International Women’s Day 2026 – A conversation with Georgina Mackereth

For International Women’s Day this year, the theme ‘Give to Gain’ is all about encouraging individuals and organisations to share knowledge, inspiration and champion each other so that women at all levels thrive.

This year, we spoke to colleagues across the firm about the experiences and insights that have shaped their careers and the support they have received along the way. First up, we are hearing from Georgina Mackereth, apprentice solicitor in our corporate team.

Tell us a little about yourself and your role at Harrison Drury.

I am currently an apprentice solicitor, having joined the firm in June 2022. I trained within the construction team and have recently moved into a corporate seat as part of my final training rotation. I’m hoping to qualify later this year following my SQE2 examination.

I also study with the University of Law and previously achieved an Upper 2:1 Law degree from the University of Cumbria.

Before starting my legal career, I gained experience across a variety of roles at a management training company and a global engineering business, working in administrative, HR and quality assurance positions.

These early roles gave me an appreciation for how businesses operate behind the scenes, something that continues to shape my commercial approach today.

I also had the opportunity to travel to places such as Thailand, Dubai and America. These experiences broadened my perspective and strengthened my independence, qualities that continue to guide me both personally and professionally.

What gives you the most satisfaction about the work you do at Harrison Drury?

The constant opportunity to learn. No two days are the same, and there is always something new to understand or refine.

I find real satisfaction in developing my knowledge not only for my own growth, but to enhance the experience we provide to our clients. I want to become someone clients can rely on for clarity, reassurance and sound judgement.

If you met your younger self today, how do you think they would describe you?

I think she would be proud.

At 16, becoming a young mum was not the path I had planned, but it shaped me in ways I could not have anticipated. Completing a law degree during the pandemic while home-schooling my son required resilience that I did not know I possessed.

If my younger self met me now, on the cusp of qualification, I believe she would see someone who did not allow circumstances to define her limits. She would see perseverance, growth and a determination to build a life grounded in both ambition and family.

What is one achievement that you are especially proud of and why?

I am especially proud of becoming a mother to two wonderful boys while continuing my qualification journey.

Motherhood is extraordinary, but it is also demanding. Pursuing a legal career while raising my children has required discipline, sacrifice and unwavering focus. I have never chosen the easiest path, but I have chosen the one that aligns with who I am and that feels like an achievement.

What does International Women’s Day mean for you personally?

For me, International Women’s Day is about recognising the strength and achievements of women across the world not only in headline moments, but in everyday perseverance.

It is a reminder of the progress made in advancing equality and opportunity, and of the responsibility we each carry to continue that progress. It is both a celebration and a commitment to ensure that ambition and access are not defined by gender.