Environmental law award presented to UKZN student

Pascale Coetzee and Howard Stephenson

"We allocate this award on an annual basis with the simple aim of encouraging young law students to specialise in this field," said Howard Stephenson, a director in Garlicke & Bousfield's Commercial Department.

Upon finishing school, Coetzee took a gap year to consider her career options, doing clinical trial coordination at her father's medical practice. She also completed a PADI Dive Masters course.

Well-rounded approach

"During this period I spent a lot of time researching the various study options in Environmental Management and Environmental Law. I wanted to focus on the social sciences aspect of Environmental Management as well as study Environmental Law so that I could have a well-rounded and expert approach to Environmental Management and Compliance. Thus I chose to study a BSocSci with Geography and Environmental Management and Legal Studies as my majors and thereafter complete my LLB. I always intended on becoming an attorney," said Coetzee.

"From the very beginning it was my intention to study Environmental Law so I could make at least some difference in environmental conservation and sustainable development. I am passionate about protecting those who cannot speak for themselves," she said.

Coetzee is a Golden Key International Honours Society Member and has received Certificates of Merit for both Environmental Management (BSocSci) and Environmental Law (LLB). She is currently completing an internship at an environmental consulting company and studying part time.