Defying the Odds: Juliana Afriyie Berko's Inspiring Journey to Become Spain's First Ghanaian Black Lawyer

 

Welcome once again to Echoes of Dreamweaver.  Today we are joined by a remarkable guest. She specializes in civil, labor, and immigration law and is also a mediator, making a real difference in Spain's legal field. Driven by her passion for justice and advocacy, she became the first Ghanaian Black lawyer in Spain. She's creating impactful change and is committed to helping immigrants and promoting intercultural understanding. Please help me welcome Juliana.

Beatrice: Juliana, welcome to Echoes of Dreamweathers. Every journey starts with a dream. Let’s start by exploring your early background. How was life growing up for you?

Juliana: Thank you for having me. I was raised in a small village in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. My earliest memories are from around the age of six, mostly spent with my mother.

Beatrice: What early experiences shaped the Juliana we know today?

Juliana: Living abroad really opened my eyes. In Ghana, I was considered smart and sharp, but moving to Europe exposed me to entirely new ways of thinking and communicating. I had to adjust to a different culture, including overcoming language barriers and adapting to new social norms. For example, in Ghana, raising your left hand to address a teacher was considered disrespectful, but it was normal here.

Beatrice: What motivated you to pursue a law career in Spain instead of Ghana?

Juliana: I came to Spain unexpectedly at 13. Initially, I didn't plan to study law. However, because of language barriers, many people in my community often needed someone to interpret when visiting lawyers. Seeing firsthand the injustices they faced motivated me to study law. Additionally, my aunt encouraged me, mentioning that it was also financially rewarding.

Beatrice: What were your biggest challenges upon arriving in Spain, and how did you overcome them?

Juliana: The language barrier was my biggest initial challenge. Interestingly, classmates wanted me to help them learn English instead of teaching me Spanish. The second major issue was racism. Being visibly different attracted negative attention. I lived in an area where many black girls faced prejudice and stereotyping, particularly related to prostitution. However, I remained focused on education, believing it would eventually open doors for me.

Beatrice: How did racism affect you emotionally?

Juliana: It was extremely difficult, especially during university. Even there, I'd encounter racism openly on the streets. But I didn't feel alone—racism was a common topic among black people here. We bonded over shared experiences, though these conversations were often painful.

Beatrice: What has been your greatest source of inspiration throughout your journey?

Juliana: God has been my greatest personal inspiration. Professionally, my professors played a significant role, especially when I felt like quitting university. Sadly, some in my own community discouraged me, believing education wouldn’t help. Overcoming that negativity inspired me further.

Beatrice: Reflecting on your journey, is there a particular moment that reinforced your decision to become a lawyer?

Juliana: Definitely. As I mentioned, helping people in my community navigate legal issues, seeing their struggles, and recognizing the need for proper representation solidified my choice to become a lawyer.

Beatrice: How do you deal with people criticizing you as overly ambitious?

Juliana: It's disheartening. The backlash often stems from jealousy and outdated beliefs. Many from older generations think immigrants here can only work labor-intensive jobs. My presence as a lawyer challenges that notion. But their negativity doesn't deter me; it motivates me more.

Beatrice: What is your greatest fear as an immigrant, as a black woman?

Juliana: My greatest fear is failure—not just personal but failing future generations who look up to me. Many believe education won't improve our situation here, so failing would confirm their beliefs. That pressure drives me.

Beatrice: How would you define success?

Juliana: For me, success means becoming the best version of yourself—emotionally stable, mentally strong, physically healthy, and financially secure. It’s about achieving inner peace and being unaffected by external judgments.

Beatrice: Lastly, Juliana, what advice would you offer young women feeling discouraged?

Juliana: Know your self-worth and trust yourself. Life will have obstacles, but the glory on the other side is worth it. Ignore negativity and do what's best for you. Remember, you’re capable beyond what you imagine.