Post by Joy Hlatshwayo

From 23 - 27 June I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the Adams & Adams vacation programme! Over the past week, I was stretched, tested, and placed outside of my comfort zone in the best possible way. It was a challenge that left me more inspired and curious than ever. Anyone who knows me knows I’m a humanitarian at heart - but this experience reminded me that the field of law is vast, and the corporate commercial space has its own impact. I was exposed to company law, contract law, and even aspects of tax law - subjects I’ve studied in theory - and for the first time, I got to see how they intersect and come alive in practice. I learned quickly that practice is not the same as what I encounter in the lecture room. But the strong foundation I’ve gained through my legal education at Stellenbosch University Faculty of Law has taught me to think critically, apply my mind, and remain dynamic - skills that served me well throughout the programme. A highlight of the week was succeeding in my first moot experience, and learning to approach legal problems with creativity and commercial awareness. Working within the corporate commercial department, I saw how legal professionals must think ahead, drafting contracts not only to protect clients’ current interests, but to anticipate and avoid future risks long before they reach a litigious stage. A heartfelt thank you to Zola Williams and the entire Adams & Adams family for embracing me and guiding me throughout the programme. This was truly an eye-opening experience, and I’m so grateful for the incredible people I met along the way.