Dedication to Law

WHO IS SUBASHNEE MOODLEY?

I am the current Managing Partner and Chair of Livingston Leandy Incorporated, a firm whose history goes back more than 135 years. LLI is one of those pioneering firms in the “over 130 years in existence category” that has shattered the glass ceiling by appointing me as its first female MD in 2017.

Over the last few decades, the firm has innovated and transformed in terms of skillset, technology, and diversity in order to remain relevant. One of the major strategic imperatives was to ensure an environment that allows for diversity and gender parity.

WHY LAW?

I have always had a passion for law. The legal profession has so many constantly evolving tentacles, that one can never get bored in this profession. As with the rest of our team at LLI, our passion for law extends beyond our fee-generating practice. We always try to pull others along on the journey, not just within LLI, but outside of our organisation as well.

HOW DID YOU END UP WHERE YOU ARE TODAY?

As with all lawyers starting out, it's been a journey of hard work, perseverance, and focused goals. Experience is indeed a great thing, and, at LLI, we are open to sharing our growth, experience and journey with aspirant attorneys and leaders. The firm’s partnership with various non-profit legal and empowerment organisations, as well as educational institutions, bears testimony to the value we place in giving back to those that deserve an opportunity! www.livingston.co.za

WHAT IS IT LIKE WORKING AS A FEMALE LEADER IN THIS PROFESSION?

There will always be challenges but having the determination and confidence to navigate those challenges, with the support of a board and team, always yields success. The key is to continue to lead courageously, authentically, and honestly even during the toughest times. It is the challenges faced during these times that build resilience.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU AS A LEADER TO WORK HARD IN YOUR FIELD, PUSHING BOUNDARIES AND MAKING STRIDES?

Making a positive impact on the lives of our clients, employees and colleagues and empowering, mentoring and upskilling a new generation of lawyers, is what inspires us. It is important that leaders evolve with the ever-changing environment we find ourselves in. Each leadership style is unique. Provided you have the key ingredients of consistency, honesty, empathy, compassion, and the ability to listen, you learn and grow every day as a leader. Being kind and paying it forward is a key part of our mantra. Our practice is such that it paves the path to leadership roles and drives ambitious professionals within our organisation.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE OTHER WOMEN STARTING OUT IN YOUR FIELD OF WORK?

There are opportunities out there for women and for young people - it’s about being present in the moment, being ambitious and hungry for success, and confidently grabbing those opportunities by showcasing your skillset, the quality of your work, and the positive impact you have on your team and within the organisation.