From Berbice to the Bar: Vinay Punwa plans to use his legal education to empower and serve
By Shemar Alleyne
In a journey marked by passion and determination, 28-year-old Vinay Punwa, one of Guyana’s newest attorneys, is on a mission to use his legal education to empower and uplift the people of his country.
Born in Port Mourant, Berbice, Vinay’s early life was shaped by constant movement.
His father’s work with the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) required him to relocate across various estates, from Albion and Rose Hall to Providence (East Bank Berbice) and Skeldon.
Despite the frequent relocations, he noted that his childhood was filled with love, warmth, and unforgettable family memories that laid the foundation for the values guiding him today.
“Growing up was fun and filled with fond memories,” Vinay recalls with a smile.
“We were very family-oriented, and my parents made sure to include us in everything they did. Those experiences shaped who I am.”
A CHANGE IN DIRECTION
Vinay’s educational journey began at Cumberland Primary School before attending New Amsterdam Multilateral Secondary, Line Path Secondary, and Tagore Memorial Secondary.
After high school, Vinay enrolled at the University of Guyana Berbice Campus, where he pursued a Degree in Agricultural Science and graduated in 2017.
It seemed his career was destined for agriculture, and he even began working at the Ministry of Agriculture in Georgetown.
However, in 2018, fate intervened when a conversation with his mentor, the late Cecil Seepersaud, sparked a life-changing decision.
“I was applying for my Master’s in Agricultural Engineering when Mr. Seepersaud advised me to consider law. With his guidance, I applied and got accepted,” Vinay says.
That conversation marked a pivotal moment in his life, steering him toward his true calling—law.
A PASSION FOR ADVOCACY
According to this Berbician, his decision to pursue law was more than a career shift. It was a realisation of a long-held desire to advocate for people’s rights.
“I’ve always been outspoken and driven to defend others,” he shares.
In 2022, he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Law from the University of Guyana, followed by his Legal Education Certificate from the prestigious Hugh Wooding Law School.
During his studies, Vinay discovered a passion for criminal law, particularly trial advocacy and courtroom litigation.
“Criminal law is my favourite area,” he admits with enthusiasm. “I love being in court, engaging in trials, and fighting for justice.”
This fervour for advocacy is more than just a profession for Vinay—it is a personal mission to make a difference in the lives of ordinary Guyanese.
EMPOWERING THE COMMON MAN
For this new attorney, his legal philosophy is grounded in a simple but profound belief: education is empowerment.
His experiences, from barbershops to bars, highlighted the gap in legal knowledge among the general public.
“I realised that many people aren’t familiar with even basic legal principles,” Vinay explains. This realisation inspired him to use his legal expertise to bridge that gap.
In fact, he has started a TikTok account, providing valuable information on the law.
His commitment to the community runs deep. In October 2024, Vinay opened his law firm in Corriverton, Berbice, with a strong focus on giving back.
A cornerstone of his practice will be providing pro bono services to those who cannot afford legal representation.
“I want to ensure that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, has access to justice,” he says.
His work will focus on criminal and civil contentious matters, with an unwavering dedication to advocating for the rights of the underserved.
MENTORSHIP AND FAMILY SUPPORT
Behind Vinay’s success is a strong network of mentors and loved ones who have guided and supported him along the way.
Among them is Dr. Kim Kyte Thomas, whom Vinay describes as “a god-sent mentor,” along with Magistrate Annette Singh and Justice Boodoosingh from Trinidad and Tobago’s Court of Appeal.
“Without their support, I wouldn’t have taken this step so comfortably,” Vinay admits.
But perhaps his greatest pillars of strength are his parents and wife, whose unwavering support has been instrumental in his journey.
“My wife and parents have been my biggest cheerleaders. Without them, I would not have become an attorney,” he says, his voice tinged with gratitude.
It is their encouragement that keeps him grounded and focused on his mission to serve, he noted.
ADVICE FOR ASPIRING LAWYERS
While his journey is filled with lessons, his most important piece of advice for aspiring lawyers is simple:
“Build a strong network. The study of law in Guyana is incomplete without a network of friends and contacts across various fields. It will make practising law much easier.”
On Wednesday, October 09, 2024, Punwa was admitted to the local bar before Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif.
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