Through the U.S.-based Alliance for International Women's Rights, three DWT lawyers are participating in an innovative project to mentor professional women in Afghanistan. Recognizing that women leaders, especially in the developing world, often lack technical or substantive skills and do not know where to turn for help, the Alliance creates connections between Afghan women and professionals in developed countries interested in furthering women's rights.
New York partner-in-charge, Lynn Loacker has been mentoring Sabera, who earned her law degree and her L.L.M. in the United States and is interested in commercial law and international arbitration. Lynn and Sabera chat weekly via Skype and have covered basic contract formation, reviewed an arbitration agreement, and discussed human resources policies. They communicate only by audio because being seen learning about law could be dangerous for Sabera.
Alicia LeDuc, an associate in the Portland office, is mentoring Homa, who works at Herat University. They have discussed research topics for a potential presentation to a conference in Europe for women building their careers in international law, with an emphasis on women practitioners from post-conflict regions.
Seattle counsel Catherine Maxson has also participated in the project, working on writing and English skills with her mentee.