Cape Town Summer Vacation Scheme - Joe's Experience

Two weeks ago today (although admittedly a bit closer to 8am) I began my first day of the Clyde & Co summer vacation program at the firms Cape Town office. The program provided valuable insights into the day-to-day workings of a competitive and highly successful global law firm. I was given practical, working-world exposure to numerous areas of law, including maritime and shipping, medical negligence, commercial litigation and insurance law.

The week began with an orientation talk and breakfast with the firm, where we were given the opportunity to meet and introduce ourselves to members of the firm. We received an incredibly friendly and engaging welcome from the firm, and this would set the tone for our experience throughout the week. I am greatly appreciative of the time, interest and engagement that was shown to me and my fellow vacation students by every member of the Clyde & Co team.

The beginning of the week consisted primarily of practice group talks presented by directors, associates and CA's in their respective areas of practice within the firm. The talks provided a wealth of knowledge from experts at the forefront of their fields, and gave insight into the current dynamics and future trends of numerous legal sectors. We were also given CA toolkit discussions by Liyema Mandlake. These talks provided valuable advice on the primary skills required for a CA to adapt and thrive in the beginning stages of their career.

In the latter half of the week we worked primarily with our vac work 'buddies'; members of the firm assigned to us in the beginning of the week who provided tasks and feedback to us throughout the program. I was placed in the maritime and shipping department under Matthew Van Maasdyk. Despite a busy week and workload, Matt took the time to discuss complex concepts, terms and legal issues in a field of law I had no previous exposure to. Matt's passion and dedication to the work he does in maritime law is inspiring, and I'd like to extend my sincerest appreciation for the patience, help and insights he gave me throughout the week.

Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to Liyema Mandlake, who's tireless work ethic, professionalism, rigid organizational skills together with a great deal of friendliness, approachability and no small amount of humor ensured the program was a huge success.

I feel incredibly fortunate to have been invited to take part in the Clyde & Co vac work program, and leave it feeling a great sense of passion, excitement and direction for my future career in law.