LETTER FROM THE CEO
Dear Member,
On Saturday, 9 November 2024, we celebrate 40 years of LegalWise championing justice alongside South Africans—a milestone truly worthy of celebration. Since 1984, we have had a single-minded purpose: to enable our Members to enforce and defend their rights. In this special edition of WiseUp, we share stories from a Member, attorneys on our Network, bursary holders, and alumni from our mentorship programme.
Our 40th Anniversary is not only a celebration of LegalWise but also a tribute to you and the many Champions who have dedicated their talents to ensuring that our Members can stand up for their legal rights. We exist for our Members, and we thrive because of the trust you place in us every day. One of our long-standing Members, David Motsheledi Moerane, has been with us for 34 years. Thank you, David. Click Here to read more about his experience.
As part of our 40th Anniversary celebration and our continued commitment to uplifting communities, we are thrilled to introduce the Community Rewards Program. We will be awarding R40,000 each to five deserving Community-Based Organisations. We encourage you to nominate an organisation that is making a positive impact in your community. Together, we can drive meaningful change. Click Here to read more and how to nominate an organisation.
Over the past 40 years, we have been fortunate to partner with many dedicated attorneys who have stood with us, giving our Members a voice to fight for their rights and championing the cause of justice. We have established longstanding relationships with many attorneys on our Network, and I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to them for their invaluable contributions. We spoke to Adri Henning and Richard Donachie to share their experiences—Click Here to read their stories.
Since 2006, the LegalWise Member Bursary Programme has supported more than 150 students by providing financial assistance, mentorship, and psycho-social support. This programme has become a cornerstone in fostering opportunities for our future leaders. In this edition, we spoke with some of our 2024 bursary holders about their experiences-stories that fill us with immense pride. Click Here to read more.
Additionally, we bring you an update on our Impact Litigation Unit's case against the Department of Home Affairs and the recent judgement handed down by the High Court on 18 September 2024. Click Here to read more. We also explore parents' visitation rights during the holidays and address some of the frequently asked questions from our Members.
Over the past year, we have relocated or refurbished 10 Branches, including the recent relocation of our Bloemfontein Branch to the Provideamus Building, located at 184–186 Nelson Mandela Drive. If you're in the Mangaung area, we look forward to welcoming you to our new Branch.
As part of our 40th Anniversary celebrations, we will also be launching a new television advertisement. Be sure to catch it on SABC 1, SABC 2, eTV, and DStv. Click Here
Finally, as the Festive Season approaches, we all look forward to some well-deserved rest, quality time with family and friends, and a chance to recharge and reflect. However you choose to spend this time, I hope you do so safely and joyfully as we look forward to a New Year filled with new beginnings.
#40YearsOfLegalWise
Siva Gengan
Chief Executive Officer