Theresa Donkor's Secret Sauce for Success

1. Who are you? What's your story?

I am a Black woman. A lawyer. A daughter. A sister. A friend. The order of these vary by day but each one is an important part of who I am.

I’ve wanted to be a lawyer since I was ten years old, before I really understood what a lawyer was or even who I was. As the years went on, I gained a deeper understanding of myself and the law, but I still held onto my ten-year-old self’s dream. Today, I’m a criminal defence lawyer with a focus on appeals from conviction and sentence at all court levels. I began my legal career in corporate law but I was propelled to criminal law by my passion for advocacy and social justice, and a love and desire to do more for my Black community. The sad reality is that the criminal justice system is overrepresented by people who look like me, my family, and my ancestors. I have a deeply rooted interest in advocating both inside and outside the courtroom to not only achieve just results for my clients, but also to help combat the ongoing systemic problem of the over-incarceration of Black and Indigenous people.

2. What's your definition of success?

If you had asked me this growing up, I probably would have defined success by accolades or wealth. Now, I define it by fullness. The ability to fill your own cup and others'. The ability to find fulfillment in what you do. The ability to live a full life. To me, those are true markers of success.

3. How did you achieve success?

As a Black woman, I’ve always felt that I have to be exceptional to be viewed as competent. As the saying goes, we have to work twice as hard to get half as much. As frustrating as this is, it’s instilled a work ethic in me that’s helped me get to where I am today. While society often characterizes Blackness or womanhood as a weakness, I choose to see it as a strength. Being a Black woman shaped me to be resourceful and resilient – qualities that have helped me through life and the legal profession.

I’m not sure I’ve achieved my definition of success yet. I’m still working on refining my skills and expertise, setting boundaries, asking for help when needed, building confidence, and getting involved in more projects that I care about. It’s a work in progress but I’m proud of the progress I’ve made thus far.

4. What's your secret sauce for success?

My community. I work very hard, which is important, but I also wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of others. Mentors who have offered advice and provided referrals and references. Colleagues who have shared precedents and answered my many questions. Friends who have let me vent, been a shoulder to cry on, or a source of laughter. Family who always makes sure I’m loved and cared for. I’ve said this before, but both law and life can feel like a steep mountain at times so it’s important to be surrounded by those who will lift as they climb.

5. How do you prioritize peace?

I regularly have to remind myself that being a lawyer is a big part of who I am but it’s not all of who I am. I prioritize peace by prioritizing the other parts of who I am. My faith, family, and friends have been pivotal to my peace. Yoga and therapy help too. Lately I’ve been trying new hobbies unrelated to law. I’m learning tennis and piano for the first time. I recently joined a book club and I’ve been trying to go to as many concerts, plays, games, shows, and trips as I can.

I saw a tweet that said: “Get the bag, sure. But more importantly, get some joy. Get some sun. Get some laughter. Get some love. Get some peace. Get some romance. Get some rest. Get some community. Get some inspiration. Get some air...” Those are words I’ve been trying to live by this past year. I want to be the best lawyer I can be and I can only do that when I take care of myself holistically.