The global pandemic reshaped industries across the board, and the legal sector was no exception. As technology swept through traditional practices, law firms found themselves at a crossroads — evolve or be left behind. Amid this shift, one name stands out for not just adapting, but transforming the industry: Naz Schinder, Founder of Schinder Law Firm. With a bold mindset and an eye for innovation, Naz has helped mold the legal sector into a dynamic, all-in-one professional service space.
A Fearless Journey to Entrepreneurship
Naz’s journey has been anything but conventional. She first earned a master’s degree in law from Atma Jaya University. But before stepping into the world of law, her life followed a different rhythm. She started at an art school, where she also spent two years teaching, and then moved on to study English and Chinese at Xinjiang University’s Foreign Languages Institute.
After struggling to find the right job post-graduation, she chose to follow her passion — and became an entrepreneur. Naz enrolled in the Hong Kong Fashion Institute, and soon after graduating, she launched her own fashion brand. In an impressive feat, she opened 16 stores within just six months, quickly becoming one of the youngest successful female entrepreneurs in the region.
Building a Legal Powerhouse from Scratch
Eighteen years ago, Naz founded Schinder Law Firm (SLF) in the humble setting of her living room. Since then, the firm has grown into one of the most respected legal institutions in Indonesia. Driven by her global outlook, Naz recognized the growing significance of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) worldwide. In 2017, she founded the Bali International Arbitration and Mediation Center (BIAMC) — Indonesia’s first non-profit international arbitration and mediation service — where she now serves as Chair and CEO.
“Our mission was simple,” Naz shares. “We couldn’t ignore major global movements like ASEAN and APEC, nor Indonesia’s push to attract more foreign investment. We had to make ADR part of that conversation.”
Trusted Partner in Legal Affairs
Schinder Law Firm has become a go-to partner for both local and international clients. From helping foreign investors set up businesses in Indonesia to guiding companies through regulatory compliance, real estate acquisition, hiring, and beyond — SLF offers a complete suite of legal services. Its litigation practice spans everything from commercial and financial disputes to banking, insurance, and judicial reviews.
Under Naz’s leadership, BIAMC has also emerged as a major education hub, offering certification and training programs in collaboration with leading regional universities and institutions.
Embracing the Digital Future
For Naz, 2020 was a turning point. As the world leaned into digitalization, she recognized an urgent need for data privacy and protection. This inspired her to co-found Indonesia’s first official association for Data Protection Officers (APPDI) — a nonprofit initiative bringing together professionals passionate about privacy rights in the digital era.
APPDI has since grown into a vital network, fostering knowledge sharing, skill development, and advocacy for stronger data protection frameworks.
Inspired by Family, Driven by Values
When asked what fuels her ambition, Naz points to her daughter. “She’s my greatest motivation. I want to set a powerful example for her,” she says. Her team also inspires her daily. Despite the distance brought on by the pandemic, her colleagues remain united by a strong sense of purpose, dedication, and mutual support.
Navigating Legal Complexities
The legal field in Indonesia is layered and intricate. Many laws are vague, inconsistently enforced, and sometimes even conflict with one another. On top of that, deep cultural and religious influences often override common legal practices — creating additional hurdles for both local and foreign clients.
Naz and her team continuously invest in sharpening their legal expertise to help clients navigate these challenges with clarity and confidence.
Proving Herself Through Persistence
In the early days, Naz faced skepticism from within her own firm. As a newcomer to law, her decisions were often questioned, and her instructions ignored. But she stood her ground. Instead of backing down, she immersed herself in the legal world, tackled every challenge head-on, and earned the respect of her peers — not by demanding it, but by proving her capability through action.
“I didn’t see it as a gender issue,” she says. “Even a male leader without legal experience would’ve faced the same resistance. What matters is your commitment and work ethic.”
Looking Ahead: Giving Back to the Next Generation
Naz has big plans for the future — and they go beyond legal victories. She wants to focus on education, using her story to empower the next generation. She hopes to guide young people with the tools, stories, and pathways they need to chase their dreams and build meaningful lives.
Words of Wisdom for a Fulfilling Life
Naz offers powerful, down-to-earth advice for young women finding their own way:
- If building a family and supporting your partner makes you happy—embrace it fully.
- If financial independence drives you—set clear goals, learn everything you can, and go after it.
- If social status is important to you—own that ambition and work smart to achieve it.
The message is clear: Happiness is personal. Define your version of success and pursue it with purpose.