Debate Competition 2024

At CMS, we are committed to developing the Next-Generation of African Legal Talent. Our focus is on providing opportunities and mentorship to dynamic, curious, and passionate lawyers who will lead the future of the legal profession in Africa. In 2024, CMS South Africa honoured Youth Day with a dedicated and unique initiative by identifying students in need of financial support to partake in a debate competition. The goal was to ignite curiosity and passion for learning, public speaking, and the law. Through the competition, we identified a talented matric student and grade 11 learner to receive a bursary to study an LLB degree in 2025/2026, and potentially become a “CMS Future Facing Lawyer” candidate attorney! This competition, integrated into one of CMS' talent development programs, is part of the CMS Next: Future Facing Projects initiative. It serves as a precursor to various talent development avenues such as job shadowing, vacation work, and the candidate attorney program. Our aim is to pioneer forward-looking initiatives like these, which grant access to high-quality learning experiences, provide mentorship, and invest in the future. By empowering our youth with the knowledge and skills essential for success, we are building the groundwork for a more prosperous and inclusive society. Education serves as the key to unleashing the potential of African youth, enabling them to envision grand aspirations, cultivate critical thinking, and make positive contributions to society.