At ESI Attorneys, we believe in celebrating the dedication and personal journeys of our team members. This month, we are thrilled to spotlight Michelle Kotze, a key member of our Developments department.
Michelle’s roots are deeply embedded in the picturesque town of Paarl, where she was born and raised. She attended La Rochelle Girls’ School from pre-school through to matric. Reflecting on her childhood, Michelle fondly recalls days spent outdoors, swimming in the Berg River and riding her bicycle through the neighbourhood. Dance and music played a major role in her life from a young age, with ballet and modern dance beginning at just three years old and music lessons starting at seven.
In 1997, Michelle embarked on her professional journey, joining Cluver Markotter Attorneys after completing her Paralegal Diploma at Boland College in Stellenbosch. Since then, she has forged a successful career in the legal industry, working with some of South Africa’s most prestigious law firms. Today, Michelle is an integral part of our Developments department at ESI Attorneys. She thrives on keeping developers, purchasers, and other key players in property transactions happy and her attention to detail ensures that everything from reporting to finances runs smoothly. Her commitment to client service and always going the extra mile is what makes her stand out in her role.
Beyond her career, Michelle finds her greatest pride in her role as a mother. She and her husband, Christo, have been married for nearly 13 years and are parents to their beautiful 9-year-old daughter, Gabriella. Balancing a demanding career with motherhood, Michelle sees being a role model to her daughter as her most significant achievement.
When asked about her life philosophy, Michelle shared that she values treating every person she encounters with respect and dignity. Her life is shaped by strength, perseverance, and resilience, values she carries with her in everything she does. In her spare time, Michelle enjoys relaxing with documentaries and biographical films on Netflix, attending live music shows and exploring the outdoors through hikes on Paarl Mountain with her family.
Michelle’s dedication to her work and her warm, compassionate nature makes her a treasured part of the ESI Attorneys family. We are proud to have her on our team and look forward to her continued contributions to the firm’s success.