When Yetunde Okunade Aird reflects on where her professional confidence began, she traces it back to a pivotal summer with INROADS. In 2007, while attending Indiana University–Bloomington (Class of 2008), she secured an INROADS internship at FedEx Headquarters in Memphis, Tennessee. As a summer intern in the business department, Yetunde received her first introduction to corporate culture—an experience that became the foundation for her career in law.

“INROADS taught me invaluable professional and business skills that I did not learn in school,” she recalls. “Through INROADS, I was able to refine my professional speaking skills, which helped in my career as an attorney where I advocate for clients on a daily basis.”

After completing her degree in finance with a minor in psychology, Yetunde pursued law at Indiana University–Indianapolis, graduating in 2013. She first became licensed in Indiana before returning to her home state of Tennessee, where she was also admitted to the bar.

Her early career included roles with Indiana Legal Services and the Indiana Department of Child Services, where she advocated for families and children. In 2015, she launched Aird Law Firm, a general law practice serving clients in both Indiana and Tennessee. Later, she expanded her impact as a litigator with Reaves Law Firm and as a contract attorney for Indiana Legal Services’ Medical-Legal Partnership Group. Each chapter deepened her expertise in family law, personal injury, and advocacy for vulnerable communities.

In 2022, Yetunde began serving as a Staff Attorney at the University of Memphis, where she supported families referred from LeBonheur Children’s Hospital through the university’s law clinic. The following year marked a milestone: ten years in practice.

Now, she has taken her career full circle by launching Your Boutique Firm, PLLC, a Memphis-based virtual law firm providing tailored legal services to individuals, families, and business owners. With over a decade of diverse experience, she is building a client-centered practice designed to empower others with clarity and confidence in navigating the legal system. She is also active in the Memphis legal community through bar associations, mentorship, and service on nonprofit boards.

Yetunde credits INROADS for equipping her with the communication skills and professional confidence that have carried her throughout her legal career. “INROADS provided an enriching learning environment of diversity and inclusion. I learned from many great mentors who truly cared about my personal and professional development. Finally, with both of my parents immigrating to this country before I was born, I was able to learn business skills that were beyond what my parents could teach me.”

For today’s INROADS students, Yetunde emphasizes the power of curiosity and courage. “Never be afraid to ask questions. What you ask will help not just you, but your peers who are probably thinking the same thing!” She also encourages interns to value mentors and carry their voice with confidence, knowing the skills they develop now will serve them in every stage of their careers.

As she continues to grow her boutique law firm, Yetunde is focused on expanding her impact as both an advocate and mentor. Her career stands as proof of the transformative power of INROADS—where professional skills, personal growth, and mentorship intersect to shape leaders who leave a lasting influence.