Durban’s Justice Pillay on law and legacy
From apartheid-era Durban to the highest courts, Justice Dhaya Pillay shares her story of justice, courage, and change.
You have to push the boundaries if you're going to make a difference
These words from Justice Dhaya Pillay capture the spirit of a woman who has spent her life challenging injustice, reshaping the law, and making space for bold, transformative thinking in South Africa’s courts.
In the latest episode of Legal Luminaries, the legal podcast co-produced by Juta and ECR's sister station, Jacaranda FM, Justice Pillay shares a candid and deeply personal account of her journey – from a politically engaged childhood in apartheid-era Durban to becoming one of the first Black women appointed to the bench.
Raised in a family where apartheid’s injustices were impossible to ignore, Pillay was drawn into student activism early on.
“Apartheid was clear-cut,” she says. “It had to be challenged – there was no way to overcome it otherwise.”
Her legal career was shaped not just by the courtroom, but by the streets, trade unions, and academic journals that laid the intellectual groundwork for a more just society.
This episode explores:
Her work in labour law and with the Centre for Applied Legal Studies
The Van der Vyver Commission report and launch of the Industrial Law Journal
Landmark rulings on whistleblower protection and disability rights
Her role on bodies like the Essential Services Committee and the Independent Mediation Services of SA
Insights into the Judicial Service Commission and the urgent need for reform
Justice Pillay speaks frankly about the pressures of being a judicial pioneer, and the weight of dissenting judgements that, while unpopular, were guided by principle.
“It’s a question of what is the best outcome for a particular case. You feel it in your bones,” she says.
For Justice Pillay, law is not just about rules – it’s about intuition, innovation, and justice in action.
“You've got to learn to innovate, have the courage to innovate, make mistakes, and learn from them,” she says. It’s a philosophy that has shaped her life and inspired generations of young legal minds.
Whether you're passionate about the Constitution or simply curious about the people shaping South Africa’s legal future, this is an episode not to miss.
Meanwhile, in last week’s episode of 'Legal Luminaries', Iman Rappetti sat down with the esteemed Justice Kate O'Regan, who reflected on her trailblazing career, her dedication to upholding justice, and the pivotal moments that shaped her journey on the bench.
More about 'Legal Luminaries'
'Legal Luminaries' is a captivating podcast series brought to you by Juta and ECR's sister station, Jacaranda FM. Hosted by television personality and author, Iman Rappetti, this series takes you on a journey through the lives and experiences of renowned legal giants who have played a pivotal role in shaping South African law.
Whether you're a legal enthusiast, a student of law, or simply curious about the minds behind South African democracy and human rights, 'Legal Luminaries' is a must-listen.