This is the fifth year RDJ has awarded the UCC scholarship, which support students from ethnic minorities and those who are under-represented in the legal profession in Ireland. 

The two students have each received a scholarship worth €5,000 and a work placement opportunity with RDJ.

They were chosen as the scholarship recipients for 2026 following a competitive selection process based on exam results, a personal statement, a 1,000-word essay discussing the topic “The Need for Diversifying the Legal Profession in Ireland”, and an interview.

The students were officially awarded their scholarships on 26 January by RDJ managing partner Jamie Olden, RDJ partner and diversity and inclusion committee team lead Jennifer Noctor, and Professor Conor O’Mahony, dean of the UCC School of Law.

Mr Olden said: “I am delighted to meet this year’s RDJ Diversity Scholarship recipients, Elena and Mohammad —both outstanding students whose journeys I look forward to following.

“At RDJ, diversity and inclusion are core values, and this scholarship reflects our commitment to building a workplace that mirrors the diversity of our clients and the communities we serve.

“Attracting, retaining and promoting individuals from different backgrounds, races and genders not only strengthens our firm, it enhances innovation, problem‑solving and the value we deliver to clients.

“This year we welcomed our first recipient of the award back in as a trainee which shows the real impact of this initiative. We are proud to support talented students like Elena and Mohammad as they take their first steps into the legal profession.”

Professor O’Mahony added: “RDJ’s continued sponsorship of this scholarship is something we greatly appreciate at the School of Law.

“Elena and Mohammad have demonstrated exceptional academic ability, insight and commitment through a highly competitive selection process, and they are very deserving recipients of this year’s scholarships.

“Opportunities like this not only provide vital financial and professional support, but also help to build a more inclusive legal community.”