On the Path to Success

Gomez Trial Attorneys recently hosted an inspiring event, the Shades of Success Summit, at their office on 755 Front St. This unique event was created in collaboration with various aspiring networks and diversity bars of San Diego County. It provided a platform for renowned local attorneys to share their experiences and inspire future law students, current law students, and new attorneys in training.

The event kicked off with an empowering message from the first guest speaker, Diandra “Fu” Debrosse, a nationally recognized powerhouse attorney in mass torts. Her speech deeply resonated with many in the audience, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds. Fu shared her journey of becoming comfortable with her identity, emphasizing, “Until you get comfortable with who you are, you will never be comfortable getting into a courtroom and be more than comfortable representing the people that look like you.” Her words struck a chord with me as a child of immigrant parents, highlighting the importance of self-acceptance in the legal profession.

Fu also shared a poignant moment that tugged at my heart strings. She spoke about the exhaustion and burnout she sometimes feels after long days at work. In those moments, she reflects on her ancestors who endured daily struggles in a third-world country, working tirelessly to provide a better future for their descendants. Fu said, “I put tired in my back pocket and keep it moving,” a powerful reminder of resilience and perseverance.

The second guest speaker, Honorable Randa Trapp, was equally inspiring. She shared her story of overcoming significant obstacles, including growing up as the daughter of parents who picked cotton for a living and lacked formal education. Judge Trapp took longer than usual to complete her undergraduate degree due to an abusive relationship but ultimately became the first appointed Black female judge in San Diego County. She encouraged all attendees to “let go of our wings and let them take us where we are meant to go,” symbolizing courage and the strength to overcome life’s challenges.

Another notable speaker, San Diego District Attorney Summer Stephan, also left a lasting impression. When I introduced myself to her, she warmly held my hand and expressed her joy in attending the event. DA Stephan shared her early aspiration to become a prosecutor at the age of 12 after reading about a young girl in Africa who was sex trafficked. Her privileged experience as a 12-year-old in the U.S. motivated her to dedicate her life to justice and helping others.

The Shades of Success Summit was a remarkable gathering that brought together some of the region’s most prominent lawyers and leaders within the legal profession. John Gomez, CEO and founder of Gomez Trial Attorneys, is always looking to create and host events such as this to bring attorneys from all different backgrounds together. His goal is to inspire one another to be the best advocates they can be. He continuously pushes law clerks, new attorneys in training, and seasoned attorneys to be voices that stand out and make a mark, encouraging them to get comfortable being uncomfortable. John has undoubtedly built a firm full of intelligent attorneys with extensive networks and a great blend of personalities that are always looking to help others and be an inspiration. Everyone at GTA also embraces the mantra “work hard, play hard,” fostering a dynamic and supporting work environment. 

As John G.’s law clerk and participant, I left the event feeling motivated and empowered, with a renewed sense of purpose. The messages from Fu, Honorable Randa Trapp, DA Stephan, and other renowned attorneys will undoubtedly stay with me as I continue my journey in the legal field. This summit was a testament to the power of coming together, sharing experiences, and supporting each other in the pursuit of success.

Photographer: Raymond Williams