To mark International Nurses Day on 12 May, we spoke to two remarkable nurses who are making a meaningful difference on the North Coast.
Bongi Mbonambi and Busi Mhlongo are part of the dedicated team at Beacon of Care, a non-profit organisation that provides compassionate home-based palliative care to patients in the community.
Bongi Mbonambi
What inspired you to become a nurse?
I have always had a passion for providing care, support and comfort to patients, their families and the wider community. Nursing allows me to make a real difference in people’s lives.
What do you love most about your job?
I feel that I am making a real difference every day. Nursing is about compassion, caring and creating positive change in people’s lives.
Can you share a memorable moment from your nursing career?
One of my most memorable experiences was when Sister Busi had to take time off for personal reasons and I was caring for patients on my own. It pushed me to become stronger and more confident. I was supporting critically ill patients at the end of their lives, and I learned how to face those challenges while reassuring both the patient and their families. I’m very grateful for the support I received from Dr Candice Green and our social worker Sthabile during that time.
How do you stay motivated during challenging days?
I try not to be too hard on myself and I lean on the support of my team.
What’s one fun fact about you?
If something gets too boring, I have a strange talent – I can actually fall asleep and start snoring, even during a serious family discussion!
Busi Mhlongo
What inspired you to become a nurse?
I have been a professional nurse for 45 years. What has always inspired me is compassion and the desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of patients and their families.
What do you love most about your work?
I love building strong relationships with patients, families and colleagues. Supporting one another creates a positive environment, and it means we can provide the best possible care to those who need it most.
Can you share a memorable moment from your career?
In 2023, I visited a patient at his home who had returned from the clinic very upset because he hadn’t been given food and was struggling to take his medication. I reassured him that Beacon of Care could help and arranged for Futurelife cereal so he could take his medication on a full stomach. Sometimes patients don’t even have basic items like blankets, and we are able to provide those too. Small acts of care can make a very big difference.
How do you stay motivated on difficult days?
I focus on building strong support systems and see challenges as opportunities to grow. I set small, achievable goals and take things one step at a time.
What’s a fun fact about you?
I love sharing funny life stories with others. Making someone laugh can lift their spirits and help build confidence and connection.
Who is Beacon of Care?
Beacon of Care is a North Coast-based non-profit providing home-based palliative care for patients facing life-threatening illness. Their multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals supports patients and families with medical, emotional and psychosocial care, with the aim of relieving suffering, improving quality of life, and restoring dignity in a familiar home environment. Operating across areas from Westbrook to Shakaskraal, Beacon of Care also extends support and guidance to families, ensuring compassionate, patient-centred care throughout each stage of the journey.
Details: www.beaconofcare.co.za
