Kearabilwe Morobane (22), a final-year LLB student at the University of Pretoria (UP), has been selected for the prestigious South African Chapter of the International Association of Women Judges (SAC-IAWJ) Student Mentorship Programme. Her selection marks a significant milestone in a journey shaped by early advocacy, personal resilience, and an enduring commitment to justice.

The SAC-IAWJ Student Mentorship Programme pairs senior female judges with final-year law students from universities across South Africa. The programme offers mentees invaluable exposure to the workings of the judiciary through court shadowing, one-on-one mentorship, and engagement with legal professionals. Its core aim is to empower young women entering the legal profession, foster ethical leadership, and promote gender equality within the justice system.

For Morobane, the law has always been a calling. Her legal aspirations began in high school, where she served as a learner representative on the school governing body. “I took pride in standing up for what I believed in,” she recalls. “That experience showed me the power of advocacy and sparked my desire to pursue law.”

Now in her final year at UP’s Faculty of Law, she has developed a strong academic and personal interest in Public International Law, Human Rights, and Public Law more broadly. “I believe in the transformative power of law to shape societies and protect vulnerable communities,” she says.

Her journey, however, has not been without its challenges. After experiencing an academic setback, she had to rebuild her confidence and redefine her goals. “That experience taught me resilience. I picked myself up, recommitted to my journey, and actively sought out opportunities to grow beyond the classroom.”

One such opportunity was the SAC-IAWJ programme, which resonated with her deeply. “It’s a rare and valuable platform to gain insight into the judiciary, receive guidance at a pivotal point in my studies, and build relationships that will support my professional growth,” she says.

As a mentee to Judge Mabaeng Lenyai, she has gained practical insight into the legal world. She has shadowed both civil and criminal proceedings, observed a full court session, and had the unique opportunity to sit with judges at the bench and discuss cases in chambers. “It was incredibly enriching and deepened my appreciation for how legal principles are applied in real time.”

Beyond courtroom exposure, Morobane values the personal, tailored guidance she has received. “Judge Lenyai has not only mentored me but also introduced me to other judges who have shared their wisdom. Her mentorship—rooted in strength, grace, and authenticity—has inspired me deeply.”

Looking ahead, she hopes the experience will refine her understanding of judicial processes and help clarify her professional path. “I want to grow not just as a student of law, but as a future leader and advocate for justice. One of my mentor’s goals is to help me explore where my strengths and passions align, and I’m eager to discover that.”

She also sees empathy as a strength she brings to the legal profession. “Empathy is often seen as a weakness in this field, but I consider it a powerful tool. I want to lead with empathy, integrity, and resilience—and challenge the idea that compassion and competence can’t coexist.”

To other students, especially aspiring women in law, she offers this advice:

“Be open to learning, ask questions, and embrace every opportunity—even when you're nervous. Most importantly, don’t let imposter syndrome rob you of the spaces you deserve to be in. Show up with confidence and purpose. You are worthy.”