It’s not everyday that we get to recognize one of our own, making waves in the justice system. In this month’s ‘Movers & Shakers’ column, we recognize and salute the achievements made by Laudium resident, Cherise Mooloo, a Magistrate, wife and mother. Cherise is a dedicated and highly respected Magistrate, currently serving as the senior in the Civil Litigation Department at the Pretoria North Magistrate’s Court. With five years on the bench, Cherise brings a wealth of experience, with her sharp legal mind and a steadfast commitment to upholding the integrity of the judiciary. Cherise is driven by a strong professional ethic and a deep passion for justice. She believes that “the most rewarding part of the law is that you never stop learning,” a value that continues to shape her growth both inside and outside the courtroom. law, but to one day be as impactful as Kineil In an exclusive interview with the Laudium Sun, Cherise said her journey in law began with a defining moment: the first time she watched flamboyant attorney Kineil Muthray argue a case in court. Witnessing his presence, exuding confidence, commanding attention and captivating the courtroom with his extensive knowledge of the law, she knew without doubt that law was her path. From that moment, she aspired not just to practice law, but to one day be as impactful as Kineil is. Cherise worked under Kineil’s mentorship from 2007 to 2016, first as a candidate attorney and later as an admitted attorney. She describes those years as a privilege… “learning from the best” and views her judicial career as only the beginning. She also draws lasting inspiration from Constitutional Court Justice, Jody Kollapen, who, like her, hails from Laudium. His distinguished career and principled leadership serve as a guiding example of excellence and service. Beyond the bench, Cherise, the daughter of Mo Mooloo, is married to Nishen Moodley and is the proud mother of seven-year-old twin boys. She credits her family as her greatest support and motivation, grounding her in purpose as she continues her journey of service in the legal profession. With her blend of legal expertise, humility, and purpose, Cherise exemplifies the values of a jurist committed not only to the letter of the law, but to the evolving spirit of justice in a democratic South Africa. Her message to those wanting to join the legal profession, “Be curious. Be committed and most importantly, be
courageous. The profession needs minds that are sharp, hearts that are just and voices that are bold. Let your journey be one of purpose, because law is not just a career. It is a calling.”