Balancing law, music and advocacy

Phillipus Ignatius Mumbala, a 25-year-old LLB honours holder from the University of Namibia, is not just another lawyer in the bustling corridors of justice.

Hailing from Otjiwarongo and deeply rooted in Oshiwambo culture, Mumbala embodies a multifaceted persona – a legal practitioner, a harmonious choral singer, a compassionate mentor and a youth activist.

As a proud member of the Tjituri Law Chambers, Mumbala found his professional calling in November 2022.

Within the chambers, Mumbala is not just an employee. He is part of a close-knit team of three, navigating the intricacies of divorce, company law, labour disputes, civil cases, criminal proceedings and estate administration.



Achieving work-life balance

His typical workday is a testament to his diligence and commitment. Starting promptly at 08:00, he delves into a flurry of activities – drafting documents, consulting clients and preparing for court sessions, all before lunchtime.

Despite the demanding nature of his profession, Mumbala ensures a healthy work-life balance, capitalising on the four-day workweek to nurture his passion for music and spend quality time with loved ones.

Beyond the confines of the courtroom, he finds solace in music, as a tenor in Collective Singers and as the founder of Vocal Redemption, a cappella ensemble.

For Mumbala, music is not just a pastime – it is a cherished legacy passed down by his mother, an enduring bond that transcends time and distance, resonating with every harmonious note.

His dedication extends far beyond legal advocacy.



Overcoming barriers

He is a staunch advocate for youth empowerment and education. In his spare time, he mentors high school students, instilling in them the values of perseverance and resilience, traits that have defined his own journey to success.

However, Mumbala acknowledges the challenges that permeate the legal profession, from the scarcity of job opportunities for recent graduates to the general language barrier and the inherent risks faced by defence lawyers.

"Another challenge I personally face or see most people encounter is the language barrier. Although English is our medium of communication, many Namibians lack the ability to speak English or to understand English, so I find myself speaking many other languages apart from English so that my client and I can understand each other," he said.

Yet, he remains undeterred, guided by a steadfast commitment to justice and an unwavering resolve to uphold the rule of law.

For aspiring lawyers, Mumbala offers sage advice: "Cultivate a genuine passion for justice, nurture your strengths and embrace the diverse opportunities that law presents. But above all, remember to live life to the fullest, for tomorrow is never guaranteed."

He also advised: "Do not study law for the money; there is no money. Have a true passion for justice and equity. Know what you are getting yourself into. Not everyone is good at litigating – perhaps you are a good drafter or legal researcher. Law has a wide spectrum of opportunities," Mumbala said.

In the symphony of life, Mumbala orchestrates a harmonious blend of law, music, and advocacy, a testament to the unshaken spirit of a young man driven by passion, purpose, and determination.