RISING WOMAN 2025; April: Empowering women and transforming legal practice

Dar es Salaam. April Ernest is a distinguished legal professional, holding a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from Saint Augustine University of Tanzania in Mwanza.

Her pursuit of excellence did not stop there; she furthered her education with a postgraduate diploma in legal practice and earned certification in Alternative Dispute Resolution from the Tanzania Institute of Arbitrators.

This robust educational foundation has empowered her to build a successful career in law and investment consultancy.

April’s journey in the legal realm is driven by an unwavering commitment to providing clear, effective legal support to families, individuals and peers navigating the intricate landscapes of investment and economic activity in Tanzania. She aspires to be a reliable voice and invaluable resource for those who find themselves without guidance.

Inspired by the transformative role lawyers play in shaping policies and defending business interests, April embraced the intellectual rigours of the legal profession, motivated by her desire to create meaningful change.

Throughout her career, April has been a fervent advocate for other women, offering mentorship, sharing opportunities, and nurturing an inclusive workplace culture. She actively engages in workshops and seminars designed to empower women in the legal field, creating a supportive environment where young female lawyers can thrive.

She is dedicated to fostering a safe mental health space for her team, championing hiring initiatives and business development opportunities that empower women to shine. She encourages open dialogue and collaborative efforts among her female colleagues, helping them navigate the complexities of  their profession.

The initiative “Accelerate Her Impact” resonates profoundly with April, underscoring the urgent need to amplify women’s voices and contributions across all sectors, including law. She believes it is crucial not only to celebrate women’s achievements but also to actively build systems that promote their advancement. By championing women’s initiatives and advocating for equitable practices, we can unlock their potential and accelerate their impact.  Currently, April is mentoring three remarkable women at various stages of their legal careers, offering guidance in career development, overcoming workplace challenges, and building vital professional networks. The privilege of witnessing their growth and success is a source of genuine fulfilment for her.

April recognises that women often face significant challenges in aspiring to leadership positions, including gender bias, underrepresentation in senior roles, and the intricate balancing of professional and personal commitments.

Systemic obstacles and a lack of mentorship further complicate their career trajectories. Organisations in Tanzania must confront these barriers to cultivate a more equitable and inclusive workplace. Her advice to aspiring women leaders is to embrace proactive growth—pursuing leadership training, seeking mentors, and advocating passionately for themselves. Building a strong professional network is essential, as meaningful connections can open doors and provide steadfast support. April emphasises that confidence in one’s abilities, combined with resilience in the face of challenges, are critical to achieving leadership roles. Often, “confidence, humility, and a smile can open more doors than one might imagine.

“A powerful source of inspiration for me has always been my strong-willed mother, a resilient widow who raised five children,” she said.

April has witnessed her mother’s unwavering dedication, selflessness, and proactive commitment to addressing the needs of women and children in her community.

Now managing a local natural skincare brand, her mother exemplifies the belief that one can excel across diverse fields and effect transformative change through sheer determination

Her mother’s devotion to mentoring and uplifting women in their village, church, and community through vocational training has instilled in April a profound desire to challenge systemic barriers and provide thoughtful advocacy

April stands out as a dynamic and results-oriented Investment Advisory Lawyer in Tanzania, celebrated for her expertise in corporate, commercial, and investment law. As the founder of Novus Law & Advisory Group—a pioneering firm with a footprint in both Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar—April is steadfast in her commitment to reshaping the legal landscape with innovative, client-centric solutions.

With nearly a decade of extensive experience in the legal and investment consultancy sectors, April artfully combines profound theoretical knowledge with practical insights to navigate the complexities of doing business in Tanzania.

Her compelling storytelling approach enhances her ability to connect with clients and stakeholders, enabling her to provide unique perspectives on the challenges and opportunities within the vibrant Tanzanian business environment.

April has a proven track record of delivering customized legal and compliance advice to a diverse clientele that includes both individuals and corporations.

Her comprehensive services encompass contract review and preparation, guidance on foreign investments and loans, and conducting meticulous risk assessments in sectors such as mining and engineering. Furthermore, she specialises in company incorporation and post-incorporation support, ensuring her clients are well-informed about the latest legal developments and business trends in Tanzania. 

Through her dedication and expertise, Ms April stands as a beacon of empowerment in the legal profession, poised to inspire future generations of women leaders.