ABOUT
MALA
What began as a small network has evolved into a vibrant and respected community championing diversity, inclusion, and excellence in the legal profession.
OUR
MISSION.
OUR
VALUES.
The Midlands Asian Lawyers Association (MALA) was founded in 2004 to represent and support Asian and minority ethnic legal professionals across the Midlands.
From our flagship MALA Ball to our outreach and mentoring programmes, everything we do is rooted in connection - bringing people together to share experiences, build confidence, and inspire the next generation of lawyers.
We host networking, professional development, and community events throughout the year and proudly support charitable causes across the region.
Our events are inclusive and welcoming to all, bringing together lawyers, judges, academics and students from every background to celebrate the diversity and strength of our legal community.
Our mission is to support and promote Asian and minority ethnic lawyers in the Midlands through:
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Integrity - fostering equality, diversity and understanding across the legal landscape
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Collaboration - providing professional development, mentoring, and creating an inclusive community
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Representation - ensuring visibility and a collective voice within the legal profession.
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Progress - celebrating successes and encouraging the next generation into the legal field.
OUR HISTORY
MALA began as part of the Society of Asian Lawyers (SAL), one of the first organisations created to foster relations between BME lawyers. In the 1970s, when SAL was established, the legal profession was far less inclusive and BME solicitors and barristers faced significant obstacles in building their practices or even working.
It was felt that a space was needed for people with the same backgrounds to meet, share experiences and collectively promote the concept of a diverse legal profession, far before that concept became mainstream.
MALA grew out from SAL as a testament to the growth of the Asian legal profession in the Midlands, which required a dedicated organisation to meet its needs in the Midlands itself. As a result, MALA was established in 2004 and for many years was headed by Nirmal Shant QC, who was subsequently appointed a Circuit Judge.
PROFESSIONAL
DEVELOPMENT.
At MALA, we're passionate about inspiring young people from all backgrounds to consider a career in law.
Led by practising solicitors, barristers, and judges, our sessions help students understand what a career in law involves, the routes into the profession, and the importance of representation.
We host a variety of events and seminars focused on career development, well-being, leadership, and inclusion. Whether you're preparing for judicial appointment, developing advocacy skills, or navigating career transitions, our programmes are designed to help you grow and connect.
THE NEXT
GENERATION.
The MALA Committee members are passionate about their careers and want to provide the opportunity for the younger generation to come into the legal field.
MALA aims to be a focal point for those thinking about a career in law by providing opportunities to ask questions through networking events, work experience placements, mentors and a supportive environment for those from minority ethnic backgrounds to study and practise law.
OUR
SUPPORTERS.
We are grateful to all supports, past and present, who have watched Asian members of the legal profession rise to the very highest ranks since MALA was formed. Our president, HHJ Fayyaz Afzal OBE became the first blind judge and then, the first blind Circuit Judge on his promotion; joining an ever-growing cadre of Asian judges in the judiciary
We're thankful to have so many successful Asian Legal Professionals and businesses support us year on year and especially at our annual MALA Ball, here are the sponsors from 2025.
