Shamenthree Naik.
Image: Supplied
IN A MOMENT that captured the true spirit of excellence at UKZN, Shamenthree Naik, the top LLB student for the class of 2025, celebrated an extraordinary milestone even before stepping on to the stage to graduate summa cum laude.
Just a week before, she won awards in administrative law, corporate law, civil procedure, insurance and agency, clinical law, and mooting. She was also recognised as the best fourth-year student, and was awarded the prestigious Phatshoane Henney Group Honour Medal for achieving an overall average above 80%.
Naik is the overall top LLB student across the Howard College and Pietermaritzburg campuses.
But behind these achievements is a story that goes far beyond academic success.
Naik balanced her studies with her responsibilities as a mother, wife and daughter – a journey that required immense sacrifice and strength. There were long nights, competing priorities and moments of exhaustion, but she remained focused on her goal, and driven by purpose.
Her passion for justice is not only academic, but also deeply personal.
During her time at university, she volunteered at a local orphanage, giving her time and care to children in need. This commitment reflects her belief that the law should serve people, especially those who are most vulnerable.
“I want my degree, and every qualification after this, to be used in a meaningful way wherever I may find myself,” she said.
For Naik, the law is not just a career, it is a responsibility grounded in integrity.
“Having a law degree means nothing if you don’t have honesty and strong values. You must live it, not just practise it,” she said.
She also encouraged current and future students to aim higher while maintaining balance.
“Be studious and don’t fall into the habit of just wanting to pass. But also remember that life needs to be lived. Balance is important.”
Her understanding of success has also evolved beyond marks and awards.
“Success is doing your best every day, but most importantly, it’s making sure that my family and I are happy and healthy."
Looking back, Naik reflects with gratitude, noting that her only wish would have been to start her legal journey sooner, so she could have had more time to grow and contribute through practice.