As part of Scheef & Stone’s Women’s Equality Day Spotlight Series, we asked our women attorneys to reflect on the experiences, challenges, and lessons that have shaped their careers. Shirley Rose shared a remarkable journey that spans continents, historic achievements, and decades of perseverance.
Her story is one of determination, resilience, and remaining authentic in the face of obstacles.
On April 12, 2000, Shirley became the youngest person ever admitted as a Barrister of the High Court of South Africa—a distinction she believes she still holds today. Years later, in 2017, she was appointed as an Acting Judge of the High Court of South Africa, becoming one of the youngest women to serve in that role.
While those accomplishments are significant milestones, Shirley’s path was not without challenges.
“When I began my career, I was one of the first female barristers,” Shirley recalls. “I was outright told that women were never meant to be at the bar.”
Rather than allowing those attitudes to define her future, Shirley used them as motivation.
“I always knew I would have to work harder and smarter to get ahead, and through unyielding determination and hard work, I soon outpaced the males that looked down on me and became an opponent they feared.”
For Shirley, one lesson has remained constant throughout her career:
“One advantage you have over anyone is time. If you put in the time and the effort, you can do anything.”
Throughout her professional journey, Shirley benefited from the guidance of mentors who helped shape her development as an advocate and leader. She credits Judge Allan Horwitz, Judge Brian Spilg, and Lucas van Tonder S.C. as influential figures during her years practicing in South Africa. After relocating and beginning her legal career in Texas, she found support from Scheef & Stone attorneys Kate Valent and Brent Kugler.
“When I started practicing in Texas, Kate Valent and Brent Kugler took me under their wings and showed me the local ropes. I will forever be grateful to them.”
When asked what advice she would give to young women entering the legal profession today, Shirley’s answer is both practical and empowering.
“Embrace who you are and play to your strengths. Do not try to be like a man. Stand in your feminine power and support the women around you.”
Her perspective on work-life balance is equally candid.
“Balance? What is that?” she jokes.
Shirley acknowledges that her career required significant commitment and that her path may not look like everyone else’s.
“I married very late in life and never had children because I was always too focused on my career. In hindsight, I would not change a thing.”
For Shirley, success is not about following someone else’s definition of fulfillment.
“Not all of us have to follow the same path, and that’s okay, as long as it is what you choose. Do not feel pressured to do anything that is not authentic to you simply because everyone else is doing it.”
She also emphasizes the importance of intentionally making time for the people and priorities that matter most.
“The only way I have found to be effective is to block off time in my calendar just as I would for a business meeting. Remember, what you give attention to grows, and the only one who should be deciding where your attention goes is you.”
As Scheef & Stone recognize Women’s Equality Day, Shirley’s story serves as a reminder that meaningful progress is often achieved by those willing to challenge expectations, persevere through adversity, and remain true to themselves along the way.
