PROFILE

Sherise Sarah Vergis

 

Sherise was born and raised in Penang and graduated from St. George’s Girls’ School.

When facing the big existential question of what to do next, she made consecutive conscious choices that led her down the path she is on now. She felt strongly led to pursue a career in law, more so after realising that she would not enjoy a science-based career. Contrary to the popular (but misconceived) stereotype on why some choose to pursue law, it was not because she was bad at mathematics. She was inspired by what Dr Martin Luther King Jr. said: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?”

After completing secondary school, she embarked on her tertiary education at ATC College in Penang for A-Levels, and then moved to Kuala Lumpur to commence her degree programme.

Sherise graduated with a law degree from the University of London (External Programme) and then — as part of the 2020 cohort — obtained her Certificate in Legal Practice in 2021.

After a three-month stint as a Case-Engineer at AmerBON, she started her pupillage in early 2022 and anticipates being admitted as an advocate and solicitor later in the same year.

A key aspect of what motivates her stems from the immense value of helping others, especially the marginalised, underprivileged, underrepresented — or just plain misunderstood. Her interest was sparked when she interned at the well-established and respected non-governmental organisation, SUARAM (Suara Rakyat Malaysia). There, she witnessed many cases of human rights violations, and quickly learned of the options to address them and the deep need for legal redress. This invaluable exposure gave her many insights and taught her practical approaches useful in confronting injustices and advocating the right to equality and non-discrimination.

She is excited about what is to come. As she starts on her journey as a lawyer proper, she is looking forward to strengthening her knowledge and skills, and utilising these to actively assist and advocate on behalf of those who require help but lack access or resources. She is confident that the experiences — opportunities as well as challenges! — she will have at AmerBON will further solidify her areas of interest and passion.

She stands ready to pay it forward!