By Sitha Maliwa:
For many people, the law is often associated with courtrooms, contracts and litigation. For attorney Ursula Ntuli, however, the legal profession is also a vehicle for community development, empowerment and social justice.
As the founder and director of Ursula Ntuli Attorneys in eMalahleni, Ntuli has built a formidable legal practice while simultaneously dedicating herself to uplifting vulnerable members of society. Since the firm’s establishment in 2021, it has successfully transferred more than 400 properties valued at over R320 million, facilitated international transactions between Tanzania and Malawi, handled trust registrations, and managed hundreds of active legal matters ranging from High Court applications to civil litigation.
The firm currently serves on the panel of attorneys for the Emalahleni Local Municipality and maintains a memorandum of agreement with Nkangala FET College to provide practical workplace experience for aspiring professionals in law, finance, human resources and marketing.
“Our vision has always been to provide professional legal services while creating opportunities for young people to gain practical experience and develop their careers,” said Ntuli. “We believe that knowledge and mentorship are powerful tools that can transform communities.”
Beyond her legal accomplishments, Ntuli is widely recognised for her commitment to community service. One of her most impactful initiatives is her participation in Free Will Week, during which she and her team provide free will-drafting services to residents across eMalahleni and surrounding areas.
The initiative has taken the team to community halls, municipal offices in Kriel, Ogies and Phola, Correctional Services facilities, churches and even Delmas, where they have assisted municipal workers and elderly residents with estate planning services at no cost.
“Many people cannot afford legal services but still deserve access to professional legal assistance,” Ntuli explained. “Free Will Week allows us to bridge that gap and ensure that people can protect their families and their legacies.”
Her passion for social justice extends to supporting victims of gender-based violence. Through her legal practice and partnerships with local entrepreneurs, Ntuli offers free legal assistance to women affected by abuse while also helping them access skills development programmes and training opportunities.
She has further collaborated with stakeholders, including the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), South African Police Service (SAPS), Emalahleni Local Municipality, Correctional Services, Old Mutual and various local businesses, to develop strategies aimed at combating gender-based violence in the community.
“Addressing gender-based violence requires a collective effort,” she said. “Legal support is important, but we must also create pathways for economic empowerment and long-term independence for survivors.”
Ntuli’s community work also includes partnering with local leaders and entrepreneurs to build a child-headed household, providing vulnerable children with a safe and supportive environment. Her annual charity initiatives include school uniform and shoe drives for underprivileged learners, as well as contributions of food parcels, clothing and wheelchairs through partnerships with charitable organisations.
She is also a proud supporter of the Cover My Books Foundation, a youth-led non-profit organisation dedicated to helping children remain in school through educational support and essential resources.
Every Christmas, Ntuli joins local leaders at hospitals to welcome newborn babies with gifts, bringing joy to families during the festive season.
“Community service is not something we do occasionally; it is part of who we are,” she said. “When we help others succeed, we build stronger communities for everyone.”
Her commitment to youth development is further demonstrated through the annual career expos she organises in partnership with the Youth Manager of the Emalahleni Local Municipality. These events attract more than 500 learners each year and expose young people to a wide range of career opportunities.
Looking ahead, Ntuli remains focused on growing her legal practice while maintaining its strong social impact.
“Our experience, expertise and youthful energy set us apart,” she said. “We understand our clients’ needs and are committed to delivering professional, confidential and effective legal solutions. At the same time, we remain dedicated to empowering our communities and creating opportunities for future generations.” Through her work in the legal profession and her tireless community involvement, Ursula Ntuli continues to demonstrate that success is measured not only by professional achievements but also by the lives one touches along the way. – @NewsSA_Online
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