Cheadle Thompson & Haysom Invites Qualified Applicants to Apply for the Bheki Mlangeni Scholarship Programme.
The closing date for applications is 28 February 2026.
What Is the Bheki Mlangeni Scholarship?
The Bheki Mlangeni Scholarship isn’t just a money‑help program. It is a tribute to a brave young lawyer who gave his life fighting for justice. The scholarship is for final‑year LLB students who want to keep that fight alive in the legal world.
If you are a Black student from South Africa, need some money to finish university, and love constitutional law, labour rights, or social justice, this scholarship could change your life—and the lives of the people you’ll help later.
Quick Snapshot
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Bheki Mlangeni Scholarship Programme |
| Year | 2026 |
| Level | Final‑Year LLB |
| Who Can Apply | Black, financially disadvantaged South African students |
| Focus Areas | Constitutional Law, Labour Law, Administrative Law |
| Universities | University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) and University of the Western Cape (UWC) |
| Closing Date | 28 February 2026 |
| Sponsor | Cheadle Thompson & Haysom |
| Extra Chance | Possible vacation work at CTH |
Why This Scholarship Matters
The scholarship is built around values, not just grades. It was created to:
- Remember the life of Bheki Mlangeni.
- Boost quality legal education, especially at Wits.
- Remind everyone of the sacrifices that made democracy possible.
- Keep South Africans committed to constitutional rules.
- Help students use law to make society fairer.
It isn’t only about study points; it’s about who you are and what you want to do with the law.
About the Sponsor
Cheadle Thompson & Haysom is a well‑known South African public‑interest law firm. They’ve spent decades fighting for:
- Constitutional rights
- Better labour laws
- Fair administration
- Human rights
The scholarship is given each year in memory of Bheki Mlangeni, who was working there when he was tragically killed.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility)
You must meet all of these rules:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Identify as Black.
- Come from a family that can’t afford your university fees.
- Be a final‑year LLB student.
- Be registered at Wits or UWC.
- Show strong grades in Constitutional, Labour, or Administrative law.
- Be committed to social justice and public‑interest work.
If you see the law as a calling, not just a job, you belong here.
What You Need to Send In
Incomplete applications are automatically turned away. Gather these documents:
- A clear name of the scholarship you’re applying for.
- A motivational letter: tell why you deserve this support.
- A detailed CV that includes your student number.
- A certified copy of your grades.
- A certified copy of your South African ID.
- Two letters of reference from people who know you well.
- A contact phone number.
Make sure all certifications are recent and legible.
How to Submit
| University | Coordinator | Deadline | |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) | Wanda Ndlozi | wanda.ndlozi@wits.ac.za | 28 February 2026 |
| University of the Western Cape (UWC) | Vernon Johannes | vjohannes@uwc.ac.za | 28 February 2026 |
Send your application by email to the contact above. Late submissions will not be considered.
What Happens After You Apply
- The scholarship is awarded once each year.
- If you win, you might have to work for a few weeks at CTH during the holidays.
- If you do not hear back, it means your application was not selected.
- The decision of the selection panel is final.
Tips to Make Your Application Stand Out
- Speak from the heart – share your personal story honestly.
- Tie your studies to social justice – explain why law matters to you.
- Show how Bheki’s legacy inspires you – link your goals to his mission.
- Write a personal, not generic, motivation letter.
- Choose referees who truly know your work.
- Send your application early – avoid last‑minute tech problems.
Remember, the scholarship cares about values as much as grades.
Career Path After Winning
Winning can open many doors:
- Vacation work at a top public‑interest law firm.
- Article clerkship opportunities.
- Careers in constitutional litigation, labour law, administrative justice, human rights groups, NGOs, and public advocacy.
- Postgraduate studies (LLM) in public law.
- Judicial clerkships and policy advisory roles.
It puts you on a path to make real change.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is this a bursary or a scholarship? | It is a scholarship that looks at merit, values, and financial need. |
| Can first‑ or second‑year students apply? | No, only final‑year LLB students can. |
| Is this scholarship open to other universities? | No, only students at Wits and UWC can apply. |
| Does the scholarship cover all fees? | The exact amount is set by the sponsor; check with your university coordinator. |
| Is vacation work mandatory? | If you win, you may need to do vacation work at CTH. |
Apply Now
Ready to make a difference? Click here to submit your application to Cheadle Thompson & Haysom and start your journey toward a brighter future.
(Remember to use the official university channels and do not pay anyone to apply.)
