Adv Sikhwari is closer to his dream

One of the top legal minds in Limpopo, Adv Sydwell Sikhwari, came closer to achieving his dream of becoming a judge when he was appointed to act in this position.

Sikhwari (44), was appointed to act as judge in the Gauteng division of the High Court in Pretoria by Judge President Dustin Mlambo. He received the letter of appointment on 11 November last year. He has been acting in the position from 29 February until the end of this month.

Speaking about this interim appointment, Sikhwari, who hails from Ha-Ravele village in Sinthumule, said he was honored and humbled. “When I grew up, I was always inspired by Judge Joe Raulinga, who comes from our area. I grew up admiring Raulinga. He also taught me at the University of Venda when I was studying for my B Juris degree from 1991 until 1994,” says Sikhwari, who completed his LLB degree two years later.

“Considering the area where I come from, which is deep rural, I feel honoured. This is a big learning experience. When I come back, my skills and knowledge will be enhanced. I will also be happy to be a full-time judge one day,” says Sikhwari, who has been running his own practice since August 2000.

His practice started in Johannesburg, from where he moved to Louis Trichardt in 2001. Last November he opened another branch in Polokwane, where he is also a member of the Limpopo Society of Advocates. He is also a qualified mediator and arbitrator in labour and commercial issues. 

He is also a partner with his wife, Tshililo, in a décor and events management company.

Raised by his father, Phineus, and mother, Alidzuli, Sikhwari says that his poor background made him realize that without hard work and qualifications, one could not make it in life. “I was also inspired by Dr Maxwell Masakona, who made me realize that without hard work one cannot succeed,” said Sikhwari.

Date:22 April 2016

By: Ndivhuwo Musetha

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