Bristol Law Society has appointed its first British Muslim Pakistani female president in its 255-year history.
Salma Maqsood, a partner at city law firm Thrings who specialises in commercial property, will become the historic organisation's president for 2025-2026.
Ms Maqsood was junior vice president of Bristol Law Society for two years from 2023-2025 and was previously a council member.
In a post on LinkedIn she wrote: "I’m going to take a moment and let that sink in. A first in over 250 years. Since the Society was founded in 1770.
"So here’s to breaking barriers and smashing glass ceilings because: Representation Matters. For every young person who may look at the legal profession and wonder whether there is a place for them.
"I stand here because of those who opened doors before me. And I intend to keep those doors open even wider for others. More to follow. For now just taking a moment."
Bristol Law Society was established in 1770 and now has some 7,500 members across the region. It is the oldest local law society in the º£½ÇÊÓƵ.
The organisation has also named Sabeena Pirooz, of Thompsons Solicitors, as vice president, while previous president Coralie McKeivor will remain on the executive committee.
The appointments mean all of the society's three presidential officers are women for the first time.
"I’m absolutely thrilled to share that I’ve been sworn in as vice president of Bristol Law Society," Ms Pirooz wrote on LinkedIn.
"Can’t wait to get stuck into this new chapter and to work alongside our incredible new president, Salma Maqsood — she’s going to be outstanding, and I’m excited for what we’ll achieve together.
"Huge thanks to Coralie McKeivor, Salma, the exec board as well as Helen Read Clair Ponting and our brilliant council members for all their support as well as Thompsons Solicitors Ceri-Ann Taylor Linda M.
"And of course, a special shout out to one of my biggest supporters, Hossein Pirooz, and to my Dad, who would have been so happy to see this moment. Here’s to a powerful, inspiring, and game-changing year ahead."
