WBA celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month by celebrating AAPI members of our community.
Dr. Nudrat E. Piracha is an accomplished arbitrator, mediator, and legal scholar with over two decades of experience in international arbitration, investment law, and dispute resolution. Her career has been shaped by my passion for alternative dispute resolution (ADR) and cross-border litigation, and she has represented high-profile clients in sectors such as telecommunications, construction, energy, and infrastructure. Her journey has been marked by significant milestones, particularly as a trailblazer for women in law in Pakistan.
Nudrat is the first Pakistani woman to hold the SJD (Doctor of Juridical Science) degree, the highest law qualification in the United States. She also made history as the first woman and only the fourth Pakistani to achieve this prestigious degree. She became the youngest arbitrator appointed to the ICSID Annulment Committee, and is proud to have been the first Pakistani lawyer to be named a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb).
In her professional life, she recently joined the JAMS as the Tribunal Secretary and is the CEO and founder of the International Centre for Appropriate Dispute Resolution and Prevention (ICADRP), where she leads efforts to enhance access to justice and promote ADR solutions, particularly for women and vulnerable communities. Her role at ICADRP allows her to mentor and guide others while providing policy advice on dispute resolution strategies.
Nudrat has been honored with the Best ADR Lawyer Award by the Ministry of Law and Justice in Pakistan, and she was recognized as a Weinstein JAMS International Fellow in 2018. She was a Fulbright Scholar, studying at George Washington University, and enrolled in certificate programs at Harvard Law School and George Washington University, and attended courses at institutions such as Oxford, Cornell, UC Hastings, and for my master at London School of Economics.
Outside of work, Nudrat is passionate about community development and women’s empowerment. She enjoys mentoring young female lawyers, advocating for gender equality, and supporting ADR initiatives that focus on social justice. She also loves traveling and participating in international ADR forums and conferences.
Nudrat is deeply committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal field, and her work reflects her ongoing dedication to legal excellence, public service, and social change.
Nudrat tells us, “Home was a woman dominated household, as we were four sisters. My mother, with little formal education, adopted a career in construction and supervised the construction of houses and a commercial plaza during her life. Two of my sisters have excelled in their careers and serve the Government of Pakistan. One of my sisters is an artist and uses multiple forms of arts as expression, including painting, sketching, blog writing etc. My father encouraged us all the way and stood by us in a community where we challenged all the known norms for women.”
How did your community growing up shape who you are now?
I grew up in the Pakistani community, which is very caring and friendly. I benefit greatly from the rich culture I inherited. In the community, people viewed my gender as a weakness and I tried to become a role model for those who feel constrained by their circumstances by constantly challenging pre-conceived notions and breaking glass ceilings.
What motivated you to enroll in law school?
Growing up I did not have much choice as to the selection of my career. I started law as it was one of the three options provided to me by my father. But once I started practice, I saw the community was suffering due to lack of rule of law, accountability and due processes. My desire to do something for the country and vulnerable communities/individuals has dictated my choices in life. I became a lawyer, which is a male-dominated field. My experiences and desire to grow made me perseverant and prosperous.
What advice would you give to an Asian-American law student who aspires to be where you are now?
Work hard, believe in yourself and do not let anyone dictate what you are capable of. Give yourself a chance, and you might surprise yourself. Above all, allow yourself to dream.
What does Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month mean to you personally, and why is it important to celebrate it?
Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month promotes the values of inclusion and equity. It brings attention to the ongoing struggles that AAPI communities face, such as discrimination, racism, and exclusion, and encourages conversations on how to create a more inclusive society.
What progress or positive changes have you witnessed for the Asian-American Heritage community in recent years?
Recent years have witnessed several positive changes, including increased representation of Asian Americans in politics and advocacy against Anti-Asian Hate through growing awareness and education. The efforts to give them recognition and spread awareness have resulted in solidarity in the community and grassroots level movement. Corporate and institutional changes have also resulted from the above efforts. The AAPI community has made significant strides in gaining visibility, advocating for rights and equality, and promoting understanding and acceptance. While challenges remain, these positive changes mark a period of growth and empowerment for the community in the United States.
What are your hopes or aspirations for the future of the Asian-American legal community?
My hopes for the future of the Asian-American legal community are growing representation, inclusion, and influence within the legal profession. As Asian-Americans continue to make strides in various fields, I aspire to see more Asian-American lawyers, judges, and legal scholars in leadership positions, influencing policies and shaping the legal landscape. A broadening of this representation would not only reflect the community’s diverse interests but also enhance the profession’s ability to address a wide range of issues from different perspectives.
Why did you join the WBA?
I am inspired by the association’s commitment to promoting the advancement and success of women in the legal profession. The WBA provides a platform for women lawyers to connect, collaborate, and support one another, particularly in a field where women have historically been underrepresented in leadership roles.
The opportunity to engage in mentorship, networking, and professional development through the WBA is a key motivator. Additionally, the association’s focus on advocating for women’s rights and equality within the legal system aligns with my values of promoting justice, fairness, and inclusivity. By joining the WBA, I have sought to contribute to the ongoing effort to break down barriers for women in the legal profession, while also benefitting from the wisdom and experiences of other accomplished female lawyers.
Furthermore, the WBA’s dedication to fostering a community of support, as well as addressing the unique challenges that women face in the legal profession, was a driving force in my decision to join and be an active participant in advancing the goals of the organization.
Do you have a mentor/hero?
I have had the privilege of being inspired by several mentors throughout my career, each having a profound impact on both my professional and personal life. Their leadership, wisdom, and dedication shaped my understanding of what it means to be both a skilled legal professional and a responsible leader.
Their approach to law was grounded in integrity and a deep commitment to justice. They taught me the importance of standing firm in one’s values, especially in challenging situations, and how to balance legal acumen with compassion and empathy for those we serve. Their guidance went beyond technical legal skills; they emphasized the significance of mentorship and supporting the growth of others, especially women in law, who often face additional barriers.
Professionally, their mentorship instilled in me a sense of confidence and a belief in my ability to break through barriers and reach leadership roles, even in a field where women, particularly in senior roles, are still underrepresented. They showed me that one’s professional life should also be a platform for advocating for broader societal change, especially in areas of justice and equality.
Personally, their impact was equally transformative. They emphasized that success does not only mean career achievements but also giving back to the community. Their example has inspired me to mentor others, continue learning, and advocate for equity within the legal field.
Their influence continues to guide my work and interactions, reminding me to approach both my professional journey and personal life with purpose, integrity, and a commitment to making a positive impact.
What is the best advice you have received?
The best advice I’ve received is to remain resilient, transforming any negativity I face into a source of strength. It also taught me that the barriers I encounter are only in my mind and that I have the power to achieve anything I set my mind to.