“Female Lawyers Are The Architects Of A More Inclusive And Equitable Justice System” – Global Change Maker, Dr. Jennifer Heaven Mike
Dr. Jennifer Heaven Mike, an internationally acclaimed scholar, legal practitioner, and advocate, has made remarkable strides in the fields of human rights, gender equality, and conflict resolution. From her early days as a curious law graduate in Nigeria to her current role as a global changemaker, Dr. Mike’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and purpose-driven advocacy. In this exclusive interview with The Metro Lawyer’s Teyojesam Eko, Dr. Mike shares the inspiration behind her legal career, the challenges she has faced, and her vision for a more inclusive and equitable world.
What inspired you to pursue a career in law, and how has your journey from a young law graduate in Nigeria to an internationally recognized scholar and advocate shaped your outlook on justice?
My inspiration stemmed from a deep desire to address systemic injustices, particularly those affecting marginalized communities. I was inspired to pursue a career in law because of a deeply personal experience during my childhood. I witnessed firsthand how my grandmother, a young widow with ten children, was asked to leave her husband’s house because she refused to comply with a tradition that compelled her to marry her late husband’s brother. Even as a young girl, I knew this was unjust—women should have the autonomy to make personal decisions for themselves. Growing up, I also saw countless children on the streets and often wondered why their families and society had failed them. I was a curious child, constantly questioning the things I perceived as wrong. These experiences planted the seeds for my commitment to justice. They motivated me to study law and become an advocate for those who are voiceless and vulnerable. As a young member of the Rotary organization at the university, I became actively involved in humanitarian-oriented activities aimed at solving real-world challenges. These experiences, combined with my undergraduate studies in law, deepened and strengthened my commitment to human rights and justice. When I graduated from law school, I initially pursued a master’s degree in maritime and commercial law, driven by the desire to specialize in a lucrative area of law. However, I soon realized that something was missing—there was a lack of fulfillment and purpose in my career choice. This realization pushed me to reevaluate my priorities, and I resolved to focus on a career path that would have a broader social impact. My international exposure further shaped my perspective, helping me understand that the issues faced by women and other vulnerable groups are not confined to one country—they are global and require a collective effort. This clarity directed my career toward advocating for human rights and justice on a global scale. Through academia, legal practice, and activism, I have seen firsthand the transformative power of law in advocating for equity. This experience has solidified my belief that justice requires both a theoretical framework and practical application to address evolving societal challenges.
You achieved a Ph.D. in law before turning 30—an impressive feat. What challenges did you face during this process, and how did you overcome them?
Pursuing a Ph.D. at a young age presented challenges, such as balancing rigorous academic demands with the need for financial and emotional resilience. I also had to deal with relationship dramas and the desire to settle down and start a family while juggling academic commitments. I overcame these through strong time management, leveraging mentorship, and securing research grants, like the Santander Postgraduate Research Award and many grants. These resources enabled me to stay focused and produce impactful research that addressed real-world issues.
Your law firm focuses on protecting the indigent, downtrodden, women, and children. Could you share a memorable case or project that embodies your firm’s mission?
One of the most impactful cases involved advocating for a single mother facing eviction. By securing pro bono legal support and negotiating with the landlord, we prevented her displacement, emphasizing the intersection of housing rights and human dignity. Such cases reaffirm the importance of grassroots legal work in driving social change. Another memorable case my firm handled involved advocating for a group of indigent women in a rural community who were denied access to critical maternal healthcare services. The local healthcare facility had introduced exorbitant fees for prenatal care, effectively excluding low-income women from accessing essential services. This not only violated their right to health but also put their lives and the lives of their unborn children at severe risk. We took on the case pro bono, arguing that access to maternal healthcare is a fundamental human right. Through strategic litigation and negotiations, we successfully compelled the facility to waive the fees and implement a more inclusive policy. Beyond the legal victory, we partnered with local organizations to provide health education and advocacy workshops for the community, ensuring long-term awareness and empowerment. This case embodies our firm’s mission because it highlights the intersection of law, advocacy, and systemic change. It was not just about resolving an immediate injustice but about creating a framework for sustainable access to healthcare for vulnerable groups. Knowing that these women and their children now have a fighting chance at life reaffirmed my commitment to championing the rights of the indigent and vulnerable.
How do you see the role of female lawyers in transforming the legal profession and advocating for diversity and equality in the justice system?
Female lawyers play a pivotal role by challenging patriarchal norms, mentoring the next generation, and introducing gender perspectives into legal practice. They are instrumental in advocating for diversity, drafting inclusive policies, and fostering an equitable justice system that reflects society’s diverse voices.
As an Assistant Professor in two distinct institutions, what has been your most rewarding experience teaching women’s studies, gender studies, and law to diverse audiences?
As an Assistant Professor, one of my most rewarding experiences teaching women’s studies and gender studies has been witnessing the transformation in my students’ perspectives and their growing commitment to driving social change. In one of my courses, we explored the intersection of gender, culture, and policy-making. A particularly memorable moment occurred when a group of students undertook a research project on male-focused and female-focused gender-based violence (GBV) in their local communities. Their findings not only shed light on alarming trends of GBV but also inspired them to create an advocacy campaign that included workshops and partnerships with local NGOs. Seeing students move from theoretical understanding to actionable initiatives has been incredibly fulfilling. It’s a testament to the power of education in shaping future leaders who are equipped to address systemic inequalities. Each class discussion, research project, and outreach activity reinforces the importance of creating spaces where students can critically engage with gender issues and become agents of change in their communities and beyond. The most rewarding experience is seeing students transform into critical thinkers who approach the world from solution-oriented perspectives. At the end of my classes, I always feel delighted when students report in their evaluation surveys that they have gained the skills to apply gender (feminist) and human rights theories to real-world issues.
May I also add that one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching women’s and gender studies has been the opportunity to engage with the evolving and expansive nature of the field? At most colleges, gender studies is no longer confined to women’s issues alone, it explores gender in a broader sense, including the study of masculinity, non-binary identities, and the intersectionality of race, class, and culture. In one of my courses, we had an insightful module on masculinity and its societal constructs. This led to transformative discussions about how traditional notions of masculinity impact men’s mental health and their relationships with others. One of my students, a young man initially hesitant to engage, reflected deeply on how these discussions changed his understanding of himself and his role in fostering gender equality. This broader, inclusive approach ensures that all students see themselves represented and understand their stake in dismantling harmful gender norms. Witnessing this intellectual and personal growth in my students has been incredibly rewarding, reaffirming the importance of creating inclusive spaces for critical reflection and action on gender issues. In the same vein, mentoring students at my who presented original research at international conferences has been deeply fulfilling, showcasing the tangible impact of education.
Your research spans human rights, gender-based violence, and conflict resolution. How do you ensure that your academic work translates into real-world impact, especially in conflict zones?
Beyond research and theoretical advocacy, I actively engage in initiatives that ensure lasting peace, particularly in conflict zones. One example is my involvement in fostering peace through sporting activities in Adamawa communities that had experienced violent conflicts. These activities were designed to bring together youth from different ethnic and religious backgrounds, providing a neutral platform for dialogue, trust-building, and collaboration. By organizing sports tournaments and accompanying workshops on conflict resolution, we were able to reduce tensions and encourage mutual understanding among participants. This initiative also provided an opportunity to identify and train community leaders in mediation techniques, ensuring the sustainability of peace efforts. Such hands-on engagement allows me to bridge the gap between academic theories on conflict resolution and their practical application, creating tangible outcomes that improve lives and contribute to rebuilding fractured communities. This approach underscores my commitment to ensuring that my academic work drives real-world impact, particularly in regions where it is needed most. By collaborating with NGOs, policymakers, and international bodies, I essentially bridge theory with practice. My work on peacebuilding has sought to influence policy recommendations and capacity-building workshops, ensuring research outcomes address the immediate needs of vulnerable populations.
Through the Mike and Nanre Bello Foundation, you work to empower teens and young adults. What has been the most fulfilling outcome of your career and motivation workshops?
The most fulfilling outcome has been witnessing participants develop confidence and take actionable steps toward personal, professional and community development. One particularly inspiring example involved a young woman who attended our workshop on leadership and entrepreneurship. Initially shy and uncertain about her future, she later shared how the workshop empowered her to start a small business that now employs other young people in her community. Hearing stories like hers reaffirms the importance of our work. These workshops go beyond motivation—they equip participants with practical tools, mentorship, and a sense of agency to create change in their own lives and surroundings. Seeing teens and young adults transform their potential into tangible achievements has been both humbling and deeply rewarding. It drives me to continue creating programs that inspire the next generation to overcome challenges and contribute meaningfully to society.
What advice do you have for young women aspiring to enter the legal profession or engage in advocacy work?
My advice for young women is to cultivate resilience and stay informed about evolving legal trends. It’s essential to remain passionate about justice and be prepared to navigate challenges with unwavering commitment. I want our young girls to embrace continuous learning as the legal profession is dynamic, and staying current with laws, regulations, and advocacy methods is key. Make it a habit to read both legal texts and current affairs widely to be well-rounded. Another important step to imbibe is seeking mentorship and building a strong network. Young lady, surround yourself with supportive colleagues, mentors, and role models. Attending legal conferences and seminars and joining professional associations can provide opportunities for growth and inspiration. I have met great people and made invaluable connections from meeting people at conferences and professional events. It is also important to constantly strive to develop strong communication skills, whether in the courtroom or in advocacy work, clear and persuasive communication is essential. Being able to argue effectively and listen actively will help build credibility and trust. Not forgetting the prioritization of self-care. The legal field can be demanding, so managing stress and maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for long-term success and well-being. Lastly, be brave, be yourself, and be authentic. Don’t be afraid to speak up and advocate for the causes you believe in. Your voice as a young woman can bring unique perspectives that are needed in shaping laws and policies.
As Co-Director of AUN’s Centre for Governance, Development, and Human Rights, how have you tackled challenges in advocating for sustainable development and human rights reforms?
I have tackled these challenges by fostering interdisciplinary research and building partnerships through projects that align sustainable development goals with human rights principles. Collaborating with other academic institutions, non-governmental organizations, government agencies, and international bodies is essential to amplify efforts and bring diverse perspectives to the table. These partnerships provide critical resources, knowledge, and legitimacy to advocacy efforts. The Centre also challenges by building dialogue between stakeholders, advocating for policy changes, and finding grassroots, creative solutions to push the reform agenda forward despite resistance.
Gender justice is a recurring theme in your work. What do you see as the most pressing challenges for women in conflict-affected regions, and how can global communities address them?
Women in conflict zones face issues such as gender-based violence, lack of access to healthcare, and economic disenfranchisement. In conflict zones, women are disproportionately affected by sexual violence, exploitation, and trafficking. This can lead to long-term physical and psychological trauma, as well as social stigmatization. Global communities must ensure accountability for such crimes, provide adequate support for survivors, and prioritize their access to justice. Secondly, the disruption of healthcare systems in conflict zones, combined with gender-specific health needs, exacerbates women’s vulnerability. Complications from pregnancy and childbirth, lack of reproductive healthcare, and untreated physical or psychological injuries are some of the critical concerns. Addressing this requires deploying humanitarian aid that prioritizes gender-sensitive healthcare and ensuring women’s access to reproductive rights. Women in conflict zones often face loss of livelihoods, property, and access to financial resources, pushing them into economic insecurity. Many also face restrictions on their freedom to engage in the workforce, exacerbating poverty or leading them to prostitution and consequentially exposing them to venereal and sexually transmitted diseases. Global communities can help by funding programs aimed at women’s economic empowerment, providing access to microloans, skills training, and job opportunities in post-conflict reconstruction efforts. Global communities can address these challenges by prioritizing women’s participation in peace processes, funding gender-sensitive programs, and enforcing international human rights laws. Women are often excluded from peace talks and decision-making processes, even though they are key stakeholders in rebuilding society. Their voices are critical for achieving long-term peace and reconciliation. Global communities should advocate for and implement policies that mandate women’s participation in peace negotiations, as seen in initiatives like the UN’s Women, Peace, and Security agenda (UNSCR 1325).
Your achievements have earned national and international recognition. What do these accolades mean to you, and how do they motivate your future work?
These recognitions are affirmations of the impact of my work and inspire me to continue pushing boundaries in research, advocacy, and mentorship. They serve as reminders of the collective effort needed to drive meaningful change.
Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for your advocacy, research, and mentorship efforts in the coming years?
I aim to expand my research on the intersection of law and gender mainstreaming, with a particular focus on how legal frameworks can better integrate gender considerations across various sectors. A significant focus of my current work involves devising a gendered approach to climate change and environmental solutions. This stems from the recognition that women and children, especially in vulnerable communities, are disproportionately impacted by environmental issues. In addition, I am committed to mentoring the next generation of scholars, ensuring that my efforts are inclusive and empower individuals from all backgrounds. My mentorship approach spans both genders, aiming to equip young scholars with the tools to be significant contributors to society, regardless of their gender. Lastly, I intend to advocate for global policies that recognize the importance of gender contributions, particularly in areas like reproductive rights. I am passionate about advocating for women’s access to free reproductive ART and enhanced protection in surrogacy arrangements, as I believe reproductive autonomy is key to achieving gender equality. Indubitably, through my work, I aspire to contribute to creating a more inclusive and equitable world where both women and men have the opportunity to be significant members of society.
