Dr Portia Monnapula-Mazabane
Soweto bred Dr Monnapula-Mazaba is a clinical psychologist and philanthropist who obtained her PhD in psychology from the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
How old were you when you decided to pursue your current career path and what inspired you?
My inspiration to become a mental health professional stemmed from personal experiences during my childhood. After losing my mother at a young age, I witnessed the profound impact of grief and trauma on my family, particularly my uncle, who struggled emotionally. These experiences highlighted the need for psychological support and ignited a passion within me to understand and help others navigate their mental health challenges.
Did you ever get help with career guidance? Any mentor(s) and what role did they play?
I relied on career counselling provided by the university where I did my junior (undergraduate) degree and when I studied my postgraduate degree my supervisors played a huge role in helping me navigate my career path.
What challenges did you face (or are facing) / had to overcome in your journey?
One challenge that has and is always present is stigma around mental health. Stigma comes in the form of resistance from the community, families and even institutions when trying to render mental health services. As a result, this motivated me to advocate for mental health awareness and aim to reduce stigma using social media and other media platforms.
What has been your biggest driver/motivator?
My biggest motivation is based on the fact that healing is possible and as human beings we can be resilient given the support we need.
What advice or key learning points from your journey would you like people to take onto theirs?
The reality that it will get tough and challenging towards the end but stay the course and be your number one supporter.
Any advice for a young person from a rural area / township who currently has no clue where to even start when choosing a career path?
Get to know yourself, what are you passionate about and what work would you do even if you were not paid for it.