MY JOURNEY: THE SOUTH AFRICAN LAW SCHOOL (2013-2014)

I have been in business (Take Away /Fast Foods) for almost 17 years, all I knew about the Law was that without sound knowledge of it, the lessons learned and the losses suffered can be devastating and yes, Life changing... My name is Baderunisa Mukadam and this is my journey.

My life certainly changed when I opened the South African Law School website...

It's November 2012, and I am just browsing the web. I knew I was going to study, and pursue a lifelong dream in Law and this is when I knew, I wanted to be a Paralegal. As I was searching the web, so many options and choices had to be made. I knew that I had to do a course that actually gives me credits which will be beneficial in future. I compared and summarized the facts of many Educational Institutions who offered the Paralegal Certificate.

Finally I came across the Website of The South African Law School. The name carried a lot of weight and immediately caught my attention. I noticed that not only are they the only Institution who offers Legal subjects with the SASSETA program, but the Paralegal Certificate is offered at an NQF5 level with credits of 131.I emailed the 'School' and corresponded with Sharon Rhoda (Marketing Department).

I had to finalize some business issues and it took me a while to actually register at the' School.' For a few good months prior to registration, I overwhelmed Sharon with so many questions, and queries .She never made me feel as if I was hassling her or that I am wasting her time. Every time she would humbly respond by saying: 'I am only doing my job'. Registration (May2013) for me was filled with so much excitement; also being a student again after so many years, really sent goose pumps down my spine. I thought everybody would greet me with Good Morning Mam, thinking I was the lecturer when I stepped inside the class...LOL, the reality was the total opposite. I was welcomed with so much warmth, and kindness. Our Part time Lecturer Mr.Jassiem is not only a true Mentor, but a backbone to all the students as well.

Since the duration of this course I have had no regrets. I gained a lot of confidence and being positive about most aspects in life, I have really learned that dreams are in the heart and mind of the beholder...No one has control over it. I recently did some research and discovered that the credits obtained for this course should be applied for via an RPL process, if you intend furthering your studies.

It all starts with making the right choices; I made mine when I chose to study at The South African Law School. My compulsory Paralegal Practical Hours were done at Legal Aid Justice Centre in Worcester. I spent four days at the Centre and visited advice Offices in Robertson, Montagu, and Ashton.I sat in with consultations and gave advice to clients as well. The experience I gained was impeccable. Already being thankful for the opportunity, I was overwhelmed when the Executive Director, Ms.Bacus offered me to stay on and assist with the FREE WILLS WEEK that was held in October 2013 at Macgregor. Currently still being at the JC I travel with them whenever Advice Offices are visited.

I am gaining valuable experience and I am certainly so grateful for these opportunities. My inspiration, my strength and the driving force behind my success is Irfan, my husband. He inspires me to reach for greater heights all the time.

I am humbled to add that I am accepted at Unisa for LLB studies in 2014.I am so grateful, and blessed ,surely proof that pursuing ones dreams, at any age ,is never impossible .It all started with making the right choice ,my choice started with the 'THE SOUTH AFRICAN LAW SCHOOL'.

THANK YOU: JOY for your Professionalism, KIM for always being on top of everything, GAIL for your warmth and sincerity and SHARON...Words cannot describe the value I add to your Perseverance, Motivation, and Strengths and for going the extra mile...Always.