Photo Credit: Jefferson Siegel

On June 13, 2026 at AABANY’s 2026 Wellness Day, attendees had the opportunity to hear a candid conversation between Hon. Joseph A. Zayas, Chief Administrative Judge of the New York State Unified Court System, and Hon. Judy H. Kim, Justice of the Supreme Court, New York County. Moderated by Nicole Zayas, LCSW, CEO of Arriving Full Circle Therapy and Coaching, the session, “Demystifying the Bench,” offered a rare glimpse behind the judicial robe and into the personal journeys that shaped two distinguished members of New York’s judiciary.

Rather than focusing solely on professional accomplishments, the discussion centered on the human experiences behind judicial leadership. Judge Kim shared the pride she felt and the great responsibility she  took up as the first Korean American elected judge in New York State in 2016. She spoke movingly about her grandparents, who lived through the Japanese occupation of Korea and were unable to pursue legal and governmental careers despite their aspirations. Their experiences made her achievement particularly meaningful and reinforced her commitment to mentorship and community service.

Chief Administrative Judge Zayas shared an equally powerful story of perseverance. Growing up in public housing in Harlem, facing economic hardship, and navigating the challenges of a family affected by mental illness, he explained that a judicial career was never something he imagined for himself as a child. His path from struggling academically in high school to attending law school and ultimately becoming the state’s Chief Administrative Judge served as a reminder that greatness often emerges from those who refuse to be limited by their challenges.

One of the most compelling themes of the discussion was the importance of authenticity in leadership. Judge Zayas spoke openly about experiencing self-doubt and even “imposter syndrome” upon assuming one of the highest leadership positions in the New York court system. Rather than concealing those feelings, he emphasized the value of acknowledging them, stating that strength is not the absence of fear but the willingness to move forward despite it.

Judge Kim echoed that sentiment while discussing her own experiences with breast cancer and her work with Judges and Lawyers Breast Cancer Alert (JALBCA). She reflected on the cultural barriers that often discourage open conversations about health and vulnerability, particularly within many Asian communities. Her remarks highlighted the importance of wellness initiatives that encourage legal professionals to seek support and prioritize their physical and mental wellbeing.

The conversation also highlighted the critical role of mentorship. Both judges emphasized that professional advancement rarely occurs in isolation. Mentors, sponsors, colleagues, and community organizations all play a role in helping future leaders navigate the legal profession. Judge Zayas stressed the importance of building relationships and remaining humble throughout one’s career. He noted that these qualities are often as important as technical legal skills.

For young attorneys, law students, and aspiring judges in attendance, perhaps the most memorable takeaway came during the program’s closing moments. When asked what advice they would offer someone who doubts their ability to achieve something great, both judges encouraged attendees to trust themselves and continue moving forward. Judge Kim urged young professionals, particularly women and members of underrepresented communities, to have confidence in their qualifications and abilities. Judge Zayas reminded attendees that confidence is built through action, not perfection.

As attendees left the session, they carried with them not only a greater understanding of the judiciary but also an important lesson: the path to meaningful leadership is rarely straightforward, but it remains accessible to those willing to persevere, seek support, and believe in their own potential.

-Written by Devashani Sharma

About the Author: Devashani Sharma is a rising senior at Vanderbilt University majoring in Human and Organizational Development with a minor in Legal Studies. She interned with the Hon. Judy H. Kim through the 2026 Sonia & Celina Sotomayor Judicial Internship Program.