- Onika Mokoena completed her LLB at the University of Johannesburg at just 19 after entering university at 15.
- She gained practical legal training through moot court participation, the UJ Law Clinic, and leadership roles.
- Mokoena plans to pursue articles of clerkship and employment while continuing her studies.
- At just 19 years old, Onika Mokoena has graduated with a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the University of Johannesburg, a milestone that places her among the youngest law graduates in South Africa.
Originally from Bushbuckridge in Mpumalanga, her journey began when she entered university at 15, taking on a demanding professional degree at an age when most of her peers were still in high school. For Mokoena, the decision to pursue law was never just about a career. It was about purpose.
“I chose law, or rather law chose me, because I see it as a powerful tool to bring justice and protect the vulnerable. I want to use my legal expertise to give strength to those who feel powerless, especially in moments where decisions can shift lives in an instant,” she said.
Graduating from UJ’s Faculty of Law, widely regarded as one of the leading law faculties in the country, is something Mokoena describes as both humbling and affirming.
“It feels incredibly empowering. It’s a validation that hard work, self-motivation and faith can turn big dreams into reality,” she said.
For her family, the moment goes beyond academic achievement. It is a testament to what resilience and education can make possible.
“This achievement means the world to my family and me. It shows that resilience and determination can overcome any obstacle. For my family, it’s proof that education can uplift an entire community and inspire many.”
Learning law beyond the classroom
During her time at UJ, Mokoena threw herself into experiences that went well beyond lectures and textbooks. She participated in moot court programmes, sharpening her advocacy and legal reasoning, and worked within the UJ Law Clinic, where she encountered real cases and saw firsthand how the law plays out in people’s lives.
“These experiences gave me insight into how to interpret and apply the law and understand how the world operates through a lawyer’s lens. They also helped me build confidence and grow both academically and personally,” she said.
Outside the lecture hall, she took on roles that reflected her commitment to others. In 2024, she served as a Faculty Peer Mentor, supporting 10 students as they found their footing in university life. She also served as a House Committee member under the Sports, Arts and Culture Officer at Impumelelo Ladies Residence, a role she looks back on with pride.
Turning setbacks into stepping stones
Mokoena’s path was not without its difficult moments. Like many students in demanding programmes, she faced times when the pressure felt overwhelming. But she leaned on her faith and inner drive to push through.
“I faced many challenges that sometimes overwhelmed me. But because I’m self-motivated and rely on my faith, I bounced back each time, turning setbacks into learning experiences and staying committed to my ambition.”
She also speaks warmly about the role the UJ Law community played in shaping who she is becoming as a lawyer and as a person.
“The UJ Law community taught me the value of teamwork, ethical responsibility and relentless curiosity. It shaped me into a lawyer who prioritises justice and empathy, influencing both my academic excellence and personal character.”
What comes next
With her degree in hand, Mokoena is focused on taking her first steps into the profession. She is actively seeking articles of clerkship and employment, and has her sights set on further study down the line, when the time is right.
“After graduation, I am seeking employment and articles, and I look forward to furthering my studies when the time is right,” she said.
To the students who will walk the same path after her, she leaves a message rooted in everything she has lived through.
“Stay self-motivated and believe in your ability to make a difference. Use challenges as fuel for growth. Remember that law is about shielding the powerless and choosing justice even when systems are flawed. Dream big. God will fund it. With him, nothing is impossible.”
The Faculty of Law at the University of Johannesburg congratulated Mokoena on this outstanding achievement and wished her every success as she steps into the next chapter of her legal career.
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