Tilé and Olly Meets: Justice Naita Semaj

In this episode, we meet with Hon. Justice Naita A. Semaj. Justice Naita talks to us about overcoming breast cancer at a very intense moment in her life. During this conversation we learn that Her honour is a formidable woman. As she shares with us in this episode, she just had to “do the thing” with the support of her family, a sense of humour, a heart of gold - and also for the grind.

Justice Semaj is the youngest female appointed to the New York State Supreme Court. Known for her groundbreaking work in youth justice, Justice Semaj has presided over violent felony cases in the Youth Part, specialised firearm cases, and now serves in the Civil Term, Bronx County.

A fierce advocate for young people, she launched an internship program for high school students, connecting them with judges and offering hands-on mentorship. Her community work includes ongoing involvement with Not on My Watch, Inc., a Bronx-based organisation uplifting young girls.

Beyond the bench, she’s a proud Bronx resident, wife, mother and dog mom to a cavapoo and mini poodle. We are so grateful to Justice Nemaj for making time on her holiday to have a chat with us!