On June 3, 2026, Osgoode’s Internationally Trained Lawyers Day (OITLD) brought together internationally trained lawyers, licensing candidates, mentors, and legal professionals for a day focused on navigating accreditation, building professional connections, and launching legal careers in Canada.
Designed to support internationally trained lawyers as they navigate the Canadian legal landscape, the annual event combined information sessions, networking opportunities, mentoring, and career-focused discussions. From the first morning presentation to the final mentoring conversations, attendees had the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals while connecting with others on similar paths.
The day began with a series of online-accessible sessions focused on key stages of the accreditation and licensing journey. Representatives from the National Committee on Accreditation (NCA), the Law Society of Ontario (LSO), and the Law Practice Program (LPP) shared guidance on accreditation requirements, licensing pathways, experiential learning opportunities, and resources available to support candidates throughout the process.
These sessions provided participants with practical information while helping demystify the steps involved in building a legal career in Canada. Attendees were able to gain clarity on common questions, learn about available supports, and better understand how to navigate the professional requirements ahead.
The event continued in person with a networking lunch that brought together attendees, speakers, and mentors from a wide range of legal backgrounds. Throughout the afternoon, participants engaged in workshops focused on résumé and cover letter development, networking strategies, and career-building skills tailored to the Canadian legal market.
A highlight of the afternoon was a panel discussion exploring professional growth, career transitions, and the importance of embracing one’s unique experiences. Panelists shared candid reflections on the challenges and opportunities they encountered throughout their careers, encouraging attendees to recognize the value of their international education, professional backgrounds, and lived experiences.
One of the most memorable moments of OITLD was the keynote address delivered by Angela Ogang. A lawyer licensed in both Ontario and Kenya, Ogang has built a distinguished career spanning immigration, business, and wills and estates law while also serving in leadership roles with numerous legal organizations.
Drawing on her own professional journey, Ogang spoke about resilience, growth, and the importance of remaining committed to one’s goals even when the path forward is not always clear. Her message resonated strongly with attendees, many of whom are navigating significant professional transitions as they establish legal careers in Canada. The keynote offered an inspiring reminder that every experience, challenge, and accomplishment contributes to professional growth and future success.
The day concluded with the ITLNCA NetworkS Speed Mentoring session, one of the event’s most anticipated components. Participants met directly with mentors and legal professionals to discuss licensing, job searches, networking strategies, and career development. The session created space for honest conversations, practical advice, and valuable connections that many attendees will carry forward as they continue their professional journeys.
What continues to make OITLD such a meaningful event is its combination of information, mentorship, and community. While the accreditation and licensing process can feel complex, OITLD provides an opportunity for internationally trained lawyers to learn from those who have successfully navigated the journey, ask questions in a supportive environment, and build relationships that extend beyond the event itself.
As the legal profession becomes increasingly global and diverse, OITLD remains an important forum for sharing knowledge, fostering connection, and supporting internationally trained lawyers as they pursue their goals in Canada.
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