The team of women at Maliganis Edwards Johnson are leaders in their field, dedicated to advocating for justice and supporting their clients with expertise and compassion. Their collective focus on continuous learning, mentorship, and a balanced approach to work-life ensures they provide exceptional legal services while staying connected to the Canberra community.

What inspired you to pursue a career in your field, and how did you get started?

Kirsten: I always wanted to be a lawyer, but did not know what type of law I wanted to practice.  I fell into insurance litigation. I did a rotation in the insurance litigation team in my first job, and really enjoyed the work and the people I was working with.  I had some great mentors in that role that I ended up working with for a number of years.

Kirsty: While I was in university, I worked at MEJ as a law clerk and the favourite part of my day was picking up the phone for a new client enquiry and having an injured person entrust me with their most vulnerable moments. I felt so connected to the Canberra community and privileged to be able to help the community in this way, that I decided I wanted to stay after graduation and pursue a career in personal injury and I haven’t looked back since.

What moment in your career are you most proud of, and why does it stand out to you?

Suzanne: There is no one defining moment for me, but rather, I find fulfillment each day in the many opportunities I’ve been provided with to navigate complex legal disputes and secure the best possible outcomes for my clients. My greatest sense of achievement comes from alleviating the pressure my clients face in challenging life circumstances. It’s incredibly rewarding to make a positive difference during one of their most difficult times, and to help them navigate an often long and arduous journey.

What are your favourite things about living and working in the Canberra region?

Svetlana: Canberra is my home – YES I do wish that we had a beach! I do, however, love and enjoy being part of the Canberra and Queanbeyan community, not just because of the warmth and diversity, but also because it’s where I truly feel a sense of belonging. Migrating here with my family as a child and ultimately getting married and having my own family, I’ve embraced both the broader community and my own ethnic community, which has been a source of support, connection, and pride. Being surrounded by people who share my cultural background, while also connecting with others from different walks of life, has made Canberra my permanent home and being part of it strengthens my commitment to helping others through my work as a lawyer.

What advice do you have for young people looking to enter the working world?

Mirna: As a young solicitor myself, I would recommend finding a mentor that inspires you as they could influence your career growth and the type of professional that you become. It is also important to show interest and to get involved in extra-curricular activities when possible as it will help you get involved and build relationships with those in your industry.

What drives you to continuously enhance your professional skills?

Kirsten: Working as a lawyer, it is important to make sure that you keep up to date with current law and cases. However, I make sure that I spread training time across a range of professional skills – you need more than technical knowledge to provide good service to clients.

Mirna: The legal field is constantly developing and by enhancing my professional skills I am able to maximise my potential, contribute meaningfully to the field and advocate for my clients in the most effective way. Ultimately, that is what it is about, that is, advocating for my clients in the best/most effective way and career growth/satisfaction.

How significant is the support of family and friends in helping you throughout your career and life?

Thuto: The support of family and friends has been incredibly significant throughout my career and life. Their encouragement has provided me with a strong foundation, especially during challenging times. Whether it’s celebrating my achievements or helping me navigate tough decisions, their unwavering belief in me has been invaluable.

Have you faced any major challenges in your career? If so, how did you overcome them?

Suzanne: Due dates, time-pressure and complex issues are often the hardest challenges in the legal profession.  Having a file management system that allows me to manage my tasks and time is my best asset to keep on top of everything.   In addition, having access to the shared knowledge of my experienced colleagues is of immense value in being able to tackle complex issues.

Outside of work, what activities or passions keep you energised?

Svetlana: It won’t come as a surprise to many who know me, but I love spending time with my family and cooking up big storms in the kitchen. These moments allow me to unwind from the demands of my legal career and reconnect with my loved ones.  I am Macedonian at heart, and cooking allows me to express the richness of my culture and family traditions. I find joy in exploring different ingredients and tweaking some of my mum’s traditional recipes (though Mum doesn’t always approve!). It’s a wonderful way to bring everyone together and stay grounded as a person.

What are your top tips for creating a healthy work-life balance?

Kirsten: What a healthy work-life balance looks like is different for everyone, and changes with different stages of your career and life – and can be hard to achieve! A healthy work-life balance starts with reflecting on what your priorities are, and communicating them with the people that you work with. You cannot be your best at work if you are not looking after yourself.

Suzanne: Really take the time to focus on your own health and needs, including exercise, family time and personal down-time. It is important to rest, relax and periodically ‘reset’ yourself. 

Maliganis Edwards Johnson

Level 8, 60 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra

• T: 1800 570 778
• E: [email protected]
• W: mej.com.au