Romana Suliman

Romana would like to see a changed healthcare system.

Romana is studying medicine at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits). She matriculated at Lenasia Secondary School in Dundee in Gauteng.

“Be confident. Be compassionate. And above all, be the change you wish to see.”

Explain why you chose the course/s you are studying?

Medicine aligns with my faith, principles, values, and goals. In my religion, there is a saying that whoever saves a life, it is as though he has saved the lives of all mankind. Studying medicine provides a direct avenue to serve others and care for those who are in vulnerable health situations. I want to commit myself to something far greater than profit or personal gain.

Who or what inspired you to pursue these studies?

I was inspired to pursue a career in medicine during the outbreak of COVID-19. The pandemic highlighted the crucial role played by healthcare professionals and how dependent humanity is on them. The heroes on the frontlines sacrificed their safety by committing themselves to treating their patients. I admire and respect these individuals, and I wanted to be a part of this course that impacts positively on communities during times of crisis.

What would you like to see changed in the world, and how do you see yourself contributing to such a change?

I would like to see a changed healthcare system. Many areas are not receiving the primary healthcare. This issue is not confined to South Africa (SA), but is experienced globally. Everybody needs to have access to quality healthcare, regardless of their socio-economic status. I would play a role in initiating this change by promoting community engagement. By engaging with local communities, I will be able to understand their specific needs and therefore, advocate on behalf of them at higher levels. I also have future goals of joining non-governmental organisations (NGOs), specifically Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF).

Where did you complete your schooling? (name of school and area where it is situated) Tell us a bit about this school and your teachers.

I matriculated at Lenasia Secondary School, a small but homely school located in Lenasia, Gauteng province. The common name for my school was just Lenz High. There was not one day where I didn’t have fun in that school. Lenz High taught me that school was more than books and classes. I now carry with me lifelong lessons and memories learned through the teachers and my peers that you cannot find in any textbook. I have built positive social connections with the teachers who were my biggest support and were very inspiring and passionate when it came to academics.

What did you enjoy about physical science and maths at school?

I enjoyed doing physical science and mathematics because these subjects were initially challenging for me. I forced myself to become comfortable with these STEM subjects, which meant going beyond what was just taught in class. (STEM = science, technology, engineering and mathematics.) I would spend hours on difficult problems until I figured it out. When I was in grade 12, it was as if I had mastered these subjects. I found it both enjoyable and easy to apply myself to more complex topics using the foundation I laid when I was in grade 10.

Why do you think some people have problems doing well in maths and science? What advice do you have for school learners who struggle with these subjects?

There is a stigma attached to physical science and mathematics that builds this fear in people’s minds initially. They attempt questions with the wrong mindset and are immediately overwhelmed by the equations, symbols, and principles. It is very difficult to learn new concepts if you have fear and doubt at the back of your mind. To those who are struggling, I advise you to commit yourself to the concepts. You need to understand the basics and governing principles. Thereafter, you need to attempt as many past papers, together with the memos, as possible.

Any tips for learners in grades 11 and 12?

Breathe. It is not impossible. Many people have completed grades 11 and 12 before you and they have emerged victorious. It only gets chaotic when you overwhelm yourself. The best way to avoid this so to start with the work early and continue working every day until you write your final exam. It is also important not to let studying get to your head. I was playful in class, but I believe that this has only contributed positively towards my results. You must have fun with your friends whilst balancing your social and academic life.

What advice do you have for matriculants who have to apply for places in higher education institutions?

Before applying to higher institutions, you should research and explore the programmes offered to see which aligns with your interests, career goals, and preferences. You should not be applying for a specific programme based on other people’s goals and you should not go into a difficult career just to impress people. You must achieve beyond what is required of you and that means scoring higher than the required Admission Point Score (APS). The application process is competitive, so put your best foot forward by working diligently to achieve the best results.

Understanding excellence – what makes an achiever?

As a top achiever, my excellence was influenced by a combination of factors. I have a strong sense of passion and purpose which pushed me forward with intrinsic motivation. At the beginning of my matric year, I set a goal to finish the syllabus by May and do as many past papers as I possibly could. This resilience and determination have helped me to achieve beyond my expectations. To be an achiever, you need to have self-discipline to focus on your studies and perseverance to make it through any difficulty without losing motivation.

A message to South African youth in general?

You, the youth, are SA’s architects of the future. Your energy, creativity, and resilience are the driving forces that will shape the destiny of our nation. You, the youth, stand on the threshold of possibilities that you need to seize with purpose and determination. Live by the spirit of Ubuntu and uplift one another. Your collective strength will be agents of positive change. Do not forget your roots. Cherish and preserve the rich cultural heritage that our country embodies. Be confident, be compassionate, and above all, be the change you wish to see.

A message to the teachers at your school/s?

I would like to extend my eternal gratitude to the teachers who were with me along my journey. Your impact on my life has been immeasurable. Your role has extended beyond just textbooks. I thank Madam Mbentse for having patience with me, Madam Feroza for encouraging me, Madam Docrat for laughing with me, Madam Mayise for never giving me demerits, Mister Jardine for his silly expressions, Mister Moosa for keeping me fit, Madam Ali for giving me second chances and Uncle Saleem Bulbulia for nurturing my potential.

If you had ONE opportunity to speak directly to a very influential person, who would you choose and what would you say to them?

I would like to speak to Archbishop Desmond Tutu. I would tell him that his legacy as a leader, advocate for justice, and champion of human rights has inspired me to live my life selflessly with the thought of putting other people’s needs before my own and treating each of my future patients with compassion and consideration. Your commitment to social justice showed me the profound impact of empathy on influencing positive change. Your influence has left an indelible mark on the world.

National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF)