Umthambeka woman qualifies as medical doctor with distinction

Coming from an impoverished family didn’t deter her dreams of building a better future for herself and her family.

Twenty-five-year-old Gugu Racaza’s life is a good example of a story with a happy ending.

Born and bred in Umthambeka section, Tembisa, Racaza recently successfully completed her medical degree (MBChB Medicine) at the University of Pretoria with distinctions in most of her modules.

She took an official oath as a medical doctor and will serve her internship at the Tshwane-based Steve Biko Academic Hospital.

“I know many people think that if you study medicine, you are probably coming from a well-off family. But that is not always true, especially in my case.

“I was raised by a single, unemployed mother who used to sell vetkoeks just to make ends meet.

“She still sells food at home because the situation hasn’t completely changed,” Racaza said.

“It is not easy coming from such a background, but because I knew what I wanted to achieve in life I persevered and worked extra hard to achieve my goal.

“I knew I had only one shot at success and I therefore needed to work hard to get there,” she said.

At school, Racaza was a smart learner and it wasn’t a surprise that she passed her matric with flying colours and went on to pursue a career in medicine.

“I was fortunate to have been awarded a full bursary to further my studies. I knew that since I was studying on a bursary, I needed to work hard and concentrate on my studies, and in the end I passed with flying colours. I am now a doctor.

“I want to tell others who are in the same boat I was while growing up that it is possible to achieve greatness,” she said.

“I hope my story will inspire many other children from disadvantaged backgrounds that it is doable and possible. All they need to do is focus and keep their eyes on the prize, no matter the circumstances.

“I want others to look at my life and be motivated and inspired by it. I have been through a lot and have so many things to share, but for now I just wanted to remind and encourage young people, especially from Tembisa, that it doesn’t matter where you come from.

“They should keep in mind that it takes commitment and dedication to achieve greatness,” said Racaza.

Her mother, Anastasia Racaza, said she was on cloud nine and felt like the proudest mother on earth when her daughter graduated.

“God has been good to my child and I will forever be grateful. I am proud of all her successes and I am happy that her children will not grow up the way she grew up. I am really happy for her,” she said.