Author: Biénne Huisman
Professor Glenda Gray, a renowned pediatrician and HIV vaccinologist, steps down after a decade as the head of South Africa’s Medical Research Council (SAMRC). Known for her fearlessness in advocating for scientific research funding, Gray plans to return to hands-on scientific work. Gray’s upbringing in Boksburg shaped her determination to make a difference through research. She believes that investing more in scientific research is crucial for improving health outcomes, highlighting the importance of evidence-based solutions such as vaccines and interventions for diseases like HIV. Despite facing challenges and controversies throughout her career, including a public disagreement with a former health…
Sister Leonie Weyers at the Saartjie Baartman Centre. (Nasief Manie/Spotlight) Sister Leonie Weyers is the sole full-time nurse at the Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women and Children. She goes beyond caregiving to help her patients “feel beautiful” again. Weyers works at the shelter in Manenberg, known for gang warfare, providing refuge to women and children fleeing violence. The centre offers a 10-bed substance abuse inpatient service for women and children and is staffed mostly by women. Weyers, a 25-year-old nurse, describes the satisfaction of her work and the impact it has on the community. The facility offers various services, including…
Dr. Kgosi Letlape: From Ophthalmologist to ActionSA MP Dr. Kgosi Letlape, South Africa’s first black ophthalmologist, made headlines when he left the ANC and joined ActionSA, becoming a Member of Parliament and serving on the Portfolio Committee on Health. In an interview with Spotlight, Letlape opened up about his decision, healthcare in the country, gender-based violence, and the tragic murder of his daughter, Thembekile. Just a day after the elections, Letlape found his daughter stabbed to death at her boyfriend’s home in Fourways. The loss has deeply impacted him, as he now wears a pin with her face on it,…
Professor Shabir Madhi has made significant contributions to the field of healthcare, particularly in the realm of vaccines. He gained recognition for leading the first Covid-19 vaccine clinical trials in Africa, advocating for equitable vaccine access and challenging governmental communication strategies. Beyond Covid-19, Madhi’s work in paediatric infectious diseases has saved countless lives, shaping global immunisation policies and developing vaccines to protect vulnerable populations. Despite facing challenges in South Africa’s healthcare system, Madhi continues to strive for impactful change. His leadership style, influenced by his activist roots, is characterized by fearlessly speaking out against injustices. Whether it’s advocating for children’s…