12/05/2026
Following in her Father’s Footsteps: Ms Owethu Mthethwa has achieved a distinction in her LLB at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), following a career path inspired by her father, a court magistrate.
Growing up immersed in the values of fairness and justice, she developed a deep passion for using the law as a tool for meaningful social change.
“Graduating summa cm laude means the prayers of my ancestors are being fulfilled,” said Mthethwa. “It’s the result of years of dedication, discipline and perseverance,” she reflects. Even during moments of self-doubt, especially in demanding exam seasons, Mthethwa remained anchored in her purpose. “Whenever I felt like giving up, I reminded myself why I started.”
Mthethwa’s commitment to excellence has been widely recognised. At UKZN, she scooped the Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr Prize for Best 4th Year Student, the Abel Torf Prize for Best Overall LLB Student, the Bowmans Attorneys Prize for Best Overall LLB Student, and the Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr Prize for Best Overall LLB Student. She also received the Phatshoane Henney Group Honour Medal, awarded to students who achieve an aggregate of 80% and above.
Beyond academics, she distinguished herself as a student leader, serving on the SRC Disciplinary Committee, as Acting Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the UKZN Law Review, a class representative, and a tutor to first-year LLB students. She is particularly passionate about bioethics and improving South Africa’s legal system, especially addressing court backlogs to ensure timely access to justice.
Her advice to aspiring Law students is simple but powerful: “Stay consistent, ask for help, and remember your purpose. Success is not just about grades, it’s about growth, balance, and making a difference.”
Owethu’s journey is an inspiring reminder of what is possible when passion meets discipline.
Halala MaNyambose!