Legal clerk: Alina Shikongo

Driven by a deep-seated passion for history and a desire to make a meaningful impact on society, 24-year-old Alina Shikongo is committed to promoting diversity, inclusivity and empowerment.

The legal clerk said her experiences have taught her the importance of empathy and cultural sensitivity in addressing legal challenges and serving the community.

Looking back on her studies, she shared one of the most important lessons she learnt is the importance of thorough research and attention to detail. “Every case, contract or legal judgment relies on the accurate interpretation and application of statutes, cases and regulations,” she said.

Shikongo’s previous experience as a legal intern at the Office of the Prosecutor-General significantly shaped her approach to the legal field.

“My time there equipped me with critical thinking skills, a strong understanding of legal principles and a dedication to upholding justice,” she stated. Now, as a legal clerk, she continues to apply the skills and knowledge acquired during her previous roles to real-life situations.

Advocating for women's rights and gender equality is deeply meaningful to Shikongo, particularly addressing gender-based violence.

“Women and girls often face physical, sexual and psychological abuse, which violates their human rights and perpetuates cycles of trauma and inequality. I am passionate about supporting survivors and advocating for stronger legal protections,” she remarked.

Balancing a demanding workload with personal obligations was one of the biggest challenges she faced during law school.

To overcome this, Shikongo developed a structured schedule, prioritising tasks based on deadlines and importance. She also formed study groups with peers and sought support from mentors to navigate challenging modules.

One of her greatest influences has been her great-uncle former minister Ben Amathila. “Learning about his contributions to the liberation movement inspired me to stand up for the principles of fairness and justice,” she said.

Shikongo believes that one of the most pressing issues facing law students in Namibia is the lack of opportunities for practical experience.

“Many students have substantive knowledge of the law, but lack the chance to apply the skills they are taught,” she mentioned.

In her limited free time, Shikongo enjoys reading, particularly works by the late president of Burkina Faso, Thomas Sankara.

Her pet peeves in leadership or teamwork include poor communication, lack of respect for others' contributions and inflexibility.

"Effective leaders and team members should communicate clearly and regularly, value each other’s ideas, and be open to new approaches,” she said.

Guided by a strong commitment to ethics and morality, Shikongo’s proudest achievement so far is graduating from the University of Namibia with an honours degree in law. “It was not an easy journey, and bearing the fruits of my parents’ labour to get me this far is something I take great pride in."