Publications
Partners
These women in law not only entertained social media users when they took part in the #DontRushChallenge, they also inspired and created a conversation around the potential of women in their chosen careers.
Realising the interest and curiosity of social media users about these accomplished women, W24 decided to reach out and find out who they are and how they built up their careers in the legal fraternity.
Also, they give some tips on how to survive (and thrive) in university and the workplace.
But first, here's their inspirational video:
Aurelia Nxumalo, Omphile Boikanyo, Karabo Matlhoko and Tebello Motshwane. Images supplied.
Aurelia Nxumalo - Advocate
It was Aurelia - no stranger to social media, with a following that most can only dream about — who came up with the idea to take part in the challenge.
The 31-year-old advocate wanted to lift her "spirits in a time of doom and gloom amidst the Covid-19 lockdown".
Although the challenge was initially about makeup, the corporate counsel wanted to join in the fun in an area she's well versed in. "I believe the best way for us was in participating in what we know as legal practitioners," she says.
Speaking about the road to success, she quotes James Clear: "You don't have to build everything you want today, just lay a brick."
She has the following tip for university students currently on lockdown: "Create a study schedule (and stick to it), have the discipline to do your part of the work, and embrace that this is an opportunity to be self-taught in preparation for when we are all back to regular life."
Omphile Boikanyo - Attorney
Omphile never anticipated the traction that their video would receive, but she's glad they decided to take part.
The 27-year-old is goal-oriented and believes that disappointment shouldn't hinder your plan to reach your goals.
For her, though we are living through a pandemic, it's possible to use this time for self-improvement. "Optimize this time by studying ahead. Once universities re-open, you'll be able to hit the ground running as you would have adequately prepared. Preparation prevents poor performance," she says.
Karabo Matlhoko - Attorney
Karabo saw the Don't Rush Challenge as a fun social compact to showcase the multiple dimensions of women in the legal fraternity.
"It was also exciting that I could shoot everything safely in the comfort of my home with the help of my husband since it's just him and I at home," the 32-year-old says.
She encourages young people to create friendship networks through social media for academic and emotional support while we are still on lockdown.
"When you feel overwhelmed, don't veer off course. Remember that your educational journey is not a race, so pace yourself, work hard, always be well-prepared and learn from your mistakes," Karabo says.
Tebello Motshwane - Legal consultant and founder of Sister In Law
Tebello believes it's essential to be intentional and deliberate in everything you do.
"I fell pregnant and had a child in my first year of pursing my law degree — the one thing I knew for sure was that I wanted a law degree, and I wanted to be an attorney. Knowing exactly what you want will keep you going and will see you through every challenge you face," says the 30-year-old.
"Every generation has a set of challenges - in my time we had swine flu and students a few years ago had the Fees Must Fall challenge. The only thing which will separate you from the next person is the attitude you adopt when you are faced with a challenge."
Nako Bo Tebele, Tshiamiso Kgomanyane and Rethabile Seema. Images supplied.
Nako Bo Tebele - Attorney-At-Law
27-year-old Nako believes if you are a student, you need to challenge your mind during this time by creating a schedule of reading and testing with quizzes.
She advises those who are still studying to use the national lockdown as a very long study break and optimize on it. "Do online study group and reach out to whoever you've always wanted to because almost everyone has time on their hands now to respond. Ask for help, and don't be shy about it."
READ MORE: SA tops 9 other markets including UK, Germany and USA with 47% women editors at news media outlets
Tshiamiso Kgomanyane - Legal officer & founder of SHE Legal Co
Tshiamiso says women have massive potential, but "as young women, we tend to downplay our role and whether that's just in law or a larger part of society. It's important to submit ourselves to our potential."
There's no right way of achieving one's goals, the 29-year-old says. "The journey to achieving your goals will often be a struggle and it's so important not to expect anything to be easy. That way, you accept that struggle, but more importantly, it keeps you going."
Tshiamiso sees opportunity in the time of coronavirus, saying, "There's so much uncertainty right now, but you will be in a better position in the end if you're prepared. So, get ready and stay prepared to ace your assignments, tests, and exams at the end of this pandemic."
Rethabile Seema - Advocate
Rethabile says the #DontRushChallenge video is a representation of all black women who have an ambition to be in the legal fraternity.
"The beauty and nature of tertiary institutions is that one is never spoon-fed — and thus, the existence of COVID-19 and the directive for a national lockdown shouldn't hurt your drive to study and pass," the 32-year-old says.
"We are living in the 4th industrial revolution. Both institutions and students should be taking full advantage of these tools."
Rethabile's success tip is simple: Consistent hard work and focus will catapult you to the mountain-top.
How did you make sure you reached a goal you set yourself? Tell us your story here.
Follow us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
Sign up to W24’s newsletters so you don't miss out on any of our hot stories and giveaways.
