In an interview with AdvokatWatch, associate Servet Yildiz Stêrk argues that the discussion about diversity in the legal industry should shift its focus from charity to profitability. Stêrk, who was recently nominated for the Norwegian Bar Association's Talent Award 2021, believes that diversity is a question of competitive advantage in an increasingly globalized market.

"It should be obvious to everyone that by recruiting broadly, you ensure the best possible expertise and client understanding. Different perspectives and approaches offer a more creative and innovative dynamic, which, in a more globalized and digitized market, is a clear competitive advantage," Stêrk tells AdvokatWatch.

Stêrk gained attention in 2020 following an interview in Dagens Næringsliv where he shared his experiences with alienation and discrimination in the legal industry. This led him to establish his own legal aid firm before later returning to the legal industry as an associate at the law firm Tveter and Kløvfjell.

In the rationale for the nomination for the Talent Award, the jury highlights that Stêrk has "put into words the discrimination in the industry and the challenges it entails," and describes him as "one of the bravest associates in the industry by being a clear voice on a relatively contentious subject."

Stêrk emphasizes that there needs to be a change in how diversity is perceived: "There seems to be too much focus on the negative aspects of what is different, and this results in a fear of ending up in uncomfortable situations. The challenge here is to shift focus to the positive, for in an industry where diversity is lacking, the horizon of understanding narrows, making it seem as if diversity is about 'being kind' - which it absolutely is not."

Through his role at Tveter and Kløvfjell, Stêrk has demonstrated the commercial value of diversity. With his intercultural understanding and language skills, he has attracted business clients in numbers previously unknown to the company. This has led the firm to consider the possibility of establishing branches abroad.

"Being nominated for the Norwegian Bar Association's Talent Award is a clear recognition, not just for my work with diversity, but for diversity as a contribution to a better and richer society for all," says Stêrk, but adds that the industry must work more purposefully with diversity to see real changes.