Rinono Nkateko Mushwana

Rinono would like to see healthcare systems in disadvantaged communities improve, supported by professional, highly trained, and skilled medical professionals.

Rinono is studying medicine at the University of Cape Town (UCT). He matriculated at E.P.P. Mhinga Secondary School, in Malamulele, Limpopo province.

“Socio-economic background and circumstantial challenges should not be our limitation, but rather our inspiration to bring about change.”

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

I chose to study medicine because of my passion for humanity and fascination about the mystery of how the human body functions. I have always dreamt of pursuing this career from childhood. I even researched first aid skills to be able to save someone’s life in case of an emergency. I am also a very empathetic soul, which makes it easier for me to console people who are suffering, which also drives me to try to alleviate their pain. These traits led me to medicine.

Who or what inspired you to pursue these studies?

My uncle, Dr TC Mathonsi, inspired me to pursue medicine as he is also a medical doctor. He would talk with me for hours, educating me on how the medical field works, as well as specialisations. I loved the fact that he always encouraged me to research thoroughly and explore. I used to watch a reality medical show called Operation Ouch, which shows the latest technological advancements in the medical field, such as stem cell research and operating robots, mind-blowing facts about the human body, and the real experience of medical workers saving patients, which fuelled my fascination for the art of medicine.

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 healthcare systems in disadvantaged communities improve, supported by professional, highly trained, and skilled medical professionals; empathetic and kind healthcare workers; quick service; investment in medical equipment such as dialysis machines and microscopes for analysing blood samples, and clean, sterilised medical facilities with dedicated cleaning staff. I desire to see quality healthcare reaching the poor, young and old. I see myself serving as a trained medical doctor in such spaces to provide quality healthcare alongside other health professionals. I also aspire to establish surgeries with the assistance of funding to provide such healthcare in these areas.

Where did you complete your schooling? Tell us a bit about this school and your teachers.

I completed my schooling at E.P.P. Mhinga Secondary in Malamulele, Limpopo province. The school is focused on academics and allows opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities, including sports, maths and science olympiads. The school is quite under-resourced but is looking for funding, as well as investing in constructing a lab and other facilities. The teachers are passionate about excellence in their learners and endure teaching on hot days even when the class is overcrowded.

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

Physical sciences opened my mind to the laws that govern the world around me. It challenged me to apply scientific principles in real world problems, such as a car travelling on the road, a satellite in space or a person pulling a trolley. Mathematics inspired me to apply my problem-solving skills in various ways including finance and building structures. I kept seeing the value of these subjects as I began to understand the science and principles behind multi-step calculations.

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?

Maths and science are very thought-provoking and challenging as they require the integration of several concepts, whereby lacking one fundamental concept becomes a barrier to solving a problem. Additionally, some people do not know where to start when presented a maths or science problem as they are intimidated by the Greek symbols and diagrams. I advise pupils struggling with these subjects to believe in themselves, master the basic concepts first, try to apply them in problems using the information given in corresponding formulae to get closer to solving the problems, reach out for help and practice as much as they can.

Any tips for learners in grades 11 and 12?

Never let any limitation stop you from fighting for your dream. Never forget why you started. You may be the only hope in your family or blessed to have been born in a family that has got everything figured out. Nonetheless, plough your own field and plant what you desire to see in the future. Put in the work, utilise all the resources at your disposal that may help you such as the internet, extra classes, teachers, study guides and pray if you believe in prayer. You will never regret outdoing yourself to unlock your potential. Ignore the voices of naysayers and make yourself proud.

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

Apply as soon as you can when the applications open. Apply to as many higher education institutions as you can, adhering to each course’s minimum requirements by applying for what you qualify for. If you have to try again, do not let anyone put you to shame. We all fall but should not stay on the ground, get up, dust yourself off and chase that dream until it becomes reality.

Understanding excellence – what makes an achiever?

A character of resilience, determination, discipline, humbleness, self-confidence and a heart that loves to learn and help others is what makes an achiever. That state of never being satisfied and always striving to improve. Pushing yourself during your lowest moments, building a community of like-minded brilliant people, and making the most of the privilege of learning from those who have gone before you on your journey to success shapes you to keep your passion burning and strive for even greater achievements. Investing small efforts everyday would sum up to great success when those critical times come requiring your knowledge or skill.

A message to South African youth in general?

Maximise the freedom the youth of the olden days fought for. Socio-economic status, background and circumstantial challenges should not serve as a limitation, but our inspiration to bring change. Do not limit yourself, you are the hope of tomorrow.

A message to the teachers at your school/s?

Your desire to see us attain more than you did is remarkable. We forever appreciate you as your learners and will never forget your investment which brought us to where we are today on this ladder of success. Stay blessed and keep empowering learners to break the cycles that propagate suffering in the world.

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 choose Dr Chris van Tulleken, a medical doctor who loves educating children about how their bodies work and what to do in a medical emergency. I would ask him how a doctor can continuously improve and evolve with the advancements of medical technology to better impact the world.

National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF)