Celebrating 20 years of ENS Law Firm's commitment to community and justice
The firm's chief executive officer Mzi Mgudlwa is proud of the frim's work in the community of Mitchell's Plain and Khayelitsha. He feels that there is still a lot to be done in the communities.
Image: Phiri Cawe
In cekebrating its 20 years community work, the ENS Law Firm invited its stakeholders including former members and comunity members to celebrate with them.
Image: Phiri Cawe
A commercial law firm marks a major milestone while continuing to support the poor and drive change, providing services to communities through its pro bono work.
On Wednesday, November 18, the firm commemorated 20 years of integrity, dedication, and service, particularly to the people of Mitchell’s Plain and Khayelitsha. The celebration brought together community partners, clients, and residents.
Over the past two decades, ENS Law Firm has become a vital pillar for many who cannot afford legal assistance. It has offered vulnerable individuals in Mitchell’s Plain and Khayelitsha access to justice and legal support that would otherwise be out of reach.
The firm's CEO Mzi Mgudlwa said that the anniversary carries deep significance. It was in Mitchell’s Plain that the firm made a defining decision, not only to pursue corporate law and become active participants in community upliftment.
Mr Mgudlwa also paid tribute to former members of ENS, notably Judge Taswell Papier, whom he praised for his role in shaping and strengthening the firm. Their journey, he admitted, was not always easy, but it was driven by a clear purpose.
“We were not just lawyers; we were activists too,” Mr Mgudlwa said.
“We knew the only way to remain relevant was to ensure people had access to justice. We had our licences, and what we lacked was a social licence.”
He credited the Mitchell’s Plain office and the surrounding communities for giving the firm that social licence and entrusting its with their legal needs. Their acceptance, he added, allowed the firm to build meaningful relationships grounded in service and justice.
Judge Papier reflected on the early days of the pro bono movement, noting that the Western Cape was the first province to fully embrace it. He applauded the passion and commitment of ENS staff in Mitchell’s Plain, as well as the support from partners and stakeholders who helped drive the firm’s community-focused mission.
“This project has embraced all aspects,” he said. “It's about serving the needs of the community—and those needs are significant.”