Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight Series: Kelton Anderson

As part of our Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, we’ve asked our colleagues to reflect on the significance of this month.

Cleary Gottlieb associate Kelton Anderson shares some of his thoughts below.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your role at Cleary.

I’m an antitrust associate at Cleary Gottlieb, where I serve as a member of the firm’s Inclusion & Culture committee, as well as its summer associate committee. My background is quite unique—I’m half Peruvian and half British, which has given me a multicultural perspective that I bring to my work every day. I joined Cleary because of the firm’s commitment to excellence and its global reach, which resonates with my own international background. I’m passionate about delivering exceptional legal services to our clients whilst contributing to the firm’s inclusive culture.

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?

Hispanic Heritage Month is deeply meaningful to me as it celebrates the rich cultural heritage that forms half of my identity. Through my Peruvian roots, I’m connected to a vibrant culture with an incredible history spanning ancient civilizations like the Incas to modern contributions in arts, sciences, and business. This month serves as an important reminder to celebrate the diverse contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities, not just in the United States but globally. It’s also a time for reflection on the ongoing need for representation and inclusion in all sectors, including the legal profession. For me, it’s an opportunity to honor my heritage while also recognizing the responsibility I have to pave the way for future generations of diverse lawyers.

Has your identity impacted how you approach your work and career?

Absolutely. My dual cultural identity has shaped my approach to both work and career in several ways. Growing up with Peruvian and British influences taught me to navigate different cultural contexts and communicate effectively across diverse backgrounds—skills that are invaluable when working with international clients and colleagues. My heritage has also instilled in me a strong work ethic and resilience, values that are deeply embedded in both cultures. Additionally, being from an underrepresented background has made me more conscious of the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. I strive to be a voice for others who may not always feel heard, and I approach my work with an understanding that representation matters—both in the legal profession and in the outcomes we achieve for our clients.

Are there any leaders, activists, writers/artists, professionals, or family members who have inspired you?

I draw inspiration from several sources. Professionally, I admire leaders like Sonia Sotomayor, whose journey from the Bronx to the Supreme Court demonstrates the power of perseverance and excellence. From my Peruvian heritage, I’m inspired by figures like Mario Vargas Llosa, whose literary achievements have brought global recognition to Peruvian culture and intellect. On a personal level, my family members have been my greatest inspiration—particularly my mother, who embodies the American dream every day in her own legal career. Their resilience in navigating different cultures whilst maintaining their identity has shown me that it’s possible to honor your heritage while excelling in any field. These influences remind me that diversity of thought and background strengthens not just individuals, but entire organizations.

When you’re underrepresented in your chosen field, why is it important to have mentors and sponsors who are invested in you and your career?

Having invested mentors and sponsors is crucial when you’re underrepresented because they provide guidance, advocacy, and opportunities that might otherwise be difficult to access. Mentors help navigate the unwritten rules of the profession and provide perspective on challenges that may be unique to underrepresented individuals. Sponsors, importantly, use their influence to create opportunities and advocate for your advancement in rooms where you may not yet have a seat. They can help break down barriers and challenge unconscious biases that might otherwise impede career progression. Additionally, seeing successful professionals who understand your journey provides both inspiration and practical roadmaps for success. At Cleary, I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who have invested in my development, and their support has been instrumental in helping me navigate my career whilst staying true to my identity and values.

What are the benefits of joining an affinity group at Cleary?

Affinity groups at Cleary provide invaluable benefits including professional development, networking opportunities, and a sense of community. They create spaces where you can connect with colleagues who share similar backgrounds or experiences, fostering both personal relationships and professional collaborations.

Are there any programs at Cleary that you have been part of that have contributed to your professional journey and feeling included at the firm?

I’ve been fortunate to participate in several programs at Cleary that have significantly contributed to my professional development and sense of belonging. The Cleary mentorship program paired me with a partner who provided invaluable guidance on both technical skills and career navigation. Additionally, I participate in the Inclusion & Culture committee, which allows me to contribute my voice to discussions aimed at meaningful change within the firm. These programs have not only enhanced my legal skills but also helped me build meaningful relationships across the firm.

What is your favorite thing about working in the legal industry, and why did you choose to work at Cleary?

What I love most about the legal industry is its intellectual rigor and the opportunity to solve complex problems that have real-world impact. Every matter presents unique challenges that require creative thinking and meticulous attention to detail. I chose Cleary specifically because of its reputation for excellence, its global platform, and its world class antitrust practice. The firm’s international reach aligns perfectly with my multicultural background, and I appreciate working with colleagues and clients from around the world. Cleary’s collaborative culture and investment in professional development also attracted me—I knew this would be a place where I could grow both professionally and personally while contributing to meaningful work. The firm’s pro bono commitment also resonates with my values of using legal skills to make a positive impact in the community.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of their employer/firm. This article is for general information purposes and is not intended to be and should not be taken as legal advice.