Assumptions in legal careers still shape how others perceive and treat people. They affect who receives trust, who earns promotions, and who feels a genuine sense of belonging. Often, these assumptions sit just below the surface – but their impact is hard to ignore.
In this video, Andin Fonyonga, Group Head of Legal and Compliance at Global Fashion Group, joins Wanipa to reflect on the weight of those assumptions. She speaks about what it feels like to walk into a room and sense that you need to prove yourself, before you’ve even said a word.
Andin reflects on her experience as a young Black woman in the legal profession and assumptions in legal careers. She explains that although the role focused on widening access, people often questioned her ability to lead or handle serious topics. That kind of bias is rarely overt, but it changes how people show up.
This isn’t just about one person’s story. Andin’s insights highlight a wider issue. Too often, legal teams invite diversity without addressing the assumptions that follow. Inclusion has to go deeper than hiring. It means respecting voices, trusting judgement, and sharing responsibility.
She also shares how these expectations affect confidence. Constantly outperforming just to gain equal footing wears you down. But she remains committed to creating space for others, and speaking openly about the challenges.
Andin’s story is powerful, honest, and necessary. It reminds us to pause and examine our own assumptions, especially in the legal world. Who do we expect to lead? Whose voice carries weight? And who still feels they have to earn the right to speak?
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