At Cox Yeats, we take pride in celebrating the women who are shaping industries, challenging norms, and creating space for the next generation of leaders. This Women’s Month, we highlight the inspiring journey of Zethu Ntanzi, a senior associate in our Johannesburg Business Rescue, Restructuring, and Insolvency team, who recently featured on the Voice of Wits (VOW FM) to share her story.

A Path into Business Rescue

In the conversation, Zethu reflects on how she discovered her passion for business rescue and insolvency law early in her career. What began as a rotation during her articles quickly grew into a calling. She explains how every matter brings unique challenges, from navigating complex company structures to managing high-stakes turnarounds, and why she thrives on the intellectual and practical demands of this work.

Resilience and Representation

The podcast also touches on a crucial theme: resilience. Zethu speaks openly about the uphill battles faced by young lawyers, especially women and black professionals, in a field still largely male-dominated. Her story is not just about legal expertise, but about persistence, strength, and the importance of representation.

Lessons for Young Professionals

For students and young lawyers finding their way, Zethu offers valuable advice:

• Expose yourself broadly. Different areas of law bring different opportunities, and discovering your niche often comes through experience.
• Stay resilient. The journey is demanding, but growth comes from navigating challenges with purpose.
• Build networks. Both within the legal sector and beyond, supportive relationships make all the difference.

Zethu’s story is a reminder that leadership is not just about the work you do, but about paving the way for others. Her voice adds to the growing chorus of women transforming the legal profession and redefining business leadership in South Africa.

Watch the full conversation here: https://youtu.be/a6PS7mlLBlQ