The newest member of the Bermuda Bar has called on others to follow their dreams and use obstacles as stepping stones.

Tjana Wharton was Called to the Bar on Friday in front of friends, family and supporters in the Supreme Court.

After donning her wig and robe for the first time, Ms Wharton said: “Today marks a significant moment in my life, and those who know me can appreciate this has been a very long time in the making.

“No doubt, my road to this moment has been marked by detours, setbacks and sacrifices, and when we get wound up in our circumstances and troubles, we can lose sight of what is positive, settle for less or adapt to things as they are.

“However, I discovered that adversity is not a signal to retreat. Rather, it is an invitation to elevate.”

She expressed her gratitude to those who have helped to make this opportunity possible.

“Every word of encouragement, every piece of advice, every response to a question, no matter how seemingly small, has not escaped my notice and was deeply appreciated,” Ms Wharton said.

She also thanked her family, whom she described as her cheerleaders, encouraging her to finish what she had started.

Ms Wharton added: “To everyone out there who has a dream, I encourage you to take one step beyond your comfort zone and make it happen.”

Susan Moore-Williams, senior legal aid counsel with the Government, said that while she had a quiet demeanour, Ms Wharton was no shrinking violet and had overcome all obstacles that had been put before her.

She noted that during her time with the Department of Public Prosecutions, Ms Wharton was on the winning side in seven different cases.

Ms Moore-Williams added that she believed Ms Wharton would be an asset to the Bermuda Bar and the island.

Ms Wharton’s mother and sister also addressed the court during the ceremony, describing her as thoughtful, hardworking and brilliant.

Puisne Judge Juan Wolffe added that Ms Moore-Williams had failed to mention that Ms Wharton was a graduate of the University of Kent, his alma mater.

“They produce some very good lawyers,” he said.

He advised Ms Wharton to look back on her successes, such as the cases she has won, when she faces challenges in the future.

“There are going to be more cases that you do,” he said. “There are going to be some successes and some failures.

“There are some that are going to make you feel really good about your abilities and there are going to be others that make you wonder if this is for you.

“Always go back to that first case what made you feel proud and remember that you are worthy of being in this profession.”

Mr Justice Wolffe added that if she does decide to pursue a career outside the Civil Service, she should remember the importance of helping others by providing guidance, advice and support for those who are more vulnerable.