Amanda Johl Speaks at SALSA Panel at UBC: Supporting Mentorship & Diversity in Vancouver’s Legal Community

Mar 2

On February 26, 2026, the South Asian Law Students’ Association (SALSA) hosted a panel discussion at the Allard School of Law at the University of British Columbia. The event, held from 12:30–2:00 PM in Room 121, brought together South Asian lawyers from diverse practice areas across Vancouver to share their experiences navigating the legal profession.

We were proud that Amanda Johl, Associate Lawyer at Illuma Family Law, was invited to speak as a panelist. Alongside respected practitioners from big law and in-house practice, Amanda shared insights from her career in family law and reflected on the realities of building a legal career as a minority lawyer in Vancouver.

The discussion created space for open dialogue about career paths, mentorship, systemic barriers, and professional growth. Students were encouraged to ask questions and engage directly with panelists about their journeys, challenges, and successes. The event highlighted the importance of representation within the legal field and reinforced the value of community support among South Asian legal professionals.

Sharing Real Experiences in the Legal Profession

As a speaker, Amanda spoke candidly about her path into family law and what drew her to the practice area. She discussed the complexity and emotional depth of family law matters, emphasizing that strong advocacy in this field requires both strategic thinking and empathy.

She also addressed the importance of mentorship. For many law students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, it can be difficult to envision themselves in certain legal spaces without visible role models. Amanda reflected on the mentors who supported her professional development and underscored the importance of paying that support forward.

The panel explored how minority lawyers often navigate additional pressures in professional settings. While Vancouver is widely recognized for its diversity, meaningful inclusion within the legal profession requires ongoing effort. Conversations like those at the SALSA event allowed students to hear honest reflections about overcoming bias, building credibility, and remaining authentic within the workplace.

Illuma Family Law’s Commitment to Mentorship and Inclusion

At Illuma Family Law, mentorship and diversity have long been core values. As a dedicated family law firm in Vancouver, we understand that the strength of our advocacy is directly connected to the diversity of perspectives within our team and the broader legal community.

We recognize that minority lawyers may face unique challenges, including limited representation in leadership roles, cultural misunderstandings, and barriers to informal networking opportunities. Our firm has remained committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive work environment where lawyers feel empowered to bring their full identities to their practice.

Participating in community initiatives like the SALSA panel reflected our belief that mentorship extends beyond our office walls. Supporting law students and early-career lawyers contributes to building a stronger, more representative legal profession in Vancouver.

Illuma Family Law: A Trusted Family Law Firm in Vancouver

Illuma Family Law has focused exclusively on family law matters, serving individuals and families across Vancouver. As a family law firm in Vancouver, we have guided clients through divorce and separation, parenting disputes, child support and spousal support matters, and complex property division cases.

Family law cases are rarely just legal disputes; they involve significant emotional and financial transitions. Our approach has always been strategic and client-centered. We have worked closely with our clients to develop tailored legal strategies that reflect their goals while remaining mindful of the broader family dynamic.

Vancouver is home to culturally diverse communities, and family law issues often intersect with cultural expectations, and extended family involvement. At Illuma Family Law, we approach every case with cultural awareness and sensitivity. We understand that effective representation requires listening carefully and appreciating the full context of a client’s situation.

Representation Matters in Family Law

During the SALSA panel, Amanda spoke about how representation within family law can directly impact client trust and outcomes. When clients feel understood—culturally and personally—they are more comfortable sharing sensitive information and participating actively in their legal strategy.

Family law frequently involves discussions about parenting roles, financial responsibilities, and family structures that may vary across cultures. Having lawyers who recognize and respect these differences strengthens advocacy both in negotiations and in court.

Our firm’s commitment to diversity and inclusion has enhanced our ability to serve Vancouver’s diverse population. We believe that cultural competence is not optional; it is essential to effective family law representation.

Building a More Inclusive Legal Community in Vancouver

The February 26, 2026 SALSA panel demonstrated the importance of creating spaces where minority lawyers can share their experiences openly. By participating as a speaker, Amanda contributed to an important conversation about equity, mentorship, and belonging within the profession.

At Illuma Family Law, we remain dedicated to supporting initiatives that promote diversity in law. We believe that investing in mentorship and community engagement helps shape a legal system that better reflects the communities it serves.

As a family law firm in Vancouver, we are committed not only to achieving strong legal outcomes for our clients but also to fostering a more inclusive and supportive legal environment for future lawyers.

Amanda’s participation in the SALSA panel was a reflection of who we are as a firm: strategic advocates, community contributors, and supporters of diversity, equity, and inclusion in Vancouver’s legal profession.

Illuma Family Law continues to stand as a trusted family law firm in Vancouver—dedicated to exceptional advocacy, cultural awareness, and meaningful mentorship.

If you’d like to learn more or need family law guidance, our Vancouver family lawyers are here to help. Contact us today to book a consultation - Contact Us.

Abby Pang

Abby is a lawyer and loving mother of two children. She is an advocate for healthy families and children. She has turned her energy towards supporting families, by providing guidance and helping families navigate through the legal system, while empowering them to have a voice throughout the process.

Abby Pang’s journey began in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. Subsequently, her family moved to the east side of Vancouver, before moving to Richmond, where she spent most of her childhood. Her father was a refugee who came to Canada in 1970, and from him she learned the meaning of grit.

In her youth, Abby experienced a breakdown in her family unit which resulted in divorce. She understands that marital breakdowns and divorces can be complicated, but also devastating. She also understands there are alternative options and ways to mitigate the damaging effects of the process.

Abby earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of British Columbia, studying psychology and family studies. She earned a law degree from Manchester Metropolitan University, exchange program through the Hong Kong University. In 2008, she returned to British Columbia to work in a large law office while completing her National Certificate of Accreditation. She then completed her articles in a boutique law firm in Vancouver. She was called to the British Columbia bar in 2012.

Abby has appeared in Provincial Court, Supreme Court and Court of Appeal. She deals with personal injury claims, sexual assault (civil) claims, and family law matters: In addition to her court experience, Abby takes a “family first” approach and is resolution-focused. She is registered through the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals.

As a lawyer, Abby Pang’s community involvement included volunteer work with the Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers and the Canadian Bar Association Women Lawyers’ Forum. As well, she had the opportunity to assist at Rise Women’s Legal Center and Battered Women’s Support Services through volunteering with Amici Curiae Friends of Court.

Abby is the recipient of A Woman of Worth Leader of the Year Award 2023 for her outstanding achievements in strengthening her community/organization through innovative approaches to resolving challenges and inspiring meaningful change. She has been recognized nationally as a nominee of the YWCA Women of Distinction Awards 2023, which honours extraordinary women leaders and businesses.

In her personal time, Abby enjoys snowboarding, bike riding, and spending time with her family.

https://www.illumalaw.com/team