First in Her Family to Graduate, Jordan-Leigh Lombard Takes UJ Law to International Stage
Lombard’s academic journey highlight was representing UJ at the Foreign Direct Investment International Arbitration Moot (FDI Moot) in Berlin, Germany
As the University of Johannesburg celebrates the achievements of the Class of 2025, the spotlight turns to Jordan-Leigh Lombard, who graduates with an LLB and proudly becomes the first university graduate in her family. Her journey at UJ Law also took her beyond South Africa when she competed in the Foreign Direct Investment International Arbitration Moot in Berlin, Germany.
Raised in Fourways, Johannesburg, Lombard discovered early on that she had a passion for public speaking and performance, interests that would later support her participation in moot court competitions during her studies.
“My faith is the foundation of my life and has guided me through many of my decisions, including my academic journey,” she said.
Her decision to pursue a career in law began during her high school years when she was still exploring possible career paths. “In Grade 11, I took an aptitude test and the results suggested law and lecturing as potential career options. As I began researching the legal profession, I became increasingly fascinated by the field,” Lombard explained.
“Over time, I fell in love with the potential that a legal career holds, particularly the opportunity to advocate for vulnerable people and make a meaningful difference in their lives.”
Reflecting on her time at UJ, she expressed gratitude for the opportunities and support she received within the Faculty of Law.
“I feel incredibly grateful and blessed to have had the opportunity to study at UJ. Having experienced the faculty firsthand, I can truly understand why it has received such a high ranking,” she said. “Lecturers genuinely walk alongside students and want to see us succeed, and the university provides countless opportunities for growth and development.”
For Lombard, graduating also represents a deeply personal milestone. As the oldest sibling in her family, she becomes the first to graduate from university, an achievement that carries special significance.
“My parents (Dad, Pastor Garth Lombard is a Liverpool fan and Mom, Carol, a former teacher) have supported and encouraged me through every phase of my life. My family has been my biggest support system and my greatest cheerleaders, and I know they are proud of this milestone,” she shared.
One of the most memorable highlights of Lombard’s academic journey was representing UJ internationally at the Foreign Direct Investment International Arbitration Moot (FDI Moot) in Berlin, Germany.
“My team and I worked for nearly a year preparing for the competition. After competing in the regional rounds online, we progressed to the international rounds in Berlin,” she said. “My teammate, Krishaan Nte, and I were honoured to receive the award for Best Respondent Memorials. It was an unforgettable experience filled with learning and the opportunity to connect with law students from across the world.”
Alongside these major achievements, Lombard also values the everyday moments that shaped her university experience.
“A smaller highlight, which may seem insignificant but meant a great deal to me, was sitting around a table with friends before tests or exams and studying together. Those moments were filled with laughter, encouragement, and a shared understanding that we were all supporting one another through the journey,” she said.
Like many students, Lombard encountered challenges throughout her studies, particularly in balancing academic demands with extracurricular and personal commitments.
“During those times, my faith, my family, and my friends played an important role in keeping me grounded and motivated. Their encouragement reminded me to remain focused, trust the process, and continue working diligently toward my goals.”
Her involvement in moot court competitions and tutoring also played an important role in her academic development. In her second year, Lombard competed in the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition, where her team placed second nationally. From that year onward, she also served as a Moot Court tutor, assisting in training students for national and international competitions and supporting the internal moot programme for first-year students.
She credits much of her growth in this area to the guidance she received from mentors within the Faculty.
“I am especially grateful to my supervisor, Dr Louis Koen, as well as Samantha Smit, for their mentorship and guidance throughout the moot court competitions that I participated in,” she said.
Looking ahead, Lombard is continuing her academic journey at UJ. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree by dissertation in Mercantile Law under the supervision of Dr Louis Koen.
“I am excited to begin this new chapter and look forward to the opportunities and growth that this journey will bring,” she said.
For current and future UJ Law students, Lombard offers an important reminder about maintaining balance during their studies.
“One piece of advice I have been given since I was young is that your identity is not defined by your marks. While it is important to work hard and pursue excellence, it is equally important to maintain balance. University is also a time to build meaningful relationships and create lasting memories.”