OUR
COMMITTEE

His Honour Judge Fayyaz Afzal CBE is a humble and brilliant character. With a charming personality and a drive to succeed, he’s always wanted to do something that mattered and helped people at the same time.

 

Born and raised in Rochdale, he graduated from Staffordshire University with an LLB in 1998 and completed his Postgraduate Diploma in 2000. He practiced as a barrister at No 5 Chambers in family law and in 2017, he was appointed as a District Judge and became the first blind District Judge.

 

He was appointed as a Circuit Judge in 2020 and is an Honorary Doctor of Staffordshire University.

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In 2018, he was appointed president of MALA and is a strong advocate of equality, diversity and inclusion in the legal profession. 

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Nala is delighted to have a leading figure as their President whose mission is to bring those in the legal community together to support the younger generation into the field and celebrate positivity and achievements. 

Recognised by Legal 500, Hojol Uddin is the Head of Business Crime and Regulatory department at JMW Solicitors. He is recognised for handling complex cases and known for his strategic approach and dedication to client care.  Hojol is able to assist his clients from all backgrounds with robust advice to ensure that the best possible outcome is achieved. He is regarded by professionals who have described him as being able to exploit ‘subtle legal points, or using his skill as seeing what an expert might do for a case’.

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Beyond his legal practice, Hojol serves as a trustee of Manchester Young Lives, a charity supporting young individuals in disadvantaged communities. 

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NALA is thrilled to have Hojol on board to provide his invaluable expertise and expansive knowledge of the legal landscape. 

Sandeep is a Senior Associate and accredited Family Mediator at Clarion Solicitors, with more than 20 years experience in the legal profession. Sandeep is known for her calm, compassionate and practical approach, whilst helping clients navigate through difficult times.

 

Sandeep is also a member of the Inclusion Advisory Group at the West Riding Football Association. In 2023, she was invited to the House of Lords “South Asian Women Game Changers in Law” event. She has also featured as a guest speaker on BBC Asian Network Radio discussing family law issues. 

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Previously a member of Midland Asian Lawyers Association, Sandeep looks to bring her commitment to diversity and inclusion to the North of England. 

Inspired by Jhansi ki Rani, Elisha chose a career in law be a voice for those that needed justice.

 

She graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University with First Class Honours and is currently undergoing her studies as a Solicitor Apprentice.She worked as a Paralegal for 4 years specialising in Serious Criminal Defence and White-Collar Crime.

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Born and raised in Stockton-on-Tees, Elisha was a founder of Bright Mind Big Futures which provided a platform for young adults in the local area and pathways to future careers. 

 

She is now a Solicitor Apprentice at JMW Solicitors and joined the MALA committee in 2025 who have provided her insight on how to build a similar community for those in the North.   

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Having been called to the Bar in 2012, Rajinder is now the Managing Director of Reuben Law. He leads the firm's strategic direction and oversees practice management, business development and marketing. 

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Rajinder is a member of the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple and the Chancery Bar Association. Based in London, Rajinder combines his legal expertise with business leadership, helping guide his team's practice with a strong focus on client service. 

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*insert personal here*

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He is now trusted as NALA's Treasurer and looks to bring his unique skill to launching the Association. 

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