Professor Hennie Botha is a renowned gynaecological oncologist and the Executive Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Stellenbosch University. A leading clinician, teacher, mentor and researcher, with a particular interest in cervical cancer treatment and prevention.

In this episode of Awakening Doctor, Prof Botha joins Dr Maria Christodoulou to reflect on his leadership journey and medical career. From his early clinical years at a small rural hospital in Malawi to leading an academic department through a time of socio-political transformation, he shares thoughtful insights into the challenges and rewards of academic leadership, and the cultural shifts he has witnessed in medicine over time.

Together, we explore the non-linear path of a medical career, the emotional complexity of working with cancer patients, and the importance of healthy boundaries for navigating grief as a clinician. We also reflect on the restorative power of music and mountains, and the role of humility, openness, and curiosity in facilitating meaningful change.

From quiet introspection to systemic transformation, this episode offers a measured yet powerful perspective on what it means to lead, to serve, and to grow - both as a clinician and as a human being. Join us for a thoughtful reminder that medicine is never just medical; it’s also personal, relational, and political.

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Support the show

If you enjoy these conversations and would like to support our work, please consider donating to our podcast fund using the link above. Your contribution helps us cover production costs and keep bringing you great content. No amount is too small and your support means the world to us. Thank you!

Credits:
Hosted by Dr Maria Christodoulou
Produced and edited by Amy Kaye

Follow us on Social Media:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awakeningdoctor/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AwakeningDoctor

Website: https://www.awakeningdoctor.com/podcast

Thank you for listening!

Servant leadership is not a job description; it’s a way of being. One that Professor Beth Engelbrecht has embodied with rare clarity and quiet conviction across more than three decades of public service in South Africa.

In this episode of Awakening Doctor, we learn about her extraordinary personal and professional journey from young district surgeon to transformative leader shaping a more ethical and resilient health system.

With honesty and humility, Prof. Engelbrecht reflects on the moments of awakening that have directed the course of her career and propelled her rise to leadership through South Africa’s transition to democracy and beyond.

We explore some of the challenges she has encountered as a woman in leadership and discover the strategies she employs to navigate power differentials, political complexity, and personal sacrifice. All whilst remaining deeply grounded in her commitment to faith, family, and service.

Join us for a thoughtful exploration of the inner workings of both a health system in transition and a servant leader with enduring grace.

Send us a text

Support the show

If you enjoy these conversations and would like to support our work, please consider donating to our podcast fund using the link above. Your contribution helps us cover production costs and keep bringing you great content. No amount is too small and your support means the world to us. Thank you!

Credits:
Hosted by Dr Maria Christodoulou
Produced and edited by Amy Kaye

Follow us on Social Media:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awakeningdoctor/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AwakeningDoctor

Website: https://www.awakeningdoctor.com/podcast

Thank you for listening!

As a child, Dr. Anita Parbhoo waited in the car outside Cape Town’s world-renowned Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital while her father did pre-med ward rounds. Today, she leads that very same hospital as its CEO, and her innovative leadership contributions are setting a benchmark for excellence in child health services nationwide.

In this episode of Awakening Doctor, we trace her journey from those early formative moments to becoming a nationally recognised health leader and recipient of the 2024 Jakes Gerwel Award in Public Health.

Dr. Parbhoo reflects candidly on the path from clinician to executive, sharing insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, navigating perfectionism as both a doctor and a mother, and learning to trust her intuition in uncharted terrain. With warmth and humility, she discusses the milestones that shaped her, her passion for mentoring future healthcare leaders, and her deep commitment to advocating for the voiceless.

Her leadership at Red Cross Children’s Hospital exemplifies a powerful evolution in healthcare - one that embraces emotional intelligence, recognises the interdependence of health systems, and remains rooted in compassion, connection, and purpose.

Whether she’s abseiling in a Snow White costume for a cause, championing small but impactful actions, or making time for meaningful connections, Dr. Parbhoo’s story is an inspiring call to lead with heart and to see beyond hospital walls to the communities and environments that shape our children's health outcomes.

Join us for a heartfelt exploration of leadership, legacy, and the dedication it takes to change the system from within.

Send us a text

Support the show

If you enjoy these conversations and would like to support our work, please consider donating to our podcast fund using the link above. Your contribution helps us cover production costs and keep bringing you great content. No amount is too small and your support means the world to us. Thank you!

Credits:
Hosted by Dr Maria Christodoulou
Produced and edited by Amy Kaye

Follow us on Social Media:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awakeningdoctor/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AwakeningDoctor

Website: https://www.awakeningdoctor.com/podcast

Thank you for listening!