We are delighted to share the fantastic news that OT Harmony Cheung (class of 2020) has been Called to the Bar by the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple, one of the four Inns of Court in London, which is a significant milestone marking years of dedication, study and perseverance.

Reflecting on the occasion, Harmony described the Call to the Bar as “a lovely day with my family” that “felt like the culmination of several long years.”  The ceremony was made even more special by the presence of her older brother, Anthony (class of 2012), also a practising barrister. “It was really special to be in wig and gown with my brother, Anthony, who was Called seven years before me, to the day!” she shared.

Her path to the Bar was not a straightforward one, and she speaks candidly about how her interests evolved over time. “When I left Trent, I had initially planned to pursue policy analysis” she explained, having been inspired by her politics teachers Dr Johnson and Mr Setterington, and their exploration of how policy intersects with social issues. However, during her university studies, Harmony found herself drawn towards a more people-centred approach. “I found myself increasingly drawn to advocacy and the direct connection with people that a career in law offers.” This ultimately led her to complete a law conversion after graduating, motivated by a desire “to work with the people directly affected by laws in practice, rather than working to change them from a policy perspective.”

“During long study days, remind yourself of how much you have already achieved
– the time goes quicker than you think.”

She credits much of her confidence and sense of purpose to the encouragement she received during her time at school. “The people at Trent played a huge role in shaping my journey” she said, highlighting teachers who empowered her to find her voice. “Teachers such as Miss Sesay, Dr Holbrook and [Martin House Matron] Miss Lane empowered me to speak up about issues that mattered to me, and that encouragement is something I still carry into my advocacy today.”

Now embarking on her career at the Bar, Harmony is keen to reassure and inspire current students who may be considering law, particularly those unsure about taking a non-traditional route. “I would strongly encourage keeping an open mind about non-traditional routes” she advised. Harmony reflected on how her non-law undergraduate degree, followed by conversion, enabled her to gain a broader and more informed perspective, noting that “the broader perspective it provides is invaluable.”

“I hope Harmony’s success and journey inspires others to pursue a career
at the Bar, especially those from ethnic minorities.”

Harmony also offered an honest insight into the demands of legal study, while reminding students to be kind to themselves along the way. “Studying law can be demanding and content-heavy, but it gets better!” she said, adding that the practical nature of the Bar course was a welcome change. Her final words of encouragement are a powerful reminder: “During long study days, remind yourself of how much you have already achieved – the time goes quicker than you think!”

Anthony told us: “I am incredibly proud that Harmony was called to the Bar of England and Wales. It was a wonderful moment to be able to stand next to her with both our wigs and gowns.”

He added: “I knew her journey was arduous and intensive at times. Despite the challenges she faced, she persevered and was able to succeed. I hope Harmony’s success and journey inspires others to pursue a career at the Bar, especially those from ethnic minorities.”

We are incredibly proud of Harmony’s achievements and look forward to following the next chapter of her legal career, as she completes the application process for Pupillage. Her career journey so far is a wonderful example of where curiosity, resilience and confidence can lead, and an inspiration to students considering their own future paths.