What Lies Beneath.... Thandi Maquebla

In the world of law, breaking stereotypes and redefining tradition is no easy feat—but Thandi Maqubela does it with unparalleled grace and distinction.

The London based legal director is not only making waves in her field,  but also effortlessly has crafted a social media presence , where she inspires thousands with her bold, vibrant style and authentic voice.

In  the first or our What Lies Beneath series, where we chat to some faves, Thandi takes us through her incredible journey from South Africa to becoming a respected legal professional in the UK. We delve into her thoughts on navigating the legal industry as a woman of colour, balancing a thriving career with motherhood, and how she uses fashion as a form of empowerment and self-expression. Thandi's story is a testament to  individuality, and the power of embracing one's true self.

Let’s dive into What Lies Beneath, Thandi Maquebla.

TSB - Tell us a bit about yourself in terms of where you grew up and how your upbringing informed your decision to pursue a career in law.

Thandi - I’m proudly South African! I was born in Johannesburg, subsequently grew up in Cape Town and then went back to Johannesburg for university and to start my legal career. I think more than anything it was my love of learning, reading and critiquing that led me to the law – it felt like a natural fit for me at the time and it’s definitely proven true in the years that I’ve been practising. 

TSB - We admire your work to modernise the impression of women in law and forge community with Lawyer’s Dining Club. Why has this been so important to you?

Thandi - My co-founders and I were underwhelmed by the lack of opportunities for women to create meaningful connections in a professional context. The networking events we were attending were staid, not very welcoming and of course not very diverse either. Our legal careers brought us together in the first instance and we quickly become genuine friends. We thought it would be great to extend this positive experience to a wider group of women and that’s how we started the LDC. 

TSB - Can you talk about some of the initiatives or projects you’ve worked on that you're most proud of?

Thandi - 2024 was the year I decided to pursue more purpose led initiatives from joining a local school as a governor to supporting a charity that works with women across Sub-Saharan African states, empowering them to become independent and economically emancipated – the latter is something I feel quite passionately about when it comes to women. And of course the unique community of women we’ve pulled together via the LDC.

TSB - What would you say are a couple of defining moments for you in terms of establishing your personal values and wanting these reflected in how you show up in the world?

Thandi -  A few years ago I became a mother and that transition necessarily brought my view on what I wanted my personal values to be into sharp focus. They are quite simple while equally being incredibly impactful – be a good person, show up for myself and for others and try to lead with compassion. It’s not always easy because I’m not a saint but it’s definitely the kind of world I’d like our son to grow up in.

TSB - When do you feel your most powerful and true self?

Thandi -  This may sound odd, but it’s when I’m out for a run. I’m an avid runner and I love nothing more than the meditative mental state I get into when I’m out on a run. It’s when I get my best ideas, it’s when I clear my head and it’s often where I feel recalibrated.

TSB - For us you represent a refreshing idea of what traditionally I guess some may consider what a lawyer would look like. How do you see your personal style impacting how you’re perceived in your profession?

Thandi - I strongly believe that clothes are a valid tool of self-expression, more so in an professional context as I feel it lends gravitas to an individual. So often women are made to feel that caring about how you present will somehow detract from how competent you are and I just don’t agree with that at all. We can enjoy and have fun with our clothes while still being incredible at our jobs. I know that when I feel and look good it’s evident in the way I show up and that can only be a good thing.

TSB - What advice do you have for young black women who aspire to enter and succeed in the legal profession?

Thandi - ‘Back yourself’ These are words I live by! it sounds so simple but constantly reminding yourself that you are where you are because you’re meant to be there and that you can do what you put mind to can get you through the most challenging times in the workplace.

TSB - Success can mean different things to different people. How do you define success for yourself?

Thandi - The definition of success has gone through various iterations for me. Of course there’s professional success – I’m a very ambitious person! But right now the overriding sentiment of feeling content and happy with my lot feels like I’m living life successfully.

TSB - What are some goals or aspirations you still hope to achieve personally?

Thandi - I’m working on a specific career aspirations, we’re about to start extensive renovation work on our home which I’m already wishing could be over! I’d like to continue working on my purpose led initiatives and perhaps extend the roles I’ve taken up. 

TSB - If you could give a piece of advice to your younger self starting out in law, what would it be? 

Thandi - Enjoy the ride! I reflect back on the young woman starting out in law and I don’t think at the time I realised how much fun I was having – sure it was challenging and brutal but my goodness did I enjoy myself!

TSB - You have great style and taste! Can you share three things that you’re currently excited about or have inspired you in some way? Can be a book you’ve read, play, restaurant, beauty product. Anything!

I have absolutely loved Anyone’s Ghost by August Thompson – it’s my book of the year. Travelling to Formentera in the summer on a kid free holiday with my husband was fab – such a beautiful island and a great chance for us to connect!

And my forever favourite restaurant is Luca – my visits are in the double digits, it’s unassuming but in no way compromises on good food!