Brenda Matu and Brian Sweigman - Virtual Summer Program Participants

Since the beginning of July, participants of WLG's Virtual Summer Program have been engaging with other young members through pen pal arrangements. Here is what two of our participants learned during their two-week interaction.

Brenda Matu	Brian Sweigman
ENSafrica - South Africa	Goodmans LLP - Canada

1. How did you learn about WLG's young lawyer programs?
Brenda: One of our partners, Mahesh Acharya, recommended that we participate in the program.

Brian: From the partners at my firm. Specifically, Neil Sheehy encouraged me to get involved.

2. What did you find you had in common?
Brenda: We have both recently transitioned jobs and joined new law firms and are entering new practice areas in our work.

Brian: We both joined WLG member firms!

3. What ideas did you share ideas about programs and support your respective firms have in place for young lawyers?
Brian: We shared experiences about adjusting to a new firm and rising up to a challenge. We’ve each made presentations to other lawyers to sharpen our skills and tried to integrate into the firm’s culture. Strengthening internal and external relationships has been a priority for both of us.

4. Was there an interesting professional experience the other shared that stood out to you? What was it?
Brenda: We both use similar tools to expand our knowledge in our areas of practice. For example, we both enjoy giving presentations to our colleges on various aspects in our areas of practice.

Brian: At ENSafrica, they are the largest and oldest law firm in Africa, but she works at the Nairobi office, which is small and relatively new, so it has strong, communal relationships between the members of the firm.

5. How do you think WLG can help you build your practice?
Brian: I think understanding the nature of the practice of law in other countries is extremely helpful, as is getting insight on the developments of the law outside of my own jurisdiction. Speaking with Brenda has been insightful to learn that although we are half a world apart and practice in different areas, our experience is similar. I also know now that I have a friend in Africa that I can rely on for any issue that may come up, both on a personal and professional basis.

Brenda: It can help with gaining insights into the law practice in other jurisdictions and making contact with practitioners who may be able to assist with cross-border work. It is also a good resource to ensure that I am up to date with current world legal trends in my area of practice. On the social aspect, it may help to create contacts and cultivate friendships in various countries around the world.