The Venue, Melrose Arch , Johannesburg, South Africa
29th June, 2024
welcome
The Smart Health National Medical Awards
The Smart Health National Medical Awards (NMA) have been established as a prestigious platform to honour independent private health practitioners across South Africa. Hosted annually by ASAIPA, this esteemed event is made possible through the generous support of dedicated sponsors. Five practitioner associations are actively involved in the NMA, with each association internally nominating and selecting its candidate(s).
The In-Person NMA Gala Event is scheduled for June 29, 2024, at The Venue, Melrose Arch in Johannesburg.
This prestigious award is given to an individual who has made, and continues to make, an outstanding contribution to improving health and healthcare for all South Africans. An individual who has given a productive lifetime of distinguished service to medicine.
Dr. Visser had an illustrious career as an IPA leader in South Africa. He worked as a gynaecologist in Bloemfontein, and it was during this time that he became interested in the welfare of family practitioners in private practice. He was CEO of Asaipa after starting the alliance with a few national leaders in 2006. It soon grew to have 2000 members and had the biggest national footprint of all the IPA’s in South Africa. He later co- formed the IPA Foundation with the SAMCC, ASAIPA, SPNet and CPC Qualicare and became its first CEO. Dr. Visser was an innovative and industrious leader in the healthcare industry and was widely respected by all his peers and all key opinion leaders in South African healthcare.
HCP Excellence Award
This award recognises private practice practitioners contributing significantly to improving Primary Health Care (PHC) delivery.
Healthcare Leadership Award
This award recognizes organizations, groups or individuals, who exemplifies the qualities of dedicated leadership, to inspire impactful solutions within South Africa’s healthcare system that positively affect both patients and colleagues.
Digital Healthcare Innovation Award
This is awarded to pioneers, innovators and influencers advancing Digital Healthcare in South Africa.
Community Service Award
This award is given to an organisation, group or individual dedicating their time, skill and expertise to assist community advancement by making a positive effect on the health and wellbeing of the community.
Health Science Student Award
This award is given to a Health Science student each year for exemplary dedication, commitment and leadership.
Young Doctors Merit Award
This award recognises final year students within South Africa who excelled in Academics, Leadership and their passion for serving in the community.
hosts
Your Hosts
CO-HOST
Dr Unben Pillay
CEO, ASAIPA
Dr Unben Pillay
CEO, ASAIPA
Dr Unben Pillay qualified as a medical doctor from the University of the Witwatersrand in 1995. For over 25 years, he has practiced as a Family Practitioner with a special interest in Chronic Disease Management, Digital Healthcare, and Outcomes Based Healthcare. Dr Pillay currently co-chairs the Africa Telehealth Collaboration and serves as CEO of the Independent Practitioners Association Foundation. He is the Vice Chairperson of the United Forum of Family Practitioners and CEO of the Alliance of South African Independent Practitioners Associations.
Dr Pillay is an advisory board member for Health Quality Assessment, the WONCA eHealth working group, Axess Health Africa, BrandMed, and the Discovery Health Family Practitioners Advisory Board. He is a faculty member at the Future Proof Your Healthcare Practice program at Henley Business School and the South African Health Business Academy. Dr Pillay was a founding member of Smart Health Africa, Vaccines And Relief for Healthcare Workers, and the Digital Healthcare Association of South Africa. His multi-faceted roles demonstrate his commitment to advancing healthcare through digital solutions and practitioner empowerment.
CO-HOST
Tanya Muller
COO, ASAIPA
MC
Aki Anastasiou
Futurist, Technology Influencer, Facilitator and Conference Host
Aki Anastasiou
Futurist, Technology Influencer, Facilitator and Conference Host
With over three decades in the media, spanning across radio, print and television Aki Anastasiou has seen the evolution of technology and the changes it has brought to society through different lenses.
As one South Africa's top futurists, technology influencers, facilitators and conference hosts, Aki thrives on innovation and digital transformation, and the incredible impact it is having on global citizens and business.
Aki Anastasiou keeps his finger on the pulse of technology by attending global tech conferences and being a sought-after speaker on innovation and digital transformation. Aki has worked and consulted with some of the world’s top technology and business brands across various sectors.
Twitter: @AkiAnastasiou
winners
2023 Winners
Lex Visser Lifetime Achievement Award
Prof Jannie Hugo
ASAIPA
Prof Jannie Hugo
ASAIPA
Jannie Hugo is a Family physician, the Director of the UP COPC Research Unit and a Researcher and Director at the Madibeng Centre for Research (MCR).
Dr Hugo leads the Academic Development and Implementation of Community Oriented Primary Care (COPC) including mobile data systems and the implementation of a Community Oriented Substance Use Programme (COSUP) in collaboration with the City of Tshwane and Gauteng DOH.
In collaboration with mining companies his team was implementing Integrated Health and Development Solutions in mining communities.
He leads the UP team in developing two population surveillance sites as part of the GRT-INSPIRE SAPRIN node in Gauteng.
Jannie received several awards in education innovation (2009, 2012) form UP, Higher Education Learning and Teaching Association of SA (HELTASA) National Teachers Award (2013), a Lifetime Award for Innovation, Research and Service by the South African Medical Association (2018) and the UP Health Sciences award on Community Engagement (2020).
Jannie trained at UFS and practiced primary care in Qwa-Qwa in the Free State from 1984 to 1988, before moving to Medunsa, and subsequently University of Pretoria in 2006 where he retired as head of Family Medicine in January 2021.
Jannie is married to Margaret, a potter and artist after her retirement as an Occupational Therapist. They live in the Magaliesberg and enjoy doing pottery together.
HCP Excellence Award
Dr Eduard Delport
ASAIPA
Dr Eduard Delport
ASAIPA
Dr. Eduard Delport is an enthusiastic healthcare manager who fulfills a strategic role in facilitating improved collaboration between Healthcare Funders, Healthcare Professional Leadership bodies and, most importantly, GPs at the frontline of care.
Dr Delport believes Primary Care and Family Practice to be the most important, but often overlooked, cog in our private healthcare system - promoting the role of the Family Practitioner, both in his function as part of Medschemes’ Health Professional Strategy Unit internally towards Funders, as well as as clinician.
He has post graduate certification in Value-based care and Digital Health from the Universities of Houston and Imperial College London respectively, among other, and serves as the chair of the Afrocentric Primary Care Strategy and Integration Forum.
He firmly believes that improving patient outcomes hinges on implementing appropriate and more robust funding models for primary care. Additionally, providing greater support to clinicians at the coalface through mentorship and other provider-focused programs is essential.
He also advocates for reducing the administrative burden on healthcare providers, simplifying funder-related health system navigation and care coordination, and promoting high-quality family practice as a key pillar in improving population health in the strive towards universal healthcare.
Dr Susan Strauss
SAAA
Dr Susan Strauss
SAAA
Dr Strauss is an Audiologist with 29 years’ experience in the field of hearing and sound and is passionate about Hearing and Audiology.
She graduated from the University of Pretoria in 1996, and has subsequently completed her Masters and Doctoral degrees in the field.
She has been involved in leadership positions in the South African Association of Audiology (SAAA), where she served as President for two terms and still serves as a member of the Private Practice and Ethics Committees.
Dr Strauss has always been involved in the training of Students, and of Professionals.
She has chaired a number of Annual Conference Committees, as well as the World Congress of Audiology in 2018.
She is currently the host of a monthly online seminar where she interviews experts in the field about relevant topics as part of the SAAA's CPD programme.
She is the owner of and an Audiologist at Stellenbosch Audiology Private Practice.
Bignocia Masinge
SAOA
Bignocia Masinge
SAOA
Bignocia Masinge is an Optometrist who qualified 23 years ago at the University of the North, now known as University of Limpopo.
Bignocia completed her Postgraduate Diploma in Sports Vision from the University of Johannesburg in 2006, then later did her Ocular Diagnostic Course with the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal in 2011.
She has been working in the Private Sector ever since. During her 5 years stay in Angola as a South African Diplomat, Bignocia developed a passion to impact and improve Eye Care for children from disadvantaged communities. Upon her return, she was nominated to join the SAOA's Public Health Portfolio as a Director. This gave her the opportunity to embark on outreaches and campaigns in the rural areas of Limpopo and most townships in Gauteng like Soweto and Tembisa.
Through the SAOA, and sponsorships from stakeholders in Eye Care, she was able to screen many communities including the Grannies' World Cup which was held in Tzaneen in 2023.
Bignocia still works full time in her practice in Gauteng. During her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two teenage sons. She loves playing golf when she's not at work.
Healthcare Leadership Award
Dr Mike Nicholas
ASAIPA
Dr Mike Nicholas
ASAIPA
Dr. Mike Nicholas is a General Practitioner in Sea Point and owns an Occupational Medicine Practice in Paarden Eiland, specializing in workplace health and safety, particularly in the Maritime Industry.
He holds an MBChB degree from the University of Stellenbosch and a Diploma in Occupational Medicine. Early in his career, he became involved in improving medical practitioners' career outcomes and medical politics.
Dr. Nicholas was a founding member of GPNet in 1996 and Asaipa in 2006, realizing the collective value IPAs add to family practitioners in private practice. He has been the chairman of the Western Cape IPA and an Exco member of Asaipa since its inception. Additionally, he is a director of IPAF and the current chairman of the Medscheme IPA Forum.
Passionate about the welfare of private family practitioners, Dr. Nicholas has been closely involved in endeavors to add value to their practices. His motto is to be patient-centered, create better outcomes, and improve the working life of general practitioners.
He advocates for win-win outcomes among patients, funders, and service providers, endorsing free-market principles with minimal government interference in practicing medicine. While supporting universal health coverage, he believes it can only be achieved through public and private participation.
Marise Breet
BASA
Marise Breet
BASA
Marise Breet is a dedicated Biokineticist and owner of an accredited, multidisciplinary practice in Durbanville, Western Cape. A University of Pretoria graduate, she has over 16 years of experience in the Biokinetics industry.
Marise has made significant contributions as a student supervisor for clinical rotations, a registered intern supervisor, and by developing and delivering CPD-accredited courses on back and neck rehabilitation for health professionals nationwide.
Her passion for helping others is evident in her commitment to providing high-quality care and education across South Africa. Marise completed her Master's degree cum laude, presenting findings on foot morphology in rural and urban South African children and adolescents. Her research led to peer-reviewed articles, media coverage, and co-founding BanziFeet, a company consulting with shoe manufacturers to produce shoes representing the South African foot.
A proud BASA member, Marise undertook several projects and events as Western Cape BASA Chairperson, marketing the profession and educating the public and health professionals. She has been instrumental in building the WC committee's national and international presence.
Currently enrolled in a joint PhD with Stellenbosch University and KU Leuven, Belgium, Marise has consistently displayed passion, high ethics, and exemplary professionalism throughout her career.
Dr Liepollo Ntlhakana
SAAA
Dr Liepollo Ntlhakana
SAAA
Dr Liepollo Ntlhakana is a Lecturer and Audiologist with a PhD in Public Health from the University of the Witwatersrand.
Dr Ntlhakana teaches and supervises Audiology Students at both Undergraduate and Postgraduate levels in the Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology at the University of Witwatersrand.
Her journey with the South African Association of Audiologists (SAAA) began in 2008 when she joined as a dedicated member. Over the years, her commitment and passion led her to take on significant roles within the association.
From serving as a Portfolio Holder, with a focus on Occupational Audiology between 2011 and 2018 to assuming the position of President-Elect in 2018-2019, actively shaping the landscape of Audiology in South Africa.
Dr Ntlhakana played an integral role in fostering relationships with diverse stakeholders and industries, positioning Audiology as a vital profession both locally and internationally. Notably, she contributed as a member of the local organising committee for the 2018 World Congress of Audiology in Cape Town, a pivotal event that brought global experts together. Her term as the Past President of SAAA ended in January 2024 but she continues to make a difference.
She actively participates in technical and working committees for the Prevention of Occupational Hearing Loss, the design/redesign of Audiometry Short Courses and the Inter-Professional Rehab Professionals.
Beyond her professional pursuits, she is currently navigating life and embracing the transformative phase of being an empty nester.
Ndivhuho Virginia Mawela
SAOA
Ndivhuho Virginia Mawela
SAOA
Virginia Completed her Bachelor of Optometry in 1999 and her Master of Public Health at the Salus University in America.
She is currently registered for Master of Public Health Systems and Policy at the University of the Witwatersrand.
Virginia played an important role in the establishment and implementation of Primary Eye Health Services in Gauteng Province. To date, there are a total of 140 Primary Healthcare Clinics, 9 District Hospitals, 5 Regional Hospitals, 2 Tertiary Hospitals and 3 Academic Hospitals that boast fully furnished Eye Clinics that are serviced by a full time Optometrist. The province boasts a total of 90 Optometrists in total. Such services are very important in the prevention of preventable blindness and early disease detection as well as appropriate referral.
Elevated priorities of the Eye Health Program for the Gauteng Department of Health include the monitoring of Cataract Surgery Performance in all hospitals, issuing of spectacles to risk populations (the elderly, school going children and the disabled), Community Based Eye Screening, strengthened private public partnerships, establishment of new Eye Health Centres as well as recruitment of Eye Health Professionals from all fields of practice Eye Health Practice.
Provincial Eye Clinics are in readiness for the NHI implementation.
Magda Fourie
SASP
Magda Fourie
SASP
Magda qualified in 1978 and started her Physiotherapy career in 1979 at a Private Practice in Germiston and later became one of the Directors of the Incorporate Practice in Boksburg-North, Germiston and at Sunward Park Hospital. Her public sector involvement began in 2000 when they moved to Bloemfontein.
As Assistant Manager at Universitas Academic Hospital, Magda became very involved in the management of Physiotherapy Services in the Free State, acted as Project Leader, developing a physiotherapy database for the province and was instrumental in the 100% score of the Physiotherapy Department during the COHSASA accreditation process.
Magda is an Honorary Life Member of the South African Society of PhysiotherapyTM (SASP®), was the President of the SASP between 2008 and 2012 and served on several committees since 1979. She was employed by the SASP as the Senior Professional Officer looking strategically at the impact on the profession when new legislation, such as the NHI Bill, is published.
She acts as the Professional Assistant to the National Executive Committee, chaired several congress organising committees as well as the Universal Health Coverage Rehabilitation Initiative working closely with the other Rehabilitation Associations, the National and Provincial Departments of Health, and represents the Physiotherapy profession and rehabilitation on several Ministerial Task teams, Private Health Committees and Inter-Professional Rehabilitation forums.
Digital Healthcare Innovation Award
Dr Riaz Motara
ASAIPA
Dr Riaz Motara
ASAIPA
Dr Motara is a Physician and Cardiologist in part time Private Practice and the CEO of the Brandmed Group, one of South Africa’s leading Health and Digital Solutions Companies.
Some of the highlights of Dr Motara’s career is that he is an Interventional Cardiologist, He started the first Women’s Heart Clinic in South Africa, and he is the only Cardiologist in South Africa to trained to perform Endovenous Laser Ablation of Varicose Veins.
He is a faculty member of The South African Health Business Academy and regular speaker and teacher for various pharmaceutical companies.
Dr Motara is inspired to teach and empower colleagues to be part of the transformation of the healthcare industry and to deliver outstanding clinical outcomes for patients”.
Kobus Verster
BASA
Kobus Verster
BASA
Kobus Verster has been involved in the everchanging Fitness and Wellness industry for the past 20 years.
Having a passion for corporate wellness and the mental health sector, he’s developed a strong track record of success with corporates and medical aids directly.
COVID shaped the future of digital healthcare and innovation, and it was during these times that Kobus entered the online Wellness space.
He’s turnkey custom wellness intervention program, design, implementation and management approach made it easy for corporate clients such as Sanlam, SANTAM, MIWAY, Afrocentric and CAMAF Medical Aid, just to mention a few, to transition into the online realm.
For the past 3 years Kobus has been running Online Wellness Intervention Programs which include services like, Content Design, Health Tracking, Social Media Management, Marketing, Graphic Design, Videography, Reporting and Data Analytics Services.
Kobus’ extensive knowledge in the digital space has given him a platform to assist and drive innovations to various organizations including the Biokinetic Association of South Africa (BASA) with focus on Content Creation, Marketing and Design.
Kobus has also been contracted to the Netcare Akeso network for the past 12+ years where he’s designed and managed group activities at several of their national clinics.
He’s motto of “never stop learning”, is instilled to drive the digital wellness space into the future.
Prof De Wet Swanepoel
SAAA
Prof De Wet Swanepoel
SAAA
Professor Swanepoel is a Professor of Audiology at the University of Pretoria.
Professor Swanepoel directs research for the WHO Collaborating Center for Prevention of Deafness and Hearing Loss. He also holds an Adjunct Professor position at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and has had previous affiliations with prestigious institutions globally.
With over 20 years of experience, Prof Swanepoel is a globally recognized Researcher and Innovator in Digital Hearing Health Technologies, focusing on making ear and hearing healthcare more accessible. His work has led to groundbreaking advancements in Tele-Audiology Applications and the development of the hearWHO app, which has screened nearly 500 million people worldwide.
Professor Swanepoel's contributions have earned him the Olusegun Obasanjo Prize from the African Academy of Sciences, and he was a finalist for the IITPSA Presidents Technology Excellence Award.
A Co-Founder and Scientific Advisor of the hearX group, he holds several patents and is a renowned Keynote Speaker at International Health and Technology events.
He has published over 270 peer-reviewed articles, chapter and books and is funded by leading research organizations, including the US National Institutes of Health. As a fellow of the African Academy of Science and the Academy of Science of South Africa, former President of the International Society of Audiology, and Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Audiology, Prof Swanepoel's work is recognized globally.
Community Service Award
Dr Pieter Lindeque
ASAIPA
Dr Pieter Lindeque
ASAIPA
Dr Lindeque was born and raised in the small town of Balfour in Mpumalanga.
He completed his MBChB Degree at Tukkies.
Dr Lindeque served as an intern at Tshepong Kleksdorp Hospital Complex where he gained vast experience in surgery and orthopaedics.
Between 1990 and 1991, Dr Lindeque joined the SANDF 7 MED Battalion Special Forces, where he gained experience in trauma and Rural Medicine.
Between the 1992 and 2012, Dr Lindeque was in partnership with his late father who was an experienced GP and District Surgeon for 40 years with the Department of Health. It was due to this exposure that Dr , could do the majority of the Primary Health Clinic and Forensics work in Balfour.
Dr Lindeque has experience as a Forensic Medical Officer at the Heidelberg Mortuary, conducting Emergency Room Sessions at Life Suikerbosrand Clinic with multiple ACSLS updates.
While all this was on the go, he has been, and is currently runs a Private GP and Occupational Health Practice.
Dr Lindeque says in his own words: “I am in GP practice for 32 years, a meat mechanic, a jack of all trades, and a master of none."
Dr Enock Shivambu
ASAIPA
Dr Enock Shivambu
ASAIPA
Dr Shivambu is a General Practitioner who runs his practice in the CBD of Giyani in Limpopo.
Ironically, He draws his patients from the Rural Areas which surround Giyani.
Dr Shivambu qualified with MBChB in 1991 from MEDUNDSA, and has been in Private Practice since 1994. Dr Shivambu also did Part Time Work, for 10 years, at Evuxakeni Psychiatric Hospital in Giayni.
Dr Shivambu gives credit for the award to his generous and supportive pharmaceutical partners, Allied Health Professionals and surrounding GP Partners, who he does not see as competitors!
In his words, Dr Shivambu says that the award came as a shock and a surprise! Dr Shivambu, says he is doing what he loves, which reminds him of Viktor Frankl’s, view on Success as an unintended side effect of one’s dedication to a cause greater than oneself.
Missionvale Care Centre
BASA
Missionvale Care Centre
BASA
Missionvale is a Shantytown on the outskirts of Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa. It is crippled by poverty, disease, drought, and hunger.
The Missionvale Care Centre is a non-profit organization working in this environment, for the development of the community and its people. Missionvale was founded by the world-renowned humanitarian, Sister Ethel Normoyle in 1998.
The Centre is in a transitional phase moving away from a traditional welfare approach and embracing a more developmental and transformative tactic in their activities.
There is a goldmine of potential within this community!
Missionvale offers services in the following categories:
• Education
• Training and Development
• Youth Development
• Community Exchange System
And lastly in the Health and Wellbeing Category, the Johan Strömbeck Medial Centre incorporating general consultations, women’s health, Physiotherapy, Optometry, Pharmacy, Community Based Care Workers, HIV / Aids awareness, education & counselling, support groups, social work services, assistance innutrition and wellness, as well as basic domestic animal care.
Vera-Genevey Hlayisi
SAAA
Vera-Genevey Hlayisi
SAAA
Vera-Genevey Hlayisi is a multiple award-winning Audiology Clinician, Researcher and Healthcare Entrepreneur.
She is the co-founder and Head of Audiology at Asizwe Hearing Solutions.
Asizwe Hearing Solutions is a Black African Audiologist owned and operated organisation that seeks to use clinical, research and context specific experience in the device and equipment sector of hearing healthcare, to advocate for a decrease in accessibility challenges especially affordability.
At Asizwe, they galvanize the advantages of technology to increase access to hearing care services at community levels, through enabling self-employment in the audiology industry for the many unemployed skilled clinicians.
The long-term goal for Asizwe Hearing Solutions is to develop, design, manufacture, distribute as well as service devices and equipment on African Soil, by, for and with Africans.
With more than a decade in healthcare and audiology as a sector, Vera has vast experience in rural public health services, corporate sales, biotechnology and academia.
Vera is currently spearheading the business side of healthcare.
Angelique Walbrugh
SAOA
Angelique Walbrugh
SAOA
Angelique Walbrugh is a distinguished Optometrist, dedicated academic, and devoted mother of 4.
With two decades in Academia, she currently leads the Department of Ophthalmic Sciences at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT).
Despite her demanding career, Angelique prioritizes her family, balancing the workload with the roles of nurturing mother and devoted wife. Driven by her passion for Eye Care, she's actively engaged in Community Eye Health promotion activities and vision screenings alongside her student groups.
She is currently spearheading the CPUT Community Eye Clinic at the District 6 departmental facility, due to be launched in 2024, with the aim to strengthen clinical training for students whilst simultaneously increasing access to essential Eye care Services for the community.
Concurrently pursuing her PhD, Angelique exemplifies unwavering dedication to both her professional and personal endeavours, with the hope of leaving an indelible mark on her community and the field of Ophthalmic Sciences.
Health Science Student Award
Jayson Clancy
BASA
Jayson Clancy
BASA
Jayson Clancy is a practicing Biokineticist in Potchefstroom, North-West and runs his own practice since February 2024.
Jayson completed a BHSc in Biokinetics at the North-West University (NWU - Golden Key) in 2023, a BCom in Business Management at the University of Pretoria in 2014, and he is currently doing a MHSc in Human Movement Science at the NWU.
Jayson is currently a Junior Lecturer at the NWU in the Health Science Faculty, teaching anatomy to first year Biokinetics students.
Not only is Jayson academically gifted but has other talents too! He sings and plays the guitar in his church band. He is also an active South African Field Hockey Umpire (outdoor and indoor). In Jayson’s own words he says “I want to thank my family for their never-ending support and love. My parents and my siblings are my rock.
I owe all my success to Jesus Christ and my Father in heaven. I would not be where I am today without God, and I give Him all the honour and glory.”
Fisokuhle Makhanya
SAAA
Fisokuhle Makhanya
SAAA
Fisokuhle Makhanya is a passionate Health Sciences student with a relentless drive for excellence. He is currently studying for a Bachelor of Sciences degree in Audiology at the University of Cape Town.
Fisokuhle has always had a desire to become a Health Professional, but he had no idea which field of Healthcare he wanted to specialize in. In high school, Fizokuhle discovered the Physics of Sound, and that captivated him! He decided to incorporate his passion for that academic concept and his dream career which directed him to Audiology.
He has consistently demonstrated a strong academic ethic, and a genuine curiosity about the complexities of human health and well-being. Throughout his academic journey, Fizokuhle has been actively engaged in leadership roles and extra-curricular activities that have enriched his understanding of Health Sciences, specifically, Audiology. He served as a Class Representative in 2023 and he is currently an Audiology tutor at his residence for the First Year Students. He also had the opportunity to join the South African Association of Audiologists as a student member.
Beyond academics, Fizokuhle is deeply involved in community service initiatives aimed at promoting health awareness and improving access to Healthcare resources for under reserved populations around Cape Town.
Fizokuhle is not only a valued member, but Deputy Head of Audiology at a SHAWCO, an NGO that is dedicated to Health Advocacy.
Yiseka Mukhari
SAOA
Yiseka Mukhari
SAOA
Yiska is 21 years old. She was born and raised in Vleifontein, a small village just outside Louis Trichard. Yiseka matriculated from Meadowlands Secondary School.
Yiseka is currently in her fourth year in Bachelor of Optometry at the University of Limpopo. In 2021, She was the class representative for the Bachelor of Optometry first year students. In 2022, she was elected as the female Sports Administrator for the University of Limpopo Optometry Student Association, and in 2023, she was elected as the deputy chairperson of ULOSA. (University of Limpopo Optometry Student Association). Selected by the Centre for Academic Excellence in the University, Yiseka also served as a mentor for the lower levels. She was also selected to represent the institution in the South African Optometry Association Student Committee.
Yiseks’s dream is to contribute deeply to the quest of finding eye care solutions for Africa and the globe. Yiseka is working hard at her studies to become a passionate and dedicated Optometrist and future leader in research.
Young Doctors Merit Award
Emily Mac Gregor
Emily Mac Gregor
Emily Mac Gregor is a final-year Medical Student at the University of Pretoria.
Through the UNICEF Peer Mentorship Programme, Emily co-authored a scoping review published in Diagnostics and was featured as a speaker at the 2022 Future Africa UNICEF Symposium.
After serving as a leader of the SAAHE 2021 Student Task Force and as an Executive Committee Member of the UP Medical Student Society, Emily went on to found and chair ReachUP – the first student physicians’ society at UP – with the aim of creating Academic and Clinical learning opportunities for Medical Students while serving the surrounding community.
Andre Mckyle Pillay
Andre Mckyle Pillay
Andre Mckyle Pillay hails from Phoenix, Durban. Having completed matric in 2018 with nine distinctions he went on to pursue his dream of studying Medicine at Stellenbosch University. He has consistently excelled academically, but also displays exceptional leadership skills as evident by the numerous leadership roles that he has occupied.
He encompasses qualities that makes him stand out – and these include humility, visionary, confidence, persistence, motivation, and integrity.
Andre is passionate about research and creating innovative ways to provide optimal and holistic patient care. He is an aspiring Trauma Surgeon.
He attributes his success to God and his Grandmother.
Phillip Hoffman
Phillip Hoffman
Philip Hoffman is a 6th-year MBChB student in the Faculty of Health Sciences at Stellenbosch University. Philip is an inquisitive and creative individual who is fascinated by and has a passion for understanding the complexities of the human body and its forms and functions.
Philip is excited by learning how existing knowledge along with scientific research is translated into tangible benefits and medical advancements for patients.
His current interests are in neurosurgical and longevity research, as well as to make existing advances more accessible to the South African Healthcare System, by promoting International Relations, particularly between South Africa, Belgium, and Australia.
He is inspired by the perseverance, and unwavering commitment of South African Healthcare Practitioners, to make a difference in the well-being of others, despite challenging conditions and limited resources.
His motto is "Sogno di Volare”, which speaks of aspiration for flight and captures the enduring pursuit of my dreams to improve the lives of everyday South Africans.
Caitlin Khensani Michi Sithole
Caitlin Khensani Michi Sithole
Caitlin Khensani Michi Sithole is final year Medical Student at Stellenbosch University.
She is a well-rounded individual who has excelled in many realms, including leadership and service, she embraces diverse interests and experiences wholeheartedly.
She is passionate about her country and its people who are rich in diversity with many complexities. Caitlin is driven to positively contribute to her country and endeavours to use every interaction and engagement afforded to her, as an opportunity to advocate for change with a real-time impact.
Above all else, Cailtin is filled with gratitude and excitement at the prospect of being a young doctor who can serve her community.
Mohamed Suleman
Mohamed Suleman
Mohamed Hoosen Suleman is a final year Medical Student at the Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal. He is a multi-awarding winning Youth Leader and activist in the Healthcare Sector, having been recognized both locally and internationally for his efforts in contributing to healthcare betterment in South Africa.
Among his most notable achievements is being awarded the prestigious Changemaker Scholarship at the World Health Organization's (WHO) Convention in May 2022 in Geneva, Switzerland.
Counted among the country’s brightest young minds in the medical field, Suleman was also bestowed with the 2023 South African Health Excellence Rising Star Award and the 100 South African Shining Stars Award. The Mail and Guardian also ranked Suleman among South Africa's Top 200 Young South Africans under the age of 35.
His work has yielded him special invitations to speak on the state of the South African Public Health System in countries such as Denmark, Switzerland, Oman, and, more recently, Vietnam.
Suleman is also an Editorial Board Member for the International Journal of Medical Students (IJMS). He is widely recognized and lauded for his academic excellence, leadership roles, and community service.
The Muses
Performing on Yamaha Electric Violins, Viola and Cello, this sassy string quartet gives classical music a thrilling kick with renditions by Top 40 hitmakers, golden oldies and up tempo African favourites.
L-R: Neo - Cello, Ashley - Violin, Hana - Violin and Ruby - Viola
If there is a party worth starting, the best ignition mechanism is this stylish electric string quartet out of Gauteng, South Africa, that will take any staid situation and turn it into a sensational night to remember.
Meet The Muses, four captivating, classically trained virtuosos, all keen to get as many people on their feet and dancing the night away each time they unpack the contents of their five carefully crafted albums. Performing on Yamaha Electric Violins, Viola, and Cello, this sassy string quartet gives classical music a thrilling kick with renditions of Top 40 hitmakers, golden oldies, and up-tempo African favourites.
Throwing in sultry dance moves and loads of fun, they give the genre of classical pop an exciting and unconventional twist that is guaranteed to entertain a diverse audience and leave them mesmerised and wanting more. Known for their quality productions, qualifications as classically trained, pop-prepped, and able to deliver musicians, the music The Muses make generates enough energy to contribute to the national power grid and light a dance floor indefinitely.
This classy act is perfect for background instrumental music, weddings, corporate events where background entertainment or show sets are required, as well as parties and festivals. Their versatility and absolute love for performing is a refreshing visual and auditory extravaganza.
Dj David Goldear
David prides himself on being able to “read” an audience and play just the right selection of music to keep your guests on the dance floor all night long.
David has been involved in the entertainment industry since 2008. He provides entertainment for all kinds of occasions. His performance style and musical repertoire caters for all events, special occasions and corporate functions. David prides himself on being able to “read” an audience and play just the right selection of music to keep your guests on the dance floor all night long.
He has had the pleasure of working with the country’s top corporate companies such as: Microsoft, ABSA, Nedbank, Suncity (entertainment) (corporate & in-house), Implats Mining, Tiso Blackstar Media Group, builders Warehouse, Avroy Shlain and Avon - just to name a few. David’s current involvement in radio only fuels his energy
and enthusiasm ensuring that his reputation goes from strength to strength.
Futurist, Technology Influencer, Facilitator and Conference Host
07:15 PM - 07:30 PM
Starter Served
07:30 PM - 07:40 PM
Intro to the National Medical Awards - Part 1
HCP Excellence Awards
Healthcare Leadership Awards
Digital Healthcare Innovation Awards
Aki Anastasiou
Futurist, Technology Influencer, Facilitator and Conference Host
speaker
07:40 PM - 08:10 PM
National Medical Awards Ceremony - Part 1
Dr Unben Pillay
CEO, ASAIPA
Co-host
Tanya Muller
Corporate Legal Operations Consortium of ASAIPA and CEO of the ASAIPA Charity Foundation
Co-host
08:10 PM - 08:15 PM
Digital Healthcare Innovation Awards Speech
Dr Riaz Motara
Cardiologist and CEO, Brandmed
speaker
08:15 PM - 08:45 PM
Main Course Served
08:45 PM - 08:55 PM
Intro to National Medical Awards - Part 2
Community Services Awards
Health Science Student Awards
Young Doctors Merit Awards
Lex Visser Lifetime Achievement Award
Aki Anastasiou
Futurist, Technology Influencer, Facilitator and Conference Host
speaker
08:55 PM - 09:25 PM
National Medical Awards Ceremony - Part 2
Dr Unben Pillay
CEO, ASAIPA
Co-host
Tanya Muller
Corporate Legal Operations Consortium of ASAIPA and CEO of the ASAIPA Charity Foundation
Co-host
09:25 PM - 09:35 PM
Lifetime Achievement Award Speech
Prof Jannie Hugo
Lex Visser Lifetime Achievement Award, ASAIPA
speaker
09:35 PM - 09:50 PM
ASAIPA Foundation Recipient Speech
Makanaka Angeline Mazuva
ASAIPA Foundation Speaker
speaker
09:50 PM - 10:00 PM
Closing Session
National Medical Awards Thank You's and Close
Dr Unben Pillay
CEO, ASAIPA
10:00 PM - 10:30 PM
Dessert and Coffee
10:00 PM - 10:30 PM
Entertainment
Evening Entertainment
The Muses
10:30 PM - 11:00 PM
Entertainment
DJ Session
Dj David Goldear
11:00 PM
Gala Dinner Close
sponsors
Sponsors
CIPLA
At Cipla, we are not mere manufacturers of medication. What we make are memories. Memories that may not have been there to be remembered, had a life not been lived. We make people better and we save lives. That’s why we don’t have a strategy, we have a cause. We don’t have a vision statement, we have vision. Some call it human care, we call it ‘Caring For life’.
Discovery
Discovery Health is the leading medical scheme administrator in South Africa, providing administration and managed care services to over 3.7 million beneficiaries. The business has a market share of over 40% in the overall medical scheme market in South Africa and administers 18 restricted medical schemes administered on behalf of leading corporate clients, as well as the Discovery Health Medical Scheme (DHMS), South Africa's largest open medical scheme. Discovery Health successfully operates beyond traditional services, and provides ongoing product innovation, service excellence, effective claims risk and fraud management, and the management of the quality of clinical services accessed by our clients.
Elle Health
With more than 30 years of experience, Elle Health is your go-to, easy-to-use and intelligent online practice management assistant.
They have simplified the process of managing a practice, with the aim of allowing doctors to break free from accounting responsibilities.
Their mission is to simplify practice management.
Universal Healthcare
Universal is One of the Fastest-Growing Healthcare Brands in South Africa.
Our purpose is our passion, and we exist to help those who are ill to get better, to encourage those who are well to live healthier lives and to support healthcare professionals in providing evidence-based medicine with a caring approach. Our promise is to deliver each and every interaction with care, leading the change for ‘healthcare with heart’.
We are trusted by more than 30 health insurance plans, including the Government Employees Medical Scheme and other prominent companies listed on the Johannesburg Securities Exchange. We provide services such as 3rd party administration, integrated healthcare management, pharmaceutical benefit management, corporate wellness, insurance, and healthcare technology.
GoodX
We believe doctors should focus on their patients’ wellbeing and that our systems should help make the doctor and patient’s life easier. Over the last 35 years, GoodX has become one of the market leaders in the development of tailored medical and practice management software in the South African market.
Pro-Tech Consulting
Pro Tech Consulting is an expert-led technology services and consulting firm with a proven track record of helping our clients achieve business goals through innovation, technology and digital transformation.
We strategically integrate digital, robotic, AI, cloud, ERP, cyber security, skilled human resources and other bespoke capabilities to build agile, automated and cloud-enabled solutions that are customised to suit your organisation.
Oryx Industries
Oryx Industries is a company that offers cyber security solutions to organizations of all sizes. They provide a comprehensive suite of technologies to combat cyber threats.
associations
Associations
ASAIPA
In ASAIPA independent practitioners form an alliance with other practitioners with similar interests in their area to mutually benefit from the union that they form locally and nationally. ASAIPA’s mission is to be an independent practitioners’ grouping, acting as a body of professional union, protecting the interests of independent practitioners, and guiding the profession in the South African medical landscape, while always supporting quality and cost-effective patient healthcare outcomes.
The Biokinetics Association of South Africa (BASA) is a leading Biokinetics company on a mission to develop informative Biokineticists into transformative health leaders. BASA's main focus is not just on physical health, but on creating transformative health leaders who can inspire and educate others. Through ongoing education and training, BASA's team of Biokineticists are equipped to lead their clients towards long-term, sustainable health and wellness.
The South African Association of Audiologists (SAAA) is an interest group originally formed by South African Audiologists in private practice, but since 2002, SAAA also represents and is supported by South African Audiologists employed in all fraternities.
The aim and purpose of SAAA is to develop and promote AUDIOLOGY to the public, medical and educational fraternities and other related healthcare professions. In the quest to promote audiology and in striving towards professional service excellence, SAAA actively liaises with statutory institutions e.g. HPCSA, medical aids, related professional association bodies, etc.
The SA Optometric Association is a Professional Association registered as a Non-Profit Company (NPC) representing optometrists and dispensing opticians in South Africa. Membership of the SAOA encompasses all forms of practice modalities in the private sector including independent practice, group practice and franchise models, as well as optometrists employed in the public sector, academia, and industry. The main objective of the Association is to promote and protect the collective interests of its’ membership in good standing, and in so doing, promote the interests of the profession generally as well as those of the public.
The South African Society of Physiotherapy (SASP®) is a non-profit organisation that has been representing South African physiotherapists and students since 1924. It is a voluntary professional membership organisation committed to equal opportunities and inclusivity and strives to support the demographic profile of South Africa in terms of race and gender.
