Her story

Melini is the Prinicipal at McCabes Lawyers.

Without mentioning your job title, how would you describe what it is you do now (whether at home, work, in the community, etc.)?

I'm a bit like a bodyguard but for a business! I help businesses to make sure they have the right strategy and approach in place for their people and to come up with solutions when people matters get tricky.

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What are the first three words you think of when you hear the word ‘diversity’?

Representation, differences, value.

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What do you think it will take to develop truly diverse thinking within the legal industry?

I think the legal industry has come leaps and bounds in the past 2 decades since I joined. We need to remain curious and respectful, encourage a variety of views and ask ourselves to step forward and be brave to pave the way for those coming behind us. Brave in the decisions we make and how we implement them not just for ourselves but in what we do.

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What was your main driver to enter the legal industry?

To help people - to be of service to those who were less fortunate or able. I started in social justice at Legal Aid. I've come a long way since then, but I like to think my clients know I will take care of them and their concerns when they come to me.

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