The Dell Young Leaders program has celebrated close to 1,000 graduates to date, including 249 from the health sciences profession, with 98% securing employment or continuing their studies within three months of graduation.
Karabo Mokoena, currently a radiographer specialising in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), is passionate about advancing medical imaging in her field. She was a part of the 2015 cohort of Dell Young Leaders and graduated with a Bachelor of Radiography in 2020. Below she shares highlights from her journey at university, the transformational experiences that shaped her, and her aspirations for the future.
Q: What do you currently do and what does your day-to-day job entail?
I am a diagnostic radiographer stationed at the MRI department in a hospital. I operate the MRI scanner to deliver patient images, with my areas of interest being cardiac, paediatrics, as well as the safely of the scanner for patients. I am also currently enrolled in a post-graduate certificate in MRI.
Q: What made you choose radiography as a specialisation in the medical field, and why are you passionate about what you do?
My neighbour was one of the first people in my community to go to university. Like her, I wanted to create a better life for my family. During my studies, I also job shadowed radiographers – being “the eye” of medicine and having the ability to provide crucial images that can diagnose and manage patients with diseases fascinates me. It’s a constantly evolving medical approach, which constantly pushes me out of my comfort zone. I am currently employed by the hospital where I job shadowed.
Q: What are some of the highlights of your career so far?
I was honoured to be a part of impactful partnerships with international partners in my field. This allowed me to deepen my understanding of the global MRI landscape, revealing the challenges faced by radiologists in countries where the population’s income is lower. Through these experiences, I’ve had the opportunity to share my knowledge in South Africa to help advance MRI education here.
Q: What have you discovered about yourself through these leadership opportunities in your career?
It does not matter who you are or where you are from, we all have the capacity to make a difference through our profession. I have learnt that I am a leader and have inspired many radiographers across Africa to contribute their knowledge and expertise to the field.
Q: What is your advice to current students as they prepare for meaningful employment after graduation?
Students should continue to empower themselves with education and knowledge through their studies – enrol for a master’s, PhD, and other post-graduate short courses to add additional value to your profession. Network with professionals in your field through platforms such as LinkedIn.
Q: What is next for you in your career journey?
My short-term aspiration is to become an application specialist in MRI. I am very passionate about MRI access and education. My long-term aspiration is to make a difference and become a leader in my field, and to contribute to policymaking, specifically for MRI in South Africa.
Q: How have you utilised the support available from the Dell Young Leaders program during university and as an alumnus?
The Dell Young Leaders program played a crucial role in cultivating my potential through leadership symposiums, mental health check-ups, mentorship, networking opportunities, and career readiness initiatives. I am deeply grateful for the ongoing support from the program, even years after graduating. Their continued support ensures that we are well-equipped for the responsibilities entrusted to us in our respective workplaces.
Q: What is the one word that describes the DYL community?
Empowering!