Award: Excellence in Clinical Practice (C4)

Recipient: Mr Chuma Mduzulwana (joint winner)
An interview with the Excellence in Clinical Practice award recipient, Mr Chuma Mduzulwana

1. What does receiving this award mean to you personally and professionally?
(We are curious about how it resonates with your journey and how you hope it might encourage others.)

Thank you so much for this recognition and the opportunity to reflect on my journey. I am deeply honoured to be a joint recipient of the Excellence in Clinical Practice Award.

I am a Male Nurse who is passionate about clinical excellence and care. I graduated at NMU in 2019. I have worked in several healthcare facilities around the Eastern Cape, but now I’m currently working at Livingstone Hospital in Ward 5A. Receiving this award is both a humbling and inspiring experience. Personally, it reaffirms my commitment to providing compassionate, evidence-based care and reminds me that every act of service matters.

Professionally, it motivates me to continue striving for excellence and to set an example for others in our field. This recognition reinforces my belief in lifelong learning and leadership as essential pillars of quality nursing practice.

2. Looking back, is there a moment or contribution in your nursing career that you feel especially proud of?
(It could be a breakthrough, a turning point, or something that made a lasting difference.)

One of the moments I am most proud of is being able to provide holistic care to critically ill patients and witnessing their recovery. Contributing to multidisciplinary teamwork and ensuring quality outcomes for patients has been deeply rewarding. Each time a patient regains strength and hope, it reminds me of the purpose behind my profession. I also have the opportunity of assisting NMU, Lilitha and Netcare students with orientation around the ward and hospital, and making sure they get the skills they are allocated to acquire in our wards. I was also awarded the opportunity of being trained as a preceptor, hence, I always take care of my students.

My mentor and unit manager, Mr Wayiza, has played a pivotal role in my professional development. His guidance, patience, and strong leadership have shaped my work ethic and clinical confidence. He continues to inspire me to lead with empathy, accountability, and excellence.

4. What motivates you in your nursing career?
(Whether it is the people, the challenges, or the purpose, what keeps you going?)

What drives me most is making a meaningful difference in people’s lives, not only for patients, but also for colleagues and students. The opportunity to comfort, educate, and empower others through care is what keeps me passionate about nursing.

5. How do you keep your practice fresh and informed in a field that is always evolving?
(Feel free to share how you engage with new knowledge, research, or teaching.)

I actively engage in professional development through continuous education, attending training sessions, and keeping up with current research. I also take pride in sharing knowledge by facilitating ward-based teaching for nursing staff. Learning and teaching go hand in hand; they keep me both informed and inspired.

6. What is next for you? Are there any goals or hopes you are working toward in your professional journey?
(We are interested in what growth or impact you are aiming for, whether big or small.)

I am currently working towards advancing my education by pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing Management, with the long-term goal of completing a Master’s in Nursing. I will be applying for a Master’s at Nelson Mandela University next year. Your consideration would be highly appreciated. I am passionate about leadership and aspire to contribute to strengthening healthcare systems through effective management and mentorship.

Thank you once again for this meaningful recognition.