The Legal Aid Board comprises a diverse group of individuals with vast expertise in law, corporate governance, cybersecurity, human resources, and risk management. These professionals provide strategic oversight and guidance to ensure Legal Aid South Africa (LASA) delivers on its mission.
Key Members of the Legal Aid Board
- Judge Nobolao Martha Mbhele – Chairperson
- Position: Deputy Judge President of the Free State Division.
- Skills: A seasoned legal practitioner, Judge Mbhele brings her vast experience in the judiciary to lead the board.
- Highest Qualification: BProc.
- Adv. Kgotso Godfrey Maja – Deputy Chairperson
- Position: Advocate and IoDSA Member.
- Skills: Law and corporate governance.
- Highest Qualification: LLB.
- Dr. Mduduzi Zakwe – Non-Executive Director
- Skills: Information technology, cybersecurity, accounting, and corporate strategy.
- Highest Qualifications: PhD in Cyber Security Education, Chartered Accountant (SA).
- Ms. Rahab Serepong – Human Resources Executive
- Skills: Human capital strategy and management.
- Highest Qualification: Master of Business Leadership (MBL).
- Ms. Lorraine Zanele Francois – Risk and Governance Consultant
- Skills: Auditing, accounting, risk management, and corporate governance.
- Highest Qualification: MBA, Certified General Internal Auditor (SA).
- Ms. Nonduduzo Samukelisiwe Khanyile – Attorney and Board Member
- Skills: Law and governance.
- Highest Qualification: LLM.
The board also includes highly skilled members such as Dr. Maureen Tong, a human rights lawyer with a PhD in International Law, and Mr. Nkhangweni Rambau, an expert in digital transformation and project management.
Leadership and Governance
The Legal Aid Board is led by Judge Nobolao Martha Mbhele, who provides leadership with her vast experience in the judiciary. She is supported by Adv. Kgotso Godfrey Maja, a highly skilled advocate specializing in law and corporate governance. These leaders, along with other board members, ensure that Legal Aid South Africa (LASA) remains focused on its goal of providing equitable legal services.
With a comprehensive understanding of legal frameworks, governance, and corporate strategies, the Legal Aid Board fosters a culture of excellence and accountability. Their combined skills ensure that Legal Aid South Africa (LASA) can continue delivering top-tier legal support to those in need.
Executive Leadership
The executive directors of the Legal Aid Board are responsible for day-to-day operations and strategic planning. Ms. Mantiti Kola, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), ensures that Legal Aid South Africa (LASA) realizes its mission of offering accessible legal representation. Alongside her is Mr. Sethopo Mamotheti, the Chief Operations Officer (COO), who oversees all support operations within the organization. Their leadership is vital in ensuring that Legal Aid is effectively serving the public.
Importance of Legal Aid South Africa
The Legal Aid Board ensures that all citizens have access to legal representation, regardless of their financial status. This is crucial in a country where many individuals might otherwise face significant challenges in accessing justice. By promoting fairness and human rights, Legal Aid South Africa (LASA) remains dedicated to its core values of providing tax-funded legal assistance to those in need.
For more information on how Legal Aid operates, visit Legal Aid South Africa (LASA).