Law firms boast of policies that seek to promote diversity and equality. Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI) issues are becoming increasingly relevant in law firms and it is a proposal that boards of directors make on an annual basis. 

On this occasion we highlight Plaxedes Makura, a lawyer at Herbert Smith Freehills in the South African office, having been awarded, for the fourth consecutive year, for her contribution and support to the advancement of gender equality and diversity by the HERoes Female Future Leaders initiative.

The aim of this initiative is to reward those professionals who drive gender equality in organisations and among colleagues.

Makura currently works as director of the firm's Alternative Legal Services (ALT) team. Under the same award, the work of female executives, future leaders and executives in the legal sector is also mentioned.

Women Role Model Lists, the edition that has awarded Makura, has the support of Yahoo Finance and INvolve, the latter being an organisation that watches over and promotes diversity and inclusion in firms. 

Makura has a long career as a lawyer, being one of the professionals who created the ALT team in 2017, working hand in hand with 350 lawyers, analysts and professionals in the technology sector and providing coverage in 11 different locations.

In addition to her work as a lawyer, Makura sits on committees within the firm for Pro-Bono and diversity services. 

Makura is proud to be part of Herbert Smith Freehills:

"I am proud to work for a firm that places so much emphasis on diversity, inclusion and equality in the workplace. My position on the management team has allowed me to play an active role in creating committees and networks that strive to make the company welcoming and inclusive, not just for women but for all employees. My philosophy is to foster an inclusive corporate culture that upholds individual uniqueness".