As one of Canadian Lawyer’s Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers and Calgary Avenue’s Top 40 Under 40, Dr. Charles Osuji has a resume stacked with accolades and awards. But his path to excellence was far from easy.
When Osuji first arrived from Nigeria in Canada in 2011, sponsored by his older brother, he felt anxious about his prospects as an internationally trained lawyer. “I had just graduated and been called to the Bar back home,” he recalls. “But in Canada, I had no professional network and struggled with self-doubt, wondering if I’d made the right decision to move.”
After sending over 300 applications for articling placements, his hope was fading. Then, Jim Smith, a lawyer and then-owner of the firm that would become Osuji & Smith, invited Osuji for an interview. Osuji’s determination and perseverance struck Smith. “He saw something in me that many people didn’t,” Osuji says. “He wanted to be the one ‘yes’ for me when no one else would give me a shot.”
Within three years, he became a Partner, and soon after, Smith offered him the opportunity to buy the practice. With the encouragement of his mentors, Osuji took the leap. Since then, he has since expanded the firm from six people to a team of more than 45 with offices in Calgary, Yukon, and Dubai.
Building a path for internationally trained lawyers
Canada’s legal system can be challenging for internationally trained lawyers like Osuji due to several factors, including expensive accreditation exams, a lack of professional networks, and cultural barriers. “Many employers don’t even know the process for hiring employees who have immigrated and aren’t willing to go down that road,” Osuji adds.
These challenges inspired him to establish the Foot in the Door Initiative, a nonprofit connecting internationally trained lawyers with volunteer legal opportunities to help them gain experience and confidence. “After six months, program participants have connections and feel seen and supported,” Osuji says.
When hard work leads to great rewards
“When I first bought the firm, I was very unsure of myself and wondered if I’d made the biggest mistake of my life,” Osuji says. “But I decided to put my head down, work hard, and focus on hiring smart, driven people. I’ve learned that when you do good work with integrity and dedication, people notice.”
Having earned more than 100 local and national awards for his contributions, including the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal, Osuji says these recognitions send a powerful message. “Systemic racism is real, but there are ways to build credibility,” he says. “With the right work ethic, you can attract clients and build credibility, proving that what truly matters is the work you do and not your background or skin colour.”
Fostering diversity and inclusion
Osuji & Smith has become known for its diverse team, representing a wide range of ages and languages. For Osuji, this commitment to diversity is a differentiator. “Our team reflects the changing face of Canada’s business landscape,” he says. “I want clients to walk through our doors and know someone here understands their story.”
“My life changed because someone valued diversity, which is why I’m motivated to help other international lawyers,” he says. “There are many very talented individuals who just need someone to take a chance on them. I know what it feels like to struggle as a new immigrant.”
A leader for aspiring Black entrepreneurs
As the owner of one of Canada’s largest Black-owned law firms, Osuji feels a certain level of responsibility to be a role model within the Black entrepreneur community. “I want to inspire others to aim higher, to know their dreams are possible with determination, grit, and the right support,” he says.
He stresses the importance for Black business leaders to seek allyship from beyond their own communities. “Educate yourself on the many programs and organizations that offer assistance to Black entrepreneurs, like RBC, and take advantage of the resources beyond our immediate circles.”
Balancing his leadership responsibilities with his commitment to community impact can be tricky he says, but Osuji embraces the challenge. By training lawyers in his firm to step into leadership roles, he frees up time to focus on his advocacy work. “I’m very deliberate about my work in the community,” he says, “because in the end, it’s not about the amount in your bank account but the lives you touched.”
Building a legacy for future entrepreneurs
For internationally trained professionals hoping to follow in Osuji’s footsteps, he stresses the importance of preparation, mentorship and patience. “Pace yourself,” he advises. “Growth takes time.” He also encourages budding entrepreneurs to practice self-compassion and stay optimistic.
Looking to the future, Osuji hopes to leave a legacy of support for Black entrepreneurs and community leaders. “I want to be judged by the number of people who got ahead because of me,” he says. “I want to ensure that future generations have equal or even greater opportunities than I did.”
