By Mzukona Mantshontsho
Webber Wentzel is the leading full-service law firm on the African continent. The firm is committed to promoting access to justice for all South Africans, upholding the Constitution and protecting the rule of law.
Yo School Magazine spoke to Trainee Attorney at Webber Wentzel Sivenkosi Janda about her career journey thus far.
Tell us about your early life
I matriculated at the age of 16 which thereafter I studied Biomedical Technology followed by Pharmaceutical Sciences. My career choices were not well informed at the time. I was young; I did not know what I wanted or what I liked (even though I thought I knew at the time).
Notwithstanding almost a decade of working experience, I was not fulfilled with what I was doing. I had a drive to do more, I wanted prestige, I wanted to be in a space where my voice can be heard and considered, and I wanted to be in an environment where my capabilities will be well planted for my growth.
How was your tertiary experience?
Being a legal practitioner fitted like a plug to my career desires and after I consulted with a couple of legal practitioners, I was convinced that I wanted to be a legal practitioner myself. I took the risk – I resigned from work and went back to school to study law on a full-time basis at Wits University.
Law school presented with its own challenges. Despite the voluminous work load, I had to juggle being a mother and a full-time student. I survived and graduated with distinction. To those who have recently started law school, I can confirm that it is overwhelming but doable if you put in the work, consult with the lecturers and tutors.
Where are you now?
I have recently qualified as a legal practitioner and I can confirm that I am not disappointed at my career change. I believe that the risk I took is paying off. I look forward to growth and development. I believe I am yet to experience new heights and new vistas.
I have found law to be stimulating. It offers a variety of practice areas and one can easily follow what they are passionate about e.g. if one is passionate about human rights, they can focus on that and be a human rights lawyer. I have personally found my interest in corporate law which is focused on, inter alia, mergers and acquisitions, local and foreign direct investment. This area of law also has an impact in the economy of our country.
