Leadership

Bayo Speaks – Entrepreneurship Corner

Sarah Malik, renowned as a distinguished figure in the legal realm, wears multiple hats as the CEO and International Disputes Counsel o f SOL International Ltd., a prestigious establishment headquartered in the United Arab Emirates. With her captivating presence and relentless dedication, she has emerged as an influential force in the legal landscape, leaving an indelible mark on both local and international stages.

Hailing from a diverse background, Sarah Malik’s journey began in the United Kingdom, where she took her first steps into a world that would later become her passion. Growing up amidst the bustling streets of Manchester, she quickly distinguished herself as a vibrant and enthusiastic individual. Embarking on her academic journey, she attended a local private school before transitioning to a girls’ school for her sixth-form education. This foundation paved the way for her remarkable ascent in the legal field.

A prodigious intellect, she entered university at the tender age of 17, displaying an early commitment to her chosen path. She was the youngest Barrister to be called in the UK in 1999. Her pursuit of excellence didn’t stop there, as she embarked on her career as a Barrister at the age of 21, marking the onset of a series of groundbreaking achievements.

Sarah’s approach to her profession is marked by an unyielding dedication to preparation and thoroughness. Her rigorous method of scrutinizing detail and documents with an analytical mind-set underscores her commitment to excellence. A true advocate for her clients, she has carved a reputation for turning the tides of complex legal battles in her favor through meticulous preparation.

Beyond her legal prowess, her ambitions extend to her aspirations. Achildhood dream of ascending to the heights of legal success while embracing a happy family and global exploration has been fully realized. With an unwavering dedication to her profession, she has amassed an international reputation. Among her influences, the pioneering spirit of the first black judge, Ruth Wilkin, resonates deeply with her.

Striving to break barriers and challenge norms, she identifies with those who disrupt the status quo and boldly confront authority. Sarah’s priority is and always has been her children. In her spare time, she engages in physical fitness, likes to explore new destinations, enjoys reading, and has an active social life. Whether tending to her family, nurturing her career, or fostering personal growth, she strikes a balance, unburdened by the notion of guilt that often accompanies life’s intricate juggling act.

Looking ahead to the future, Sarah envisions a serene island escape in her retirement. It is a well-deserved aspiration for a woman who has achieved milestones beyond measure. From becoming the youngest barrister in her time to spearheading an awardwinning law firm within a mere half-year of its inception, her trajectory has been nothing short of extraordinary. Above all, she cherishes the role of being a devoted parent as her most significant accomplishment. Sarah Malik’s story is one of dreams realized through tenacity.

BRAND BACKGROUND
With five years of existence, SOLInternational Ltd. has carved a unique niche in the legal landscape under the leadership of Sarah Malik. Initially conceived as a boutique Dispute Resolution Practice, the firm rapidly expanded its horizons to encompass a diverse range of legal domains, including Private Client, Commercial, Employment, Tech, Fashion, Sports, and Entertainment Law. Its ascent to global recognition stands as a testament to its unwavering commitment to excellence. Her journey to entrepreneurship took the conventional legal route. She earned her LLB in the UK, followed by the BVC, and was called to the Bar as a Barrister in 1999. Over the subsequent 15 years, she gained extensive experience practicing at all levels of the UK courts before venturing to the UAE. There, she continued her legal career with an International Law firm as employed Counsel before founding SOLInternational Ltd in 2018.

SOLInternational Ltd emerged from her vision to bridge the worlds of barristers and solicitors. It was designed to reflect the synergy of Barristers’ Chambers within a comprehensive law firm structure. The cornerstone of this model was a personalized approach to litigation advice where the CEO or founder played an active role from inception to resolution. In 2020, the company overcame the adversities spawned by the COVID-19 pandemic, a testament to its resilience and forward-thinking strategies. While relatively young, the firm exhibited remarkable growth, retaining its staff and flourishing against the odds. It navigated the challenges inherent to start-ups, ensuring strong foundations, optimal structures, and an unwavering commitment to the values of honesty, credibility, and integrity. The firm’s selective approach to cases ensures that clients receive precisely the assistance they need, even if it means advising against legal intervention. This approach has earned the firm a reputation for providing unbiased and trustworthy counsel, a hallmark of its brand identity.

By embracing mentor-ship and knowledge sharing, it supports the growth of aspiring lawyers. Initiatives such as sponsoring educational programs and celebrating peer achievements underscore the firm’s commitment to nurturing the next generation. Rooted in authenticity, its strategy prioritizes consistency, transparency, and client collaboration. The firm’s approach fosters an accessible atmosphere, operating with agility and upholding the same level of service as international law firms. Sarah Malik’s leadership emphasizes the potential of every individual within the firm. With a keen focus on authenticity and realness, she instills a culture of growth and collaboration. The firm is viewed as a dynamic and disruptive force in the legal sector. Her leadership garnered recognition as the “Litigator of the Year” at the inaugural GCC Woman in Law Awards in 2022. The company itself was hailed as a “Firm to Watch” in Dispute Resolution: Arbitration and International Litigation by Legal 500 EMEA in the same year. In 2023, her contributions to arbitration earned her a spot on Legal 500 EMEA”The Arbitration Powerlist: Middle East.”

The team’s collective efforts fuel the organization’s success. United by a shared vision, mutual respect, and an unwavering readiness to assist, they stand as a testament to the firm’s remarkable journey. In conclusion, the company’s story is a testament to the power of innovation, dedication, and authenticity. Sarah Malik’s leadership, coupled with her commitment to excellence and integrity, has assisted SOLto be where it is at today

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