About this Event
Criminal Defence in Real Life Practice offers a grounded, honest look into the world of criminal law through the lived experience of Toronto-based defence lawyer Tonya Kent. Designed for African, Caribbean, and Black youth who are curious about legal careers, this workshop breaks down what it truly takes to study law, enter the profession, and build a meaningful practice.
Tonya will guide participants through her journey from being the child of Trinidadian immigrants and the first in her family to study law, to navigating law school, articling, and opening her own firm. She will discuss multiple pathways into law school, what schools look for in applicants, and how students can prepare for both academic and professional success.
Participants will also gain insight into what criminal defence looks like day to day: working with clients, appearing in court, balancing ethical obligations, and advocating for marginalized communities. Tonya will speak openly about the realities and rewards of practicing law as a Black woman in Canada, offering practical advice, candid reflections, and space for all questions, from career pathways to justice system impacts.
Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the legal profession, the possibilities available with a law degree, and a glimpse into the powerful role Black lawyers play in transforming community justice.
This event is a collaboration between Platfrom and the Black Women’s Mentorship Project at WHIWH CHC.
The netWORKING: Young Black Women’s Mentorship Project from Womens Health in Womens Hands Community Health Center is dedicated to supporting African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) women aged 16-25 living in the Greater Toronto Area. This program offers one-on-one, career-focused mentorship, aimed at advancing personal, academic, and professional achievements while fostering safer community spaces for Black women.
Platform is a civic leadership platform for Black, Indigenous, and racialized young women and gender-diverse people. We’re on a mission to build leadership capacity among young Black, Indigenous, and racialized women and gender-diverse youth to advance gender equity and justice. Aligned with the principles of Justice, Equity, Diversity, Decolonization, Inclusion, and Access, our work serves to empower and support these communities in Canada.
The Civic Learning program hosts trauma-informed workshops, community healing circles, and digital literacy training, with a focus on civic engagement and safe participation in public and online spaces.
This Platform project is funded by the Rideau Hall Foundation and Catapult Canada.
Beyond the Pipeline: A Black Youth Legal Education Project is a Black youth-led project that seeks to empower young Black Girls, aged 14-22, who are negatively impacted by justice and educational systems.
This Platform project is funded by the Laidlaw Foundation and the Law Foundation of Ontario.
Agenda
What to Expect
Info: The workshop will cover the path to law school and other routes into the field. We will discuss different schools, adequate application preparation, and law school itself. Also, address alternative careers beyond practicing law. The session will explain criminal defence practice, our responsibilities to clients and the court, and how to cope with the challenges. Discuss experience practicing law as a Black woman in Toronto. You will have the chance to ask questions about my experience or anything else you want to know.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
2 Carlton St. suite 500, 2 Carlton Street, Toronto, Canada
CAD 0.00
