
Julia McKenzie
Aspiring Solicitor | LLB & LLM Qualified | SQE1 & SQE2 Complete
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About
Durham LLB and University of Law LLM graduate with hands-on experience in IP, contract review, and pre-litigation drafting at a leading South African firm. SQE1 & SQE2 completed; seeking a training contract or legal role to deliver immediate value.
Experience
Job Shadow Work Experience - Werksmans Attorneys - Stellenbosch, South Africa
(2023-12)
I engaged in a two-day work experience at Werksmans Attorneys in Stellenbosch, South Africa. I have begun periodic work experience at Werksmans Attorneys since February 2026, where I am able to participate at the firm for a few given days each week.
- Drafted client communications, pre-litigation documents, and conducted in-depth legal research across multiple practice areas
- Supported IP team on copyright and trade mark disputes, reviewing evidence and preparing case materials
- Analysed and reviewed commercial contracts, identifying key risk areas and summarising findings for supervising associates
Internship - Werksmans Attorneys - South Africa
(2018-06 - 2018-06)
Job shadowed a partner in the Intellectual Property Department, Janine Hollesen, which also entailed consideration of files, attending meetings, attending Court and counsel's chambers where I was able to observe the inner workings of the court room during an ongoing case
- Gained early exposure to commercial legal practice at a top-tier South African law firm
Marketing Manager - Durham University Marketing Society - Durham, United Kingdom
(2023-01 - 2023-06)
- Led content creation strategy across social media channels, growing the society's online presence and engagement
- Coordinated marketing campaigns to promote events and increase society membership
- Produced targeted digital content aligned with brand objectives and audience growth goals
Producer for Student TV Network, 'PalTV' - Durham University - Durham, United Kingdom
(2023-10 - 2024-06)
- Produced broadcast segments for an award-winning student-led TV network, managing production logistics end-to-end
Administration Assistant - IT Academy UK - United Kingdom
(2021-01 - 2021-03)
- Streamlined document organisation and managed social media, supporting day-to-day administrative operations
Volunteer group leader - Round Square International Conference - Cape Town, South Africa
(2017-01 - 2017-12)
- Led a multinational team of delegates in community service activities at an international schools conference
Writer and Editor for 'The Bubble' - Durham University - Durham, United Kingdom
(2022-01 - 2024-12)
- Authored and edited bi-weekly articles for Durham's student publication, covering sports and culture to a wide readership
Education
LLM - Legal Practice (SQE1&2) - University of Law (2024-09 - 2025-10)
LLB - Law - Durham University Law School (2021-01 - 2024-12)
Certificate - Business Law Academy - Columbia Law School (2023-07-10 - 2023-07-28)
High School Diploma - General Education - Bridge House School (2007-01 - 2019-12)
Certificate - International Exchange Program - Louisenlund School (2017-01 - 2017-12)
