Katherine Mateo Featured in Attorney at Law Magazine First Generation Lawyers Special Issue on Purpose Driven Advocacy

Olshan litigation counsel Katherine Mateo was featured in Attorney at Law Magazine’s First Generation Lawyers Special Issue. In the feature, Kat shares how her lived experience as a first-generation immigrant shapes her advocacy, helping her connect with clients and serve as a voice for those who feel marginalized or unheard. “Occupying a space that previous generations could not access gives me a strong sense of purpose to show that the law can be a tool for empowerment rather than exclusion,” Kat says. “My presence alone challenges stereotypes, broadens representation, and reinforces the principle that justice can be shaped by those who understand adversity firsthand.” Kat highlights the resilience, adaptability and empathy she developed while navigating unfamiliar systems and cultures for her family. She also underscores the power of representation and the importance of using personal perspective to build trust and advance justice. “My advice to other first-gen lawyers: leverage the privilege of being between two worlds by bridging the richness of your heritage with the power of being a voice for others. You will be unstoppable!” Kat says.