Member’s Corner takes a closer look at Dority International Alumni Association members. This week features Henrietta Balogu from Class of 2011.
Henrietta Balogu
How would you describe yourself?
I am a go-getter. I get things done. I set goals and do my very best, with God by my side, to achieve said goals.
What are your academic qualifications?
I have LL.B (Bachelor of law), B.L(Barrister at Law) and LL.M (Master of Laws) degrees. I also have a certification in Project Management Professional.
What’s your area of specialization as a lawyer and how long have you been practising?
I am mostly into corporate practice. I’ve been practising for two years.
What makes you different from the average lawyer?
My ability to draw reasonable and logical conclusions from limited information. The skills you need for your ideal career are something you work on and develop over time. I am like a sponge right now, trying to soak up as much knowledge as I can. The key to being a great lawyer is research, research, research.
What motivated you to study law?
Aristotle said, “Law is reason free from passion”. Law affects our everyday lives, whether it’s driving a car, buying something from a shop, getting into a fight, being employed or renting a house. My motivation to study law came from watching my father practice. This made me realize the power and impact of law over people’s lives.
What do you remember the most about your time as a student at Dority International Early Learning School?
The sounds of Mr Bright Adawisi’s floggings, lol. I remember the assemblies, especially Thursdays and Fridays and I miss the hymn singing as well.
Where do you think you will be in the next five years?
I plan on developing my skill set because I’m somewhat of a greenhorn. Over the next five years, I see myself taking on as many complex assignments as possible and by the end of that period I’d like to look back and give myself a pat on the back
What do lawyers do that most people are not aware of?
Most people don’t understand that lawyers are friends with each other. We are a close-knit group. Two lawyers after a heated argument in the courtroom can go partying or grab lunch together. We are not enemies. It’s just business, nothing personal.
Which of your achievements are you most proud of?
Being a legal practitioner. By God’s grace, I have more proud moments ahead of me.
Which issues or topics are you passionate about?
I am passionate about human rights, judicial reforms and corporate governance issues in the legal profession.
If you had the chance to mentor a Dority student, what advice would you give him/her?
Enjoy your time at Dority. Don’t fret too much about what you are passing through. The experience will mould and shape you for the future. This probably sounds cliche but in time you will realize it. I will always cherish my years at Dority the lessons, the foundations and the relationships.
In what way can the alumni benefit from your services?
Consulting me for legal services. Definitely not for free, lol, but at a subsidized rate for the alumni.