The Law Society of South Africa’s (LSSA) Women’s Task Team hosted a Women’s Month High Tea in Pretoria on 24 August 2024. The purpose of the event was to gather female legal practitioners in one room where they could network and have a discussion on the topic of mental wellness. The well attended high tea, opened with a poem delivered by candidate legal practitioner, Noluyolo Mabuza, who advocates against gender-based violence. The poem was titled ‘My Lover is a Deliberate Woman’ (see www.derebus.org.za).
Candidate legal practitioner, Noluyolo Mabuza, read a poem titled ‘My Lover is a Deliberate Woman’.
The welcome speech was given by the LSSA President and member of the LSSA Women’s Task Team, Joanne Anthony-Gooden. In her speech Ms Anthony-Gooden said it was an immense joy when women come together to celebrate their remarkable achievements and contributions to the legal profession. ‘Today we honour the women who have not only broken through barriers but have also redefined them. Women legal practitioners have carved out a legacy of excellence, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice. In courtrooms, boardrooms, classrooms, and beyond, we have demonstrated that the law is not just a profession but a powerful tool for shaping a more just and equitable society,’ Ms Anthony-Gooden said.
The welcome speech was given by Law Society of South Africa President and member of the LSSA Women’s Task Team, Joanne Anthony-Gooden.
Ms Anthony-Gooden added that the celebration was not only just about recognising the achievements of individual women, but also about acknowledging the collective strength and solidarity that have fuelled progress in the legal field. She pointed out that from the pioneers who first entered the profession to the trailblazers of today, women legal practitioners have shown that determination, integrity, and passion can overcome any obstacle. ‘As we look around this room, we see not only accomplished professionals but also mentors, and leaders. We see women who have dedicated their lives to upholding the rule of law, defending the rights of the marginalised, and ensuring that justice is accessible to all,’ Ms Anthony Gooden added.
Ms Anthony-Gooden pointed out that the path for women in law has not been easy. That it has been paved with challenges, yet it has also been illuminated by the courage and perseverance of those who refused to accept anything less than equality. ‘Today we stand on their shoulders, and it is our responsibility to continue their legacy by supporting and empowering the next generation of women legal practitioners. As we celebrate the incredible milestones achieved, let us also commit ourselves to the work that still lies ahead. There is still much to be done to ensure that every woman, regardless of her background, has the opportunity to pursue a career in law and to rise to the highest levels of the profession,’ Ms Anthony-Gooden said.
Ms Anthony-Gooden added that the dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to justice shown by women legal practitioners is inspiring. She said that together, women legal practitioners will continue to champion the cause of equality and build a future where the legal profession is truly representative of the diverse society it serves.
Erin van Wyk from the Reality Wellness Group spoke to the attendees about making time for themselves
During the discussion of mental health, Erin van Wyk from the Reality Wellness Group spoke to the attendees about making time for themselves. She said that women tend to have a lot going on in their lives and that they do not get time to rest and just focus on themselves. She told the ladies that they needed to rest and get more sleep. That studies show that women need more sleep than men. She said that a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a well-balanced diet and exercise can contribute positively to one’s life. Ms van Wyk added that each day, one should take a break for a few minutes in a quiet place, where they will be alone with their phone switched off. She emphasised that self-care is important and having people to talk to when you are not doing well. Legal practitioner, Saney Mbatha, added that one also needs a circle of good friends that they can count on and make them feel good about themselves. Friends that will whisk one away to a self-care day when needed. Acting Judge of the Labour Court, Connie Phakedi, echoed the same sentiments as Ms Mbatha. She pointed out that having good friends around is important. She shared how she for years had not celebrated her birthday, however, this year, because of her friends she celebrated her birthday the entire month of August.
The master of ceremonies, Laura Morwesi Dlepu, told attendees that one must be able celebrate even small wins.
The master of ceremonies, Laura Morwesi Dlepu, told attendees that when they do good, they must not wait for other people to hype them up. She said that one must be able to hype themselves up and celebrate even small wins. The ladies were treated to a special dance and sing along performance by Shenay O’Brien.
A special thanks go to the following sponsors:
Member benefits from the LSSA
One of the member benefits the LSSA offers to legal practitioners is a wellness programme for legal practitioners through collaboration with PPS and the Reality Wellness Group to offer telephonic counselling and support. This includes professional telephonic counselling services available 24/7/365. It consists of:
Contact the Reality Wellness Group on 080 11 22 550 or eppengage@realitywellness.co.za (Please provide your practice number).
When you make contact with Reality Wellness Group you are subject to the terms and conditions of Reality Wellness and the services that they provide. Learn more about the services offered at www.lssa.org.za.
The LSSA obtains and shares no data with Reality Wellness. The only information shared is the number of people who use the Reality Wellness service.
Read the LSSA advisory here: www.lssa.org.za.
Kgomotso Ramotsho Cert Journ (Boston) Cert Photography (Vega) is the news reporter at De Rebus.
