Freeths backs two aspiring lawyers with new bursary programme

Freeths has kicked off its-newly launched bursary programme, announcing the first two students who are set to benefit from the opportunity.

Umamah Faquirbhai from De Montfort University and Maymunah Valimia from the University of Leicester have both earned places in the scheme, which offers local law students £4,000 annually during their second and third years, as well as support from the firm.

The bursary also provides mentoring, a paid summer placement and a chance to interview for Freeths’ graduate apprenticeship scheme.

The programme was created to honour the legacy of Mukesh Patel, the late managing partner of Freeths’ Leicester office.

Mukesh, who passed away in February 2023, was a well-respected figure in both Freeths and the local legal community.

Lisa Gilligan, managing partner of Freeths Leicester said: “We were delighted by the quality of applicants, and both Umamah and Maymunah were stand-out candidates and are worthy recipients of the bursary. We’re looking forward to welcoming them into the office for their summer work experience, and it’s been great to get to know them during the application process. The firm’s commitment to the bursary is a fitting tribute to Mukesh’s legacy and one that he would have been proud of.”