09/12/2025
Mentees from the SWCM NPC Mentorship Programme recently attended the Advocates for Transformation (AFT) Annual General Meeting, where they were exposed to thought-provoking discussions on the future of South Africa’s legal profession. The programme featured powerful contributions from Deputy Chief Justice Mlambo, Honourable Acting Judge President Ledwaba, Minister Dr. Naledi Pandor, as well as representatives from key organisations such as SAWLA, the BLA and others.
For our mentees, this was more than an event. Experiences like this broaden their perspective and empower them to pursue their legal aspirations with purpose, clarity and renewed motivation.
Reflecting on her experience, Thandeka Jikumlambo said: “What stood out most was the reality of how difficult it still is for many young people to enter the legal profession. The expectation to complete a full year of unpaid pupillage, followed by months of waiting for admission, places a heavy burden on those without financial support. It became clear to me that unless this barrier is addressed, transformation will remain a promise instead of a lived experience.”
The mentees left the AGM with renewed motivation to contribute to a legal profession that truly reflects the diversity of South Africa, one where access, opportunity and fairness are central to the culture and practice of law.
