From the courtroom to the crown: Kazumi Sebonka

Tuesday, May 19, 2026, 3:12
Kazumi Sebonka

 

About Kazumi

"I was born and raised in Kokstad, KwaZulu-Natal.

I pursued my tertiary studies at North-West University, Potchefstroom, where I obtained my BA degree majoring in Psychology, followed by an LLB degree.  Upon graduating, I commenced my articles at VZLR Inc.  After this, I joined MacRobert Attorneys in 2023, where I was admitted as an attorney and practised as an Associate until July 2024.  I have since returned to my roots, VZLR Inc., as an Associate in the Road Accident Fund Department.

Currently, I serve on the Executive Committee of the Pretoria Attorneys Association and head the Events, Sponsorship, and Marketing Portfolio, where I am responsible for stakeholder engagement, securing sponsors, coordinating event-related partnerships, and overseeing marketing initiatives and campaigns to ensure impactful and well-executed events and stakeholder engagement."

 

On entering Miss South Africa

"My cause speaks to children from broken homes, young women navigating difficult circumstances, and creating safe spaces for people who are more often than not overlooked and unseen.

I was once that little girl, from a broken home, navigating tough challenges, similar to those I advocate for.  Everything changed for me when two people took me under their wing and invested in me, not merely financially, but emotionally and personally.  They cared for my well-being, they saw me, and that changed the trajectory of my life completely.  They loved me, and that love propelled me forward.  Their love and guidance served as a light to my feet!  I owe a lot of who I am today to them."

"The experience gave me purpose.  It gave me a reason to strive for more, to pursue a life far greater than the circumstances I came from.  More importantly, it planted the seed to pay it forward." 

"As a young girl, I’ve always known that I would enter Miss South Africa, but a lot of 'growing up' had to happen.  My 'why', however, has always remained steadfast and unchanged, even today, regardless of the outcome.  The work still needs to be done, and I intend to get my hands dirty and pursue each opportunity to its fullest. 

Should I progress in the Miss SA journey in 2026, my focus will be on building the mission — intentionally — by bringing the right people together, entering communities, having conversations, and, as I say, getting my hands dirty.

The legal profession has played a significant role in shaping the woman I am today.  It truly refined the way I present myself, and it strengthened the confidence with which I enter a room and speak."  

"I have learned that I cannot be timid.  I must use my voice to advocate for my clients to further their interests, to take up space, to stand firmly in the knowledge that my voice matters." 

Kazumi Sebonka

 

On enrolling at the Gawie le Roux Institute of Law

"The Gawie le Roux Institute of Law was always the clear choice for my legal training, because of the exceptional quality and value it offers. 

I completed all four board exam preparation courses through the Institute and successfully passed my board exams.  I also completed my Advanced trial advocacy course last year.

The courses were very insightful.  The lecturers were incredible and very supportive.  They focused not only on theory, but also on practical guidance.  The lecturers always took the time to ensure that concepts were properly understood and applied."

 

Kazumi's tips for newly admitted legal practitioners

  • "Be visible.  Participate in networking events.  Your network becomes your net-worth!
  • Ask questions.
  • Read, read, read.
  • Be a helping hand to someone!
  • Most importantly, don’t forget to be kind."

 

Kazumi's recommended reading for legal practitioners

"I highly recommend that every legal practitioner, particularly women, read Nice Girls Don’t Get The Corner Office by Lois P. Frankel, PhD.

It highlights the subtle habits and behaviours that often hold women back professionally.  The book teaches women how to advocate for themselves confidently, communicate with authority, set clear boundaries, and navigate spaces strategically without compromising or diminishing themselves."

 

What's next?

"I intend on completing my notary and conveyancing examinations through the GLR Institute of Law as well."

To follow Kazumi's Miss SA journey, find her on:
Instagram: @kazumi_sebonka 
LinkedIn: Kazumi Zani Sebonka
Facebook: Kazumi Zani Sebonka
TikTok: @kazumi_sebonka
X: @KazumiSebonka

 

Last updated on 19 May 2026.

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