On August 24, 2024, the historic Women’s Jail at Constitution Hill in Braamfontein was abuzz with activity as legal professionals, activists and scholars gathered for the SWCM 4th Annual Law Colloquium. Centered under the theme “Activism Through Law: Bridging the Divide” the event provided a platform for insightful discussions on the intersection of law and social justice, reflecting on how legal frameworks can be leveraged to address deeply rooted inequalities in South Africa.
The day began with a warm welcome from the facilitator, Dr. Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh, who set the tone for the event with his engaging and insightful opening remarks. As a respected academic, author and activist, Dr. Mpofu-Walsh emphasized the importance of the colloquium in addressing the critical issues facing South Africa today. Following Dr. Mpofu-Walsh’s welcome, the program continued with a soulful recital by Nyeleti Rikhotso, which set a ruminative tone for the discussions that followed.
One of the most anticipated moments was the keynote address delivered by Advocate Adila Hassim SC. Her powerful speech, followed by a Q&A session moderated by Dr. Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh, highlighted the importance of social activism. Advocate Adila Hassim SC began by acknowledging the limitations of the law in achieving immediate and transformative change. The leader in the profession, cautioned against the belief that a single court case could change the world, emphasizing that the law is often too conservative to bring about sweeping reforms. However, Hassim SC asserted that the law still plays an essential role in supporting those fighting for social justice, highlighting that progress often comes in incremental steps rather than grand victories.
Following Advocate Hassim’s address, Zulaikha Patel took to stage and delivered a keynote address also moderated by Dr. Mpofu-Walsh. Zulaikha, who heed the call to activism from a young age, brought a fresh and impassioned perspective to the day’s discussions, focusing on the role of youth in challenging systemic injustice. Her address was followed by a recital by Thavia Cebekhulu, who provided a moment of artistic reflection amidst the legal and activist discourse.
The event continued with a panel discussion titled “A Seat at the Table,” which brought together dynamic women who lead their own law firms through a candid conversation on diversity, inclusion and the challenges they face as women leaders in the profession. A Q&A session moderated by Dr. Mpofu-Walsh, allowed the panel to delve into the structural barriers that persist in the legal field and explored ways to create more equitable opportunities for all.
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Throughout the colloquium, attendees were treated to a range of perspectives and insights. A Kekeletso Sebakeng who is a Graduate Recruitment Specialist provided practical advice for aspiring legal professionals, particularly those from marginalized communities, on navigating the challenges of entering and succeeding in the legal industry.
The program closed off with an address from Advocate Shireen Said, Deputy Director-General of Constitutional Development, who delved into the critical aspects of constitutional development in South Africa, particularly in relation to the challenges and progress concerning women in the legal landscape. Drawing from her extensive experience, she offered a nuanced analysis on the strides made in promoting justice and equality while candidly acknowledging the significant work that remains.
The colloquium concluded with a networking session, allowing attendees to connect and continue the day’s discussions in a more informal setting over cocktails, courtesy of Pink Elephant Gin. As the event officially came to a close, it was clear that the 4th Annual SWCM Law Colloquium had not only succeeded in bridging the divide between different sectors of society but had also inspired a renewed commitment to using the law as a force for social justice.
Reflecting on the day’s discussions, I can confirm that the 4th Annual SWCM Law Colloquium was more than just an academic exercise; it was a call to action. As the event concluded, participants were left with a renewed sense of purpose and a shared commitment to using the law as a tool for social justice.
Through the generous sponsorship by MTN Pulse, each member left with a gift bag. This enhanced their overall experience and marked the importance of their attendance.
We therefore extend our heartfelt gratitude to each person for their invaluable contribution to the day, and especially the law firms that participated on the day: Webber Wentzel, Bowmans, NF Maleka Attorneys Inc, Macalagh Stanford Attorneys, WMN Attorneys Inc. and Phajane Attorneys Inc.
The colloquium may have ended, but the work of bridging the divide has only just begun.