Four years after receiving support to pursue a law degree, a former Bay of Plenty student has returned to the organisation that helped launch her career.

Raman Toor, the first recipient of the Sharp Tudhope Lawyers $10,000 Scholarship in 2022, has joined the firm as a law clerk.

It comes after Toor completed her law degree at the University of Waikato’s Tauranga campus, a media release from Sharp Tudhope Lawyers said.

Originally from India, Toor moved to New Zealand when she was 11 and attended Te Puke High School.

Alongside her studies, she taught Punjabi to younger members of the local community.

The Sharp Tudhope Lawyers scholarship supports aspiring law students from the Western Bay of Plenty and provided Toor with financial assistance, mentoring and industry experience throughout her studies.

She completed a summer clerkship with Sharp Tudhope in 2024, gaining experience across a range of legal practice areas.

During the placement, she developed an interest in property law while working alongside partner Matthew Billett and the firm’s property team.

Billett said from the moment the team met Raman in 2022, he knew she had the potential to be a great lawyer.

“It’s been a privilege to watch her journey through university.

Raman Toor worked alongside partner Matthew Billett and the firm’s property team during her placement.

“We’re delighted to have her back, though it’s slightly surreal how quickly the time has passed, she’s a fantastic addition to our growing team.”

Toor said it was “great” to be starting her legal career at Sharp Tudhope.

“The scholarship gave me the stability to really focus on university and make the most of it.”

Toor said during her clerkship she worked closely with Billett and the property team.

“That’s when I realised property law was the area I wanted to pursue. I’m really glad to be back.”

Applications for the 2026 Sharp Tudhope Lawyers Scholarship open on August 3.

The scholarship is available to Western Bay of Plenty secondary school students intending to study law at a New Zealand university and includes a $10,000 contribution towards fees, mentoring and paid summer work experience.