Law Students Set To Represent Emeris On Continental Stage

Established only a year ago, the Emeris Moot Society is preparing third year IIE Bachelor of Laws (LLB) students Martinique Mulder (Emeris Pretoria student) and Amaria Mahomed (Emeris Durban North student) for the prestigious Christof Heyns African Moot Court Competition which will be hosted by Institut Universitaire d'Abidjan in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire from 26 July - 02 August 2026. Representing South Africa on continental stage, Mulder and Mahomed will bring a powerful combination of academic excellence, determination and advocacy skills to the competition.

The Christof Heyns African Human Rights Moot Court Competition is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious and influential student law competitions on the African continent. Bringing together some of Africa's brightest law students from leading universities, the competition provides participants with a unique opportunity to engage with complex human rights issues, develop advanced advocacy skills and argue before distinguished judges, academics, and legal practitioners.

23 year old Mulder is anticipating a remarkable rich cross pollination of legal thought and cultural perspectives. “Engaging with peers from diverse jurisdictions across Africa offers an invaluable opportunity to gain unique insights into how international human rights law is interpreted, applied and challenged within various national contexts. Beyond the technicalities of legal systems, I am particularly keen to foster legal camaraderie. Building relationships with future colleagues who share a fervent commitment to justice and human rights is, in my view, absolutely essential for cultivating a more unified and effective legal future across the continent. These connections will not only broaden my professional network but also enrich my understanding of the diverse tapestry of African legal scholarship and practice”, said Mulder.

Behind this success is the dedicated mentorship of Emeris National Moot Coach, Tapiwa Mhuru (Law Lecturer Emeris Pretoria campus). His tireless efforts in coaching and preparing the team have been instrumental in ensuring that Emeris is represented with distinction at one of Africa's premier legal advocacy competitions.

To represent Emeris, students had to undergo a selection process. “Our coach and presiding judge, Mhuru, maintained an exceptionally rigorous standard, meticulously scrutinising our knowledge of case law, court procedure and our ability to articulate complex arguments succinctly. He deliberately created an environment that simulated the intense pressures of a real courtroom, challenging us with probing questions and unexpected scenarios. I believe my success was ultimately rooted in a combination of meticulous research, ensuring a robust understanding of the legal framework and my ability to maintain composure and articulate my arguments with conviction, even when faced with rigorous cross examination”, expressed Mulder.

Mulder is ready and can work under pressure in court: “Mhuru himself commended my confidence and steadfastness under pressure, which I believe were distinguishing factors amongst a field of highly capable candidates”.

Mulder further said that: “I have always held myself to a very high benchmark, striving for excellence in every endeavour. To represent my Emeris on such a prestigious international stage is, therefore, deeply gratifying and serves as a powerful affirmation of my dedication. Academically, this competition represents the zenith of undergraduate legal challenge. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to transcend theoretical knowledge, allowing me to immerse myself in practical advocacy. This experience will undoubtedly hone my analytical and oratorical skills, which are fundamental to my aspirations as a future legal professional. It is a chance to engage with complex legal principles in a dynamic, competitive environment, thereby solidifying my understanding and practical application of the law”.

“In addition to their legal knowledge, they have shown exceptional teamwork, research capabilities, and the confidence to present persuasive legal arguments under pressure. Their dedication to preparation, attention to detail, and passion for justice make them outstanding ambassadors for Emeris. Together, they embody the qualities of future legal professionals who are capable of competing at the highest levels while representing the institution with distinction and professionalism”, said Jacqui Meyer (Law Lecturer Emeris Pretoria).