Professor Nomthandazo Ntlama-Makhanya, Senior Professor of Public Law at the University of Fort Hare, her alma mater, has been recognised as one of South Africa’s most influential women, winning the Mail & Guardian Power of Women Award in the Law and Justice category. This honour is a fitting recognition of Prof Ntlama-Makhanya’s decades of scholarship, mentorship, and service in the legal profession.
Now in its 20th year, the Power of Women awards honour women making remarkable contributions across South Africa in areas such as science, governance, education, health, law, and the arts. Winners are selected through a public nomination process that evaluates their leadership, community impact, and commitment to driving transformation.
This year’s theme, “In the Spirit of Women20: Celebrating Women Who Turn the Impossible into Unstoppable”, perfectly reflects Prof Ntlama-Makhanya’s career — a journey defined by dedication, innovation, and leadership.
Proud Alumna and Daughter of the Eastern Cape
Hailing from Qaga Village, near King William’s Town, Prof Ntlama-Makhanya’s journey to national recognition exemplifies resilience and ambition. She earned her B.Juris and LLB degrees at UFH, followed by a Master of Laws (LLM) at Stellenbosch University, and a Doctor of Laws (LLD) from the University of South Africa, completed in just 18 months. Today, she continues to teach, research, and mentor students, shaping the next generation of legal professionals.
Excellence in Law and Mentorship
A C3-rated researcher by the National Research Foundation (NRF), Prof Ntlama-Makhanya is a leading voice in Constitutional Law and Human Rights. She has served as an Acting Judge in several High Court divisions and represents the Society of Law Teachers of Southern Africa on the Judicial Service Commission, contributing to the evolution of South Africa’s judiciary.
“Being recognised as a national player amongst highly esteemed women who broke barriers of conformity and strive to build a future that ensures women continue to make significant contributions to the transformation of the legal profession is deeply humbling.”
The Law and Justice category demands innovative solutions to complex issues. Prof Ntlama-Makhanya highlighted the broader impact of her work: “As a Professor and having acted as a Judge, my contribution helps resolve complex issues, which in turn contributes to effecting social change.”
Mentorship remains central to her professional life. Many of her former students now occupy senior positions across the legal and corporate sectors. “The students who join the legal profession serve as a benchmark for my own contribution as a Mentor. Seeing them succeed is profoundly rewarding.”
A Role Model for Excellence
Her recognition also underscores her commitment to collaboration and lifelong learning: “It is an indication of being self-driven and a quest for the improvement of performance, which is also an extension of the hand for collaboration beyond internal colleagues.”
In congratulating Prof Ntlama-Makhanya, the Dean of the Faculty of Law, Prof Mzukisi Njotini said her recognition is a true reflection of her quality, excellence, and esteemed standing in the legal profession.
Reflecting on the honour, Prof Ntlama-Makhanya said: “The Award is a boost in strengthening professional reputation and a motivation to continue striving for excellence. It also opens new networks for further career opportunities and recognises my personal and professional contribution to the values and principles of the Faculty and the University.”
From Qaga Village to national recognition, Prof Nomthandazo Ntlama-Makhanya’s journey inspires students, colleagues, and the next generation of women leaders across South Africa, proving that dedication, innovation, and integrity can transform both careers and society.