Judiciary & Woman Empowerment: Judge Shanaaz Mia, Gauteng High Court, Johannesburg, South Africa

In this insightful guest lecture, Hon’ble Judge Shanaaz Mia of the Gauteng High Court, Johannesburg (South Africa) addresses students of Siddharth Law College, Mumbai, on the critical theme of Judiciary and Women Empowerment. Drawing from her extensive judicial experience, Judge Mia highlights how law students and young legal professionals—who form a small but powerful segment of society—can use their legal knowledge to bring about meaningful social change. She reflects on her early work as a public defender, the transformative role of law clinics, and the importance of legal intervention in issues such as domestic violence, unfair employment practices, housing evictions, and access to justice for vulnerable communities. The lecture explores: - Violence against women and the role of protective legislation - Women’s representation in the judiciary and constitutional mandates - Courtroom practice, etiquette, and the importance of practical exposure - Judicial appointments in South Africa - The work of the South African Association of Women Judges and its mentorship programs - Ethical challenges and risks of overreliance on artificial intelligence in legal practice - The intersection of law, psychology, and social realities