CCLS Alumna is Highly Commended for “Best Newcomer Paralegal 2025” at the National Paralegal Awards.
Zahra Gafuro talks about her journey to getting a role at Mishcon de Reya, overcoming challenges during covid and gives advice to other aspiring young legal professionals.
Zahra Gafuro (Law and Finance MSc, 2023) says: “If I had to describe my journey since graduating from Queen Mary, I’d call it resilient, transformative and defining, shaped by challenge as much as growth.
I have recently joined Mishcon de Reya LLP as a Commercial Real Estate Paralegal, marking a key chapter in my legal career as I continue to grow, pivot and immerse myself in every learning opportunity the industry offers.
Just over a month ago, I was honoured to be Highly Commended as “Best Newcomer Paralegal 2025” at the National Paralegal Awards. This incredible recognition reminded me of every uncertain moment that came before it. From the rejections to the self-doubt, and how far I’ve come since first choosing to study law. Each a meaningful contribution to the career I am building today.
Completing my master’s in law and finance at Queen Mary University of London’s Centre for Commercial Law Studies (CCLS) was one of the most defining steps in that journey. The programme not only strengthened my academic foundation but also equipped me with the confidence, commercial awareness and analytical mindset needed to thrive in practice.
My time at CCLS taught me how to think commercially, communicate with clarity, and understand how law operates within a wider social and financial context. The financial elements of the course deepened my understanding of markets, transactions, and client strategy, skills that will continue to underpin my work in the legal sector.
I completed my degree during a period of uncertainty. At that time, the world was slowing down, firms were freezing recruitment and many of us were seeking purpose in an unfamiliar environment. While others learned new hobbies, such as baking or skating, I chose to focus on my personal development and further education. This decision proved to be a pivotal turning point, enabling me to strengthen not only my technical abilities but also my resilience and self-belief. I even found time to perfect my banana bread recipe on weekends.
Through my studies, I honed a variety of transferable skills and gained financial literacy that continues to enhance my professional performance. The Law and Finance programme gave me a depth of understanding that allows me to approach transactional work with commercial insight and confidence.
In addition to technical expertise, my time at CCLS helped me develop valuable soft skills, including networking. Participating in the mentoring scheme paired me with a mentor who helped me find direction and taught me the value of self-awareness. This connection enabled me to expand my professional network and engage with numerous legal professionals who have each played a positive role in my career. They inspired me to become a mentor myself, paying forward the guidance I once needed.
My advice is: do not let uncertainty become a source of fear. Instead, allow it to fuel your ambition. The very moments that feel like setbacks often become the foundation of your growth. Trust that your path is unfolding in its own time and prepare for success as if it’s already on its way. If you see someone in your dream role, reach out because connection and courage will always open doors that fear keeps closed.”