In a remarkable achievement, Bahamian national Bianca Smith has officially become a barrister after being called to the Bar in London. At the young age of 23, Smith was formally admitted to the Bar of England and Wales on November 20 at Gray’s Inn, in a ceremony presided over by the Rt Honorable Justice Lady Geraldine Andrews.
Reflecting on her accomplishment, Smith expressed immense pride and gratitude. ‘It was an immense reward after all of my hard work, and I am incredibly proud,’ she stated. ‘I could not have done it without all of the support I have received. Thank you to everyone that has been a part of this journey. I am honoured to be a Barrister.’
Smith’s academic journey is equally impressive. She earned her Bachelor of Laws with First Class Honours from Goldsmiths University of London, where her dissertation focused on Bahamian women and the systemic inequality in legislation concerning women’s rights, particularly citizenship transference and the lack of recognition of women’s issues. She further pursued Bar Vocational Studies (BVS) at City, University of London, graduating with a postgraduate diploma with merit.
This milestone not only highlights Smith’s dedication and intellectual prowess but also underscores her commitment to addressing systemic inequalities, particularly in the context of women’s rights in The Bahamas.