Thato Mosehle is a 29-year-old medical doctor based in Bloemfontein. She is a well-known public figure who seamlessly balances careers in medicine, pageantry, and makeup artistry.
“The most rewarding aspect is knowing that you contribute to the well-being of people daily.”
Thato describes herself as a vibrant lady. Her passion for the things she has perused began with her need to make a meaningful impact in the world.
“I decided to challenge my potential,” Thato reflects. “I qualified as a medical doctor in 2018 from the University of the Free State. In 2020, I was crowned Miss South Africa 1st runner-up, and later represented South Africa in Poland as Miss Supranational South Africa. I returned as the 2nd runner-up at the international Miss Supranational pageant.”
Her decision to pursue medicine was driven by a desire to help others. “I’ve always had a desire to put a smile on people’s faces,” she explains.
“Growing up, I never felt represented in the medical field. As I researched various careers, I saw how fitting being a doctor would be for me. No one in my family or close family friends was a doctor, so my guidance came from what I saw on TV and read about. The most rewarding aspect is knowing that you contribute to the well-being of people daily. We don’t always get a thank you, but when it happens, it’s an even greater reward.”
Despite the demanding nature of her medical career, Thato has managed to balance her roles as a doctor, model, and makeup artist. “At the moment, I’m balancing it amazingly,” she notes.
“I am currently working as a locum doctor in general practice and in anaesthesia, which means I am in control of my schedule. It’s about knowing your priorities and honestly allocating time according to what matters the most on a daily basis.”
Thato’s experience in pageantry has significantly influenced both her personal and professional life. “It exposed me to a lot of like-minded young people who have the desire to contribute a positive change in society,” she shares.
“The connections and friendships I’ve established through pageantry have been invaluable. In terms of my professional life, I had the opportunity to work closely with the government during Covid-19 as their vaccine champion. This experience opened various doors, including the possibility of starting my own health initiative. Social media influencing is also a parallel career of mine that I enjoy because of the interaction with people who have chosen to follow me on my journey.”
A key intersection between Thato’s medical career and her role as a beauty and health advocate lies in her commitment to public education. “Being a doctor opens up a lot of opportunities and expectations,” she says.
“One such expectation is that a doctor must care for their patients beyond the consultation room or hospital. This is where my medical career meets the world of glitz and glamour. For example, I started a ‘Tuesday Talks with Thato’ series, where I could educate the public about basic health matters that affect most of us but are rarely discussed. The series received overwhelming support, and I am in the process of reviving it due to the positive impact the initial episodes had on society.”
Her venture into the world of makeup began as a personal pursuit during her pageantry days. “I took an interest in makeup in 2016 when I was in a pageant with 16 finalists. We had to wait for one makeup artist to do our makeup, and one of my flaws is that I tend to be impatient,” Thato recalls.
“I decided to learn to do my own makeup, and the more I practiced, the more I fell in love with the artistry.”
This passion led her to start Beautt Makeup, formalising her love for makeup. “I often have early mornings to fit in makeup clients before my medical shifts, but I don’t mind at all!”
Maintaining a balance between her professional commitments and family life is another crucial aspect of Thato’s journey.
“I recently got married in 2022, so as of late my husband is my number one supporter,” she shares. “Despite him having an even busier schedule we intentionally make an effort to spend as much quality time as possible. I’ve been blessed to have parents that have always invested in whatever dreams I’ve had. I’m very excited to be expanding our little new family with my husband.”
Living in Bloemfontein has also contributed to Thato’s personal and professional growth. “I love the fact that I can make it anywhere in Bloemfontein within 15 minutes,” she says. “It’s a growing city with the right balance of quiet and entertainment—a great place to raise a family too. I’m in the process of exploring every little aspect of the city. Any new suggestions will be appreciated!”
Juggling multiple roles has not been without its challenges. “Imposter syndrome tried to creep in, but I’m always reassuring myself that I do belong,” she admits. “Whenever I feel overwhelmed, I am the first to pick up the phone and call someone for help. Some challenges require extreme self-discipline, especially when I’m studying for an upcoming course. My friends and husband know that I call them at every minor inconvenience.”
For young women who aspire to pursue multiple passions, Thato offers valuable advice: “You won’t know it’s possible until you try it. You’re not one-dimensional. You’re a multifaceted individual. Whenever you have an interest in something, it’s not random – try it and see where your potential takes you!”
Text: Justine Fortuin Photographs: Gypseenia Lion
