A passion for achieving goals through perseverance helped Angelica Wales through her journey in the legal fraternity.

Ms Wales, an associate at law firm Conyers, was joined by family, friends and colleagues when she was Called to the Bar yesterday during a ceremony at Magistrates’ Court that was overseen by Justice Alan Richards.

The court heard that the newly minted lawyer was born and raised in the Philippines before joining her mother in Bermuda in 2014.

After completing studies at Mount St Agnes Academy, she pursued a bachelor of laws and attained her degree from the University of Kent in the summer of 2022.

She told the court that she owes a debt of gratitude to many people who supported her along the way.

They included her colleagues at Conyers, her classmates from MSA, her husband and her extended family.

She said her mother, Genevieve Wales, is the definition of a hard-working woman.

She said: “My mother was a single parent before she met my stepfather.

“She worked tirelessly from dawn until late every evening, striving to provide for my sister and I.

“Even as a child, I was acutely aware of the burdens she and my grandmother bore, yet she carried them with unwavering grace, determined to create a brighter future for us.”

She said she was inspired by her mother who faced her sacrifices with grace and resilience.

Looking back, the young lawyer said when she moved to Bermuda, an array of opportunities were presented to her.

She said: “I was determined to succeed, to contribute meaningfully to my new community, and to make the most of every opportunity before me.”

She said her choice to pursue a career in law has proved to be one of the best decisions of her life.

“My attendance at law school honed my skills and provided me with the platform to pursue my dream to make a difference in my life,” she added.

Craig MacIntyre, of Conyers, who moved her application to be Called to the Bar, said Ms Wales’s spirit of determination could not go unnoticed.

He said she completed seven stints as a legal intern, a journey that signified her hunger to learn.

He said the law firm has high hopes for the young lawyer being a part of its legal team.

Assistant Registrar Cratonia Thompson, who appeared on behalf of Ms Wales, said she admired her “kindness” and “humility”.

She advised her to remain kind, be open and be willing to lend a listening ear at all times.

Attorney Cristen Suess, who also supported Ms Wales, offered words of encouragement to the young lawyer.

She said: “I trust you will be a member of this honourable profession for many years to come.”

In brief remarks, Mr Justice Richards told Ms Wales to hone the values of the rule of law.

He added: “I encourage you to keep as wide a focus as you can in the early stages of your career.”