PEOPLE IN BUSINESS: OLOF JOUBERT OF OJ LAW.

Olof Joubert is a medical malpractice attorney in South Africa with specific interest in babies and young children who suffer impairment as a result of negligence during the birthing process.

Most parents are not aware of their rights to recover damages in this regard and in addition to this they cannot afford litigation in order to prove negligence. Olof’s practice takes care of these individuals. He refers to his work as "trench fighting” and acting on behalf of vulnerable and indigent mothers and children against big corporate hospital groups as well as the Department of Health.

SA Life Magazine sat down with Olof, who is not only a proud businessman, but also a father and a doting husband to his wife, Chandre Goosen-Joubert, who is one of the 2020 Top 25 Mrs South Africa contestants.

What is one goal you hope to achieve this year?

To navigate the firm safely through these troubled times and in the process to keep delivering a sterling service to our clients.

How do you maintain healthy relationships with your friends, and family with such an in-demand and busy schedule?

It is all about balance. There is time for work and there is time to play.

What do you want to be remembered for in the law industry one day?

As someone who never compromised their principles.

Beyond work-life, what other hobbies do you enjoy?

I love driving my AC Cobra replica. I also love fly fishing, actually any type of fishing.

Who is one person that you look up to and draw inspiration from, and why?

My wife is the one person I know that inspires me. Where she comes from and where she is today, is a living example of persistence and perseverance. I draw inspiration from that.

What is the most inspirational moment, something that impacted you in your career?

In one matter I did against the Department of Health, after judgement was handed down, little Nikelo who was a bilateral above knee amputee, looked at me and she just knew we won despite her young age. She almost ran towards me with her new prosthesis. I embraced her and just started crying. They know. It does not matter how damaged they are, these little ones will look you in the eye, give you a smile and thank you with their souls.

Who has played an important part in your career thus far and why?

My wife. She always encourages me to keep doing what I do. It sometimes gets very emotional and strenuous - a good talk with her light’s things up again.

Knowing what you know now, what advice would you have given to yourself 5 years ago?

If you have doubt over a situation or a person, go investigate that feeling in depth. We usually have that little voice for a reason. Act on it. In terms of my practice, I would not change much.

What is one entrepreneurial/business skill you believe everyone should harbour and why?

Start small and slow. There is very little that remains long term if it comes too easy. Never forget where you come from. Stay as far as possible away from overdrafts on your business accounts. You are there to work for yourself, not the banks. Invest your money early albeit small amounts.

Stay humble. If you can’t handle small things, you will never be able to handle big things.

What don't people know about you?

I speak to my golden retriever named Hugo in a weird tone of voice when I cuddle him. That tone changes with different animals.

At OJ Law, they are committed to representing South African individuals, and the families of individuals, who have suffered serious injury or loss of life due to the carelessness or negligent conduct of others.

Follow the conversation online -

Website: https://ojlaw.co.za

Instagram: @ojlawsa