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.

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

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