Adv. Charlene Labuschagne

Charlene Labuschagne is a commercial mediator with a multidisciplinary background spanning law, mediation, public sector communication, and medical sciences. With nearly 18 years of legal practice and more than 17 years of mediation experience, she offers clients a rare blend of legal insight, interpersonal skills development, and cross‑sector understanding.

She holds a BA in English and Communication Science (UNISA), an LLB, and earlier scientific qualifications including a BSc and MSc in Nuclear Medicine from the University of Pretoria. This unique academic foundation enables her to bridge the worlds of law, medicine, and communication—making her particularly adept in medico‑legal matters. Charlene also holds international English‑language teaching qualifications (CELTA – Cambridge accredited, and TEFL) and has taught in culturally diverse environments, including Hong Kong.

Her career includes significant contributions in strategic communication, change management, crisis response, and intergovernmental relations. Notably, she served as media liaison during the 1994 Stilfontein mining disaster. She has held senior roles within the South African civil service and has extensive experience fostering trust, transparency, and collaboration among diverse stakeholders.

Charlene is accredited as a commercial mediator by both Conflict Dynamics and the Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR). She has been a member of the South African Association of Mediators (SAAM), serving as its Vice‑Chairperson (2019–2020). She has completed the SAMLA Foundational Medico‑Legal Training course, served on the SAMLA board, completed the Law Society’s Certificate in Medical Law, and has undergone extensive training in Family Law Mediation.

In addition to her professional practice, Charlene Labuschagne is the founding member and a Training Director of Mediation Pan African, a training organisation dedicated to advancing mediation standards and skills across the continent. Her vision is to strengthen conflict‑resolution capacity, promote dialogue, and foster peaceful solutions across diverse sectors in Africa.