My name is Vanessa Chikaka.​

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I am a City lawyer and Coach with a specific focus on Race & Retention.

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During my legal career, I worked in two well-regarded US law firms in London for four years. I have been coaching Trainees and Graduates part-time since 2019. However, in 2020 I decided to take a diploma in Life and Confidence Coaching. Since completing my diploma, I have been focusing on coaching large groups of lawyers and diverse talent, equipping them with what I believe are the tools that nobody tells you about but are essential to succeed in the legal field today and in life! ​
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During my time as a lawyer, I found it increasingly frustrating how little training was provided on interpersonal skills, self-confidence, and how to navigate a predominately white industry. I also found that as a diverse candidate myself, I was faced unique challenges not many people within my firm could relate to or even knew. The need to change this drove me to get involved with D&I initiatives and coaching, first on a part-time basis and now, excitingly, full-time! 
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As a diversity lawyer who comes from a white/black background and has walked the walk, I look at things differently and offer a unique style of consulting to firms when focusing on race & retention challenges. I most enjoy the discussion on appreciating different points of view and trying to understand why someone holds their beliefs.