From Childhood Dream to Global Medicine: UKZN Student’s Journey to UCLA
Most children don’t know what they would like to be when they grow up. But final-year UKZN Medical student Ms Margareth Zevute has known practically her entire life that she wanted to become a doctor.
‘I remember back in Grade 5 during career day, I dressed as a doctor,’ she recalled. ‘One of my teachers told me, “You’re going to make an incredible doctor one day”. Those words have stayed with me ever since.’ Although she initially had to take a longer path by starting with a BClinical Medical Practice degree, this did not discourage her.
Recently, Zevute had the opportunity to take a significant step toward that lifelong goal through a three-week elective at the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) – one of the world’s premier research and educational institutions.
During her time at UCLA, Zevute rotated through various departments within family medicine, gaining insight into different approaches to healthcare delivery. One of the most impactful lessons she took away was the concept of “street medicine”, similar to South Africa’s mobile clinics, which aim to bring healthcare directly to underserved communities.
‘California has a high population of unhoused individuals, as well as immigrants who struggle to access conventional healthcare due to cost and systemic barriers,’ she said.
‘There are several organisations specifically catering to these populations, and while their services are not equivalent to those covered by private health insurance, they are still far more comprehensive than what many ordinary South African citizens can access through the public system.’
Zevute was also struck by the flexibility of the American tertiary education system and the universal emphasis on mutual respect within clinical settings.
‘This was my first time abroad, and it was truly a beautiful experience,’ said Zevute, who hails from Virginia, a small gold-mining town in the Free State.
Her advice to fellow students interested in studying abroad? ‘Be sure to grab the opportunity with both hands, as it can offer a fresh and more positive outlook on life, along with many other benefits, such as meeting new people, expanding your professional network, and gaining valuable knowledge related to your study programme.’
Anyone who has studied Medicine can attest that it is an incredibly challenging programme, but Zevute is lifted by the interactions she has with patients and draws on support from her family, friends and her faith in God.
‘My biggest support structure has got to be my family, and I honestly also have an incredible community of friends that really want to see me thrive and I share the same sentiments for them as well.’
Outside the classroom, Zevute lives a life of service and leadership. In 2022, she served as chairperson and head coach of the UKZN Medical School Running Club. She is also a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society, and the founder and chairperson of Redefining Mzansi, a non-profit organisation that supports underprivileged communities while spreading the message of her faith.
Currently, she serves as the Women of Virtue leader in the Medical Students Christian Fellowship. In her spare time, she enjoys running, helping others, and inspiring hope.
As she nears completion of her MBChB degree, Zevute is considering a future specialisation in Paediatrics.
‘I want to serve, and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, especially those who need it most.’
Words: Raylene Captain-Hasthibeer
Photograph: Supplied
