Final Year Law Students Deliver a Sterling Performance at the Annual Ellie Newman Moot Competition

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Being crowned the winner of the 44^th Ellie Newman Moot Competition with her parents cheering her on in the audience is the ultimate sweet victory for Law student Ms Priyanka Naidoo.

Naidoo along with fellow final year Law students, Mr Daniel Basckin, Mr Mlungisi Mhlungu and Mr Tusani Phewa were the finalists who showcased their outstanding advocacy skills at annual competition which was recently held at the School of Law in Howard College.

The mock trial setting allows final year LLB students to translate the wealth of theoretical knowledge obtained through their learning experience into the practical aspects of the legal profession ensuring that the students are well equipped to handle every aspect of the profession.

The four finalists argued their cases before a panel of judges consisting of Law School academics, Professor Karthy Govender, Professor Tanya Woker, Ms Lindiwe Maqutu and Ms Willene Holness.

The competition saw Mhlungu come third while Basckin and Phewa come joint second and Naidoo claiming the top spot, an achievement she describes as a great end to a wonderful journey.

‘My parents have been chiefly responsible for moulding me into the person I am today. My love for information and the pursuit of knowledge has been inspired by them, as they themselves are two remarkably intelligent individuals. When my name was announced, I had quickly glanced up to my parents, and saw my mom wipe away a few tears. Their pride in me strengthens the faith I have in myself.’

‘Winning this competition has crystallised my pursuit of becoming an advocate. Many of the past winners have gone on to achieve spectacular things, and have contributed to this country’s legal development exponentially. I want to continue in their footsteps, and make my mark,’ said Naidoo. 

Before announcing the winner, Govender, who along with Woker are former Moot Court winners said all the finalists delivered impressive head of arguments and oral presentations and were the best candidates they have seen so far.

Thandiwe Jumo