Afrika Owes, a single mother from New York who had recently been incarcerated, achieved a remarkable feat by passing the bar exam on her first attempt.
In a TikTok video that has garnered 3 million views since April 25th, viewers witness the powerful moment when she checks her February exam results online.
With her brother by her side and her best friend offering support over the phone, Owes’ emotional reaction is palpable as she clutches photos of her 4-year-old son and her late mother and grandmother.
Upon discovering that she had passed the test, the 30-year-old couldn’t contain her joy, exclaiming, “I passed! I passed!” before breaking into tears of happiness.
On the day Afrika passed the bar exam, she shared a heartfelt video on TikTok capturing the momentous occasion.
The video begins with a poignant overlaying text: “POV: You’re a formerly incarcerated single mom who passed the bar early on the first try.”
In the caption accompanying the video, Afrika Owes expressed her gratitude with heartfelt words: “Thank you to my angels, my momma, my grandma. Thank you for my son, my brother, my family, and my tribe.”
Afrika Owes shared the joyous moment on her Instagram as well, accompanied by a heartfelt caption expressing her elation.
Afrika Owes highlighted her remarkable achievement as one of the few Black women attorneys in the U.S. and even fewer among formerly incarcerated individuals.
In an interview with “Good Morning America,” she shared that becoming a lawyer had been a lifelong dream since childhood.
She expressed, “The idea of attending law school has been a cherished dream of mine for as long as I can remember.”
Her inspiration stemmed from her late mother’s advocacy work in Harlem, emphasizing the importance of understanding the law, regardless of whether one pursued a legal career.
However, Afrika faced significant obstacles on her journey to law school. At the age of 17, she was arrested and charged in a gang-related conspiracy case.
Afrika found herself in a difficult situation, facing felony charges of conspiracy and weapons possession. However, being sentenced under the New York youthful offender program indicates that the court recognized her youth and perhaps other mitigating factors, offering her a chance for rehabilitation rather than a more severe punishment. This program often aims to provide support and guidance to young offenders to help them reintegrate into society positively.
Afrika shared that following her time on Rikers Island and subsequent probation, she fulfilled a condition of her release by successfully completing two years of college. This accomplishment led to her being removed from probationary status and being recognized as a youthful offender by the legal system.
Afrika emphasized her determination to move beyond her past and start anew, buoyed by the support of her family and the Harlem community. Despite facing setbacks, she underscored their steadfast support and expressed her hope that her journey would serve as inspiration for others. She reminded everyone that making mistakes is a natural part of life.
The February bar exam in New York had an overall pass rate of 42%, with 59% of first-time test takers passing, according to the National Conference of Bar Examiners.
However, there’s a significant disparity in pass rates between Black and white candidates. Statistics from the American Bar Association in 2023 reveal that the pass rate for Black candidates is notably lower, around 57%, compared to the 83% pass rate for white candidates.
Experts interviewed by the ABA Journal highlighted several reasons for this gap. They pointed out that individuals who can focus primarily on studying, without the added responsibilities of work or family care, have a better chance of passing the exam on their first attempt.
Indeed, access to study materials and basic necessities like housing and food can significantly impact one’s ability to prepare effectively for the bar exam.
A representative from the National Conference of Bar Examiners suggested to Reuters in 2023 that the drop in first-time pass rates may be partially attributed to the pandemic’s impact on education.
The spokesperson emphasized how the pandemic has affected education, especially among marginalized communities such as Black Americans.
Afrika, a third-year student at Fordham University School of Law, is set to graduate on May 20 and hopes to specialize in tax law, with aspirations for a future career as a judicial clerk.
Afrika has made quite an impact at Fordham Law School! Dean Matthew Diller’s praise indicates that she’s not only excelled academically but has also demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and contributed positively to the school community through her involvement in various organizations. It’s always wonderful to see individuals like Afrika being recognized for their hard work and dedication.
Dean Matthew Diller expressed excitement about Afrika’s future contributions to the legal profession and society.
Afrika hopes her viral video and personal journey will inspire others to follow their dreams and consider a career in law like hers.
“It can be quite lonely going through this, and I wanted others to realize they have support and that I’m here for them,” Afrika expressed.
“If my presence as a catalyst helps you realize your sense of belonging, I hope it serves as ongoing motivation for your journey.”
Watch the heartwarming video of Afrika Owens reacting to her passing the bar exam.
