–Zola Williams reflects on perseverance as she joins the legal profession

ZOLA Williams, a former Legal Officer at the Ministry of Natural Resources, was formally admitted to practise as an attorney-at-law on Friday before Justice Gino Persaud at the Demerara High Court.

Her petition was presented to the court by Attorney-at-Law Stacey Weever. Williams’ admission marks a significant milestone in a career that has spanned more than 15 years in the public service, where she contributed extensively to the governance and regulation of Guyana’s natural resources sector.

A graduate of the University of Guyana, Williams earned her Bachelor of Laws (LLB) before beginning her career at the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC).  She later joined the Ministry of Natural Resources, serving in several key areas, including the Petroleum Regulation Division and the Local Content Secretariat.

In 2015, Williams furthered her studies at the University of Dundee in Scotland, United Kingdom, where she obtained a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Oil and Gas Law and Policy.

This specialisation positioned her at the forefront of critical policy work in Guyana’s emerging oil and gas sector, particularly in licence reviews and renewals between the Government and international operators.

Williams described her admission as the culmination of “a journey defined by perseverance, faith, and sacrifice.” She recounted the personal and financial challenges that shaped her pursuit of legal qualification, emphasising the deep resilience required to reach this milestone.

“It has been more than a decade of unwavering determination, years filled with triumphs, tears, and moments that tested every fibre of my being,” Williams told the court.

“There were countless late nights of study, balancing responsibilities, and pushing through exhaustion when giving up seemed easier than going on.”

The attorney shared that she made several difficult choices along the way, including leaving her job and mortgaging her home twice to finance her legal education. “Each decision carried uncertainty,” she said, “but also hope.”

Williams also reflected on a particularly painful period during her studies when her brother fell gravely ill. “In that moment, I questioned whether I had the strength to continue or if I should return home to be with my family,” she recalled. “Yet, through faith, the support of my loved ones, and an unrelenting sense of purpose, I pressed on.”

Expressing deep gratitude, Williams said her achievement was not hers alone but one made possible through divine grace and the encouragement of those around her.

“I stand here today not only as a testament to perseverance, but as living proof that with God’s grace, courage, and determination, no obstacle is insurmountable,” she declared.

Looking ahead to her legal career, Williams pledged to serve her country and the justice system with integrity and humility. “I accept this responsibility with humility, and I pledge to serve with honour, discipline, and dedication to the highest ideals of the legal profession,” she said.

“The practice of law will demand much intellectually, ethically, and emotionally, but I stand ready. Ready to serve my country, to uphold the dignity of this court, and to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of justice in Guyana.”

Williams concluded by expressing appreciation to those who supported her journey, stating, “To all who have supported me, whether through mentorship, friendship, or quiet encouragement, I extend my heartfelt thanks.”

During the brief ceremony, Justice Persaud commended Williams for her extensive experience and commitment to public service. He described her professional journey as “impressive,” noting that her legal and regulatory background in the extractive industries will serve the Bar and the wider society well.

The judge encouraged Williams to uphold the highest standards of integrity, discipline, and excellence as she transitions into private legal practice.

Williams recently completed her Legal Education Certificate (LEC) at the Eugene Dupuch Law School in The Bahamas, fulfilling the final academic requirement to be admitted to practise law in the Commonwealth Caribbean.