The Workchop Conversations is an ongoing series of conversations with different players in both the law, tech & justice tech space, sharing about their work and innovative role within the space, promoting access to justice in Africa.
This week, we have Eliz’beth Layeni, an Associate Counsel at The Longe Practice Advisory She is self-driven, a tech-enthusiast who loves researching emerging areas of law and believes in the power of technology to create impactful solutions and contribute to a country’s development. She also has keen interest in cybersecurity, data protection and privacy, intellectual property law, and corporate legal practice.
Could you share your journey into tech lawyering? Were there any pivotal moments?
I knew that in my penultimate year in the University, I had keen interest in Cyber Law. This was not too long following the enactment of the Nigerian Cyber Act 2015. At that time, my perspective of the tech-law ecosystem was very limited and for all I knew, I wanted to be a lawyer that protected the digital and cyber rights of citizens. But taking CISCO courses on cybersecurity and working with key players like Ridwan Oloyede and Mallick Bolakale gave me a clearer picture that there was so much that one could do as a lawyer in the tech ecosystem
What does your role at The Longe Practice Advisory entail?
As an Associate Counsel with TLP Advisory, I typically help startups and entrepreneurs start, grow and scale their business to be in compliance with the laws and regulations of any jurisdictions they intend to set up in. My role entails providing general advice on compliance matters and advising investors on the best possible means of structuring their investment securities. I also draft and review legal documents just like every other lawyer and advise on fundraising and perform other company secretarial functions.
Could you share a few tips that has helped in your journey so far? Any particular advice to law school aspirants?
Almost everything is an endless learning curve. You realize that the more you open up yourself to learning, the little you know. For me, I tried to take up courses and internship placements that revolved around my area of interest. Having a mentor or some sort sort of guidance as you grow cannot be overemphasized. I would say that budding lawyers should open up themselves to learn as much as they can in their area of interest and inclusive of your learning process is connecting with and following the activities of key players in the ecosystem you’re interested in.
What is your favorite hack for productivity?
My favorite hack(s) for productivity is having a to-do-list, enabling the work mode on my phone, and using my Google Calendar to keep track of my deadlines and activities.
What are you currently watching, listening or reading?
I am currently watching “Red Notice”, “True Story” and “The Harder They Fall”. I am not listening to anything currently, but I am reading “Camino Island” by John Grisham and “A Purpose Driven Life” by Rick Warren.
Funny question, if you had to work, but you didn’t need the money, what would you do?
If I didn’t need the money but I had to work, I would travel the world journaling and still be a Technology Lawyer.
Who would you like to answer these questions?
