Sibusiso Mthembu

My name is Sibusiso Desmond Mthembu. I was born and raised in a small township of Inanda in KZN. Coming from a disadvantaged background, I was motivated, especially by my high school teacher who saw potential in me, to get an education and make a difference in the lives of those around me and those I could reach.

After I passed my matric well and, even though I was motivated and had applied for sponsorship to further my studies after high school, I unfortunately couldn’t attend varsity due to lack of finances. But I never stopped trying and after applying for an opportunity to go on a leadership programme in the US, I was successful and it was during this tour that I met Prof. Gaziano, a professor from Harvard University who believed in me and gave me a chance by paying for my tuition at varsity.

Of course I am not giving the whole story here because of space, but let me just say going to the USA and meeting Prof Gaziano was not as simple as it sounds. I have since graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Anatomy (Medical Cell Biology) and Physiology (Experimental), and awaiting my results for my Honours in Health Science (Medical Cell Biology).

A few people I would like to akcnowledge who have made things easier for me throughout my studies. Grace Mahlaba and Prof. Kgethi Setati (through the adopt a learner initiative). These women have not only assisted me financially, but they were also there for me emotionally and otherwise as I didn’t have a great childhood. They also planted a seed in me, and have motivated me in wanting to make the same contribution for other individuals in the future. Through them I learned that we are blessed so we can be a blessing to others, and that we can change South Africa, even if it is, one child at a time.

I would like to continue with my studies up to PhD level. My main interest is Health Research and Public Health. My career choice (i.e. Health Science and Public Health) is motivated by me wanting to see major changes in the Health Care system of our country through medical research and finding ways of prevention and promotion of healthy behaviours in communities.

I’ve had the privilege of working for some companies during my undergrad years. This was to gain exposure of the working environment as well as experience. I’ve also learned a lot about myself during this time. I’m a very practical person and love working with people. I have a very curious mind and love gaining new knowledge everyday. I’m very creative and also a very determined person as I believe in finishing whatever I start. I’m also very passionate about leadership as I’ve been in a number of leadership position (e.g. church worship team, IYL leadership programme etc). I believe a lot in motivation and uplifting young kids who show potential because I know what it did for me. I have also done a few motivational talks in schools, by invitation and am still g

rowing in my motivational speaking skills. I believe also that if we all play our part, no matter how little we think that part is, we can make a huge difference in the future of our country.

In ten years time, I see myself having already obtained my PhD in Health Science (and or Public Health) and involved in some major Health Scientific research. I would also like to have my own Public Health company that will contribute to preventing pandemic diseases like HIV and AIDS by working with the South African National Health Department in researching and finding ways and means of prevention.

In my spare time I enjoy watching soccer, song writing and singing as well as reading, particularly motivational books.