A young woman who was Called to the Bar last week said that getting through tough times on her journey to success helped to pave the way for a career in law.

Kemilah Swan was welcomed to Bermuda’s legal profession in a courtroom packed with family, friends and mentors on Friday.

She said: “I am elated and overjoyed that my dream and vision of being a lawyer is now realised.

“I have given a lot of thought on the message I wanted to deliver today. Nothing seemed more fitting than to reflect on all the time and effort that has culminated to the current day.

“I want to take a moment to remind myself of the hard work and dedication that was required in order to stand here before all of you today.

“Creating my reality has not been an easy task.”

Ms Swan, 28, told the Chief Justice, Narinder Hargun, that despite “self doubts, the highs and the lows, and the moments of uncertainty” she remained “ready to take on the privilege of being an advocate for others”.

The former Bermuda Institute and Berkeley Institute pupil said: “There have been times when I considered going into another direction and simply giving up because taking the easier route was more appealing at the time.

“Yet, I realised that it was the perseverance and persistence that carried me through these moments that would eventually prepare me for being an excellent lawyer.

“It is this vigour instilled within me that motivates me to fight for the best for my clients.”

Ms Swan, from Paget, became emotional at times as she thanked members of her family, mentors, teachers and friends who supported her.

Her application for admission to the Bar came from her pupil-master, Bruce Swan, who told the court she was “always eager to learn and eager to assist”.

Jaleesa Simons, a Crown counsel at the Department of Public Prosecutions, said that she “hit the jackpot” when she met Ms Swan. The pair became friends after they were introduced while they were studying in Birmingham.

Ms Simons said: “One thing this court can be sure when it relates to Ms Swan, is that she’s a very trustworthy, honourable person who does not lack integrity, which is most important in this profession.”

Mr Justice Hargun explained that the Bar admission marked “not so much a finishing line, as a beginning”.

He said: “The legal profession is characterised by lifelong learning.

“The first few years are very important because it’s in the first years you will learn the practical side of being an effective lawyer.”

The Chief Justice welcomed Ms Swan to the Bermuda Bar and said that he was “pleased to note” her commitment to the public.

He added: “To the extent that you can, you should always try to contribute to public service and charitable works.”