About Nadia
"I am currently in my second year of articles at Fairbridges Wertheim Becker, where I serve in the corporate commercial and intellectual property team."
Background
Nadia was a top achiever at our recent awards ceremony for alumni who excelled in the LPC exams.
On Gawie le Roux's Attorneys' admission exam courses
"I relied mainly on the lecture recordings, as I found Mr. Johan van Stade’s explanations easier to follow and absorb. His focus on understanding concepts, rather than rote memorisation, shaped the way I prepared for all my papers. Grasping the 'why' behind the law was key."
Nadia's study tips for the CBE
"The real key is understanding the concepts, not memorising them. The exams are designed to test your practical understanding of an attorney’s role and practice. For Accounting and Bookkeeping specifically: practice, practice, practice."
How to secure articles as a candidate attorney
"Academics are important, but they are not the only factor. Stand out in any way you can, whether through extracurricular activities, societies, memberships, awards, relevant hobbies, or prior experience. The goal is to present yourself as a well-rounded candidate."
Top takeaways from Nadia's articles of clerkship
"Three key lessons I have learnt are:
- Be teachable: There is always more to learn, especially in this profession.
- Build strong relationships and connections: They will carry you through the most difficult times.
- Be patient and persistent: Even when the journey gets tough (and it will), never give up on yourself. Persistence is the key to reaching your full potential."
A final word
"Currently, only about 2% of practising attorneys are coloured women. As a first-generation lawyer, I am determined to add to that number, not just for myself but to show other women of colour that there is space for us in professions once closed to our mothers and grandmothers. My ambition is to become a specialised corporate commercial attorney, well known and respected within the legal fraternity."