sein des organisations, offrant ainsi aux étudiants en droit des perspectives sur les défis et les opportunités dans les entreprises.

February 14, 2025 14:00

The Westin Calgary Downtown - Calgary, Alberta. 320 4 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 2S6

February 14, 2025 14:00
February 14, 2025 16:30
February 14, 2025 17:30
February 14, 2025 17:30
February 14, 2025 18:30
February 14, 2025 19:30
February 14, 2025 19:30
February 14, 2025 19:30
February 14, 2025 22:00
February 15, 2025 08:00
February 15, 2025 08:30
February 15, 2025 08:30

2024-2025 Board presents portfolio updates. Nominations for 2025 - 2026 National Executive Board.

February 15, 2025 10:30

Ce panel rassemble des dirigeants masculins noirs de la profession juridique pour partager leurs expériences, leurs défis et leurs réussites. La discussion portera sur le mentorat, le leadership et les stratégies permettant de surmonter les obstacles dans le domaine juridique. Les étudiants en droit obtiendront de l'inspiration et des conseils pratiques pour naviguer dans leur carrière tout en construisant un solide réseau de soutien.

February 15, 2025 10:30

Ce panel rassemble des avocates noires accomplies pour discuter de leur parcours professionnel, de leurs défis et de leurs expériences de leadership. Les panélistes exploreront des sujets tels que le mentorat, l’élimination des barrières et la création de réseaux de soutien. Les étudiants en droit y trouveront de l'inspiration et des conseils pratiques pour réussir dans la profession juridique et soutenir d'autres femmes noires tout au long de leur parcours.

February 15, 2025 12:30
February 15, 2025 12:30

Elections Q&A /Debates.

February 15, 2025 14:10

Ce panel met en lumière le travail important que font les avocats dans leurs rôles de défense des droits au sein du gouvernement et de la communauté. Les panélistes discuteront des manières dont les professionnels juridiques peuvent conduire le changement social, façonner les politiques publiques et servir les communautés sous-représentées. Les étudiants en droit auront un aperçu des cheminements de carrière dans la fonction publique et de l'impact que les avocats peuvent avoir dans les secteurs gouvernemental et communautaire.

February 15, 2025 14:10

Ce panel se penche sur les défis et les opportunités de la pratique du droit dans diverses juridictions. Les panélistes discuteront de leurs expériences en matière de travail juridique transfrontalier, de gestion des différences réglementaires et de navigation dans les paysages juridiques internationaux. Les étudiants en droit obtiendront des conseils pratiques sur la construction d'une carrière couvrant plusieurs systèmes juridiques et sur la manière d'adapter leur pratique à divers cadres juridiques.

February 15, 2025 14:10

Ce panel est conçu pour doter les futurs avocats de compétences financières essentielles pour gérer leurs finances personnelles et professionnelles. Les panélistes aborderont des sujets tels que la budgétisation, la gestion des prêts étudiants, l'investissement et la planification financière à long terme. Les étudiants en droit obtiendront des conseils pratiques et des stratégies pour les aider à bâtir un avenir financier sûr lorsqu'ils entreront dans la profession juridique.

February 15, 2025 15:10
February 15, 2025 15:30
February 15, 2025 15:30
February 15, 2025 18:30

Photo Booths, Pictures.

February 15, 2025 20:00

The Westin Calgary Downtown - Calgary, Alberta. 320 4 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 2S6

February 15, 2025 23:00
February 16, 2025 10:30

Frequently Asked Questions


No — Chapter Fund decisions will not be made prior to conference ticket sales starting, so prioritize purchasing your tickets as soon as possible, given there are limited tickets available.
A ticket includes hotel accommodations for three nights (Thursday night to Sunday morning), access to all BLSA Canada Conference events and meals. We also have tickets available for those who reside in Calgary and do not require hotel accommodations.
Plus ones are allowed. However, they will have to purchase a non-student ticket.
Check-in at the hotel begins at 3 PM (MST) on Thursday, February 13th, 2025. The Welcome Reception is tentatively scheduled for 7:00 PM (MST), so be sure to arrive by then! You can request early check-in by contacting the hotel in advance (The Westin Calgary).
Attendees have the option to purchase a single or double accommodation. If you choose double accommodation and there is a particular student you would like to share a room with, please indicate that in your registration form.
You will both need to buy tickets to ensure we have an accurate count of attendees. However, if you plan to share the same single room, one person can buy a ticket with accommodation, and the other can buy a ticket without.
Yes, you must both purchase a double accommodation ticket to ensure we have an accurate account of attendees.
If you do not indicate a specific person, and you purchase a double accommodation ticket, you will be randomly matched with another unpartnered person of the same gender.
Unfortunately, all tickets are non-refundable.
You are welcome to stay in the hotel after the conference. The hotel may offer a special discounted rate to conference attendees three (3) days before and three (3) days after the conference. To take advantage of this offer, contact our Conference Chair, Shanice Teape, at conference@blsacanada.com by Monday, January 13th, 2025.
The conference officially ends on Sunday morning, but no programming is scheduled that day. Check-out time is 12 PM (MST) and the Executive Transition meeting will be at noon.
Attendees are expected to attend all events and panels. We have varied programming to suit a variety of interests. Our partners and sponsors are excited to engage with you.

CONTACT US

I am excited to welcome you to the 34th National Conference! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me at conference@blsacanada.com.

Shanice Teape
National Conference Chair
conference@blsacanada.com