South African construction lawyer named a finalist for the 2025 TransUnion Rising Star Awards

WMN Attorneys Inc senior associate Tamlynn Caelers-Avis and her fellow finalists in the Professional Services category of the 2025 TransUnion Rising Star Awards are exceptional young professionals who are excelling in their careers and driving meaningful change in their organisations as well as their industries, said Vanessa Goonahsylin, Chief HR Director at awards sponsor Accenture South Africa.

“These finalists represent the future of professional services, bold thinkers, passionate leaders, and true change makers,” said Goonahsylin during the official announcement video. “Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition. Your hard work, dedication, as well as leadership, are truly inspiring. We celebrate your journey, your impact, and the path you are paving for future professionals in this industry.”

Tamlynn was named as a finalist alongside mechanical engineer Istiaan Lubbe of Zutari, town and regional planner Kiara Rampaul of Zimanga Urban and Rural Design, Accenture associate manager Viviennne Mseka, and senior business development manager Masetuka Ntsoreng of global law firm DLA Piper.

The Rising Star Programme was established to recognise, celebrate, and connect talented young people who have a capacity for achievement and success and who contribute in an inspirational manner to the future of South Africa.

Through a rigorous judging process, finalists are assessed on key criteria such as vision, agility, and responsible engagement. “The qualities that elevate Rising Stars to the top go beyond performance and technical excellence,” says the awards. “Rising Stars are polished, brilliant individuals with tremendous promise and great talent who excel for reasons that go far beyond their technical abilities alone.”

A construction law and litigation specialist, Tamlynn is a senior associate at WMN Attorneys Inc, a 100% black female owned law firm providing advice on the strategic delivery of infrastructure, natural resources, and technology projects across Africa.

Following the announcement, Tamlynn shared she was “so proud and grateful” for being named a 2025 Rising Stars finalist, while acknowledging she didn’t do it alone, with her team at WMN Attorneys a crucial part of her development as an attorney.

She praised her colleagues and mentors at WMN Attorneys - Gloria Leyka, Nompilo Mzimela, Nyaradzai Magumise, Matlhatsi Motau, and firm founder Zama Ngcobo - for their knowledge, insights, and ongoing support and example, including rallying in tough times, and how to balance being a powerhouse lawyer and working mother.

“Our team is fantastic and I appreciate the fact that we engage the way that we do,” said Tamlynn. “WMN Attorneys Inc. is an amazing firm… to be part of this amazing team of women is something I am eternally proud of… thank you for believing in me.”

Being part of the TransUnion Rising Star Awards is an affirming and transformative journey that prompts meaningful self-relection, said Dr Julia Choate, a partner at Bowmans who was a finalist last year in the Professional Services category.

“It reminded me of the value in pausing to acknowledge growth,” said Choate, noting that connecting with others who are passionate about impact was “incredibly energising”, with the experience reigniting her commitment to leadership rooted in purpose, and leaving her more connected to her own path, and the nation’s future.

The TransUnion Rising Star Awards help build the next generation of South Africa’s business leaders, celebrating exceptional talents aged 28-40. They aren’t just about recognition — they’re a launchpad for mentorship, exposure, and real growth.