Speaker Series
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The Law Soc Speaker series is proudly sponsored by Arthur Cox.
Every year LawSoc prides itself on attracting the very best speakers from around Ireland and the globe. The Society recognises their talents and contributions to society through the conferral of Praeses Elit award. Here are just a few of the names of this year’s line up…
US Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson
Justice of the United States Supreme Court. Justice Jackson made history as the first African American woman appointed to the United States Supreme Court. Known for her clarity, compassion, and commitment to constitutional rights, she brings a steady and insightful presence to the Court, shaping legal discourse with both intellect and integrity.
Motaz Azaiza
Motaz Azaiza is a Palestinian photojournalist whose powerful and unflinching documentation of the war in Gaza has garnered global attention. Through his raw, real-time coverage, he has become a crucial voice in bearing witness to humanitarian crises and the lived realities of those under siege. With over 16 million followers on Instagram, he has become one of the most influential journalists of his generation, using social media to bring truth to the frontlines.
Camille Vasquez
Camille Vasquez is a distinguished litigation attorney, internationally recognised for her sharp advocacy and strategic skill in high profile cases. Rising to global prominence for her role in Johnny Depp’s successful defamation trial against Amber Heard, she has earned a reputation as one of the most formidable and respected courtroom advocates of her generation.
Benson Boone
Benson Boone is an American singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist whose heartfelt lyrics and powerful vocals have made him one of the most exciting young artists in contemporary pop music. Rising to fame with hits such as Ghost Town, In the Stars, and Beautiful Things, he has quickly built a global following for his emotional honesty and distinctive sound. This year, he will be receiving the Allii Proelio Award in recognition of his talent, resilience, and ability to inspire through music.
President Mary McAleese
President Mary McAleese served two terms as Ireland’s eighth president and was the first Irish president to come from Northern Ireland. A barrister and academic, she is renowned for her bridge-building efforts during the Northern Ireland peace process and continues to be a powerful voice on human rights, social justice, and equality.
Lady Chief Justice of Northern Ireland Dame Siobhan Keegan
Appointed in 2021, Dame Siobhan Keegan is the first woman to serve as Chief Justice of Northern Ireland. With a distinguished career on the bench and a reputation for judicial fairness and clarity, she represents a new era of leadership in Northern Ireland’s legal system and continues to be a strong advocate for access to justice and judicial independence.
Rosie O’Donnell
An Emmy-winning comedian, actress, and former talk show host, Rosie O’Donnell is known for her sharp wit, outspoken political commentary, and longstanding advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and social justice. She has used her platform to challenge power, amplify marginalised voices, and call out injustice particularly in the face of rising political polarisation.
Dr. Gabor Mate
Dr. Gabor Maté is a renowned physician, author, and public speaker, internationally recognised for his expertise on trauma, addiction, stress, and childhood development. For his groundbreaking medical work and writing he has been awarded the Order of Canada, his country’s highest civilian distinction, and the Civic Merit Award from his hometown, Vancouver. His latest book, The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness & Healing in a Toxic Culture remains a Canadian best seller and was a 19-week New York Times best seller.
Frances Fitzgerald
Member of the European Parliament And former Tánaiste. A long-serving figure in Irish public life, Frances Fitzgerald has held multiple senior roles, including Tánaiste, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Children and Youth Affairs. Now an MEP, she continues to champion gender equality, rules of law, and European values on the international stage.
Dr. Sindy Joyce
Dr. Sindy Joyce is an Irish Traveller, human rights activist, and academic. She made history in 2019 as the first Irish Traveller to be appointed to the Council of State by President Michael D. Higgins. A lecturer and researcher in human rights and equality, Dr. Joyce is widely recognised for her work on social justice, anti-racism, and Traveller rights in Ireland.
Richard Moore
Founder of Children in Crossfire & Human Rights Advocate. Blinded by a rubber bullet at the age of 10 during the Troubles, Richard Moore has since become a global advocate for peace and reconciliation. As the founder of Children in Crossfire, he has dedicated his life to supporting vulnerable children worldwide and is celebrated for his powerful message of forgiveness and hope.