Maile Dominic Selemela

From the township of Modimolle to academic platforms and legal research spaces, Maile Dominic Selemela, 23, is building a career grounded in knowledge, service and leadership. Initially driven by a singular dream to become a lawyer, Maile’s academic journey at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) expanded his aspirations. His passion for legal research and writing saw him become a law tutor. Currently finalising his master’s in criminal procedural law by dissertation, Maile balances his studies with work as a law tutor, providing personalised academic support, conducting weekly consultations and fostering independent learning. His dedication to student success reflects his broader commitment to education and development in the legal fraternity. Outside the classroom, Maile is president of Students Interest First. He led initiatives like the Pad a Female Student Drive, distributing hundreds of sanitary products to students in need — a project later extended through the UJ Faculty of Law. His advocacy includes student representation at disciplinary hearings and his involvement in the UJ Students Parliament and the Faculty of Law Community Engagement Team.

• LLB in Law, University of Johannesburg (2023)
• Master of Laws (LLM) in Criminal Procedural Law (by dissertation), University of Johannesburg (2024) *in progress

• Presented at an academic conference at age 22 – demonstrated early academic leadership and recognition in the legal field
• Submitted a research paper for publication at age 22 – a significant scholarly milestone achieved at a young age
• President of Students’ Interest First – led the organisation in student advocacy and support initiatives.
• Led the “Pad a Female Student” Drive – organised the donation of hundreds of sanitary pads to students through: Students Interest First and UJ Faculty of Law
• Represented students in disciplinary hearings at the University of Johannesburg – acted as a peer advocate, supporting students during university disciplinary processes