A LEGACY isn’t built overnight. It takes years of toiling the soil, and only then can one reap its harvest. Gerrit and Eunice Duvenage embarked on a journey from Carletonville in 1992 to establish a legal firm in a foreign territory with a vision of making a difference.
“As a result of the impending announcement of the extension of Alusaf with the new operating smelter, which is now known as South 32, and the limited number of attorney firms, only two at the time, we decided that Richards Bay is the place to be,” explained Duvenage.
Having set their sights on Richards Bay, a thriving industrial town at the time, Duvenage bought a smaller branch office of a firm in Empangeni – and the rest is history. From humble beginnings in a small office above Alpha Café with a staff complement of three, Duvenage Attorneys have flourished and grown to occupy a whole floor in the Old Mutual Building with a staff complement of four legal practitioners, one candidate legal practitioner, and 18 support staff.
An active member of the community
Running a legal firm is no small feat. It takes understanding the local environment and the ever-evolving needs of their clients. Making a difference in the lives of their clients and the communities they serve is at the centre of their business model, which hasn’t changed in the last three decades.
Over the years, Duvenage has proved to be an extremely agile leader, steering and navigating his ship through many different economic landscapes. Changing technology made a huge impact on the business in providing excellent service to their clients, especially during Covid-19. The firm has also expanded its footprint, serving the communities of Mtubatuba and Hluhluwe.
In addition to serving in spheres where his children were involved, Duvenage was a member of various school governing bodies, held leadership positions at local CPFs, was a member of the Zululand legal circle, a Small Claim’s Court Commissioner, and is a member of FEDSAS’ national council. Duvenage Attorneys strives to serve the Richards Bay community and clients with passion, compassion and respect, and this is reflected in the entire team.
Sharing the same vision
Throughout this journey, Duvenage is particularly grateful for his wife Eunice’s support, who has been by his side since the beginning, making numerous sacrifices to allow him to pursue his dreams.
The unwavering support of his wife and children, dedicated staff, and team, as well as God’s grace, allowed Duvenage to sustain and thrive in business through difficult times.
“At work we are family and we look after each other, sharing the same vision.”
Throughout their journey, Duvenage explained that they have remained true to their morals and values, including providing excellent service to clients, serving the community and clients with integrity, adhering to the ethical rules of their profession, and making a positive difference in their clients’ lives. The team at Duvenage Attorneys look forward to the next 30 years of excellence!
