Stephens Scown is celebrating after three colleagues were named among Somerset’s Future 30, a new initiative recognising young professionals who are making a significant impact across the county through their work, leadership and contribution to their communities.
Launched by Somerset Chamber of Commerce, the programme shines a spotlight on individuals under 30 who are helping shape Somerset’s future across business, innovation and community life. The inaugural Future 30 attracted nominations from organisations across a wide range of sectors, with the successful candidates set to be recognised at a celebration event at Somerset County Cricket Club on 24 November.
Kia Pearson, Racheal Gould and Thomas McCullagh were all selected for the final Future 30, highlighting both their individual achievements and the breadth of talent developing across Stephens Scown’s Somerset team.
Richard Baker, Managing Partner at Stephens Scown, said:
“We’re proud to see Kia, Racheal and Thomas recognised as part of the first ever Future 30.
“Each of them has shown real commitment to their clients, colleagues and communities, and this recognition is thoroughly deserved.
“Their success demonstrates what can be achieved when talented people are given opportunities to develop, take on responsibility and build rewarding careers. Investing in people is a key part of who we are as an employee-owned and B Corp Certified business, and it’s fantastic to see that recognised through their achievements.”
Recognising Talent Across Somerset
The three colleagues work in different areas of the Firm and have each followed a different path in their careers, reflecting the diverse opportunities available within the legal profession in Somerset.
Kia Pearson
Kia secured her place on the list through the dedication she has shown in balancing work and study as a solicitor apprentice while progressing towards qualification through the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE). After achieving a first-class honours degree, she is completing her SQE studies part time alongside her training, currently within Stephens Scown’s Property Litigation team.
Alongside her legal work, Kia is helping establish a new Somerset Professionals network, bringing together young professionals from across the county to build connections, share experiences and strengthen the local business community.
Racheal Gould
A member of the Family team, Racheal is passionate about helping clients resolve disputes without the need for court proceedings wherever possible. Through mediation and constructive negotiation, she works to achieve positive outcomes for families during often challenging times.
Outside her client work, Racheal serves on the committee of Taunton Young Chamber and volunteers as a Women in Law mentor with the University of Exeter, supporting young people considering a future career in law.
Thomas McCullagh
Since qualifying into Stephens Scown’s Corporate team, Thomas has advised on multi-million-pound mergers and acquisitions, group restructurings and other significant business transactions.
Alongside developing a strong reputation with clients and professional contacts, he also undertakes pro bono work for charities across Somerset, helping organisations access legal support that might otherwise be beyond their reach.
Helen Williams, Partner and Somerset lead, said:
“Kia, Racheal and Thomas are fantastic ambassadors for both Stephens Scown and Somerset. They’ve each taken different paths in their careers, and all have made a real impact through their work, their commitment to clients and their contribution to the wider community.
“This recognition is thoroughly deserved and highlights the strength of emerging talent across the county.”
The judges commented: “To be selected as one of the Future 30 is a significant accomplishment. On behalf of Somerset Chamber of Commerce, congratulations and thank you for being part of this exciting new programme.”
The recognition reflects Stephens Scown’s continued commitment to supporting people at every stage of their careers, from apprenticeships and graduate opportunities through to experienced professional roles.
As the firm continues to grow across Somerset, investing in future talent remains a key priority. The success of Kia, Racheal and Thomas not only celebrates their individual achievements, but also highlights the contribution that emerging professionals are making to Somerset’s thriving business community. pporting people at every stage of their careers, from apprenticeships and graduate opportunities through to experienced professional roles. As the firm continues to grow across Somerset, investing in future talent remains a key priority. The success of Kia, Racheal and Thomas not only celebrates their individual achievements, but also highlights the contribution that emerging professionals are making to Somerset’s thriving business community.