Jaavonne Taylor joined MKS as an Associate earlier this year.
We asked her to share her thoughts about the firm, her work and her motivations.
Welcome to MKS, Jaavonne! How does it feel to be a part of the firm?
It’s exciting to be a part of the MKS team. Since starting in April of this year I have had the opportunity to work on several interesting cross-border matters and be part of a dynamic team.
Tell us something about yourself.
I’m Jamaican and I am passionate about my culture and am a fervent believer in Jesus Christ.
What drew you towards MKS and why?
The firm’s unique position as an international asset recovery firm and its location in the offshore jurisdiction of the British Virgin Islands were some of the key factors that drew me to MKS.
What were you doing before this?
I was a senior Litigation Associate at one of Jamaica’s leading law firms – Nunes, Scholefield, DeLeon and Co – where my practice spanned civil and commercial litigation including personal injury defence, insurance, estate, family and admiralty law.
What motivated you to enter the law as a profession?
I have always had a passion for justice and to advocate for others who were unable to advocate for themselves. Being a natural problem solver, I saw law as an avenue that was ideal. As an added bonus my report cards from school always showed that I spoke a lot in class, so I believe it was a natural fit.
What’s been the most notable moment in your career to date?
I have been blessed to experience many notable moments in my career, but the one that stands out the most to me is winning my first trial in my first few months of practice, against experienced senior counsel, without preparation.
And the most challenging?
The most challenging thus far has been adapting to the judicial system in the BVI, having only practiced in Jamaica prior to joining MKS. But I am navigating the transition and am excited by this challenge.
What do you hope to achieve as you go ahead?
I want to continue honing my advocacy skills and become a leading litigation practitioner.
Who has been the most inspirational person in your life to date, and why?
My mother has inspired me the most in my life, as she didn’t allow her circumstances to dictate her outcome and raised me to pursue my dreams regardless of the obstacles that presented themselves.
When you’re not working on cases, what do you like to do?
I enjoy working out, reading, going to the gym, going to church and hanging out with my friends.
Have you got a personal mantra that keeps you going through tough times?
“God is within her, she will not fail” – Psalm 46:5.
Tell us one thing that might encourage others to follow in your footsteps.
Honestly, my advice is follow your own path and chart your course. There is nothing wrong with being inspired and encouraged by others, but do not get so caught up in living their lives that you forget to live your own.
We were all placed on this Earth for a purpose: your purpose may not look like mine and that is ok. At the end of your life, you want to know that you have lived and fulfilled your own purpose.
Thank you for answering our questions, Jaavonne!
You can view Jaavonne’s bio here.