Kiara Wilkinson celebrated joining the Bermuda Bar in a ceremony in the Supreme Court yesterday.

Ms Wilkinson, who in her second year of Appleby’s legal trainee programme, said she was “humbled” by the event and thankful for the support she has received over the years.

She added: “Thank you to all involved in my legal journey thus far as you have contributed to putting me on the right path to becoming a capable and competent lawyer.

“I’ve learnt some invaluable lessons along the way. I trust that the example set for me will remain so that I can help others who follow after me.

“Most of all, I would like to acknowledge and thank my parents, who have afforded me the opportunity to pursue this profession. They have unwaveringly supported me every step of the way. Through every accomplishment or mistake, they have stood by my side.

“This achievement is also for them as much as it is for me.”

Ms Wilkinson started her pupillage at Appleby last year after she earned a bachelor’s in criminology from Kingston University and a graduate diploma in law from BPP University in London Waterloo.

During her time at Appleby, she spent six months in the corporate department under Tiffany Boys, a partner at the firm, before moving to the dispute resolutions department, where she was mentored by Hannah Tildesley, partner and head of the trusts disputes team in Bermuda.

Ms Boys said: “Kiara has become a dependable and trusted member of the Appleby team.

“She is truly thriving in dispute resolution, where she has found her niche. We are delighted that she is allowing us to be a part of her journey and we look forward to watching her continue to flourish and shine.”

Ms Tildesley added: “She is thoughtful, hardworking and the ultimate team player. She never gives up, no matter how challenging the work, and she is always open to learning and growing as an individual.

“I am delighted to see her Called to the Bar and embarking on the next stage of her legal career. I know she has a very bright future in our profession and that she will be a fantastic addition to the Bermuda litigation ranks.”

Ms Wilkinson, who recently began her third seat in the dispute resolution department, said she was indebted to the team at Applebys.

“The support of my mentors, Ms Boys and Ms Tildesley, along with other members of the team, has been the wind behind my back to push me across this finish line,” she added.

“I am grateful to have been mentored by some of Bermuda’s greatest legal minds who often challenged me and supported me.”