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The Journey Ahead

Audience reviews, cast & crew.

Linda-Lisa Hayter

Holly Robinson Peete

Kaylee Bryant

Mark Humphrey

Jessica Steen

Chanelle Peloso

Where Was Hallmark’s The Journey Ahead Filmed? Who is in the Cast?

Directed by Linda-Lisa Hayter, ‘The Journey Ahead’ is a Hallmark road-trip movie that revolves around Madeline, a famous actress, and a wilderness expert named Sarah. When her travel plan to New York from Los Angeles falls through, the former enlists the help of her assistant’s best friend, Sarah, to reach the Big Apple within 12 days. As both women of two different generations embark on their cross-country trip, they learn valuable lessons from each other.

The movie tells a heartwarming story of how people can learn from one another despite their differences and overcome their problems. Apart from its talented cast, ‘The Journey Ahead’ captivates the viewers with eye-catching visuals. Given the movie’s premise, it introduces the audience to various backdrops that help accurately convey the story. Now, if you are interested to know just where the Hallmark movie was lensed, here’s all the information you need!

The Journey Ahead Filming Locations

‘The Journey Ahead’ was primarily filmed in British Columbia, mainly in and around Vancouver, Squamish. The movie’s principal photography commenced under the title ‘The Road Ahead’ in April 2022 and wrapped up in early May of the same year. So, let’s dive in and know more about the details of the filming locations, shall we?

https://www.instagram.com/p/CdBZvJpF4UG/

Squamish, British Columbia

Squamish, a town north of Vancouver, served as one of the primary production locations for ‘The Journey Ahead.’ The cast and crew utilized the Paradise Valley playground, just a few minutes northeast of town, to record a river-rafting rafting scene. Moreover, they seemingly lensed numerous sequences in the Brackendale Art Gallery on Government Road, as well as The Goat bar and the Squamish Farmer’s Market on Cleveland Avenue.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CcYcJkdp8yf/

Squamish is highly popular among tourists for its outdoor sports facilities and is full of natural havens that provide breathtaking visuals for moviemakers to use. Surrounded by the Coast Mountains, Squamish provides beautiful hilly backdrops that one cannot help but be in awe of. Naturally, several movies and shows have held their shooting in the area to take advantage of the visual treasure that the region holds. Other movies taped in Squamish include ‘ Antlers ‘ and ‘Final Destination.’

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kaylee Kaneshiro (@itskayleekaneshiro)

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver, British Columbia, also hosted the production unit of ‘The Journey Ahead.’ Popularly known as Hollywood North, the city has been used as a backdrop for several movies over the years. Vancouver’s non-descript skyline and well-developed infrastructure lend well to shooting scenes depicting cities worldwide. Hence, you may see the city in the background of several beloved movies, like ‘ Thor: Love and Thunder ‘ and ‘ Honor Society .’

https://www.instagram.com/p/CcJbir-vWT0/

Other Filming Locations in British Columbia

‘The Journey Ahead’ was also filmed in and around Harrison Hot Springs village in the province; it is named after Harrison Lake, located to the north of the community. The cast and crew of the movie traveled to the village and the lake to frame scenes for the movie. Additional sequences were taped near Mount Baker in the Waputik Mountains, located on the border of British Columbia and Alberta. Lastly, pivotal portions were apparently recorded near Vancouver in Burnaby and West Vancouver, a city and district municipality, respectively.

The Journey Ahead Cast

The talented Holly Robinson Peete plays the role of Madeline, a Hollywood star. You may know the actress from her work in ‘ Our Christmas Journey ‘ and ‘ Christmas in Evergreen: Bells Are Ringing .’ Kaylee Bryant essays wilderness expert Sarah in ‘The Journey Ahead’; some of Bryant’s other acting credits include ‘ Legacies ‘ and ‘ Santa Clarita Diet .’ Other cast members include Chanelle Peloso (Katie), Natasha Burnett (Rose), Ash Lee (Dr. Wiseley), and Mark Humphrey (Carl).

Read More: Where Was Hallmark’s Love in the Limelight Filmed? Who is in the Cast?

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'The Journey Ahead' Review: Holly Robinson and Kaylee Bryant stand out in Hallmark's feel-good movie

How many times have you wanted to go on a road trip with your loved ones and explore different cities, and towns that falls in the stop along the way? Lets assume quite a many times. If that is so, then this is the perfect movie for you to watch and get inspired to pack your bags because that is the primary storyline of 'The Journey Ahead'. Hallmark has a wide range of movies which is relatable and makes you feel warm and mushy, and this is no different. 

If you are a fan of good old romantic, and adventure movies then you should definitely check out, ' Love in the Limelight ,' and ' Romance In Style '.

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'The Journey Ahead' on Hallmark: Date, cast, plot and latest buzz about film starring 'Legacies' actress

'The Journey Ahead' on Hallmark: How Kaylee Bryant's role in Legacies helped her come out as queer

As far as the movie goes, 'The Journey Ahead' focuses on a woman named Madeline (Holly Robinson Peet) who is a famous actress and is agitated with her current lifestyle. However, when life throws a curb in Madeline's life she decides to take matters into her hand. When the young wilderness expert, Sara (Kaylee Bryant) shows up to take Madeline on a road trip across the states from Los Angeles to New York. This is a new experience for her, as the actress was scared to board a flight after a horrid experience. From the very start, you will see a shaky behaviour in Madeline which makes it very evident that she is not happy in her present life situation. Soon, we get to see how Sara's influence in Madeline's life helps her open up and be more comfortable and radiant.  They eventually become close friends.

Hallmark's movies stand out especially for their storylines, and 'The Journey Ahead' is another gem added to that list of feel good movies. The best part about the movie is how it shows the journey of Madeline's personality change. It also highlights some important things in life which we often forget to prioritize, like checking in with our parents, live in the moment, and lastly accepting life as it is. The solid writing of the movie is really heart touching. The pace of the movie is really good, and so is the story building along with the journey of them accepting how they can never run from their past.

When it comes to representing the roles, Kaylee Bryant, is seen playing the part of a wilderness expert who was a little star-stumped when she saw Madeline as her client. Still, the way Bryant acted as a confidant and more importantly a friend to Madeline will make you want to call your friends up and talk to them. It also shows that people can be friends regarless their age. Holly Robinson Peete is also seen playing Madeline beautifully in 'The Journey Ahead'.

On the other hand, Mark Humphrey, and Chanelle Peloso has done a splendid job in their supporting roles. 

Directed by Linda Lisa Hayter, 'The Journey Ahead' is definitely worth your watch. As the movie reflects the good writing, the actor's great performances will make you lose track of time. More importantly, the movie has scenes which will definitely make you well up and want to rethink about the bonds you have in your life. It makes you wonder how much time you honestly invest in those relationships, especially with your parents. 

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Home » Movies

The Journey Ahead (2022 movie) Hallmark, trailer, release date

The journey ahead movie 2022 trailer, release date, cast holly robinson peete, kaylee bryant | hallmark..

A famous Hollywood actress and a young wilderness expert drive from Los Angeles to New York. Along the way both women learn they can’t run from their past to create the future they want. Startattle.com – The Journey Ahead 2022.

The Journey Ahead is a Hallmark adventure romance movie directed by Linda-Lisa Hayter, from a teleplay written by Erin Engman. Hayter directed the Hallmark TV movies Cranberry Christmas, Christmas in Evergreen: Bells are Ringing, Right in Front of Me, “Signed, Sealed, Delivered: The Vows We Have Made”, and Five More Minutes. The Journey Ahead stars Holly Robinson Peete, Kaylee Bryant and Mark Humphrey.

• Starring : Holly Robinson Peete / Kaylee Bryant / Mark Humphrey
• Genre : Adventure / Romance
• Country : United States
• Language : English
• Director : Linda-Lisa Hayter
• Distributor : Hallmark

The Journey Ahead movie

The Journey Ahead release date

• August 14, 2022 : USA

The Journey Ahead cast

• Holly Robinson Peete as Madeline
• Kaylee Bryant as Sarah
• Mark Humphrey as Carl
• Chanelle Peloso as Katie
• Jessica Steen as Liz
• Natasha Burnett as Rose
• Dean Marshall as Randall
• Lochlyn Munro as Richard
• Ash Lee as Dr. Wiseley
• Ashley Diana Morris as Suzy James
• Ese Atawo as Grace Ballard
• Sean Kuling as Hugh
• Sean Millington as Stan
• Kaelynne Zairah Tangonan as Jessica
• Gabrielle Kaur Cheema as Counselor Ann

The Journey Ahead 2022

The Journey Ahead is executive produced by Kerry David and Kim Arnott, with Kate Gajdosik serving as producer. It will premiere on the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Channel on August 14, 2022 at 9/8c.

American actress and singer Holly Robinson Peete (age 57) portrays Madeline. Peete is known for her roles in the television series 21 Jump Street, Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper, and For Your Love. She starred in Hallmark’s movie series the Morning Show Mysteries and in the Hallmark movies A Family Christmas Gift, The Christmas Doctor, and Our Christmas Journey.

American actress and model Kaylee Bryant plays the role of Sarah. Bryant is best known for portraying Josie Saltzman on The CW television series, Legacies. She also appeared in several television series including Kickin’ It, Chasing Life, The Real O’Neals, and Santa Clarita Diet.

The Journey Ahead (2022 movie) Hallmark, trailer, release date, Holly Robinson Peete, Kaylee Bryant, Mark Humphrey. The Journey Ahead movie 2022 trailer, release date, cast Holly Robinson Peete, Kaylee Bryant, Mark Humphrey, Hallmark | Adventure, Romance.

Also, check these topics out: Kids Choice Awards 2020 vote , Animal Kingdom Season 6 Episode 10 , 2020 Oscars , Romance in Style movie , Who won The Masked Singer 2019 , Marvel movies in order by release date , The Sandman Netflix , Dynasty Season 5 Episode 18 , Becoming Elizabeth Season 1 Episode 8 . The Journey Ahead (2022 movie) Hallmark, trailer, release date. The Journey Ahead movie 2022 trailer, release date, cast Holly Robinson Peete, Kaylee Bryant | Hallmark.

The Journey Ahead Wikipedia

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‘I have a question’: Ray Kinard’s journey as a lifelong learner about York County

I was ready to say goodbye to Ray Kinard after checking in on his health and asking if I could stop by his Springettsbury Township home.

He asked me to wait.

“I have a question,” he said.

He would make such a query numerous times over the years. Sometimes, he greeted me that way. This time, he waited until we were signing off on the phone.

Who were the three members of the Continental Congress who served during the entire time Congress met in York? he asked.

He was referencing a column I had written the week before about the sacrifices of health and life made by delegates to Congress here in York in 1777 and 1778 and back home. I had mentioned one of the three, James Lovell of Massachusetts, in my York Sunday News column. But I had not included the other two, and Ray called me on it.

That is vintage Ray Kinard, a self-taught local historian, who must own the largest private collection of York County and American history books in the county. It would be hard to prove that, and Ray isn’t sure of the count. But he believes there are 1,500 volumes in various rooms in his house.

Anyway, looking at this collection wasn’t the reason for my visit.

Ray — many folks call him “Pete” as evidenced by his email address, [email protected] — had told me at an OLLI class at Penn State York that I taught in April that he had been diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer and would soon start treatments.

He showed rare skill

Ray is widely known in York County for his local history interests. That intrigue started in grade school in Spring Grove, and it was cultivated by his friend and mentor Armand Gladfelter, who knew Seven Valleys, Ray’s hometown, better than anyone and would go on to write a three-volume set on the topic.

Ray worked at the A.C. Henry Mill after high school, which became a part of his later story. Ray and the late Terry Koller visited the sites of more than 300 mills in York County. That included some standing and others whose foundations were hard to locate.

Ray did close work with Gladfelter in the evenings as a chicken doctor. The two would go to farms to exercise a rare skill. They checked the chickens to determine those that were laying eggs and those that weren’t. Ray explained from a chair in his East York home that their skills were in demand because it made no sense for a farmer to feed one-third of his chickens if they weren’t laying eggs.

The point is that Ray spent a lot of time with Gladfelter and kept up his local history studies long after his mentor died and long after his own retirement as a lead assembler at Cole Steel. In fact, we compared notes about how many of my presentations Ray has attended. I thought 30. Ray believes it’s more than 50. In many presentations — in OLLI classes, for example — I would sometimes ask Ray to explain topics because he could do that better than I could.

It would be incomplete to view Ray as just a student of local history, someone who takes in but does not give back. He is a teacher as well, a presenter on about a dozen topics before local history groups and a keynote speaker at many events.

And a doer. As part of the U.S. bicentennial in 1976, he restored the Seven Valleys jail, an 1899 holding tank used mainly for drunks sleeping it off.

Ray is an integral part of many historical organizations: York Civil War Roundtable member, past vice president of the Codorus Valley Area Historical Society, board member of the Friends of the Heritage Rail Trail and greeter and resident historian of the Hanover Junction Museum, his favorite site in York County.

Ray served as a member of a committee at OLLI, an enrichment initiative for lifelong learners, to recruit speakers for the array of continuing education offerings that sometimes top 90 classes in a term.

Ray gives his views

When Ray did not attend an OLLI class in May, I wondered how his cancer treatments were going.

So I visited Ray to, among other things, interview him for this story.

Because of the cancer treatments, Ray, 88, is having trouble eating and has dropped more than 30 pounds. After a doctor’s appointment two days after my visit, he stopped his cancer treatment with the hope that he could eat.

As usual, Ray commented on a number of local history topics, particularly about those in his Civil War wheelhouse. For example, he recalled taking classes from local historian Thomas L. Schaefer at Penn State York in the 1990s: “Tom Schaefer was the original Scott Mingus.”

And he believes York’s controversial surrender to the Confederates in 1863 was justified because of the unpredictability of Confederate Gen. Jubal Early, rash leader of the rebel raid, in torching the town: “I said the guy was a little crazy.”

And about the U.S. president who is the topic of scores of books in Kinard’s vast library: “I can’t get enough of Abraham Lincoln.”

Indeed, I left Ray as he lay in bed, reading Dale Carnegie’s “Lincoln the Unknown,” among dozens of books, newspapers and other publications across his bedspread. He had left enough space to sleep, which he says he has been doing a lot.

A walking Wikipedia

In recent years, Ray has assisted Tom Yingling, leader of the Jefferson-based Codorus Valley historical group, in piecing through the society’s museum collection. This was up Ray’s alley because he appreciates newspaper clippings and old photos. His library includes well-organized notebooks of those things.

He would tell Yingling each week: “This is fun! I really enjoy looking through all these things.” Sometimes, he would get permission to bring something home to read it and then bring it back.

Yingling said he considers Ray his Wikipedia for Seven Valleys and Hanover Junction knowledge. And he keeps learning.

“When Ray would come across something he did not know before,” Yingling said about Ray’s Codorus Valley museum work, “he would exclaim, ‘Golly days!’”

The three who stayed

In my visit, I did not have enough time to answer the question he had posed about the tireless congressmen who never went home in the nine months they stayed in York.

And I know Ray reads these weekly columns in the York Sunday News.

So here’s my answer, Ray: James Lovell and Francis Dana of Massachusetts and Henry Laurens of South Carolina.

And, Ray, I am hoping and praying for your restoration of health. And I hope to see you in an upcoming class.

Upcoming presentations

Jim McClure will present with Scott Mingus and Jamie Noerpel about “History Publishing from Generating the Idea to Marketing Your Work” at 7 p.m. June 6 at the York County Writers Roundtable’s quarterly meeting, York County History Center, 250 E. Market St., York.

McClure will teach two OLLI classes: “21st-Century York County: Begins with Celebration, with Promise Ahead. But Oh, Those Years in Between Were Rough,” 1 p.m., June 17; “The Hex Murder: York County's Notorious Witchcraft Trial”; 11 a.m., June 25. (Zoom only).” https://olli.psu.edu/york.

Jim McClure is a retired editor of the York Daily Record and has authored or co-authored nine books on York County history. Reach him at [email protected] . 

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NBA Election 2024: Our Journey And The Journey Ahead – Qualities To Consider In The Next NBA President

TheNigeriaLawyer Editorial

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has a rich history that has brought the Association to the place it is today. A cursory look at the Association’s journey reveals that the creation of an association to cater to the interests of lawyers whilst remaining a crucial check on the excesses of government has remained at the core of the Associations’ mandate – objectives only actualizable under the right atmosphere of leadership.

As the NBA prepares to elect a new president in the coming weeks, the focus remains on integrity, visionary leadership, and commitment to justice, ensuring the Association continues its vital role in advancing the legal profession and upholding the rule of law in Nigeria.

HISTORY OF THE NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION (NBA) 1

Early Beginnings – The quest for an Association

In many ways, the journey towards the creation of a unified association of lawyers traces its origins back to 1900 when the first legal practitioners, mostly expatriates, arrived in the then British colony. The formal practice of law at that stage was initially dominated by British-trained barristers who laid the groundwork for a formal legal association, mirroring the British Bar. With the practice of English styled law came the earliest recognition of a local bar in 1911 when the Nigerian Handbook made the first reference to a ‘Local Bar,’ which was to be led by the British Attorney General. The Handbook described the ‘Local Bar’ as consisting of members admitted to practice as Barristers and Solicitors by the Chief Justice under sections 84, 86, and 87 of the Supreme Court Ordinance, 1876. However, the Handbook did not create any structure or leadership for what it described as the Local Bar.

With the growth of commercialization and western education, particularly in the Western region of Nigeria, came increasing growth of legal practice in Lagos and Ibadan. These two regions became instrumental in the unionization of lawyers under associations. The Lagos Bar Association for instance, emerged in the late 1890s as the first Bar Association and comprised fewer than twenty legal practitioners at the time. It primarily aimed to promote the professional interests of its members, but with colonial rule still dominant, the Association achieved little, became inactive and soon moribund.  In 1924, as Pan-African agitations began to take root, the Lagos Law Society, emerged within the dormant Lagos Bar Association. The Law Society was structured to promote the interests of Bar members and facilitate the acquisition of knowledge related to law and general interest subjects. There was also the Nigerian Provincial Bar Association was launched in Calabar in 1925, open to legal professionals, law officers, and others involved in the administration of justice in the province. These frontline Associations were mainly educational forums for lawyers to further their understanding of law principles and unite lawyers in different spheres of practice, but there was a growing need for much more.

In 1925, under Barrister Adebesin Folarin’s inspiration, who had launched the Nigerian Law Journal in December 1921, elaborate proposals were made for forming a national bar association. He argued that such an association would address issues such as professional misconduct, maintain a law library with adequate reading rooms, revise existing laws, and monitor new legislation. The drive for this new national association was however significantly hindered by challenges such as: restrictions imposed by the British colonial government, transportation and communication challenges, poor literary output from Nigerian lawyers, a conservative attitude among a majority of them, and a lack of enthusiasm for the cause. Additionally, the lawyers’ foreign training and calls to either the English, Scottish, Irish, or a Commonwealth country’s Bar led to a lack of interest in indigenous laws and institutions – as most foreign trained lawyers saw the Bar Association agitations as issues for lawyers with local practice.

The Birth of an Association

Despite the challenges, the Nigerian Bar Association was formally established under Sections 2 (a) & (b) and 4 of the Legal Practitioner’s Ordinance No 57 of 1933 , but the presidency of the Association was conferred on the Attorney General as the leader of the Bar. Thus, the Nigerian Bar Association was under British colonial control, exercised by the Attorney General, who also served as the President of the Bar. The Association appointed only Chairmen based on seniority. In 1933, the then Attorney General of Nigeria, Hon. A.C.V. Prior, became the first President and official leader of the Bar in Nigeria. The Chairmanship of the Association, held for life, was strictly based on seniority. Therefore, the most senior member of the Bar in 1933, Sir Kitoyi Ajasa, became the Chairman of the Bar in Nigeria. He was succeeded by Mr. Eric Oluwole Moore in 1937 after his death. Mr. E.J. Alex Taylor became Chairman in 1944 following Eric Moore’s death. Sir Adeyemo Alakija succeeded E.J. Alex Taylor in 1950 and was replaced by Alhaji Jubril Martin in 1952 after Alakija’s death.

The quest for an Association truly Independent

By 1952, during Sir Adeyemo Alakija’s tenure, younger members of the Bar, predominantly lawyers from Ibadan, began advocating for the Bar Association’s release from colonial control and dominance. They called for the Bar’s restructuring and democratization, including the election of a president independent of the colonial government or its Attorney General. This movement faced strong resistance from conservative Bar members, including Sir Adeyemo Alakija and his successor, Alhaji Jubril Martins and amid these central Bar developments, Harrison Obafemi, S.A. Ogunkeye, and Omotola Adegunwa led other Ibadan lawyers in establishing Nigeria’s first independent legal practitioners’ association, the Nigerian Bar Association, Ibadan Branch, in December 1954. This bold move by Ibadan Bar members displeased some central Bar interests. Shortly after the NBA Ibadan Branch’s inauguration, certain sections of the central Bar openly expressed their displeasure, viewing it as an affront by these young Ibadan lawyers. In 1956, the chambers of Omotola Adegunwa, then Secretary of the NBA Ibadan Branch and one of its founders, were burgled. Interestingly, the burglars only took documents related to the NBA Ibadan Branch’s activities, including Records and Minutes’ Books.

Despite the above challenges, the establishment of the NBA Ibadan Branch heralded the restructuring and transformation of the central NBA. Members of the NBA Ibadan Branch were also members of the central NBA and intensified their efforts to free the central Bar from colonial control. Their efforts were supported by the broader decolonization process gaining momentum at the time. The death of then-Chairman Jubril Martins in July 1959 allowed younger Bar members to push for democratization and restructuring.

The decisive moment came at the August 1960 Conference of the Association, where a resolution was passed to elect a president rather than appointing a chairman based on seniority. The motion, proposed by Adewale Thompson and seconded by Chief O.B. Akin-Olugbade, led to Chief F.R.A. Williams becoming the first elected President of the Nigerian Bar Association (1960-1968), with Chief G.C.M. Onyuike as Vice President. The then Attorney-General, Mr. E.I.G. Unsworth, a Briton, did not protest this change thereby ending the tradition of the Attorney General being the Bar President.

An Independent Association of Lawyers

From then on, the leadership of the Bar separated from the presidency of the association, though it was possible for one person to hold both positions. Chief F.R.A. Williams, even after his presidency, remained the unofficial leader of the Bar due to his seniority and active practice until his death on March 26, 2005. His legacy symbolizes the enduring transformation and independence of the Nigerian Bar Association. With the vibrant leadership of the NBA under Chief F.R.A. William, the NBA gained prominence as an influential body advocating for justice and rule of law and in the 1960s and 1970s saw the NBA becoming increasingly involved in national issues, including civil rights and political advocacy. During this period, the NBA played a crucial role in addressing issues related to military rule, human rights abuses, and the enforcement of fundamental freedoms.

NBA as an advocate for Rule of Law

Although the NBA faced significant challenges during the military regimes of the 1980s and 1990s, the Association was at the forefront of advocacy for democratic governance and human rights, often at great risk to its members. The tenure of Alao Aka-Bashorun (1987-1989) was particularly notable for its activism against the military dictatorship, and this eventually leading to the temporary proscription of the NBA by the military government between 1992 to 1998. Despite these challenges, the NBA remained resilient, continually fighting for the restoration of democracy and the rule of law. This period solidified the NBA’s reputation as a staunch defender of justice, human rights and the rule of law in Nigeria – earning lawyers and their revered Association significant respect in the Nigerian society.

New aspects – same goals

The return to civilian rule in 1999 marked a new chapter for the NBA under the leadership of Chief T.J.O. Okpoko, SAN (1998–2000). The active involvement of the NBA in seeing Nigeria’s return to civilian rule made the Association a crucial partner in national governance with the society, and indeed politicians, realizing its crucial role. The association having achieved its goal of restoring democracy somewhat transitioned from a primarily advocacy-focused organization to one also emphasizing legal reform, capacity building, and professional development. The NBA has since then expanded its activities including organizing annual general conferences, providing continuing legal education, and engaging in various public interest discourse  but at its core the NBA remains an Association founded to advocate for the rule of law, protect human rights, address common issues of lawyer interests and create an atmosphere for regulation of legal practitioners in Nigeria.

NBA and our quest to Press Forward

In many ways, through the years the NBA’s leadership has been pivotal in navigating it’s changes, with successive presidents of the Association bringing different priorities and approaches to its leadership. The NBA’s influence today extends beyond Nigeria, with active participation in regional and international legal bodies and collaborations with other bar associations worldwide. Therefore, in many ways, the Association is only as strong, progressive, courageous and impactful as its President. Hence, it is crucial that lawyers who now have the power to decide who becomes the Association’s President, do not take this power for granted. Layers must pay keen attention to the historical journey of the Association, the current state of the Association today, as the posture the Association needs to take in the interest of the profession and our nation, and look out for qualities that should be found in any person seeking to be President of the NBA.

QUALITIES TO LOOK FOR IN THE NEXT NBA PRESIDENT

Choosing the next President of the Nigerian Bar Association is a critical decision that will influence the direction and effectiveness of the Association. Nigerian lawyers must consider several key qualities when evaluating potential candidates:

• Integrity and Ethical Standards

The next NBA President must possess impeccable integrity and high ethical standards. This quality is paramount as the president represents the association and the entire legal profession in Nigeria. A leader with strong moral principles will ensure the NBA remains a credible and respected institution.

• Visionary Leadership

A visionary leader is essential for steering the NBA towards future growth and relevance. The manifesto of a Candidate should reveal a clear and compelling vision for the association, focusing on innovation, modernization, and the continued advancement of the legal profession in Nigeria . This vision should include strategies for leveraging technology, improving legal education, and enhancing the association’s influence on national and international legal matters.

• Commitment to Rule of Law and Justice

The next NBA President must be someone who has demonstrated commitment to the rule of law and justice . It is not enough for a candidate at this stage to have plan to be committed to rule of law and justice if there are no referable instances where the candidate has so demonstrated such commitment. The candidate must show a track record of advocating for human rights, judicial independence, and fair legal processes. The NBA President to must be willing to stand up against any form of injustice, regardless of political or societal pressures.

• Persuasiveness

Effective communication is crucial for the next NBA President, who must articulate the Association’s positions clearly and persuasively to various stakeholders, including the government, the judiciary, and the public. The ability to engage in meaningful dialogue  without compromise and building consensus is essential for addressing the complex issues facing the legal profession and the broader society.

• Administrative and Organizational Skills

The current and immediate past administrations in the NBA have betrayed a mastery of administrational skills. We cannot have a repeat of the eyesore which occurred at the 2023 Annual General Meeting of the NBA. Hence, the NBA President should possess strong administrative and organizational skills and must properly manage the issues within the Executive Committee. Leading a large and diverse organization like the NBA requires the ability to manage resources efficiently, coordinate activities across different branches, and ensure effective implementation of policies and programs. The president must also be adept at conflict resolution, as internal disputes and differing opinions are inevitable in any large organization.

• Advocacy and Representation

The NBA President serves as the chief advocate for the legal profession in Nigeria. The candidate should have extensive experience in advocacy, with a proven ability to represent the interests of lawyers and the association effectively. This includes lobbying for legal reforms, engaging with policymakers, and participating in public debates on critical legal and social issues.

• Inclusivity and Diversity

The next NBA President should be committed to promoting inclusivity and diversity within the association and the legal profession. This includes advocating for gender equality, representation of minority groups, and creating opportunities for young and aspiring lawyers. A leader who values and promotes diversity will help build a more inclusive and dynamic legal community.

• Wide Network and Ability to Build Partnerships

Building and maintaining partnerships with corporate bodies, other legal bodies, governmental agencies, and international organizations is essential for the NBA. It has become public secret that the NBA today struggles to raise funding for its annual events – largely due to the shrinking pool of relationships the Association has to leverage on. Without such diverse relationship the Association becomes a beggar to politicians and state government which greatly derails the Association and impeaches its integrity. Effective partnerships and networks can enhance the Association’s ability to influence policy, access resources, and collaborate on initiatives that benefit the legal profession and society. The candidate should have a track record of successful collaboration and networking.

• Resilience and Adaptability

The legal and political landscape in Nigeria is constantly evolving, presenting new challenges and opportunities for the NBA. The next president must be resilient and adaptable, capable of navigating changes and uncertainties with confidence and strategic foresight. This includes being proactive in addressing emerging issues and leveraging new developments to benefit the association and its members.

• Commitment to Professional Development

The NBA President should prioritize the continuous professional development of members. This includes promoting access to high-quality legal education, training programs, and resources that enhance the skills and knowledge of Nigerian lawyers. A leader committed to professional growth will help ensure that the legal profession remains competent, competitive, and relevant.

• Transparency and Accountability

Transparency and accountability are fundamental principles that the NBA President must uphold. This includes being open and transparent in decision-making processes, managing the association’s finances responsibly, and being accountable to the members. The next NBA President must be a person whose practice is known and known to be above board.

• Welfare of Lawyers and Social Responsibility

The next NBA President should embody a spirit social responsibility and genuine interest in the welfare of lawyers. This involves engaging in initiatives that benefit the profession, evidence of long history of support to the Association’s activities, and support for the growth and development of young lawyers. To this end, TNL will investigate the law practice candidates proposing to be the next President of the NBA to interrogate their true commitment to welfare of lawyers within their practice structure.

The history of the Nigerian Bar Association reflects its evolution from a small group of legal practitioners to a powerful and influential organization dedicated to upholding justice and the rule of law in Nigeria. As the NBA continues to navigate the complexities of the modern legal environment, the qualities of its leadership become increasingly important. Choosing the next NBA President requires careful consideration of qualities such as integrity, visionary leadership, commitment to justice, effective communication, administrative skills etc. These qualities will ensure that the NBA continues to thrive and uphold its mission of promoting the rule of law, advancing the legal profession, and contributing to the broader societal good in Nigeria. The right leader will not only represent the association effectively but also inspire and guide it towards a future of growth, innovation, and sustained impact. Also, the insensitivity of the NBA – National Exco towards the issue of the AGC fees may well prove to be their undoing at the twilight of their administration, and we have some of these officers wanting to run again for other positions. They already know their results before the election.It’s important to be aware of NBA politicians. They have started passing out paraphernalia and songs.

• Ajayi, David Olayinka. (2019). IBADAN AND THE BEGININGS OF THE NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION.

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The journey of GIFT City and challenges ahead

It took more than a decade for GIFT City in Gujarat, India's only international financial hub, to finally materialise with the help of better policies and regulatory clarity. GIFT City's inception in 2007 saw uncertainties until 2014 when Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power at the Centre. Approval as India's first operational IFSC in 2015 marked a turning point, positioning it as a significant contributor to India's economic growth.

After the establishment of the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) in 2020 and the introduction of specific regulations for managing funds in 2022, key businesses in GIFT City have experienced significant growth each year. The IFSCA is a regulatory body that oversees and regulates financial activities within GIFT City.

Businesses like managing funds, stock markets, international banking and leasing aircraft have all expanded notably in GIFT IFSC. More than 200 companies have established their presence in GIFT City, including 19 banking units, 25 insurance companies and numerous brokerages and financial service providers. Key players such as the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), National Stock Exchange (NSE) and international banks like Standard Chartered, State Bank of India, Dual and JP Morgan have established their offices and operations within GIFT City.

In 2023, when Silicon Valley Bank collapsed, GIFT City came to the limelight and approximately $200 million moved there in a span of few days. This event positioned GIFT IFSC as an alternative on the global stage for international banking.

Trading of SGX Nifty futures at GIFT City via the NSE IFSC-SGX Connect, known as GIFT NIFTY, is set for substantial growth. The daily trading volume for SGX Nifty futures contracts stands at approximately $1.8 billion, significantly surpassing the previous volume of $150 million on NSE's international exchange within GIFT City. It has attracted more than 80 fund managers with total investments of $2.9 billion across India and overseas.

According to EY, in GIFT City, Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) have made total investments of approximately $3 billion as of 31 March 2024, with commitments raised amounting to around $8.4 billion. On the other hand, banks have deployed funds totaling $60 billion within GIFT City.

According to Aarti Harbhajanka, Co-Founder & Managing Director at Primus Partners, GIFT City has attracted a significant number of residents, with over 5,000 residential units already occupied, housing a population of around 15,000-20,000 people. The residential population is expected to grow to around 1 lakh by 2025 as more companies and professionals relocate to the smart city.

Challenges ahead

Despite remarkable progress, GIFT City faces challenges in talent retention, infrastructure development, connectivity, cost competitiveness and global visibility.

"First, attracting and keeping top talent is tough with competition from cities like Mumbai, Singapore, and Dubai. Then, there's a need to build schools, hospitals, and fun places for the growing population. Improving connectivity with other cities and within the city itself is crucial too. People worry about the high cost of living and doing business there compared to other Indian cities. Lastly, GIFT City needs more recognition as a global financial hub both in India and worldwide," said Harbhajanka of Primus Partners.

According to Lokesh Shah, partner with IndusLaw, units in GIFT City currently have to obtain approvals separately from both the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) authority and the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA). This dual approval process can lead to delays and duplication of efforts for businesses.

"The government should consider introducing a single approval mechanism to minimise time-lag and eliminate duplication in process. On an overall basis, I believe GIFT City is gradually becoming a gateway for global capital and financial services for the economy, though certain issues on infrastructure and talent crunch will need to be addressed quickly," Shah added.

However despite these challenges, India’s only international financial centre is shaping up well.

"Since the formation of the IFSCA authority under the IFSCA Act, we have seen some real traction around GIFT city. The authority is also fairly proactive and keen to attract businesses in setting up a presence in GIFT,” says Keyur Shah, partner with EY India.

He says like in the case of any financial centre it would take time for it to reach its full potential but adds that a lot more conversations are happening around GIFT City whether it is for funds, banks, broker dealers or even foreign universities or aircraft operators.

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Champions Cup: The greatest finals in the history of Europe's highest level ahead of Leinster vs Toulouse meeting

From 1996 to 2023, we pick out seven of the greatest European finals in Champions Cup history. From La Rochelle's remarkable comeback win vs Leinster in Dublin last year, to wins by Leicester Tigers, Exeter Chiefs, Munster, Wasps and Leinster in the pinnacle of club rugby

By Michael Cantillon

Saturday 25 May 2024 13:43, UK

Ahead of Saturday's blockbuster Champions Cup final between Leinster and Toulouse in Tottenham, we look back at the greatest European Cup finals in history...

Leinster 26-27 La Rochelle - 2023

Last year's final between four-time winners Leinster and then reigning champions La Rochelle at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin - a repeat of the 2022 final in Marseille, when Ronan O'Gara's La Rochelle came from eight points down to win in the last minute - was arguably the greatest Champions Cup final witnessed so far.

On the day, a magnificent comeback from 17 points down saw La Rochelle become back-to-back Champions Cup winners with a dramatic 27-26 win over Leinster on their own patch.

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Leinster were 17-0 ahead inside 12 minutes, as hooker Dan Sheehan (two) and wing Jimmy O'Brien scored tries in a stunning start to the game which also saw La Rochelle scrum-half Tawera Kerr-Barlow sin-binned.

The French club hit back through a Jonathan Danty try, but fell 23-7 behind after a couple of Ross Byrne penalties, before Danty's midfield partner UJ Seuteni crucially scored a second try late in the opening half to bring the visitors within nine points.

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O'Gara's charges then proceeded to dominate virtually the entirety of the second half, displaying superiority at scrum and maul time, but Leinster's superb defence just kept them out for prolonged spells after Antoine Hastoy had cut the gap to six points.

That was until replacement tighthead Georges Henri Colombe forced his way over with eight minutes to play, with Hastoy converting for a one-point lead - completing the largest comeback in European Cup final history in doing so.

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Leinster did have a final chance to win it once Danty was sin-binned for a high tackle, attacking hard at the La Rochelle try-line in the closing minutes, but just when it seemed the Irish province would perform a role reversal of La Rochelle's late success in Marseille, prop Michael Ala'alatoa was red carded for a dangerous, out-of-control clearout on Colombe, allowing La Rochelle to clear the danger and deservedly celebrate wildly.

Leinster 33-22 Northampton - 2011

Before last year's epic in Dublin, the largest final comeback in Champions Cup history came in 2011 when Leinster clinched their second title after after a gripping 33-22 win over Northampton in Cardiff.

The Saints appeared on course for a second European Cup victory after taking a 22-6 half-time lead, but a stunning fightback from the Irish side, led by Johnny Sexton, enabled them to win the tournament for the second time in three years.

Tries from Phil Dowson, Ben Foden and Dylan Hartley put Northampton on course for victory before Leinster rallied and completely dominated the second half.

Sexton scored after the restart, and the Ireland out-half quickly crossed the line again before a Leinster penalty enabled them to turn their hefty deficit into a one-point lead within the space of 17 second-half minutes.

Nathan Hines scored Leinster's third try, in his final game before joining Clermont Auvergne, as the Blues completed a remarkable turnaround.

Leicester 34-30 Stade Francais - 2001

Up there with the most entertaining of European Cup finals in history, Leicester clinched their first triumph in the competition in 2001 after a stirring win over Stade Francais in Paris.

It looked as if the French side would be crowned champions, leading for most of the match, but a try from Leon Lloyd in the last minute snatched the win for the Tigers.

Diego Dominguez scored all of Stade Francais' points, which included nine penalties, as the side stood on the verge of European glory.

Trailing 15-9 at the break, Lloyd scored at the start of the second half before Neil Back's converted try made it 21-21.

Dominguez edged Stade Francais back in front, but the contest was decided right at the end when Austin Healey broke clear down the middle and set up Lloyd for the winning try.

Exeter Chiefs 31-27 Racing 92 - 2020

The rescheduled 2020 final ensured a new name would be on the trophy, as Exeter and Racing faced off behind closed doors in Bristol due to Covid-19.

Supporters were robbed of one of the most entertaining finals in history, as a ding-dong affair saw Exeter slide into a 14-0 lead inside 20 minutes after tries from Luke Cowan-Dickie and Sam Simmonds.

Racing then hit back with tries from Simon Zebo and Juan Imhoff, but the Chiefs had the final say of the first half as Harry Williams scored in the last play.

Zebo notched his second for Racing soon after the restart, but Henry Slade scored two minutes after that to give Exeter daylight again. Just five minutes later, Camille Chat was over for Racing, and with 15 minutes left Maxime Machenaud kicked a penalty to reduce the Exeter lead to just 28-27.

Desperate try-line defence from the Chiefs kept Racing out further, while a pivotal Sam Hidalgo-Clyne breakdown turnover proved critical. Joe Simmonds then made sure of victory with the final kick from a penalty, and despite referee Nigel Owens' confusion over the match clock, there would be no Racing restart.

Munster 23-19 Biarritz - 2006

After several years of one-score semi-final heartache and two agonising near misses in finals, it was third time lucky for Munster in the Heineken Cup in 2006 after edging past Biarritz in Cardiff.

Sireli Bobo gave Biarritz a controversial early lead, but Munster responded through Trevor Halstead's score and a superb individual try from Peter Stringer.

Munster led 17-10 at half-time, but the French side closed to within a point after a couple of penalties from Dmitri Yachvili to set up a tense finale.

Reliable out-half Ronan O'Gara fired over his third penalty of the match, however, and Munster held out to seal an emotional first European triumph.

Wasps 27-20 Toulouse - 2004

Rob Howley's late try gave Wasps a sensational victory over Toulouse in 2004 at Twickenham for their first trophy success in the tournament.

Wasps had the upper hand in the first half, with Stuart Abbott crossing the line to give them the lead, before Toulouse fly-half Yann Delaigue replied to bring his side back to within two points of their opponents.

Full-back Mark van Gisbergen followed up with Wasps' second try, but the English club were pegged back by two penalties from Jean-Baptiste Elissalde.

The final then appeared to be heading towards extra-time until Howley raced on to his own grubber kick to score the decisive try in the corner for Wasps, after Clement Poitrenaud had made the error of all European Cup final errors, willing and waiting for the bouncing ball to land in-goal but failing to press down ahead of Howley.

Bath 19-18 Brive - 1998

In the third edition of Heineken Cup finals, Bath broke the French hold in highly dramatic fashion against the reigning champions in Brive.

Early into the second half, Bath sat nine points adrift and appeared on the ropes, with Brive poised to provide the killer punch as they camped on the Bath line with a succession of scrums.

An incredible seven times the 1997 cup winners tried to break Bath, and seven times Bath refused to buckle. The psychological battle was won and lost in those power-packed minutes.

Bath slowly edged back into things on the scoreboard, before a fourth penalty from full-back Jon Callard two minutes into injury time sealed victory in the one and only occasion Bath took the lead in the final.

Brive centre Christophe Lamaison still had one final penalty chance to keep the cup in France but was wide to the right, before fly-half Lisandro Arbizu then watched in despair as his attempted drop-goal also failed to find the target.

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The Journey Ahead

WATCH | Elections 2024: Anticipation builds ahead of election day

In this 2024 general election, there are over 27.79 million registered voters, who are expected to cast their votes at over 23 000 voting stations on wednesday..

South Africans are gearing up for a pivotal moment in the country’s democratic journey as citizens eagerly prepare to cast their votes in the upcoming elections on Wednesday.

In this 2024 general election, more than 27.79 million people are registered as voters, who are expected to cast their ballots at over 23 000 voting stations on Wednesday.

The Witness reporters were out and about on Tuesday, asking locals if they would be voting and what they are hoping for.

ALSO READ |  Smooth start to elections as citizens cast their special votes

Sinenhlanhla Ngcobo, a small business owner from Ashdown, said this would be her first time voting and is looking forward to it.

Sinenhlanhla Ngcobo, a small business owner from Ashdown, KZN, is excited to vote for the first time in the upcoming elections. #Election2024 #FirstTimeVoter #SAelections24 pic.twitter.com/IhQQQESGVG — The Witness (@WitnessKZN) May 28, 2024

Mzwandile Ndlovu from Hilton in KZN said these elections for him are “the new 1994” as they carry potential for change.

Mzwandile Ndlovu from Hilton in KZN says he is looking forward to casting his vote and said these elections are “the new 1994”. #ElectionsSA #elections2024 #voting #WitnessNews pic.twitter.com/JbliqExF61 — The Witness (@WitnessKZN) May 28, 2024

Rajen Beharee from Northdale, Pietermaritzburg said he hopes for a government that prioritizes helping people.

Rajen Beharee from Northdale, Pietermaritzburg hopes for a government that prioritizes helping the people in the upcoming elections. #Election2024 #CommunityFirst #SAelections24 pic.twitter.com/NDStyfeSMw — The Witness (@WitnessKZN) May 28, 2024

Armstrong Bongani Dlomo, from Pietermaritzburg, KZN, gives his thoughts on the upcoming elections. #SAelections24 #2024elections #SouthAfricanElections pic.twitter.com/4e9lHCdlVj — The Witness (@WitnessKZN) May 28, 2024

Stanley Moss from Hilton in KZN said these elections were important for him as he would like to see positive growth and a positive outcome.

Stanley Moss from Hilton in KZN says these elections are very important for him as he would like to see a positive growth and a positive outcome . #Elections2024 #PositiveChange #elections2024 #ElectionsSA pic.twitter.com/ISjMoVaJXN — The Witness (@WitnessKZN) May 28, 2024

Zinhle Ngcobo from Khan Road in Pietermaritzburg, gives her thoughts on the upcoming elections. #Elections2024 #SAelections24 pic.twitter.com/tEX8XTPf64 — The Witness (@WitnessKZN) May 28, 2024

Sibusiso Duma, a Khan road resident in Pietermaritzburg, gives his insight into the upcoming 2024 elections. #SAelections24 #Elections2024 #2024elections pic.twitter.com/GZiy45uJ66 — The Witness (@WitnessKZN) May 28, 2024

Uvolwakhe Nobengela, a pupil at Raisethorpe Secondary School in KZN, said she hopes for a decrease in unemployment rates.

Uvolwakhe Nobengela, a learner at Raisethorpe Secondary School in KZN, hopes for a decrease in unemployment rates. #Election2024 #YouthVoices #SAelections24 pic.twitter.com/SCDtUSgMSb — The Witness (@WitnessKZN) May 28, 2024

Claude McKenzie says he is hoping for a government that is more accountable. #SAElections #ElectionsSA pic.twitter.com/ieI8Ln8lXk — The Witness (@WitnessKZN) May 28, 2024

Meanwhile, the DA’s KZN premier candidate Chris Pappas said there’s real possibility that the DA will be the leading political party in the formation of a new government meaning he’ll be the premier of KZN.

ALSO READ |  KZN party leaders gear up to cast their votes

Pappas was speaking to the media on Tuesday morning after casting his special vote at Thembelihle Primary School in Howick.

Pappas, who was accompanied by the DA KZN leader Rodgers Francois, said the party was confident that they’ll grow in this election.

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