Njabulo Gumede - Candidate Legal Practitioner - Johannesburg

I joined Pinsent Masons in 2023, and since my first day, I've been trusted with a diverse range of responsibilities. These include conducting document reviews, researching various legal issues and market trends for business development, presenting on topics with a significant impact on the firm's business and sector-wide focus, co-authoring articles, and handling tasks like printing and bundle preparation. Each task presented a unique learning curve with varying levels of difficulty. I met each challenge by either figuring out the execution independently or seeking guidance from fellow interns and other seniors, including Candidate Legal Practitioners and Partners, who were always ready to provide instructions and practical demonstrations.

The responsibilities I've undertaken have shaped me both personally and professionally. I've honed my skills in legal writing and research, public speaking and presentation, understanding market and geopolitical trends affecting the firm and clients, conflict resolution, and positively adapting to constructive criticism.

The firm's values, centred around being Approachable, Bold, and Connected, are not just stated but are visible in the actions of every person I've interacted with. This aspect has made my stay in the firm incredibly enjoyable, fostering a pleasant environment.

During the year, I applied for the role of Candidate Legal Practitioner for the 2024-2025 period, both within and outside the firm. The firm's Early Talent Team supported me throughout the process, and I was delighted (and relieved) to be offered the role of Candidate Legal Practitioner within the firm. I eagerly anticipate embarking on the next chapter of my journey toward becoming a commercial lawyer at the forefront of the legal services market.