As the nation prepares to celebrate Women’s Day on 9 August, legal practitioner Perusha Pillay-Shaik is making strides within the fraternity and taking on big names in the pursuit of justice with the free legal help-desk facilitated by the uMhlanga Women’s Association (UWA).
With over 17 years of experience in law, Pillay-Shaik has climbed the ladder to reach partner level at a big five law firm in South Africa and now works within the Dispute Resolution Department which has enabled her to successfully work on novel areas of law that led to reported judgments and precedent building in the country. But, the uMhlanga resident isn’t just a formidable lady of justice in the courtroom, she is also a champion of the community and is passionate about uplifting women by equipping them with beneficial legal tools that can be accessed through the free legal help-desk.
“Growing up, I was always curious about the law, the legal system in South Africa and people’s rights. In addition, I had a passion for people with strong values of fairness, equity and justice and so it seemed perfect that I pursue a career in law,” said Pillay-Shaik.
It was upon seeing a news article on the UWA’s massive growth, since its inception last year, that prompted Pillay-Shaik to join the band of community heroines in their Women 4 Women division to serve, uplift, empower and educate.
She said: “As a member of UWA and a legal practitioner this was the perfect platform for me to use my skills and passion to give back to the community. Probono.org has been running similar help desks in other areas within KwaZulu-Natal. When Probono.org heard about the UWA and their amazing work, they contacted us with a view to collaborate on bringing the legal help desk to Phoenix, which was much needed.”
Pillay-Shaik, who grew up in Phoenix, said the area and its people still remain close to her heart and this project aligned with her mission to give back to the village that raised her into the woman that she is today.
“The legal issues that people face in the community can range from basic issues to rather complex matters which require professional legal advice. The general consensus is usually legal fees are unaffordable and as a result, most people choose to rather not pursue the court route or request legal assistance because they do not have the funds to do so. The advice received at the help desk will guide them accordingly and allow them the opportunity to possibly obtain further legal assistance as Pro bono.org will attempt to secure an attorney should they be eligible to receive free assistance,” said Pillay-Shaik.
Aside from equipping communities with legal know-how, Pillay-Shaik is responsible for many young legal practitioners who journeyed into the industry with their best foot forward thanks to her passionate mentorship.
“Being a partner in a law firm and in a leadership role, I hold strong values about women growing in the corporate environment and taking on management and leadership roles. On the job training, mentoring and coaching are key for me to support and guide young women and attorneys in the profession. As an executive legal coach, I coach many young attorneys and candidate attorneys (both female and male) in the field and I find this work to be very rewarding and fulfilling,” said Pillay-Shaik.
She added: “Women can be fierce in this industry and there are many areas of law that finesse and empathy is mandatory. When a woman is passionate about what she believes in and holds it dear to her heart, she will never quit until she attains success.”
The staff and management of Durban North News along with Pillay-Shaik would like to wish our readers and advertisers a happy Women’s Day on the 9th of August.
