Celebrated attorney Camille Vasquez, Partner at Shephard Mullin Richter & Hampton LLP, speaks about her journey, advocacy for transparency in justice, and the importance of authenticity and determination in achieving success, at the Global Women’s Forum Dubai 2024

 

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, November 26, 2024— The Global Women’s Forum Dubai 2024, held at Madinat Jumeirah from November 26 to 27, hosted an inspiring session featuring Camille Vasquez, the celebrated attorney for Hollywood actor Johnny Depp and Partner at Shephard Mullin Richter & Hampton LLP, alongside Noora Alabbar, Director of Strategic Media Affairs at Abrahamic Family Office.

Vasquez, known for her pivotal role in one of the most high-profile trials in recent memory, shared her journey, insights on navigating a male-dominated industry, and the importance of resilience and authenticity.

The session was attended by Her Excellency Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, and Chairperson of the Board and Managing Director of the Dubai Women Establishment.

During her keynote, Vasquez stressed her support for cameras in the courtroom, describing them as vital tools for public accountability and education. Cameras in the courtroom allow the public to evaluate evidence as the jury does, fostering a greater understanding of the legal system,” she said. Reflecting on her role in the Depp-Heard trial, Vasquez pointed out that the trial’s transparency helped demystify the legal process for millions worldwide.

While acknowledging the potential for bias in high-profile cases, Vasquez argued that the benefits of transparency far outweigh the risks.

Vasquez shared her experience of facing intense public scrutiny during the Depp trial, describing it as both a challenge and a learning moment. “Social media created its courtroom of public opinion, and everything about me became a topic of discussion—what I wore, who I was dating, even my family background. It was incredibly invasive,” she said.

She reflected on the loss of privacy that comes with such public exposure, quoting her former client Johnny Depp: “I live my life behind windows—car windows, plane windows, hotel windows.” For Vasquez, the trial highlighted the importance of privacy and the resilience required to remain focused amidst such external pressures.

A key theme of Vasquez’s address was the importance of authenticity and self-belief. As a Latina woman in a male-dominated legal field, she recounted her journey of overcoming challenges and breaking stereotypes. “I didn’t attend an Ivy League school and was often underestimated. But my parents taught me the value of hard work, resilience, and showing up prepared. Those lessons became my foundation,” she said.

Vasquez also encouraged women to embrace their femininity as a source of strength. “Being feminine and being feminist aren’t mutually exclusive. You can be both, and that authenticity commands respect,” she remarked. She urged young women to be true to themselves, adding, “Confidence comes from embracing who you are.”

Addressing the challenges of balancing a demanding career with personal aspirations, Vasquez shared advice she had received early in her career: “You can have it all, just not all at the same time.” She acknowledged the sacrifices required for professional success and encouraged women to set boundaries and prioritise self-care.

Concluding her address, Vasquez reflected on her career and her role as an advocate. “I believe I’ve found my calling. Being someone’s voice during the most challenging times is incredibly fulfilling. It’s a privilege to do what I do,” she said, noting that retirement, though distant, would one day allow her to focus on family and the quieter joys of life.

 

-ENDS-

 

About Dubai Women Establishment

Dubai Women Establishment (DWE) was formed as a statutory body of Dubai Government in 2006 under law no. (24) by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. DWE aims to enhance the professional and leadership capabilities of women, increase their participation in the comprehensive development journey, and strengthen their role in shaping the economic and social future of Dubai, by proposing and developing relevant and impactful policies. DWE is headed by Her Highness Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, President of DWE and wife of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court. DWE’s strategic plan for 2023-2027 includes three pillars: creating an enabling environment for women in the labour market, developing women leaders, and enhancing the quality of life for women in society, through which DWE seeks to achieve its vision of “Dubai as a pioneering model for women-friendly cities.” The new strategic plan focuses on contributing to the strengthening of supporting legislation and policies, consolidating partnerships and allowing women to influence locally and globally.

About Global Women’s Forum Dubai 2024

The Global Women’s Forum Dubai (GWFD) provides a platform to explore new strategies for enhancing gender balance and raising women’s participation in the economy and society worldwide. Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, GWFD reflects the UAE’s leadership in advancing gender equality and its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 5: Gender Equality. Since its inception eight years ago, the forum has become a leading international gathering for fostering dialogue and collaboration to address challenges and opportunities for women worldwide. With a rich agenda featuring diverse discussions, transformative workshops, and impactful speakers, GWFD brings together thought leaders, policymakers, and innovators to inspire progress toward building a more inclusive and sustainable future. The 2024 edition of GWFD, themed The Power of Influence, takes place on November 26-27 at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, gathering over 6,000 participants, 250 speakers and 25 prominent figures and ministers from across the globe. The 130 panel discussions at the forum centre on three pillars: Future Economies and Societies, Collective Engagements and Actions, and Impactful Technologies and Innovations.