By Rolivhuwa Munyai
Meet Thato Khosa, a Paralegal Intern in the Legal Services Department at GEP, he began his internship on the 1st of August 2024, bringing with him a Diploma in Legal Assistance. Prior to joining GEP, Thato gained valuable experience as a legal assistant at the Pretoria Magistrate Court and as a policy administrator at Moto Vantage (Pty) Ltd. In these roles, he developed skills in legal research, case file management and administrative support.
Since joining GEP, Thato has expanded his knowledge of corporate legal processes, contract management and regulatory compliance. He has also refined his problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Thato’s motivation for applying for the internship was to gain hands-on experience in corporate and business law, enhance his legal knowledge, and contribute meaningfully to GEP’s mission of supporting entrepreneurs and businesses.
As a Paralegal Intern, Thato’s responsibilities include assisting with contract drafting and review, conducting legal research, preparing reports, managing case files and documentation, providing administrative support to the legal team, and ensuring compliance with legal regulations and company policies.
At the beginning of the internship, Thato struggled to adapt to the fast-paced legal environment, however, he overcame this by seeking mentorship, asking for clarity when needed and continuously improving time management skills.
Thato has received valuable support and guidance from his supervisor and colleagues and appreciates the organization’s commitment to professional development and its impact on the business community.
When asked about recommendations for improving the internship program, he suggested implementing structured mentorship sessions, providing regular feedback and career guidance, and offering exposure to cross-departmental projects to enhance the overall learning experience.
Reflecting on his experience with the GEP, Thato described it as rewarding and enriching. He appreciated the culture of collaboration, learning and professional growth, which has positively shaped his career aspirations. Thato felt welcomed and valued as a member of the team, and his contributions were acknowledged. He was given responsibilities that allowed him to develop and showcase his skills.