Judge Mandisa Maya: A Trailblazer in South African History

It’s Women’s Month, and we are shining a light on women who are making positive headlines and embodying success and victory. This month, we are proud to spotlight Judge Mandisa Maya, the first female Chief Justice in South Africa.

Judge Mandisa Maya, a distinguished alumna of the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), has recently been appointed as Chief Justice by President Cyril Ramaphosa, effective from Sunday, 1 September 2024. This historic appointment marks her as the first woman to hold this esteemed position in South Africa. As the #1 Regional Commercial Station, we are incredibly proud of her achievements and believe that with her experience and knowledge, she will excel in this new journey ahead.

Image: Facebook

Let’s look at some of her accomplishments over the years.

•  Vice President; International Association of Women Judges: 2023
•     Chancellor of the University of Mpumalanga: 2021
•     Member of the Judicial Service Commission: 2017
•     Council Member: South African Judicial Education Institute: 2017
•     Founding Member (2002); Deputy President (2008 – 2010); President 2018 to date: South African Chapter of the International Association of Women Judges
•     Regional Director: West and Southern Africa; International Association of Women Judges: 2021
•     Member; Duke University [USA] Bolch Judicial Institute Leadership Council: 2020
•     Board Member; University of Free State Law Faculty: 2020
•     Advisory Board Member; Yearbook of South African Law: 2020
•     Advisory Board Member; South African Law Journal: 2019

Publications, Awards, Honours and Other Activities:

Fulbright Scholarship: 1989-1990
Georgetown University Law & Gender Fellowship Program: 1990
Commonwealth Foundation Fellowship: 2002
Chairperson; South African Law Reform Commission: 2013
Council Member; South African Judicial Education Institute: 2015
Founding Member; South African Chapter of the International Association of Women Judges and its Deputy President in the 2008 -2010 term
Recipient of the South African Women Lawyers Association History & Icon Programme: 2012
Board Member; South African Journal on Human Rights: 2014

As stated on the Supreme Court of Appeal

Witnessing Judge Mandisa Maya’s appointment is not only a significant milestone in her career but also an inspiring moment in South African history. Her journey to becoming the first female Chief Justice is a testament to her dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to justice. It also serves as a powerful reminder of the progress being made towards gender equality in our nation.

As a broadcasting organization, we believe in celebrating women who overcome challenges and succeed in their fields. Judge Mandisa Maya’s achievements serve as a source of inspiration for women in our country and beyond. Her story motivates us to pursue excellence and break through barriers, regardless of the challenges we encounter.

This Women’s Month, let us take a moment to honour Judge Mandisa Maya and all the incredible women who are making strides in their respective fields. Their success stories are not just personal victories but victories for all women, proving that with determination and resilience, anything is possible.

Join us in celebrating these remarkable women and their contributions to society. Together, we can continue to support and uplift one another, paving the way for future generations of women to succeed and thrive.

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