Trainee Blog: Inclusion at Gordons by Antonia Nita

Gordons trainee, Antonia Nita, writes about her experience so far…

‘The best advice I received while applying for a training contract was to find a firm that ‘was right for me’. Although it did not make much sense at the time, now that I am more than a year in the process, I totally understand where people were coming from.

A training contract is a defining experience for your career. It is the moment when you choose what the rest of your professional life in law will look like and the pressure feels very real, at times. It is not an easy journey, so feeling comfortable, understood and supported at work is essential. The ‘right fit’ does not just mean picking between practice areas and office locations – it is also about the culture of the firm and the mindset of the people you will be working with.

To me, a sense of belonging makes work easier and keeps me motivated to improve to my full potential. However, inclusion means something different to everyone, and I am grateful to work in a place where this is acknowledged and we are valued as individuals, regardless of what sets us apart.

At Gordons, there are regular conversations about diversity and inclusion and there is support available for colleagues regardless of how they identify and where they come from. We have a fantastic Head of Wellbeing & Inclusion, and meet regularly as part of the Wellbeing & Inclusion Committee. We are provided with training and resources on wellbeing and some of our colleagues are mental health first aiders. The firm is keen to find out how it can improve through reverse mentoring schemes and outside training sessions, and as colleagues, we are encouraged to get involved in initiatives with Leeds Law Society and other external organisations by attending events and volunteering.

But most importantly, at Gordons, people celebrate these values naturally by supporting each other, in the workplace and outside. We have conversations about our backgrounds and challenges we face and life outside of the office. Life events are celebrated, be that a wedding, a baby, or a career achievement – which all shows that our ‘People First’ approach, is not just a motto.

I am lucky to be part of such a fantastic team and develop alongside them. If you too are looking for an environment where you can be your authentic self, come and speak to us and have a look at our opportunities!