Women on the Move: Achieving your DREAM, Dr Mankalimeng Makanda

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Growing up, Dr Mankalimeng Makanda, Cure Day Hospitals Bloemfontein somehow knew that she was made to be a doctor and promised herself that she would one day go to medical school to pursue her dream. Passionate about the medical industry, Dr Mankalimeng describes her occupation as a calling. She grew up on a farm with her grandparents and after completing her school career she trained as a nurse at Sebokeng Hospital under Natalspruit Nursing Training College in Germiston. She later on did midwifery at Livingstone Hospital in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha).

She resigned from nursing in 1998 and went to the Medical University of South Africa (Medunsa) in Pretoria. “I grew up in a poor family but my mom wanted us to be educated. The financial constraints did not stop our mom to work and take us to school. She wanted us to have better lives.”

Dr Mankalimeng, who now practices as an anaesthetist in the private sector, says medicine in general has been a male dominated profession with a few female anaesthesiologists. “I am proud to say I am the only black female anaesthesiologist in Bloemfontein. One of the two I know, is still working in state hospitals locally. Most of the surgeons I work with are male specialists and I know they are extremely happy about my work. I am really respected for the oomph and passion I have for my work and the consideration I have for both patients and acquaintances at the hospitals and day clinics where I work.”

When she is not saving lives, Dr Mankalimeng spends her time with her partner. “I love gardening and travelling internationally as well.” Dr Mankalimeng shares that one should never make the mistake to underestimate oneself and to follow one’s heart. “Age and gender should never stop you from achieving your dream. You are the best and no one is better than you are. Do not measure yourself according to what other people think of you. Your mind is at the right place.”

Dr Mankalimeng Makanda, Cure Day Hospitals Bloemfontein, Brandwag,
Tel: 051 072 0018, [email protected]

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