Kwa-Thema – At 31 years old, Dr Xola Nondlazi has already lived through the kind of hardships that could have easily broken her spirit.

Instead, they shaped her into a compassionate doctor determined to make a difference in the communities she serves.

Born in Gauteng and raised between the Eastern Cape and Ekurhuleni, Nondlazi’s path to medicine was anything but easy.

Although becoming a doctor had always been her dream, financial struggles nearly stood in the way of her future.

“Medicine was always what I wanted to do. Even as a child, I was never scared of hospitals or injuries. I always knew I wanted to help people,” says Nondlazi.

Nondlazi first completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Life Sciences at Sefako Makgatho University because it was the only course available then, and was later accepted into medicine.

The doctor describes her university years as some of the most difficult periods of her life. Raised by a single mother who worked temporary jobs through agencies, Nondlazi often had to survive with very little while trying to focus on her studies.

Without money for textbooks, a laptop or even proper essentials, she spent long hours studying in the library until late at night.

Despite the hardships, she persevered, supported by close friends and, eventually, NSFAS assistance, which she credits with helping her complete her studies.

“That was the first time I bought things like a fridge and a microwave for myself at university,” she says.

Her journey into medicine eventually led her to complete her internship at Pholosong Hospital, where she worked in demanding departments such as internal medicine, surgery and casualty.

Nondlazi said working in public healthcare exposed her to the realities facing many South African communities, including substance abuse, mental health struggles and chronic illnesses.

At that time, while working there, she realised what communities deal with every day. She also developed a deep appreciation for nurses and clinic staff during her time working in clinics around the community.

“That’s where you really see the importance of nurses. They do incredible work, and many clinics would struggle without them,” she says.

ALSO READ: Volunteerism strengthens communities through active citizenship

Now serving at a practice in Kwa-Thema, Nondlazi says what she values most is the connection she builds with patients.

“The community is very appreciative. When you take your time to explain things to patients, they listen, and they remember,” says the young doctor.

She believes one of the biggest challenges in healthcare is that patients often feel intimidated or rushed during consultations.

Nondlazi explains that patients are scared to speak because healthcare workers are always in a hurry.

“Sometimes people just need someone to talk to them properly and explain things in a way they understand,” she says.

For Nondlazi, being a doctor goes beyond prescribing medication. She adds that healing is not always about giving medicine. Sometimes it’s asking someone how they are doing and really listening.

Despite the pressures facing doctors in South Africa’s strained healthcare system, Nondlazi remains committed to her calling. She describes a gift to heal people.

“The fact that you can make a difference in someone’s life is what keeps you going.”

ALSO READ: Kwatsaduza retired nurses mark International Nurses Day with celebration and gratitude