Cynthia Olan was honoured to be called to the bar after years of hard work and completing her BA (Hons) in Legal Studies with Business at SETU.
While it was always her dream to become a barrister, she credits her parents for supporting her throughout her journey. Cynthia said “There were times when I felt I couldn’t do it. However, it’s all about knowing what you want and not giving up. I couldn’t have done it without my parents who have been so incredibly supportive.”
It was never Cynthia’s aim to become the first Irish black female barrister but is happy to act as a role model for others following in her path.
“I don’t think there was any pressure that came with being the first black barrister in Cork. I think any pressure I had came from myself. My main concern was that I was just an ordinary girl from Cork who wouldn’t be able to do this. At times when I felt like quitting I always rang my mum and she reminded me that this is something I’ve always wanted.
"I’m really lucky to have the support of my family because I don’t think I could have done it without them.”