An audiologist’s journey forged in the face of unemployment

The dream of becoming a medical professional is a noble one, driven by a desire to heal and help.

But what happens when that dream is met with the harsh reality of a struggling job market?

For Kirshni Dalvin Ramen, the answer wasn’t to give up, but to create. Her inspiring journey from unemployed graduate to the founder of Lifetime Audiology is a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to find opportunity even in challenging times.

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Driven by a desire to improve lives, the student initially envisioned a traditional medical career. However, upon graduation, she was confronted with the stark reality of limited opportunities and a significant gap in accessible hearing care, particularly in underserved communities.

Her two-year period of unemployment was undeniably difficult, marked by uncertainty and self-doubt. Yet, it was during this time, while running a small arts and crafts business to make ends meet, that the seeds of entrepreneurship were sown. This experience instilled valuable lessons in resourcefulness and resilience, providing the foundation for her future venture.

Launching a healthcare business with no formal business background presented numerous hurdles. From navigating complex registrations and compliance to mastering pricing structures and marketing, the journey has been a steep learning curve.

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“Everything was unfamiliar – business registration, compliance, pricing structures, marketing, and dealing with medical aids,” she said. “I am learning on the go while trying to stay focused on delivering quality care. There are times it felt overwhelming, but I see every challenge as a learning curve. I am growing with the business, one step at a time.”

Lifetime Audiology operates a unique hybrid model, combining a traditional practice in Fourways with a vital mobile service across Gauteng. This mobile component was born from a deep understanding of the barriers preventing many from accessing care, such as transport issues and financial constraints. By taking services directly to homes, schools, and community centres, Lifetime Audiology is actively bridging the accessibility gap.

Despite the lack of formal business training, she has relied heavily on mentorship, online resources, and the invaluable lessons learned through trial and error.

Collaborations, such as supervising audiology students at the University of the Witwatersrand’s Alexandra University Health Care Clinic, have been instrumental. These partnerships offer practical training opportunities for the next generation while keeping Lifetime Audiology connected to current research.

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While South Africa’s unemployment crisis presents challenges, particularly in terms of patient affordability, it has also highlighted the urgent need for accessible healthcare solutions. Ramen’s journey is a powerful testament to the potential for skilled professionals to become creators and problem-solvers, demonstrating that with purpose, a willingness to learn, and courage, impactful businesses can be built, even in the face of adversity.

Her advice to aspiring healthcare entrepreneurs is simple yet profound: “Start where you are, build as you go, and trust that what you have to offer is valuable.”

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