Twin sisters journey to legal success

Twin sisters Alka and Jhanvi Januk share more than just a close bond, they have both chartered a path to legal success.

The 23-year-old sisters from Reservoir Hills graduated with their Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degrees on Tuesday at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

Though their journeys were intertwined, their motivations were deeply personal.

For the two, law was always their first choice.

Jhanvi was drawn to law to shape lives, but found herself energised by the intellectual challenges the field offers.

"I discovered early on that I had a strong aptitude for understanding and applying legal concepts. I wanted to build a career that not only challenged me academically, but also allowed me to make a meaningful impact,” said Jhanvi.

She said both she and Alka have similar interests.

"A highlight was having each other as permanent study buddies; we relied on one another, which was an amazing and unique experience.

"We both enjoy researching and getting involved in social issues. Choosing law was an obvious choice as it suited our personality and strengths," said Jhanvi.

For Alka, the decision to study law was rooted in a desire to uplift others and spark social change.

"I pursued an LLB degree driven by a genuine desire to empower others. My goal has always been to use my knowledge in the field of law as a tool to effect meaningful change, advocate for the rights of the vulnerable, and contribute positively to my community,” said Alka.

She said a lot of aspects of law impacts people's lives on a daily basis.

"Understanding the law and your rights is essential. I want to help others who don't have an understanding of law or the justice system. We have applied ourselves in everything we have done.

"We question things and not just take things for face value. There are so many underprivileged people who need assistance. As law students we were able to attend to clients in the law clinic. That was an eye opener. It is heartbreaking as some people are so desperate for help," said Alka.

They attribute much of their work ethic to their upbringing.

Watching their family navigate life’s challenges with grace and determination left a lasting impression on them both, with their greatest inspiration coming from their mother, Renai Januk, who is an attorney.

Looking ahead, Alka is preparing to complete her practical vocational training and ultimately become an admitted attorney, while Jhanvi is already immersed in the legal world, currently serving her articles of clerkship at Cox Yeats Attorneys.

SUNDAY TRIBUNE