In the Company of Justice: A Conversation with Lady Brenda Hale and Afua Hirsch
July 1, 2026 - London
On July 1, 2026, the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ) welcomed distinguished guests to In the Company of Justice, a benefit reception in London featuring Lady Brenda Hale, the first woman Justice and former President of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom.
The evening brought together judges, diplomats, legal leaders, academics, and representatives of civil society for a timely conversation on the indispensable role of women judges in protecting human rights, strengthening democratic institutions, and expanding access to justice around the world. As the first woman to lead the United Kingdom's highest court, Lady Hale broke a centuries-old barrier. Today, as President of the United Kingdom Association of Women Judges, she continues to champion the advancement of women in the judiciary and to strengthen global efforts to promote judicial leadership, equality, and the rule of law.
Joining Lady Hale in conversation was Afua Hirsch, the acclaimed journalist, author, broadcaster, and commentator whose work explores some of the defining questions of our time: who holds power, whose voices are heard, and how law, history, and culture shape our societies. Together, they reflected on the importance of women's leadership in the justice system, the need for diverse perspectives on the bench, and the responsibility of judges to uphold the rule of law during periods of growing polarization and democratic strain.
The conversation that followed was both thoughtful and inspiring. Lady Hale and Ms. Hirsch spoke candidly about leadership, resilience, and the importance of ensuring that courts reflect the communities they serve. A clear message emerged: when women serve as judges and judicial leaders, they strengthen public confidence in justice, expand opportunities for equal participation, and help build more inclusive and accountable institutions.
The IAWJ is deeply grateful to the generous supporters who made this evening possible. We extend our sincere thanks to the University of Manchester, our official event partner, and to the United Kingdom Association of Women Judges for their partnership. We are also grateful to our Champion supporters—Blackstone Chambers, Linklaters, and Crowell & Moring—and to the many additional donors whose generosity helped make the event a success, including the Pearlman Media Group, the Faculty of Laws at University College London, the Philippines Women Judges Association, the University of Reading School of Law, Dr. Hissa Alsulaiti, and Ms. Anita Botti. We also thank the University of North Carolina for graciously providing Winston House as the venue for this special gathering.
Proceeds from In the Company of Justice will support the IAWJ's global programs, including trauma-informed judicial education, practical tools to address sextortion and gender-based violence, regional judicial exchanges, and initiatives that create pathways for women’s leadership in the courts. Together, these efforts strengthen judicial institutions and advance equal justice for women, girls, and vulnerable communities around the world.