13/11/2025
Gillian van der Westhuizen, a mother of three from Manenberg, has shared her powerful journey of perseverance that led to her admission as an attorney of the Western Cape High Court. It took her 14 years to reach this milestone.
She stood proudly in her attorney’s gown outside her flat in Manenberg, expressing pride in her community and her roots. Her story resonated widely after she posted about her achievement online, receiving thousands of likes and shares.
Her path began at age 19 when she was accepted to study law at university. Just a week into her studies, she had to leave because her parents couldn’t afford the fees. A few months later, she discovered she was pregnant with her first daughter. At 23 she got married and worked as a Stockroom Supervisor. By 26 she had her son, but her dream of becoming a lawyer never faded.
At 28, she enrolled part time at UNISA while working and raising her children. She studied early in the mornings, completed assignments after work, used her annual leave to write exams, and still fulfilled her responsibilities as a wife and mother.
She also started a small baking business which grew into a full time venture by 2017. Despite the demands of running a business, she continued her studies. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, she faced setbacks including failing her final module three times. Eventually she passed with distinction and earned her degree. Financial strain made her practical legal training even harder, but she pushed through.
At 38 she found out she was pregnant again. Even then, she did not give up. In July this year, she completed her articles, passed all four board exams, and met every requirement to become an attorney.
She reflected on her journey with deep gratitude, acknowledging the support of those who helped her by paying fees, buying textbooks, offering encouragement, and praying with her. She admitted to many failures but never stopped trying.
Her message to young coloured children is clear. She urges them to believe in themselves and not let anyone, including themselves, say they cannot achieve their dreams.
Gillian is now working toward her next goal. She has started studying to become a conveyancer and plans to write the exam next year.
Her husband Amien expressed his admiration for her strength and dedication. He saw her balancing work, baking, studying, and exams without ever giving up or showing signs of defeat.
