Broad transformation in legal profession

Women now make up the majority of partners at Shepstone & Wylie Attorneys, with many occupying senior leadership positions – a sign of the growing influence of women within South Africa’s legal profession and the specialised field of maritime and logistics law. According to Taryn Hunkin, a partner in shipping logistics, which includes customs and trade, the firm actively encourages women to pursue their professional ambitions and continue developing their expertise. This support includes access to training and professional education, as well as opportunities to engage more closely with the industries they serve. Female attorneys are also encouraged to participate in professional associations and industry networks such as the Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA) and the Maritime Law Association (MLA). “These platforms provide valuable opportunities to build professional networks, share knowledge, gain industry insights and engage with like-minded women making meaningful contributions within the maritime, shipping and logistics sectors,” she said. Women gain ground in legal leadership The progress achieved within the firm reflects a broader transformation taking place in South Africa’s legal profession. The number of female practising attorneys has steadily increased, while women’s representation within the judiciary has also grown. The appointment of Justice Mandisa Maya as South Africa’s first woman Chief Justice, in September 2024, marked an important milestone and underscored the increasingly prominent role women are playing in leading the country’s major legal institutions. Despite these gains, challenges remained, said Hunkin. While more women are entering the legal profession, significant barriers to advancement persist and women remain underrepresented at senior levels across the sector. “Many women still encounter gender bias, with their competence, expertise and experience sometimes questioned by colleagues and clients,” she told Freight News. Women also continue to shoulder a disproportionate share of household and caregiving responsibilities. Combined with the demands of long working hours and billable targets, this can place them at a disadvantage when seeking to progress within the profession. “Our firm recognises that a flexible working environment can help address many of these challenges and numerous women, including those with families, have flourished here. Strong emphasis is placed on a gender- inclusive culture, supported by a work environment that deals specifically with many of the challenges women face in the industry.” Creating pathways to senior roles It is a culture that has become central to the firm’s ability to attract, develop and retain female talent. According to Hunkin, the firm’s organisational structure and values appeal to women seeking both professional growth and a workplace in which they can build sustainable, long-term careers. Once talented employees have been identified, the firm supports their development through mentorship, leadership opportunities, continuous professional education and external training. “We actively create pathways for women to take on greater responsibility, develop their leadership capabilities and progress into senior roles,” she said, noting that women now headed many of the firm’s specialised departments. Its collaborative and family- oriented culture also enables women to contribute to decision- making and pursue their professional ambitions. Hunkin said this combination of career development, leadership opportunities and workplace support had been instrumental in attracting and retaining female talent. The results of this approach are increasingly evident in the composition of the firm’s leadership. The firm recently appointed two joint managing partners, one of whom is a woman. Hunkin described the appointment as a meaningful step towards more inclusive leadership and a reflection of the firm’s commitment to recognising talent, capability and contribution, irrespective of gender. Female attorneys are also being given a stronger voice in strategic discussions, client matters and the overall direction of the business. “The diversity within our leadership team is celebrated, with women recognised for the distinct perspectives, collaborative approach and innovative thinking they bring to the firm,” she said. Another significant milestone was reached this year when Hunkin and two other female attorneys were appointed as profit-sharing partners. Building the next generation of female leaders For young women considering a career in maritime, shipping or logistics law, Hunkin’s advice is to first understand the sector and explore the different specialisations it offers. By identifying an area aligned with their interests, strengths and long-term ambitions, she said, women could position themselves for rewarding and sustainable careers. “The journey can be challenging and requires perseverance, dedication and continuous learning, but the opportunities for personal and professional growth are substantial.” LV