Tears of Joy for Domestic Worker Mom Seeing Her Son Graduate as a Medical Doctor
“My greatest inspiration has always been my mother. I watched her work tirelessly to ensure that I could pursue my childhood dream of becoming a doctor.”
Tears of joy marked a proud milestone for Dr Andile Mkhungo and his family when he graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB).
For his mother, Philile Mkhungo, a domestic worker who supported his journey through years of sacrifice and perseverance, the day was especially meaningful - one she described as “a day that the Lord has made”.
Born in the rural Jolivet community in KwaZulu-Natal and raised in informal settlements in Umlazi’s D Section in eThekwini, Mkhungo understood from a young age that education would be his ultimate key to success.
“Graduating as one of the top students in the MBChB programme is one of the proudest moments of my life,” Mkhungo said, adding that achieving his degree with top honours has always been a dream of his “because it represents the dedication, discipline, and perseverance I poured into my six-year Medical journey.”
Mkhungo said the achievement reflected countless hours of studying, personal sacrifices, and unwavering determination to pursue excellence in Medicine. “My greatest inspiration has always been my mother. I watched her work tirelessly to ensure that I could pursue my childhood dream of becoming a doctor.”
“Growing up in the squatter settlements of Umlazi exposed me to many social and economic challenges, but it also became the very motivation that pushed me to work harder. I knew that education would be the key to transforming my family’s circumstances and giving back to the community that raised me.”
Mkhungo’s passion for helping others was deeply shaped by personal experience. “Losing my grandmother at a young age due to complications of diabetes had a profound impact on my life. Witnessing how chronic illness can affect families inspired me to pursue Medicine and dedicate my life to caring for patients with similar conditions.”
He is currently serving as a medical intern at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital - the largest hospital in Southern Africa and one of the largest hospitals in the world.
“Working in such a demanding and dynamic environment has been both humbling and empowering, as it exposes me daily to complex clinical cases and reinforces my commitment to becoming a compassionate and competent physician.”
Mkhungo reflected on his training, noting that he had the privilege of learning from remarkable clinicians such as Professor Bilkish Cassim, Professor Ayesha Motala, Dr Fraser Pirie, Dr Ashraff Moosa, Dr Nokwazi Shandu, and Dr Onke Nonkala, as well as his ‘favourite’ mentors, Dr Sandile Kubheka and Dr Thabani Nkwanyana, whom he said continue to guide and inspire him. “Through their mentorship, I truly discovered my sense of belonging in Internal Medicine.”
“I was born in Hluthankungu in Highflats but grew up in Umlazi, where I completed my matric at Zwelibanzi High School. I graduated from high school with seven distinctions and an overall aggregate of 90%, an achievement that marked the beginning of my academic journey towards Medicine.”
Mkhungo said the journey to becoming a doctor was not without challenges. “Coming from a disadvantaged background meant that I often had to overcome financial and social barriers. However, these challenges never discouraged me; instead, they strengthened my resilience and determination.
“I remained focused on my goals, worked diligently, and constantly reminded myself why I started this journey. With the support of my family, mentors, and faith, I was able to persevere through difficult moments and emerge stronger. These experiences shaped me into the person and doctor I am becoming today.”
Mkhungo’s greatest pillars of support throughout his life have remained his mother and aunt, Ayanda Mkhungo-Fakazi. “Their sacrifices, encouragement, and unwavering belief in my potential gave me the strength to keep pushing forward even during the most difficult times.”
“If you don’t do it, no one will do it for you”, is Mkhungo’s motto which he said reminded him to take ownership of his dreams and to work relentlessly toward achieving them.
Going forward, Mkhungo aspires to continue expanding his medical knowledge and eventually specialise in Internal Medicine, although he has also developed a strong appreciation for Radiology.
“Beyond my professional aspirations, one of my personal goals is to complete the legendary Comrades Marathon, which represents endurance, discipline, and perseverance - values that resonate deeply with my journey. In my spare time, I enjoy running, which helps me maintain balance, discipline, and mental clarity while navigating the demands of a career in Medicine.”
Reflecting on my journey, becoming a doctor is more than just a personal achievement, but it represents hope, resilience, and the power of perseverance. My story is a reminder that one’s background does not determine one’s future. I hope that my journey can inspire young people from communities like Umlazi and other disadvantaged areas to believe that their dreams are valid and achievable. As I continue my career in medicine, I remain committed not only to providing excellent patient care but also to uplifting and inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals,” Mkhungo said.
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