Another female has risen to a top position in the legal fraternity.

Su’a Hellene Wallwork has become the new President of the Samoa Law Society in an executive made up of five women and just one gentleman. 

Su’a takes over from former President, SavalenoaMarevaBetham-Annandale. 

For this year, Su’a will be assisted by Salma Hazelman, as Vice President.

Speaking about the appointment, Su’a said she is honoured.

“I am extremely fortunate to be working with a strong Council of committed and passionate lawyers,” said Su’a.

“We share a common goal to continue to build on the great work of our previous president, SavalenoaMarevaBetham-Annandale, and previous Council members as well as all those before them who have been at the helm of our Law Society since the beginning.”

Looking ahead, Su’a said her goal for the Law Society this year is to provide more opportunities to connect and learn from each other. 

“The dynamics of our Law Society has changed a lot in that it is now rather “youthful”. 

“We also have a constantly changing legal environment as well as changing client expectations for legal services. 

“It is therefore, more important than ever that our members stay connected so that we can learn from the wisdom and expertise of our senior members, as well as each other.”

Su’a also noted the importance of their service to our country, and that she takes pride in the work that they do for Samoa. 

“As barristers and solicitors of the Supreme Court of Samoa, we hold a privileged position within society. “At the same time also, our profession is one of service. 

“We are expected to serve, to advocate for justice, to defend the defenseless and to provide wise counsel to clients.”

Furthermore, Su’a believes that this comes with a lot of expectations and obligations as well. 

“From this privileged position comes responsibilities and obligations to the public in general. 

“We must ensure that we continue to self-regulate and hold ourselves up to the highest standard expected of us.  This is not always easy but we can only rely on our Heavenly Father’s guidance to lead us in all that we do.”

Su’a is also the Honorary Consul of Sweden in Samoa, a partner at Wallwork Lam Lawyers and a Director of the Electric Power Corporation. 

The Council of the Law Society for 2017 is made up of:

• Su’a Hellene Wallwork, President

• Salma Hazelman, Vice-President

• Rebecca Schuster, Secretary

• Kirstin Kruse, Treasurer

• UnasaIuniSapolu, Council Member

• LeiataualesaTai'i Jerry Brunt, Council Member

• SeuamuliSaronaPonifasio, Council Member.