AFF employee graduates with an LLB

July 1st, 2017
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LLB Graduate Ricardo Richards with Chief Executive Officer of the Attorneys Fidelity Fund, Motlatsi Molefe at Mr Richards’ graduation ceremony on 14 June.

By Mapula Sedutla

Through a bursary afforded by the Attorneys Fidelity Fund (AFF), 39-year-old Ricardo Richards graduated with an LLB degree on 14 June. Mr Richards, who has always dreamt of a career in law, is currently employed at the AFF as a building safety officer.

Mr Richards’ dream was realised after he had a conversation with the Chief Executive Officer of the AFF, Motlatsi Molefe. ‘I had a frank one-on-one conversation with Mr Molefe where I told him that I have always wanted to study law,’ Mr Richards said.

Mr Richards conducted his LLB degree studies through the University of South Africa. Given the fact that Mr Richards matriculated in 1997, it was difficult for him to embark on his studies. ‘It was difficult for me at first. I had to learn how to balance my work life, study life and family life. I am a married father of three and sometimes I had to miss out on family events because I had to study. It took me four and a half years to complete my degree. I had limited time to study, I studied at night, during weekends and sometimes during my breaks at work,’ Mr Richards said.

Mr Richards noted that the AFF was very supportive of his studies and was given time off to study when necessary. ‘I have always had a passion for law. I believe the public has the right to receive the correct information when it comes to the law. I have always admired the work done by law clinics and community centres in assisting the public. That is what the law is all about, assisting those that are in need, especially the disadvantaged,’ Mr Richard added.

Currently, the AFF is assisting Mr Richards to acquire articles as he plans to practice as an admitted attorney. ‘After doing my articles I would love to work for the AFF. To those who are in a similar situation and thinking of studying law while they work, I say this is a huge step to take, once you get the ball rolling take it one step at a time, you will eventually reach your goal,’ Mr Richard said.

Mapula Sedutla NDip Journ (DUT) BTech (Journ) (TUT) is the editor of De Rebus.

 This article was first published in De Rebus in 2017 (July) DR 12.

 

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