Where echoes of apartheid’s struggles still resonate, Dr Lihle Mgweba-Bewana, a neuropsychiatrist embodies a bitter intersection of past and present. She navigates a landscape deeply shaped by her parents’ profound experiences during South Africa’s tumultuous history.
“The intergenerational transmission of trauma remains palpable, underscoring the enduring legacy of hardship,” she says.
A proud legacy
Born and raised in what she describes as the “vibrant” Mdantsane township in the Eastern Cape, her early life was shaped by a spirit of resilience and community support.
“Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how my parents’ resilience amid adversity shaped my worldview. Their stories of survival and strength continue to inspire my work in psychiatry,” she reflects thoughtfully.
As the youngest of four children, Mgweba-Bewana was nurtured in a household where perseverance and determination were ingrained values. Her father’s legacy as a former rugby player for the then-Black Springboks during apartheid left a deep impression, highlighting the injustices of the era and the strength required to thrive despite adversity.
Despite socioeconomic obstacles, she recalls a close-knit environment where neighbours were family. These formative years instilled in her a sense of community responsibility and a commitment to making a meaningful impact on society.
Her love for mental healthcare
Mgweba-Bewana’s academic journey took her from the Eastern Cape to Cape Town, where she completed her postgraduate training. Starting with her bachelor of medicine and surgery (MBChB) at the University of Cape Town, she embarked on a path that eventually led to specialising in psychiatry and neuropsychiatry.
Her decision to pursue a sub-speciality in neuropsychiatry during the Covid-19 pandemic underscored her dedication to continuous learning and addressing emerging mental health challenges.
As a clinician and educator currently based in Pretoria, Mgweba-Bewana is actively involved in teaching medical students and registrars, sharing her expertise and passion for psychiatry. Her commitment to staying abreast of advancement in her field is evident through her participation in international psychiatric congresses, where she collaborates with colleagues across Africa to find culturally relevant solutions to mental health issues.
One of Mgweba-Bewana distinguishing qualities is her deep cultural sensitivity, particularly in integrating traditional beliefs into psychiatric practice. Recognising the prevalence of spiritual explanations for mental health conditions among her patients, she adopts an open-minded approach that respects diverse healing practices.
This inclusive stance not only enhances patient trust but also facilitates more effective treatment outcomes by bridging cultural gaps.
Beyond clinical practice, Mgweba-Bewana is a vocal advocate for leveraging technology to improve mental health care accessibility in Africa. She envisions a future where technological innovations enable scalable solutions that reach underserved populations effectively.
“AI is one of the ways that we can bridge the gap in mental healthcare, reaching a broader population in need through simple cell phone devices,” she adds.
Mgweba-Bewana believes self-awareness and a supportive network are crucial for anyone aiming to balance multiple demanding roles. She emphasises self-awareness, particularly in knowing your capacity for responsibilities, resonates deeply.
“It’s essential to recognise when to push forward and when to step back and replenish your resources. This deliberate pacing helps prevent burnout and ensures sustained productivity and well-being,” she notes.
Her values, shaped by her upbringing and familial influences, continue to guide her professional journey. Her maternal grandmother’s teachings instilled principles of compassion and empathy, which she applies daily in her interactions with patients and colleagues alike. Through her work, she strives to honour her roots and contribute meaningfully to her community and beyond.
She embodies resilience, compassion, and innovation in her pursuit of advancing mental healthcare in South Africa. As she continues to break new ground in her field, Mgweba-Bewana remains an inspiring figure dedicated to building a brighter future for mental healthcare across Africa.
Listen to the full interview on the Health For Mzansi podcast:
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