Dr Kirthi Ramdhani, a specialist based at Tygerberg Hospital and Stellenbosch University, has become the first African surgeon to qualify in both paediatric surgery and plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery.

After qualifying as a paediatric surgeon through the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa in 2021, she recently completed her specialist examinations in plastic surgery, marking a significant professional milestone.

Despite the recognition, Ramdhani said her focus has always been on providing the best possible care for children rather than achieving personal accolades.

Originally from Tongaat and later raised in Verulam, she completed her medical degree at the University of KwaZulu-Natal before gaining extensive surgical experience at Grey's Hospital and later training at Tygerberg Hospital.

She explained that combining paediatric and reconstructive surgery allows her to treat children more holistically, particularly those born with conditions such as cleft lip and palate, where long-term multidisciplinary care is essential.

Ramdhani credits her passion for surgery to childhood experiences and says seeing a mother react after her child's successful cleft lip repair remains one of the defining moments of her career.She also acknowledged the influence of her parents, both teachers, and her spiritual beliefs, which emphasise service to others.

Married to paediatric surgeon Dr Shamaman Harilal and the mother of a young daughter, she values the balance her family brings to her demanding career.

As a volunteer with the Smile Foundation, she helps provide life-changing reconstructive surgery to children who might otherwise not have access to specialised care.

Ramdhani hopes her journey encourages young doctors, especially women, to pursue ambitious goals, challenge conventional career paths and demonstrate that Africa can lead through medical excellence, innovation and compassion.