Queen Mary Alumni Entrepreneur Award
CCLS alumna in the ‘highly commended nominees’ category in the recent awards ceremony.
Lubna Katbeh (Banking and Finance Law LLM, 2000 and PG Diploma in International Commercial Arbitration, 2005) talks about her experience: “I am deeply honored to receive the Accomplished Entrepreneur Award today. This is not just a recognition of my journey - it is a celebration of what education, resilience, and purpose can achieve. Queen Mary played a defining role in shaping that journey, giving me the legal foundation and the global perspective, global network, and courage to think beyond traditional paths. It reminds us that legal education is not just about statutes and case law - it’s also about nurturing entrepreneurial thinking, leadership, and a commitment to creating meaningful change.
As a Palestinian, the concept of law, justice, rights, and identity are not theoretical - they are part of who we are. I studied law not just to practice it, but to use it as a tool for change. After my LLM in Banking and Finance at Queen Mary, and later a postgraduate diploma in ICA, I returned home with a clear mission: to build something that lasts, even under difficult political, economic, and social challenges.
My legal journey started in 1995, taking me through leading law firms, the Union of Arab Banks, international consulting firms, and rule of law development projects. In 2006, my partner and I founded Equity Legal Group - not just a law firm, but a vision for excellence in a place where success is never taken for granted. We built a firm that now serves major public institutions, local and international companies and associations, international institutions, and donors, and renders consultation across the region. It is a space where legal expertise meets strategic impact, and where young professionals are empowered to lead.
Entrepreneurship in Palestine is more than business - it is a form of resistance and steadfastness, a commitment to hope, and a declaration that we will shape our own future. Every success is hard-earned and deeply meaningful.
Beyond the firm, I am proud to have served three terms as the first Palestinian lawyer appointed to the ICC Court of Arbitration. In that capacity, I worked with colleagues to bring international best practices closer to our region. I’ve also dedicated myself to public service - whether as a legal reformer, or a board member in national and charitable institutions. Giving back is not optional; it is a responsibility.
My hope is that ventures like Equity Legal Group inspire a new generation, especially in difficult contexts, to dream boldly, act with integrity, and believe in the power of law as a force for good. I believe that entrepreneurship, when rooted in purpose and fueled by education, can change not just businesses, but nations. Queen Mary helped light that path for me. And for that, I am forever grateful.”