Click here for isiZulu version
Dr Elethu Gwala of UKZN’s Department of Anaesthetics received the South African Society of Anaesthesiology (SASA) Registrar Communication Prize at the SASA Conference in Bloemfontein.
‘It is overwhelming and humbling to have been recognised by such a prestigious organisation. Winning this prize motivates me to continue to strive for excellence in my career and assist those who follow or who wish to pursue a career in Anaesthesiology,’ said Gwala.
The SASA Registrar Communication Prize is awarded to an Anaesthesiology Registrar who demonstrates exceptional communication skills in the field of anaesthesiology. Effective communication is a crucial aspect of healthcare, and this prize recognises the registrar who shows outstanding ability in communication and teaching before an audience of SASA members on an anaesthesia related subject.
Gwala expressed her thanks to her supervisors, Professor Dean Gopalan and Dr Arshad Sader. Gopalan recently won the Douw Greef Award for the Best Review Publication in the Southern African Journal of Anaesthesia and Analgesia (SAJAA) in 2022.
‘While I worked hard and hoped for a positive outcome, winning came as a surprise. Many other talented Registrars were competing for the award,’ said Gwala.
The annual SASA conference brings together anaesthesiologists, researchers, educators, and other healthcare professionals from across the country and around the world. It provides a forum for participants to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and discuss the latest developments in the field of anaesthesiology
‘It is an exciting and valuable event for anyone working in anaesthesiology, and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in this field,’ Gwala commented.
Gwala (33) hails from the small town of Walkerville south of Johannesburg. As a child, she dreamt of studying Medicine and her journey commenced at Stellenbosch University where she completed her MBChB in 2015.
‘My passion for Anaesthesiology was cultivated during my internship at Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital. I completed my Diploma in Anaesthesiology as a Medical Officer in Pietermaritzburg, joined the Registrar programme at UKZN and am currently a third-year Registrar,’ related Gwala.
She said embarking on the journey to specialisation has never been solely about herself, but rather about the pivotal role it represents – that of an exemplar, an inspiration, and a mentor.
‘My aim is to forge a path of exceptionalism and disseminate knowledge. In whatever position I hold, I will continue to instil my passion for learning in others.’
Words: Nombuso Dlamini
Photograph: Supplied
