In a moment that captured the true spirit of excellence at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Ms Shamenthree Naik celebrated an extraordinary milestone even before stepping onto the Graduation stage to receive her LLB summa cum laude.
Just a week ahead of her graduation, Naik scooped an impressive number of Law student awards – which she terms as a powerful reflection of her dedication, discipline and commitment to her studies.
Her list of achievements is highly impressive. Naik received top prizes in Administrative Law, Corporate Law, Civil Procedure, Insurance and Agency, Clinical Law, and Mooting. She was also recognised as Best Fourth-Year Student and Top LLB Student and awarded the prestigious Phatshoane Henney Group Honour Medal for achieving an overall average above 80%.
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 says.
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 explains.
She also encourages 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,” she says.
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.
As she walked across the graduation stage, Naik’s story stood as a powerful example of resilience, sacrifice and purpose. Her success is not only her own, it is shared with her family, her community and all those she hopes to serve through the law.
Her journey is a reminder that true excellence is not just about achievement, but also about heart, integrity, and the determination to make a meaningful difference.
Words: Oliver Meth
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini