On 23 February 2026, colleagues from Proskauer’s London and Paris offices gathered for the Annual Golden Gavel Awards, an evening dedicated to celebrating the extraordinary contributions of our people to the Firm’s Pro Bono, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Community Engagement & Inclusion (CEI) efforts.
The event opened with a thoughtful fireside conversation moderated by Bruno Bertrand-Delfau, featuring Matthew Thornton (Head of Ardian UK, COO and CFO of Ardian UK and MD of Ardian), Ana Ćorić (Foundation Partnerships Manager, Ardian), Dorothy Murray and Michelle Omotayo. The discussion explored the Ardian Foundation’s mission and priorities, and highlighted how collaboration between law firms and clients can amplify the impact of social and community initiatives.
Following the conversation, the Firm honored the exceptional efforts of our colleagues whose work continues to strengthen communities and advance access to justice. The award categories and those recognized are outlined below.
Pro Bono
Helping Children Access Immigration Status in the UK
Through the Firm’s ongoing partnership with Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) UK, Proskauer attorneys have continued to represent undocumented children navigating the UK immigration system. Over the past two years, Proskauer teams have successfully secured British citizenship for twelve minors and are currently handling more than ten additional cases.
Honorees:
- Charlotte Ahamed
- Jenny Bowe
- Megan Taylor
- Aaron Wong
Supporting Nonprofits
Working with LawWorks and TrustLaw, Proskauer lawyers have provided critical legal assistance to charities and nonprofit organizations across England and Wales. From corporate governance and contract review to real estate and commercial matters, the team’s support has enabled organizations to focus on delivering impactful services to their communities.
Honorees:
- Katie Bunce
- Benjamin Peacock
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Appeals
In partnership with University House Legal Advice Centre, Proskauer continued its dedication to supporting individuals with disabilities through Personal Independence Payment (PIP) appeals. Representing clients before the First Tier Tribunal, our teams have secured significantly improved benefit awards, providing clients with vital resources to access the care and support they need.
Honorees:
- Lucy Adair
- Calum Paton
- Elisha Sidhu
Supporting Artha France’s Fundraising Efforts
In 2025, a Paris team supported Artha France, a startup dedicated to improving the independence and confidence of blind and visually impaired individuals through innovative wearable technology. Proskauer advised on the structuring and implementation of financing instruments for business angels in connection with a key fundraising round that closed at the end of 2025.
Honorees:
- Vanessa Hamiane
- Hugo Monteiro Vieira
- Matthieu Lampel
Adapeila Anti-Corruption Compliance Support
Proskauer’s International Investigations and Compliance team in Paris advised Adapeila, an association that supports people with disabilities and their families, on strengthening compliance with French anti-corruption requirements. The team developed a tailored corruption risk mapping methodology, conducted interviews with key stakeholders, drafted practical risk scenarios and facilitated workshops to define mitigation actions.
Honorees:
- Mélinée Aprikian
- Salomée Bohbot
- Santiago Ramirez Reyes
- Sergon Sancar
Makesense Seed II Impact Fund Formation
The Paris Private Funds team supported Makesense in launching its second impact investment fund, Makesense Seed II, focused on early-stage startups in the circular economy. Advising on the structuring and formation of the fund through its first closing, the team helped secure €15 million in commitments.
Honorees:
- Léa Le Romancer
- Marcela Moraru
Pro Bono – Special Recognition
Special Recognition Honorees
The Firm also recognized individuals whose extraordinary dedication has expanded the reach and impact of Proskauer’s pro bono program, benefiting countless clients and causes.
Honorees:
- Danielle Barber
- Jordan Downham
- Adya Garg
- Rachel Lowe
- Salomée Bohbot
Corporate Social Responsibility
Local Leaders
The Firm’s Local Leaders play a vital role in building meaningful relationships with community partners, identifying local needs and mobilizing colleagues to make a difference. Their leadership has supported initiatives addressing food insecurity, education, economic stability and long-term well-being.
Honorees:
- Assia Bouziane
- Aurelie Briquet
- Alex Griffith
- Oliver Howley
- Stephanie Martinier
- Kerry Mills
- Barry Newman
- Bryan Sillaman
- Natasha Wilson
Difference Makers
This year’s Difference Makers demonstrated exceptional dedication to volunteerism across programs focused on food insecurity, poverty, education and veteran affairs. Whether serving meals, rehabilitating homes or mentoring students and military protégés, they exemplify Proskauer’s commitment to community service.
Honorees:
- Lucy Adair
- Melinee Aprikian
- Polly Bahl
- Nicola Bartholomew
- Julien Burger
- Jenny Bowe
- Katie Bunce
- Emily Carling
- Antoine Cottin
- Adya Garg
- Charlie Gibson
- Sarah Han
- Wayne Horton
- Rana Khan
- Lea Le Romancer
- Anson Lo
- Jodie MacNamee
- Venandah Madanhi
- Michael Malvenda
- Amandeep Mann
- Brad Pawlak
- Alana Pitman
- Georgie Quilter-Wood
- Santiago Ramirez Reyes
- Andrew Surgey
- Meghna Tiku
- Cyril Telega
- Ilona Trouyet
- Jessica Viner
- Aaron Wong
Community Engagement & Inclusion
Talent Development and Community Building
This award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated excellence in fostering inclusive, affirming environments within the Firm — helping to attract, develop and retain talent from all backgrounds.
Honorees:
- Elisabeth Baltay
- Duncan Evans
- Souhadd K’Habore
- Sulaiman Malik
Advancing Change
These individuals have played significant roles in advancing CEI initiatives and raising awareness of the Firm’s inclusion efforts.
Honorees:
- Philip Bowden
- Antonia George
- Adya Garg
- Joshua Jones
- Venandah Madanhi
Client Recognition
Ardian
The evening also featured a special Client Recognition Award presented to Ardian for its exceptional commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility and sustained community impact. Through meaningful partnership and leadership, Ardian has set a benchmark for responsible business and collaborative social change.
Honorees:
- Matthew Thornton, Head of Ardian UK, COO & CFO UK, and MD at Ardian
- Ana Maria Coric, Foundation Partnerships Manager at Ardian
The Golden Gavel Awards are a reminder that the impact of our work extends far beyond the walls of our offices. Through pro bono advocacy, community partnership and a deep commitment to inclusion, our colleagues continue to demonstrate what it means to lead with purpose.