The law is often seen as complicated for the ‘common man,’ but newly minted attorney Vinay Punwa aims to change that by educating individuals about their legal rights and making justice more accessible to everyone.
Newly minted attorney Vinay Punwa
His journey to law, however, was far from straightforward. Initially focused on agriculture, a conversation with his mentor steered him in a new direction.
EARLY LIFE AND FAMILY-CENTRED UPBRINGING
Punwa’s journey began in the picturesque village of Port Mourant, Berbice, where his childhood was shaped by frequent relocations due to his father’s job at the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo).
Growing up was very fun and filled with fond memories. We were very family-oriented, and my parents tried to incorporate family activities into almost everything that we did.
This new attorney said that his close-knit upbringing instilled in him values of hard work, integrity, and support—qualities that would later become pillars in his career.
His academic journey began at Cumberland Primary School and continued through several secondary institutions, including New Amsterdam Multilateral Secondary School, Line Path Secondary School, and Tagore Memorial Secondary School.
He excelled in his Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination, achieving eight grade ones and two grade twos, placing him among the top 10 students in Region Six.
This foundation led him to pursue a degree in Agricultural Science at the University of Guyana Berbice Campus.
After graduating in 2017, he began working at the Ministry of Agriculture in Georgetown.
ACADEMIC PURSUITS: FROM AGRICULTURE TO LAW
In 2018, I was applying for my master’s in Agricultural Engineering when my mentor, Mr. Cecil Seepersaud (now-deceased), advised me to consider law.
Punwa and Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif
This guidance shifted his career trajectory, and in 2019, he began studying law at the University of Guyana. He completed his Bachelor of Laws in 2022, which propelled him to the Hugh Wooding Law School, where he earned his Legal Education Certificate.
THE CALLING TO LAW
Punwa, now 28 years old, said he always knew he wanted to be an attorney.
I’ve always been outspoken and an advocate for people’s rights.
Moreover, his experiences growing up in Berbice and other parts of the country exposed him to the challenges many faced in accessing basic legal knowledge and justice.
I’ve been involved in several conversations at bars and barbershops where I realised that many people aren’t familiar with basic legal principles.
This realisation solidified his desire to use his education to bridge the gap between the law and the common man.
This Berbician’s passion lies in criminal law, particularly trial advocacy and contentious courtroom matters.
That’s my favourite area of law.
The intensity of courtroom battles and the opportunity to defend individuals’ rights align perfectly with his advocacy-driven nature.
MENTORS WHO SHAPED HIS PATH
In any professional journey, mentors play a pivotal role, and for Punwa, several figures have helped shape his legal philosophy.
Dr. Kim Kyte-Thomas has been a god-sent mentor to me. Without her, I wouldn’t have taken this step so comfortably.
Magistrate Annette Singh also played a crucial role in his development, providing support whenever needed.
Furthermore, he noted that Justice Boodoosingh from the Trinidad and Tobago Court of Appeal offered invaluable advice in advancing his advocacy skills.
THE IMPORTANCE OF NETWORKING AND EDUCATION
This attorney’s advice to law students is simple: “Build your network.”
The study of law in Guyana will never be complete without a strong network. Build your network of friends and contacts from every field and department of Guyana so that the practice of law will be much easier.
Punwa flanked by Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif and his family
BUILDING HIS LEGAL LEGACY
Looking ahead, Punwa’s goals are ambitious yet rooted in service. He is on the brink of opening his law firm in Corriverton, Berbice.
I want to contribute to the legal landscape in Guyana by offering pro bono services.
His firm will not only serve paying clients but will also ensure that those who cannot afford legal representation still have access to justice.
Furthermore, he attributed his success to the unwavering support of his family and wife.
With the support of family, anything is possible. Without them, I would never have been able to become an attorney at law.
On Wednesday, October 09, 2024, Punwa was admitted to the local bar before Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif.
