UP Law students shaping tomorrow’s leaders through Junior Tukkie

Two of the University of Pretoria’s outstanding third-year LLB students, Karabo Malabela and Lenique Elskie, are making meaningful contributions to student development through their leadership roles in the Junior Tukkie Student Ambassador Society (JTSAS).

As active members of this dynamic, student-led initiative under the Junior Tukkie umbrella, Malabela and Elskie are playing a key role in shaping a culture of academic excellence, inclusion and purposeful engagement, values that align closely with the Faculty of Law’s commitment to producing socially conscious, service-driven graduates.

The JTSAS provides academic and personal development support to students throughout their time at university. Its mission is to empower students from their first to final year, helping them grow into confident, well-rounded leaders who are ready to make a difference in their communities.

Karabo Malabela, who currently serves as Head of the Ambassadors Subcommittee, leads initiatives that connect Junior Tukkie members with mentoring, opportunities and ongoing support. Lenique Elskie, as Head of the Transformation Subcommittee, is responsible for promoting inclusivity, representation and equity in all aspects of the society’s work.

The JTSAS Executive Committee is divided into five subcommittees: Projects and Socials, Ambassadors, Transformation, Marketing and Communications, and Community Engagement

Each subcommittee plays a vital role in fulfilling the society’s broader vision of cultivating students who lead with purpose and impact.

“Becoming a JTSAS Executive is no small feat,” says Malabela. The selection process is rigorous, with candidates required to meet several key criteria, including:

• Being a registered Junior Tukkie member
• Completing at least 40 hours of volunteer service
• Demonstrating strong leadership, time management and teamwork skills
• Not holding other leadership roles or part-time employment, to ensure full commitment to the society

Eligible candidates undergo a two-round interview process in which their communication skills, leadership potential and alignment with Junior Tukkie’s mission are carefully assessed. Only the most committed, capable and values-driven applicants are appointed to these leadership roles.

Both students are deeply motivated by a desire to uplift others and build a stronger sense of community among their peers.

“I chose to serve in Junior Tukkie because I know what it’s like to be a young person with big dreams but very little guidance. I wanted to be the person I once needed, someone who listens, encourages, and helps others find their path,” says Malabela.

“To anyone hoping to become a JT Executive: Let your heart lead the way. Never overlook the value of kindness, a shared story, or simply being there for someone. That’s where true impact is made.”

“I chose to serve in Junior Tukkie because I wanted to continue the legacy of making people feel welcome, heard and included, and that is exactly what the Junior Tukkie family is all about,” adds Elskie. “One of my main goals is to create space and opportunities for others, and I found that in Junior Tukkie.”

Their joint message to aspiring leaders is simple but powerful:

“Take that risk and leap of faith, everything you’ve ever wanted is on the other side of fear. Remember your ‘why’.”

Through their work with Junior Tukkie, the two students are not only supporting their peers but also helping to build a more inclusive, engaged and empowered student community, laying the foundation for a new generation of UP Law graduates who lead with compassion, vision and purpose.