Growing up in a community where ubuntu and perseverance shaped daily life, Thoriso Lubisi, 25, was inspired to pursue a career in law — not simply to argue cases, but to serve those whose voices often go unheard. A candidate attorney at Van Breda & Herbst Attorneys Inc., Thoriso manages a portfolio of insurance-related matters, ranging from motor vehicle accidents to commercial disputes. His job sees him drafting legal documents, appearing in court, consulting clients and navigating complex litigation. A graduate of Nelson Mandela University, Thoriso earned his LLB with distinction, receiving multiple Dean’s Merit Awards and achieving top marks in key legal subjects. He is completing his LLM in labour law at the University of Johannesburg, with aspirations of using the law to address broader social and economic problems. Lubisi represented South Africa at the Christof Heyns African Human Rights Moot Court Competition in Egypt and was recognised as a GradStar Top 500 finalist for leadership and academic excellence. His global outlook was further enriched by leadership development programmes through the Aspire Institute and Harvard University.
Mahatma Gandhi for his unwavering commitment to justice, peace and non-violent resistance. His philosophy of leading through humility and moral courage continues to inspire my personal and professional life. Gandhi’s ability to create transformative change without resorting to violence is a reminder that strength lies not in force, but in conviction and compassion.