Page 9 - KZN Business Sense 10.3

BALANCING MEDICINE AND PASSION

FOR EMPOWERMENT

Melissa Mungroo facing financial hurdles, she practice. Despite the challenges,
refused to let obstacles deter her including the loss of patients, she
dreams. Thanks to the support of finds solace in the meaningful
r Nompumelelo Nkosi- the Office of the Premier bursary connections she forms with her
Ntombela, affectionately scheme, Nkosi-Ntombela was patients. From shared tears to
Dknown as Dr Lelo, is not able to navigate the financial shared laughter, she cherishes the
your typical medical practitioner. challenges and focus on her human moments that transcend
At 30 years old, she embodies a studies. the clinical setting. Whether it’s
unique blend of healing hands the simple joy of a child’s visit
and a heart dedicated to social Reflecting on her time at or the pride in seeing a mentee
change. UKZN, she acknowledges succeed, these interactions
the academic rigours of
Born and raised in Mandeni, medical school but highlights remind her of the profound
the UKZN alumnus’s journey the need for comprehensive impact she has on the lives of
to becoming a medical doctor training beyond the traditional others.
was marked by challenges and curriculum. She advocates for Her passion for adolescent
triumphs. Growing up in a greater emphasis on practical care and lifestyle medicine is
family of five siblings, she was skills such as running a medical evident in her ongoing pursuit
instilled with values of respect, practice, managing finances, and of knowledge and involvement
humility, and patience – qualities prioritising mental health – a in public health initiatives. She
she continues to carry with her topic close to her heart. recently embarked on a Diploma
today. Her academic journey in Advanced Aesthetic Medicine
began at Mandeni Academy and After graduating with her and remains committed to
later led her to Stanger High Bachelor of Medicine and addressing the unique healthcare
School in KwaDukuza, where she Surgery (MBCHB), she founded needs of adolescents – a
excelled as head girl and received Lelani Private Clinic in population often overlooked in
accolades for her outstanding Pietermaritzburg, a testament traditional medical settings.
academic achievements. to her entrepreneurial spirit
and commitment to providing Despite the challenges she
Upon completing her matric, holistic healthcare services. The faces, Nkosi-Ntombela remains
Nkosi-Ntombela embarked on clinic boasts a multidisciplinary steadfast in her dedication
her medical education at the team offering a range of medical to making a difference in the
prestigious Nelson Mandela specialties, including aesthetics healthcare landscape. Her advice
School of Medicine at the and mental health support. to aspiring medical students
University of KwaZulu-Natal echoes her own journey – ‘never
(UKZN). However, her passion Beyond her clinical practice, give up, seek help when needed,
for the entertainment industry Nkosi-Ntombela is the driving and prioritise self-care above all
initially cast a shadow on her force behind the Dr Lelo Nkosi else’.
medical aspirations. Despite her Foundation, an NGO dedicated
inner conflict, she persevered, to empowering young girls and As she looks to the future,
fuelled by the unwavering tackling social issues such as she envisions a healthcare
support of her family, especially teenage pregnancy. Through system where empowerment,
her parents, who encouraged her initiatives like the Ngimuhle prevention, and compassion
to pursue both medicine and her Campaign, she aims to instil are at the forefront. With her
creative endeavours. confidence in disadvantaged unwavering determination and
youth and provide essential compassionate spirit, Nkosi-
Throughout her medical school support to vulnerable Ntombela is not just a doctor;
years, she juggled her studies communities. she’s a beacon of hope and
with auditions, modelling change in her community and
gigs, and dance performances, Nkosi-Ntombela reflects on beyond.
showcasing her determination to the poignant moments she
excel in multiple spheres. Despite encounters daily in her medical Nkosi-Ntombela advocates
for continued support and
donations to ensure the UKZN
Foundation’s sustainability and
its ongoing mission to empower
students and to break down
barriers to success.
“The UKZN Foundation is
a game changer. It provides
financial resources to its
students which closes many gaps
and creates a better learning
platform for students, fighting
food insecurity and many
other social ill related issues. I
encourage people to donate in
whichever way they can to help
the Foundation raise funds for
worthy student and university
causes and projects.’’ 

T: +27 (0)31 260 2389
E: foundation@ukzn.ac.za
W: www.foundation.ukzn.ac.za

Dr Nompumelelo Nkosi-Ntombela, a.k.a. Dr Lelo

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