Ep# 17 Path to Purpose: from lawyer to advocate for change. Tessa Khan’s inspiring journey

The Women's Room - Legal Division

In this Women's Room Legal Division podcast episode, Erica welcomes Tessa Khan, founder and CEO of Uplift. Tessa shares her inspiring journey from a commercial law solicitor to an international climate change lawyer and campaigner. She discusses her early influences, including her experiences with high school debating and meeting a human rights lawyer who significantly impacted her career direction. Tessa also talks about the establishment and mission of Uplift, a research and campaigning organisation focused on transitioning away from oil and gas production in the UK. She shares insights into climate litigation, the importance of addressing climate change from a human rights perspective, and her experience in various roles advocating for social and environmental justice. Tessa offers valuable advice on taking risks, staying true to one's values, and navigating public advocacy.

Chapters:

01:52 Tessa's Early Life and Path to Law

08:25 Initial Legal Career and Shift to Human Rights

14:53 Focus on Women's Rights and Climate Change

32:22 Reflecting on Career Transitions

34:38 The Role of Coaching in Career Decisions

37:45 Navigating Public Advocacy and Media

46:18 Thoughts on Climate Protests

51.47 Key strengths

55.13 3 pieces of advice to younger self

Link to Uplift

https://www.upliftuk.org/

Link for Toastmasters

https://www.toastmasters.org/

Links to The Women’s Room – Legal Division:

• LinkedIn page https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-womens-room-legal-division/?viewAsMember=true

• YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@Womens-Room-Legal-Division

• Website https://www.ericahandling.com/the-womens-room-legal-division/

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• any coaching questions you have or challenges that you’re facing
• any topics you’d like me to cover on the YouTube Channel, or
• if you have any suggestions about an amazing woman working in around the law I should interview on the Podcast

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