[Johannesburg, South Africa] Fasken hosted the Yakha Isizwe Business Law Helpdesk pro bono legal seminar on 8 July 2026 in partnership with ProBono.Org and the University of Johannesburg Business School, reaffirming its commitment to advancing access to justice through pro bono legal services and supporting entrepreneurs and small business owners with practical legal knowledge.
The seminar aims to provide entrepreneurs with the legal tools and insights needed to build sustainable and successful businesses. The programme has supported entrepreneurs across South Africa by helping them navigate legal challenges, strengthen compliance and access critical business knowledge.
Designed to equip entrepreneurs with practical legal guidance, the seminar covered several key areas that are essential to business success, including business structures and CIPC compliance, employment law fundamentals, commercial contracts, tax obligations, and business funding. The sessions were led by Fasken professionals who contributed their legal knowledge and insights to support the growth and sustainability of South Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Presenters include Nompumelelo Dhlamini, Camilla Mathonsi, Benny Makoloane, Asanda Lembede, Wesley Fletcher, Lenate Joubert, Julia Tosi and Oraizia Adham, with the seminar moderated by Sushila Dhever, Fasken Partner and Head of the firm’s Pro Bono Practice in South Africa.
Over the years, the Yakha Isizwe initiative has demonstrated the transformative impact that access to legal services can have on entrepreneurs and small businesses, enabling them to participate more effectively in the economy and contribute to job creation and community development. The initiative reflects Fasken’s commitment to promoting access to justice and supporting inclusive economic growth.
“Our partnership with ProBono.Org and the University of Johannesburg Business School demonstrates the powerful impact that can be achieved when organisations work together to support entrepreneurship,” says Sushila Dhever, Partner and Head of Fasken’s Pro Bono Practice in South Africa. “Practical legal guidance and access to experienced professionals help entrepreneurs make informed business decisions, manage risk and build resilient businesses that support sustainable economic growth.”
Fasken extends its sincere appreciation to its presenters, partners and organisers whose contributions make initiatives such as the Yakha Isizwe Business Law Helpdesk Pro Bono legal seminar possible.
At Fasken, we believe that empowering entrepreneurs through practical legal guidance is an important step towards building sustainable businesses, creating opportunities and strengthening communities across South Africa.
