of insurance-related matters, ranging from motor vehicle accidents to commercial disputes. His job sees him drafting legal documents, appearing in court, consulting clients and navigating complex litigation. A graduate of Nelson Mandela University, Thoriso earned his LLB with distinction, receiving multiple Dean’s Merit Awards and achieving top marks in key legal subjects. He is completing his LLM in labour law at the University of Johannesburg, with aspirations of using the law to address broader social and economic problems. Lubisi represented South Africa at the Christof Heyns African Human Rights Moot Court Competition in Egypt and was recognised as a GradStar Top 500 finalist for leadership and academic excellence. His global outlook was further enriched by leadership development programmes through the Aspire Institute and Harvard University. Qualifications Master of Laws (LLM) in Labour Law (*in progress), University of Johannesburg – focus on employment and industrial relations in South Africa Achievements Representing Nelson Mandela University at the Christof Heyns African Human Rights Moot Court Competition in Egypt Shortlisted for the GradStar Top 500, a recognition of leadership, academic excellence and potential in the legal profession Completed vacation work at leading law firms including Bowmans, Baker McKenzie, Fasken and HJW Attorneys, gaining early exposure to labour law and litigation Taking initiative in client consultations, court appearances and drafting as a candidate attorney has reinforced the importance of resilience, empathy and continuous learning Mentors I admire individuals who embody resilience, integrity, and a commitment to justice– qualities I strive to cultivate in my own journey. One mentor who has deeply influenced me is Mahatma Gandhi whose guidance taught me the importance of perseverance and ethical leadership in the legal profession. Their example showed me that success is not just about personal achievement, but about uplifting others and making a meaningful impact. I also look up to leaders like Nelson Mandela and Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who demonstrated courage in the face of adversity and used the law as a tool for social change. Their legacies inspire me to approach my career with purpose, empathy, and a commitment to transformative justice. Through mentorship and reflection, I have learned the value of continuous learning, humility, and service– principles that guide me daily as I develop as a legal professional and young leader.
Mentors I have been fortunate to have several role models who’ve shaped my journey, though I have to say that some of my most influential “mentors” have been people who probably don’t even realise the impact they’ve had on me. One of my greatest sources of inspiration, beyond any religious context, is the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). What draws me to his example is his extraordinary leadership style, characterised by unmatched humility, modesty and unwavering commitment to fairness. The Prophet Muhammad’s (peace and blessings be upon him) qualities of authentic leadership, humility in power and unwavering justice are principles I try to embody in my own leadership roles. Beyond this foundational inspiration, I’ve learned from various leaders throughout my journey – from educators who taught me that authentic leadership is about being present and accessible, to colleagues who’ve shown me that you can maintain professionalism while remaining genuinely human and approachable. I’ve also been inspired by young leaders who’ve demonstrated that age doesn’t define your ability to create meaningful change in the world. What all these role models have taught me is that leadership isn’t about having all the answers or being perfect – it’s about being fully present in conversations, showing up authentically and using whatever platform you have to lift others up.
Thoriso Lubisi
“I’M NOT DEFINED BY MY FAILURES, BUT BY EVERY TIME I REFUSED TO STAY DOWN” – DWAYNE “THE ROCK” JOHNSON
Profile LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thoriso-lubisi- 923097231/?originalSubdomain=za Growing up in a community where ubuntu and perseverance shaped daily life, Thoriso Lubisi, 25, was inspired to pursue a career in law – not simply to argue cases, but to serve those whose voices often go unheard. A candidate attorney at Van Breda & Herbst Attorneys Inc., Thoriso manages a portfolio
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