Bheki Mlangeni Memorial Scholarship 2026: Requirements, How To Apply & Step-by-Step Guide
If you are a final-year LLB student passionate about social justice and constitutional values, the Bheki Mlangeni Memorial Scholarship 2026 offers an important opportunity to further your legal career while honouring a powerful legacy in South Africa’s history.
This comprehensive guide covers the requirements, eligibility criteria, required documents, application process, and closing date for the 2026 academic year.
About the Scholarship Provider – Cheadle Thompson & Haysom Inc
The scholarship is offered by Cheadle Thompson & Haysom Inc, one of South Africa’s leading law firms. Established in 1979 by legal academics from the University of the Witwatersrand, the firm has grown from a labour law and human rights practice into a nationally respected legal institution with offices in Johannesburg and Cape Town.
The firm combines academic excellence with practical, strategic legal advice and remains committed to constitutional principles and social justice.
About Bhekisizwe Godfrey Mlangeni
The scholarship was established in memory of Bhekisizwe Godfrey Mlangeni, a graduate of Wits University, community activist, and aspiring lawyer.
He joined Cheadle Thompson & Haysom Inc in January 1989 and was tragically assassinated on 15 February 1991 by a booby-trapped cassette device linked to the Vlakplaas Unit of the former South African Police.
The Scholarship Aims To:
- Celebrate the memory and legacy of Bhekisizwe Godfrey Mlangeni
- Honour the sacrifices made for South Africa’s democracy
- Promote progressive legal education
- Reinforce constitutional values and social justice
Fields Covered
The Bheki Mlangeni Memorial Scholarship 2026 is awarded to:
- Final-year LLB students
- Studying at:
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- University of the Western Cape (UWC)
Recipients may be required to participate in a vacation work programme at Cheadle Thompson & Haysom Inc.
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not receive feedback, consider your application unsuccessful.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be studying towards an LLB qualification
- Must be entering their final year of study in 2026
- Must be studying at Wits or UWC
- Must be Black
- Must demonstrate financial need
- Must show commitment to completing their legal qualification
- Must have a goal to advance social justice
- Must have demonstrated academic excellence in:
- Labour Law
- Constitutional Law
- Administrative Law
Failure to meet any of the above requirements may result in disqualification.
Required Documents
There is no application form for this scholarship. Applicants must submit the following documents via email:
- Name of scholarship: “Bheki Mlangeni Scholarship”
- Certified copy of ID document
- Certified full academic record
- Motivational letter explaining why you deserve the scholarship
- Updated CV (including student number)
- Two reference letters
- Contact details (telephone number and email address)
Ensure all documents are clear and certified where required. Missing documents may result in disqualification.
How To Apply for the Bheki Mlangeni Memorial Scholarship 2026 (Step-by-Step Guide)
Follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Gather and certify your:
- ID
- Academic transcript
- Reference letters
- CV
Write a strong motivational letter highlighting:
- Your academic performance
- Your financial circumstances
- Your commitment to social justice
- Your future legal career goals
Step 2: Submit Your Application via Email
Applications must be submitted directly to your university coordinator.
Wits University Students
Email your application to:
Wanda Ndlozi
[email protected]
University of the Western Cape Students
Email your application to:
Vernon Johannes
[email protected]
Step 3: Use the Correct Email Subject Line
Insert the words:
“Bheki Mlangeni Scholarship 2026”
in the email subject line.
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
Closing Date: 28 February 2026
Late applications will not be accepted.
Contact Details – Scholarship Provider
For queries, contact Cheadle Thompson & Haysom Inc directly.
Johannesburg Branch
Tel: 011 403 2765
Email: [email protected]
Cape Town Branch
Tel: 021 418 2278
Email: [email protected]
Why Apply for the Bheki Mlangeni Memorial Scholarship?
This scholarship is more than financial support. It is an opportunity to:
- Be part of a powerful legal legacy
- Honour constitutional values
- Advance social justice in South Africa
- Gain potential vacation work experience at a leading law firm
- Strengthen your professional legal profile
If you meet the criteria and are committed to justice, equality, and constitutional democracy, this scholarship could significantly support your final year of LLB studies.
Apply early and ensure all required documents are included before submission.
