WHAT DOES “MOTHERHOOD” MEAN TO YOU?

Ahead of Mother’s Day, principal solicitor, Sally Callander, shared her thoughts on motherhood, career & the endless juggle.

What does Mother’s Day mean to you as a working mum & business owner?

For me, Mother’s Day isn’t about perfection — it’s about presence.

As a mum to three boys, while also running a busy law firm, life is full & often chaotic.

While I may be occupied with emails & work calls at times, I’m present at nearly every school assembly, award, rugby game & the moments that matter most. I love seeing their little faces meet mine when they receive an award — I’m already so proud of them; that’s what’s important.

I’ve learned that balance isn’t always neat — sometimes it’s school drop-offs, client calls & everything in between — but showing up is what counts.

How has being a mother influenced the way you practise law?

Motherhood has made me more empathetic, but it’s also made me more efficient & direct.

I understand that behind every matter is a person, a family & often, a lot at stake.

It’s shaped how I communicate, how I support clients & how I lead my team.

What have you learned from your own mother?

My mum taught me about ambition — that you can truly do anything you set your mind to if you’re willing to work for it.

She showed me the importance of backing yourself, staying strong through challenges, & not being afraid to go after what you want. That mindset has shaped both the way I live & the way I run my business.

What do you hope your boys learn from watching you work & run a business?

I hope they see that hard work, integrity & resilience matter; that you can build something meaningful, while still being present for your family.

I also want them to understand that I matter — not just as their mum, but as a woman & as a person. Mothers are often expected to be completely selfless, but it’s important they see that my goals, my wellbeing & who I am outside of motherhood are just as important.

I hope that by seeing that, they grow up to truly respect, support & honour the women in their lives.

What advice would you give other mums balancing career & family?

I’m still working on this myself. I’m trying not to do everything perfectly, which is a challenge for a self-confessed perfectionist & control freak.

Some days will feel like a win at work, others at home — and that’s okay.

Back yourself, ask for help when you need it, & remember that you matter too — not just as a mother, but as a woman & as a person.

What you’re building, both at home & in your career, truly matters.