Manenberg Attorney celebrated as a beacon of hope and strength

A newly admitted attorney of the High Court, Gillian van der Westhuizen, was honoured by her church community in Manenberg on Sunday.

She was hailed as an example of resilience, strength, and unwavering faith.

Ms Van der Westhuizen, who grew up on the streets of Manenberg and is also a mother of three, said she was grateful for the recognition.

She said that her journey should serve as an inspiration for the broader community rather than focusing solely on her.

She was officially admitted as an attorney of the High Court on November 7, marking the culmination of a long and challenging personal journey.

To celebrate this milestone, her congregation at Act Mission Church hosted an event in her honour- much to the delight of Ward 30 councillor Deidre De Vos and the wider Manenberg community.

Event organiser and senior church member Irene Fredericks expressed immense pride in celebrating someone who has risen above the negative perceptions often associated with Manenberg.

“Today, we celebrate a woman of grace, strength, and unwavering faith - one of our own,” she said.

“Her achievement proves that something beautiful and inspiring can come out of Manenberg. Her story sends a powerful message to our young people: you can become anything you dream of, no matter where you come from.”

Like many children growing up in previously disadvantaged communities, Ms van der Westhuizen's path was marked by obstacles - some deeply personal, others shaped by social and economic circumstances.

She faced setbacks, early challenges in her schooling, the pressures of motherhood, the disruptions of the Covid-19 pandemic, and the daily reality of violence in her community. Yet, each time she stumbled, she rose again. Her journey is now celebrated as a testament to resilience and the belief that circumstances should never define one’s destiny.

It took her 14 years to finally realise her dream of becoming an attorney, years filled with sacrifice, determination, and unwavering focus. Reflecting on her journey, Ms Van der Westhuizen said she hoped her story would remind young people that hardships can be overcome.

“From Manenberg, I am very proud,” she said.

“But I didn’t want to make a big deal out of this. This isn’t about me. My journey has always been about the grace of God. People focus on my achievement, but I want them to remember that it was God who carried me through.”

She emphasised that young people should never allow their environment or upbringing to limit their dreams.

“It doesn’t matter where you come from, and it certainly isn’t about the colour of your skin,” she said. “People often think opportunities aren’t meant for them because of their circumstances. But that’s not true. You can do anything if you remain focused.”

Ms De Vos described Ms van der Westhuizen's success as a "beacon of hope in a community that faces persistent violence and social pressures."

“In a place where challenges are part of daily life, Gillian’s journey reminds us that excellence continues to emerge from Manenberg,” Ms De Vos said.

“Her determination, faith, and resilience show that greatness is within reach for many more of our young people.”

Ms De Vos said that Ms van der Westhuizen's achievement highlights the untapped potential within the community and underscores the importance of recognising and nurturing young talent.

“There are many more ‘Gillian’s’ in Manenberg, young people with purpose and potential whose stories deserve to be heard,” she said. 

“Her accomplishment sends a powerful message: your circumstances do not define your destiny. With perseverance, support, and faith, your story can also become one of triumph.”

As the celebration concluded, Ms De Vos expressed hope that Ms van der Westhuizen's rise to the High Court would ignite a wave of inspiration among Manenberg’s youth.

“May her success encourage many more young people to rise above their challenges and boldly pursue their calling,” she said.