Given his rural roots, Ayanda Makgoka, 28, never imagined the boardrooms and courtrooms he would one day navigate. As a senior associate and executive committee member at MNS Attorneys, Ayanda combines legal expertise with strategic leadership. His work spans corporate commercial, litigation and procurement law, advising on complex matters that shape public and private sector governance. He has contributed to high-profile matters, including the Transnet 1064 locomotives investigation and the SANParks network tender review, sharpening his commitment to law as a tool for ethical accountability. His role on the executive committee signals a broader commitment to transforming the profession. “Representation matters,” he says. “Especially for young, black professionals navigating spaces where our presence is still questioned.” Ayanda holds an LLB from the University of Pretoria and is completing an LLM in public procurement law at Stellenbosch University. He works to demystify the profession for aspiring lawyers from underrepresented backgrounds. At platforms such as the department of justice’s Career Day, he reminds students that their voices, though young, are vital.
My father, a judge of the Supreme Court of Appeal, is the greatest role model and mentor. His career shaped the view of the legal profession — a calling grounded in hard work, intellect, humility and integrity. Witnessing him overcome adversity with grace instilled a deep respect for perseverance, professionalism and ethical leadership. His example remains the blueprint for what legal excellence should be.