"Invest in women, Accelerate progress." The UNESCO theme for International Women's Day 2024 was made for Partner Amy Benest.
Amy is committed to celebrating women's achievements and championing and mentoring other women in their careers.
Find out how Amy found her place in the legal world and what brings her joy.
1. What was your journey to becoming a Jersey Advocate?
I grew up in Jersey and had my first legal job in Jersey, but I wanted to gain experience elsewhere so moved to London to work in the city. Having worked for a global firm, I've had the opportunity to work with lawyers all over the world which I've really enjoyed. Deciding to qualify as a Jersey Advocate was a big commitment, particularly as when I started studying, my youngest was 4 months old and she made a habit of waking at 3am on the day of my exams! I persevered though – with lots of support at home – and got through the process in the shortest amount of time possible (2 years). Doing that qualification has allowed me to move on to the next stage in my career.
2. What are your future goals?
I'm looking forward to progressing my career in my new role as a partner, and developing talent within the Firm.
3. Best advice you have ever been given?
My A-level history teacher's mantra was to "trust your first instinct". Now that I am dual qualified and have some years of experience, I now see the value of that advice.
4. Name one woman who inspires who.
Nigella Lawson inspires me. She has had to deal with all sorts of bumps in her road, but she does her job amazingly well: her recipes are inspiring, and they are achievable and they work. She's also generous with her time on social media. She always seems to be striving for more but enjoys what she's got.
5. And to end, what do you do outside of work that brings you joy?
I'm known as a bit of a baker at work, but what I'd love to be able to do if I had more time is get back to my music. I got a distinction in my grade 8 cello and I used to be able to play Chopin piano waltzs. I've played in the Royal Albert Hall, the Royal Festival Hall and even Disneyland Paris! I'd love to get back my practicing my scales – something my younger self would never have believed I'd say!
To find out more about Amy and her work read her profile or visit her LinkedIn profile.
Discover more stories celebrating the incredible women at Baker & Partners.
