23 May 2025 | Story: Qhawekazi Memani | Photo: Supplied
3 minutes read time
The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) is celebrating Mr Khomotso Comfort Ramabokela, a proud alumnus of VUT, for his outstanding contribution to healthcare and the recognition he recently received as “Celebrate of the Year” across South Africa and the African continent. At 29 years old, this professional nurse and shift leader in the Emergency Department at Randfontein Private Hospital exemplifies the values, leadership, and compassion VUT strives to instill in its graduates.
Drawn to healthcare by a deep desire to help others, Mr Ramabokela reflects, “I’ve always been interested in careers that allow me to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.” His natural curiosity and drive to keep learning made nursing a perfect match. “The opportunity to learn about the human body, respond in moments of crisis, and support people through their toughest times, that’s what motivates me.”
Mr Ramabokela completed his Bachelor of Nursing Science at VUT in 2022, calling the experience life-changing. “The education I received at VUT provided more than just knowledge. It gave me the foundation to navigate real-world challenges in the healthcare system,” he shares. “My former VUT lecturers, Ms Dikeledi Selepe, Ms Dudu Motloba, Mr Siya Rayise, Ms Maria Mothebe, and Dr Rudo Ramalisa, were always available, supportive, and instrumental in shaping our understanding and skills.”
Today, that foundation supports him daily in a fast-paced and high-pressure environment. As a shift leader, Mr Ramabokela doesn’t just manage urgent medical cases; he leads a team, ensures quality care, and brings empathy, urgency, and calm to every situation.
He lives by these essential values in emergency care: empathy, calmness, urgency, leadership, and a hunger to keep learning. “I want to continue developing in clinical and educational spaces,” he adds. “But I also value maintaining a healthy work-life balance and spending time with the people I love.”
Being named “Celebrate of the Year” felt deeply affirming. “It made me feel seen,” he says. “It motivated me to keep learning, improving, and giving my best. It showed me that what we do matters.”
Still, the journey isn’t without its challenges. Communication barriers, adapting to change, workload, and limited career development are all part of the reality. But Mr Ramabokela approaches each one with a problem-solving mindset. Good relationships with colleagues improve communication. Sharing the workload makes things manageable. Engaging in ongoing training opens doors,” he said.
Although he’s not yet involved in mentorship or outreach, he’s ready and willing. “I’d love to give back and support future nurses and students, especially in the VUT community. That’s where my journey started, and I’m proud of that,” he said.
Dr Selepe expressed pride in Mr Ramakobela’s continued growth:
“He lives by the essential values we strive to instill in emergency care: empathy, calmness, urgency, leadership, and a hunger to keep learning. It is inspiring to witness his journey. He remains committed to developing in clinical and educational spaces while valuing a healthy work-life balance and making time for those he loves. I could not be prouder of the professional he has become.”
Congratulations, Mr Ramakobela, on your outstanding achievement, and thank you for flying the VUT flag high. Your dedication and passion continue to make us proud.
