Mulisa Khakhu, originally from Gogogo Village in Dzimauli, Limpopo, is a graduate of the University of Cape Town (UCT), where he earned his MBChB. He is currently working as a medical intern at New Somerset Hospital in Cape Town.
From a young age, Mulisa was drawn to Medicine, motivated by a desire to help improve people’s lives by restoring their health and dignity. At school, he developed a strong interest in Mathematics, Physical Science, and Life Science. Mathematics appealed to him as logical and structured; Physical Science helped him understand the world around him; and Life Science deepened his curiosity about the human body and how it functions. Over time, this academic interest developed into a clear ambition to become a doctor, with a long-term goal of specialising in surgery.
His academic journey has been both rewarding and challenging. One of his proudest milestones was graduating from UCT and beginning his work as a medical doctor, an achievement that once felt distant while growing up in a rural village. Another meaningful highlight has been the opportunity to work with and care for patients from diverse backgrounds during his training and internship.
However, the path was not without difficulty. Medical studies placed significant academic, emotional, and financial pressure on him. During his fifth and sixth years at university, NSFAS funding did not fully cover his expenses at times, creating uncertainty at a critical stage of his studies.
Siyandisa stepped in during these moments through the Siyandisa Achievers Programme. As Mulisa reflects, “It was during these moments that Siyandisa stepped in through the Siyandisa Achievers Programme, providing essential support that helped me continue my studies without interruption.”
Mulisa has been part of the Siyandisa Achievers Programme since 2019, when he was still in high school. During his matric year, he received support that included tablets, data, access to TopDog, and educational resources such as videos, all of which made studying more accessible and effective. “Beyond the academic resources, I recall the consistent encouragement and check-ins from the Siyandisa team, who remained available throughout my university journey,” Mulisa said.
Mulisa went on to say that “This continued support played an important role in my success. It not only helped me complete my studies but also enabled me to graduate and enter the medical profession without student debt. This has allowed me to focus fully on my development as a doctor and on serving my patients.”
Transitioning into the working world has been both exciting and humbling. As a medical intern, Mulisa is gaining firsthand experience of the responsibilities and realities of medical practice. Each day presents opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully to patient care.
Reflecting on his journey, he has learned that success is rarely achieved alone. Behind every achievement is a network of people who offer belief, guidance, and support. He encourages current and future Achievers to remain disciplined, resilient, and open to asking for help when needed, emphasising that consistency and perseverance are key to long-term success.
Programmes such as the Siyandisa Achievers Programme, he notes, play a vital role in bridging the gap between potential and opportunity. By providing both financial and developmental support, they help transform not only individual lives but also families and communities.
Mulisa expresses deep gratitude to Siyandisa, its donors, and partners for the role they played in his journey. “Their support made it possible for me to pursue my dream, complete my studies, and begin my career as a doctor serving others.”