Professor Karthy Govender, third from left, with the best fourth-year LLB students from UKZN's Howard College Campus, from left, Lethiwe Nyandeni, Sabelo Mthethwa and Owethu Mthethwa.
Image: Supplied
Owethu Mthethwa, inspired by her father, a court magistrate, has excelled as the top student at UKZN's School of Law, Howard College Campus, achieving a distinction in her Bachelor of Laws (LLB).
Growing up immersed in the values of fairness and justice, Mthethwa developed a deep passion for using the law as a tool for meaningful social change.
“Graduating summa cum laude means the prayers of my ancestors are being fulfilled,” she said.
“It’s the result of years of dedication, discipline and perseverance.”
Even during moments of self-doubt, especially in demanding exam seasons, Mthethwa remained anchored in her purpose.
“Whenever I felt like giving up, I reminded myself why I started.”
Her commitment to excellence has been widely recognised.
At UKZN, she scooped the Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr Prize for the best 4th year student, the Abel Torf Prize for the best overall LLB student, the Bowmans Attorneys Prize for best overall LLB student, and the Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr Prize for best overall LLB student.
She also received the Phatshoane Henney Group Honour Medal, awarded to students who achieved an aggregate of 80% and above.
Beyond academics, Mthethwa distinguished herself as a student leader, serving on the SRC disciplinary committee, as acting deputy editor-in-chief of the UKZN Law Review, a class representative, and a tutor to first-year LLB students.
She is particularly passionate about bioethics and improving South Africa’s legal system, especially addressing court backlogs to ensure timely access to justice.
Mthethwa plans to complete her articles in private practice and aspires to become an associate in competition law at a Pan-African firm. Her goal is to contribute to ethical business practices while promoting fair economic participation.
Her advice to aspiring law students is simple, but powerful: “Stay consistent, ask for help, and remember your purpose. Success is not just about grades, it’s about growth, balance, and making a difference.”