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Health For Mzansi

Nurturing Nkosi flies the flag for cancer as a Cansa nurse

As a little girl, Mpho Nkosi witnessed how her parents accepted strangers and looked after them. This early experience would go on to shape her life and career as a Cansa nurse who is intent on ensuring her patient's well-being is always put first

by Dawn Noemdoe
13th November 2023
in Conversations, Podcast
Reading Time: 5 mins read
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Nurturing Nkosi flies the flag for cancer as a Cansa nurse

Mpho Nkosi is a registered nurse at the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa). Photo: Health For Mzansi

In the heart of Duduza township, west of Nigel on the East Rand, Gauteng, Mpho Nkosi embarked on a remarkable journey that would lead to a fulfilling career in the healthcare sector.

Growing up, Nkosi developed a strong foundation in community care and a sense of responsibility for everyone around her and that set her on a path to making it her life’s work.

Raised in a close-knit family that extended its warmth to neighbours in need, this young dreamer learned early on the value of unity and compassion within her community.

“My parents tended to adopt people into our home, regardless of their background. It didn’t matter who you were, you found acceptance on our doorstep,” Nkosi recalls.

The path to healthcare

Nkosi’s journey to becoming a professional nurse was not without its challenges. Despite receiving an acceptance letter to study medicine at the University of Cape Town, she faced financial constraints, making it initially seem impossible. Her parents’ unwavering support and determination led her to enrol at the University of Johannesburg for a nursing degree instead.

Nurturing Nkosi flies the flag for cancer as a Cansa nurse
Mpho Nkosi is a registered nurse at the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa). Photo: Supplied/Health For Mzansi

“My mom was like, ‘The one thing you won’t do is sit around the house for a whole year. Decide, girl’,” she remembers. That’s exactly what she did. Taking matters into her own hands, she embarked on a journey that would redefine her path and lead her to where she is today.

During her studies and subsequent community service, Nkosi developed a holistic perspective on healthcare. She worked in various clinical settings, from theatre to orthopedics, witnessing firsthand both the challenges and triumphs within the healthcare system.

She says her experiences taught her the importance of patient-centred care and being an advocate for the well-being of every individual she encountered.

READ NEXT: From pain to purpose: Nurse Mjuluki finds his own healing

Raising awareness for cancer

After completing her community service, Mpho decided to focus on cancer education and risk reduction screening. Joining the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) team as a registered nurse, she made it her mission to empower individuals with knowledge about career prevention and early detection.

“We aim to improve the well-being of the community by reducing the impact of cancer and bridging the gap in the healthcare system,” Nkosi explains.

Cansa collaborates with healthcare professionals, government agencies, and community organisations to spread awareness, provide screenings, and educate underserved communities.

In her current role at Cansa, Nkosi has planned healthcare campaigns, organised screenings, and educated countless individuals about cancer prevention.

“I love the fact that I get the chance to empower individuals with knowledge and promote early detection, which can save lives,” she says.

Nkosi says she is aware of the challenges facing healthcare in South Africa, especially in underserved areas. She emphasises the importance of reaching out to communities and collaborating with local pharmacies, schools, and organisations to bridge the gap and promote well-being throughout South Africa.  

Dedicated to her calling

As a healthcare professional dedicated to lifelong learning, Mpho is excited about the emerging trends in healthcare and how they can be incorporated into their work. Technologies like telemedicine and wearable devices offer opportunities to improve healthcare accessibility and early detection, ultimately saving lives.

In November, her focus is on raising awareness about prostate cancer, a prevalent issue in South Africa. She stresses the importance of regular check-ups and the significance of discussing symptoms and family history with healthcare professionals.

With a career dedicated to making a positive impact, Nkosi encourages her fellow healthcare professionals to find their passion, engage in lifelong learning, cultivate empathy, communicate effectively, and prioritise self-care. These values have been instrumental in her journey, shaping her into an advocate for healthcare and a beacon of hope in her community.

She concludes, “We work stressful long hours and it’s emotionally demanding. It’s important to make time for self-care to rejuvenate your body, your mind, and your spirit to give your best in patient care.”

Nkosi’s inspiring journey serves as a testament to the power of unity, compassion, and dedication in the world of healthcare.

Listen to the full interview on the Health For Mzansi podcast:

Spotify: Click here to listen on Spotify (all mobile and other devices). 

Apple Podcasts: Click here to listen on any Apple device.

ALSO READ: Health Hero: Sister Willemse’s passion transcends her own pain

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Tags: CANSAHealth HeroesInspire meNursingWellness
Dawn Noemdoe

Dawn Noemdoe

Dawn Noemdoe is an agriculture and health feature journalist/podcaster. Working as a sustainable agriculture specialist and advocate, her writing nurtures social integration and environmental stewardship. She has 10+ years of experience in the media sector. As a grassroots journalist with a national following, she can lift the plight of the new entrants into agriculture. Her health feature podcasts bring voices of change, education, and awareness to a wide audience.

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HIV and initiation: Supporting boys through cultural rites Security fails as gangs target Eastern Cape clinics Dr Makanya blends spiritual healing with art therapy Canola oil: A heart-healthy choice for your kitchen No more pain! Tackle the torment of toothaches How smoking causes harmful bacteria in your mouth Discover delicious, healthy dishes that will make your heart sing Rediscover the joy of creamy pap with chicken livers