Senior Physiotherapist, Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness

George, South Africa

My name is Maxine van Reenen. I am a Physiotherapist by profession, having completed my undergrad qualification from UWC in 2009. I completed my community service year at the George Hospital in 2009, after which I was afforded the opportunity to stay on as a senior physiotherapist. I currently still occupy that post. I embarked on my MPH journey in 2017 and graduated in 2022.

Not only has this achievement enriched me academically but personally in an emotional, mental and spiritual capacity, having completed it working as a frontline clinician during a global pandemic.

Being a single mom, full time health care worker at the frontline of a pandemic with an autoimmune disease, being high risk for contracting COVID-19 and trying to complete my Masters was not a very good Somehow I persevered and made it. The supervisor I was assigned to was so amazing. There were many times I wanted to throw in the towel and pack it all up but she talked me down, giving My MPH journey was tough but well worth it. The tassel was indeed worth the hassle.

I am still working as a physiotherapist but the knowledge gained during the Masters program has helped me gain a better understanding of Public Health, the roles we play  and responsibilities we have in health care and service delivery.

I am looking forward to using this qualification in the near future with whatever new challenges or opportunities may arise.