Student Social Mobility Awards 2025 recognise LSE student for efforts to improve access to legal profession

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London School of Economics and Political Science undergraduate Imaan Kamran Malik is due to be recognised at this year’s Student Social Mobility Awards (SSMA) for overcoming socioeconomic challenges to break into the legal profession and her efforts to improve access to the field.

The SSMA, organised by social mobility charity upReach, is in its seventh year and recognises individuals and organisations that are working to transform access to competitive careers. Malik has been shortlisted for the ‘Law’ sector award having “navigated ongoing family litigation” over their home, chronic migraines and the loss of a close relative to secure impressive experience at DLA Piper LLP, Rothschild & Co and BlackRock, while also mentoring 14 aspiring law students through the Sutton Trust. She also secured prestigious vacation schemes at leading City law firms, such as Stephenson Harwood LLP and Hogan Lovells.

Looking back on her time growing up in East London, Mailk said that it “shaped” her in ways she’s only now starting to understand: “My experiences in Newham have given me a strong sense of purpose. It pushed me to work hard, not just for myself, but for others who might be growing up feeling the same way I once did.”

Speaking about her journey, Malik explained: "I didn't know anyone working in law and, at the start, I lacked access to legal work experience, professional networks and tailored application support. I didn't even know what questions to ask, how can you ask for help when you don't know what help looks like? The lack of representation, especially of Muslim women in the legal field, made it harder to see a place for myself in the profession."

As an upReach associate, Malik has, among other things, had the opportunity to take part in mock negotiations and received mentorship from a lawyer at Slaughter and May. Speaking of her experience, Malik said: “Without upReach, I would have had far less access to professional opportunities and tailored support. It gave me the tools, exposure and belief to pursue my goals.”

This year the SSMA received a record number of nominations, with 227 nominees from 44 universities. Data showed that 76% of nominees are the first in their families to attend university, 68% were eligible for free school meals and 27% have had caregiving responsibilities. The awards ceremony will take place at Mansion House on 10 July 2025. upReach CEO Nick Bent said the awards “illuminate the journeys of those who, despite times of economic adversity, have triumphed over significant obstacles to succeed”. Bent added: “Their stories serve as invaluable inspiration for their peers and future generations at a time when this is sorely needed. It is an honour to be able to celebrate and uplift the individuals and organisations dedicated to improving social mobility throughout the UK.”

The importance of improving access to the profession was highlighted by the Solicitors Regulation Authority in 2024, when it reported that the proportion of lawyers from lower socioeconomic backgrounds fell from 21% in 2015 to 18% in 2023.

The SSMA receive support from a number of firms and organisations, such as Slaughter and May, the Bank of America, FactSet, the Royal Academy of Engineering and G-Research. This sponsorship helps to cover nominees’ travel and accommodation. This year’s judging panel includes the University of Manchester's vice president for teaching, learning and students, professor April McMahon, as well as educator and Gogglebox star Baasit Siddiqui.

Read this LCN Says by upReach to discover more about contextual recruitment and how it’s helping improve access to the profession.