Benjamin Potgieter successfully completed the coursework for the LPC-accredited 150-hour GLR PVT School.
Hard work and dedication earned him recognition as a top achiever at the Gawie le Roux Institute of Law's PVT Awards Ceremony in July 2025.
About Benjamin
"I'm a candidate attorney based in Cape Town, currently completing my articles."
Motivation for enrolling at the Gawie le Roux Institute of Law
"The workload is intense, and time is limited, so I needed a study programme that actually fits into my life. The Gawie le Roux 150-hour PVT course made that possible. I could study part-time without falling behind at work. The notes were clear and easy to follow. The tests helped me track what I understood and what I needed to focus on. It helped me stay consistent, learn the material properly, and build confidence for the board exams. If you're working and don’t have time to waste, this course gives you what you need."
On facing challenges
"The transition from university to the workplace can be daunting, and I found the biggest challenge was realising that the 'real world' operates quite differently from lecture slides, case studies, and vacation programmes. The PVT programme forced me to take a step back, remember my purpose, and dig deep into the knowledge I'd accumulated during my studies. This is where you must apply those university skills practically and make a genuine difference wherever you are.
Everyone handles challenges differently, but my advice is to lean heavily on your support network. Whether that's senior article clerks, directors, family, or friends. Asking for help isn't weakness; it's strength."
"Keep your eye on the prize, remembering that success is subjective and we all reach our goals in our own time and ways."
Benjamin's tips for PVT students
"Just do it! Make time for the programme, but approach it with the mindset to learn and not just to pass tests or board exams, but to genuinely utilise the knowledge for your future goals. The programme brings together some of the country's best legal professionals, so grab that knowledge with both hands."
On role models
"That's easy; Dr Chijioke Okorie from the University of Pretoria. She has mentored, motivated, and guided me towards my goals with incredible dedication. Dr Okorie is making waves in the IP community with achievements too numerous to even list. She's transforming intellectual property law not only in South Africa but across Africa. Despite her impressive academic and professional background, she remains kind and eager to help. I hope one day to make half the difference she has made for her students, colleagues, and Africa."
What's next?
"Future career plans can feel scary, but I'm excited to pursue my Master's degree in Intellectual Property. My long-term aspiration is to teach the next generation of legal professionals. Hopefully, with hard work and dedication, I can help shape future legal professionals the way I've been shaped."