Leadership Academy alum Komal Mirza shares how the program propels lawyers forward
Wm. Reece Smith, Jr., Leadership Academy applications are being accepted through January 31
Komal Mirza
Komal Mirza likens her experience with The Florida Bar’s Wm. Reece Smith, Jr., Leadership Academy to the spark that launches a rocket — propelling professionals to new heights in their careers.
Since graduating from the Academy’s Class VI in 2019, Mirza’s journey has taken her across the state and beyond, where she leveraged the connections and leadership skills gained through the program.
Now, as a co-chair of the Leadership Academy Committee, she’s helping to guide the next class of attorneys, encouraging them to take the leap and apply for the upcoming fellowship which closes on January 31.
“It’s like giving fuel to a rocket,” said Mirza of the Broward Sheriff’s Office. She credits the program with her professional growth, which has taken her from Florida to Washington, D.C., and back.
“If you have even an ounce of curiosity, I think it’s a great program,” she says. “People who have a lot to contribute to the profession and want to find an avenue to focus in on would benefit greatly from it.”
“Bar work can be so enjoyable, but you have to find your rhythm; you have to find what speaks to you,” she said. “And I think the Academy, for that reason, is wonderful because it helps you find that rhythm – not just from a voluntary [bar] involvement standpoint, but also from a professional standpoint.”
One of her takeaways from the experience, Mirza says, is that the Academy helps raise fellows’ awareness about different avenues available in the profession.
“What I really enjoyed as a fellow was having the opportunity to see new cities around the state of Florida, [and] also to meet attorneys in those cities and have candid conversations about who they are, what they do, and what their advice is,” said Mirza.
Mirza moved to Washington, D.C., for a couple of years after completing her Leadership Academy fellowship.
“When you go to a different state, it seems like you have to start over again, but [the Academy] gives you the tools to have the confidence in knowing that you can do it; it’s not impossible.”
This is the “rhythm” she referred to.
“The basic structure of the way that the profession operates — the way the Bar operates — is the same throughout the country. Whether you’re in Florida, Georgia, California, or even D.C., the mechanics of it are essentially almost the same,” Mirza said. “So, it was helpful, in the sense of — when I moved to D.C. — I had a basic idea of how to identify the different networks and people I wanted to get to know to be able to pursue a career while I was there.”
“Personally, I wouldn’t be where I am, had I not done the Academy,” said Mirza.
David Thompson is the Leadership Academy’s co-chair with Komal and Brandon Sapp serves as the vice-chair.
To apply, click here. All applications must be submitted by January 31, 2025, at 5 p.m., ET.
Know Before You Apply:
- The Leadership Academy is open to all Florida Bar members in good standing.
- Academy Fellows follow a tailored, one-year curriculum designed to enhance their professional development, knowledge, and experience; it includes Florida Bar events and special educational programs that explore the inner workings of the Bar and their role in the legal profession, while enhancing their personal leadership skills.
- There will be seven required meetings, totaling up to 14 business days throughout the year, including graduation at The Florida Bar Annual Convention. Continuing legal education credits are awarded for most sessions.
- Academy Fellows are required to pay a $550 tuition/participation fee, due in full prior to the first session in June. Fellows are also responsible for their travel expenses and accommodations during meetings. Limited financial assistance is available based on demonstrated need upon completion of a scholarship application. A request for financial assistance will not affect an applicant’s eligibility for the program. Email the program administrator for a scholarship application.
Rebecca Bandy
At the beginning of 2024, administrative support for the Academy transitioned from its longtime liaison, the now-retired Arnell Bryant-Willis, to Rebecca Bandy, director of the Bar’s Henry Latimer Center for Professionalism.
“The Academy focuses on developing Bar and community leaders, understanding the inner self, mission and vision work, wellness, emotional intelligence, networking, mentoring, improving communication and presentation skills, and being prepared for the future of the law,” Bandy said.
“[Program staff] Katie Jones, Eve Alvarez, and I are excited to play a role in this incredible program and will continue its legacy of transformational leadership building,” she said.
Questions regarding the Academy or becoming an Academy Partner should be directed to Rebecca Bandy.
