German national and Master of Laws cum laude graduate Ms Emily Lewis says studying at UKZN has not only secured her a qualification but also an opportunity to experience South Africa.

‘I have always wanted to add to my qualifications and study abroad – visiting South Africa has been a big dream of mine,’ said Lewis.

The qualified lawyer, who graduated with her LLM in Maritime Law, says not only did she enjoy a fantastic student experience while exploring a foreign country but she also became a mother.

‘My husband and I met in South Africa and our son, now aged 2, was born during the time of my studies. I now have a beautiful little family and we are ready for the next great challenge,’ said Lewis.

In her study titled: Unmanned and Autonomous Container Ships and Cyber Piracy: An Analysis of International and National Regulatory Measures, Lewis explores autonomous and unmanned shipping. Dr Vishal Surbun supervised the research.

‘The study combines elements of maritime and cyber law from an international, South African and German legal point of view,’ she said. ‘Autonomous shipping will definitely have a big impact on the maritime shipping industry and research in this field develops quickly, which sometimes makes it difficult to stay up to date. It will be very interesting to see how it will develop further.’

Now back in Germany, Lewis is working at international law firm, Freshfields Bruckhaus Derringer, and is excited about her future career prospects.

‘Having an LLM from a foreign University is a great plus on my CV as it will show a future employer that I am not only able draft a manuscript but can also do so in a foreign language and in a foreign field of law. I believe my degree in maritime law will give me options to apply for jobs all over the world.’

Words: Thandiwe Jumo

Photograph: Supplied