ARIELLE DESILVA

Age: 30
Position: Associate
Employer: Appleby (Bermuda) Limited

Why did you choose to be a part of this industry?

I wanted a career that would be intellectually stimulating, and law is just that. I find myself constantly challenged to solve problems, multitask and ultimately deliver, sometimes under extreme time pressure.

What is the best part about working for your company?

Appleby allows you to learn through doing. I find this learning style to be highly effective. In law, the specific facts and the circumstances will change, and the answer yesterday may not be the answer tomorrow. Focusing on developing young lawyers to find the answers themselves, through their own research and application of the law, will set them on the road for success, and has personally served me well.

What do you do to unwind at the end of the day?

In law, there is no “end of the day.” Our profession is notorious for late nights and long hours, so I like to start my day with a walk on the railway trails whenever possible, to really disconnect from technology and ground myself for the day.

What are you most grateful for?

My son. He has brought me so much joy over the last seven years, and truly has given me a purpose. When you have a child, you have to constantly show up for them, which in turn forces you to show up for yourself. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and in the early years of your career it is easy to forget to “refill.” Having someone depending on you to get it right both professionally and at home anchors you and helps you to be the best version of yourself in all arenas.

Who at your company has helped you the most?

Clive Langley and Matthew Ebbs-Brewer, both of whom were my mentors during my pupillage with Appleby, who have continued to offer me advice and help me to develop throughout my time as an associate.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years, I see myself at the top of my field. Whether as a partner at a top-tier offshore law firm or in-house general counsel is yet to be determined, but I am excited to see where the next 10 years takes me and very much looking forward to the journey.