Unlocking Canada’s Legal Sector For the Next Generation of Lawyers
When Mitch Frazer, who heads Mintz’s Toronto office, had the opportunity to help build a network of general counsel dedicated to advancing diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI) in their own organizations and the wider legal sector while also unlocking opportunities for youth from underrepresented backgrounds, he dove right in.
In 2021, Mitch helped to form the National GC Network, Canada’s largest organization of GCs from diverse backgrounds committed to advancing DEI in the legal market. Dedicating several pro bono hours, Mitch guided the National GC Network through the legal work needed to set up as a nonprofit, as well as helping to raise funds so that the organization could hire its first director. Mitch also works tirelessly to build the network every day by recruiting new members and spreading awareness.
Today, the National GC Network comprises more than 120 GCs from across Canada, hosts an annual conference, and has rolled out an extensive internship program for students looking to enter law. This past summer, approximately 55 students from across the country took part in the program, which comes complete with a C$10,000 scholarship and the opportunity to make connections with senior in-house lawyers while also learning the tools they’ll need to launch their own careers in law.
The National GC Network is working to provide lawyers, regardless of their race or ethnic background, equal opportunity to advance their careers and to work in a diverse and inclusive environment. It is helping to establish the next generation of lawyers in Canada.
“Our primary goal is to help people who may not have a tremendous amount of opportunity. We have a huge commitment to advancing DEI to make the legal community in Canada better. We all want to pay it forward.”
Managing Partner, Toronto Office
Pro Bono Team
Managing Partner, Toronto Office