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Breaking Barriers: Dr Aayesha Soni Becomes South Africa’s First Female Internationally Trained Adult Epileptologist
A historic first for women in medicine
As Women’s Month draws to a close, South Africa celebrates a milestone in medicine. Dr Aayesha J. Soni, a University of Cape Town alumna, has become the first internationally trained female adult epileptologist in the country. Her achievement is more than a personal victory; it is a breakthrough moment for women in medicine and for patients living with epilepsy.
Epileptology is a highly specialised branch of neurology that requires years of additional training. Dr Soni’s expertise includes epilepsy surgery, stereo-electroencephalography (stereo-EEG), and advanced neuromodulation therapies such as Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Deep Brain Stimulation. Her work has the potential to transform treatment for countless South Africans affected by epilepsy, one of the most common neurological disorders in the world.
A journey shaped by family and sacrifice
Dr Soni often credits her success to her family, particularly her mother. She recalls her mother’s resilience, sharing that while both of her great-grandmothers were illiterate, just three generations later, she and her sister were able to access world-class education. This legacy of sacrifice and determination laid the foundation for her own pursuit of excellence.
One memory stands out most: her mother’s words whenever the road ahead felt too difficult. “You know, Aayesha, I have never thought of you as the person to give up.” Those words became a guiding light throughout her academic journey.
Growing up in Johannesburg, Soni was often told not to bother applying to UCT because of how competitive it was. She ignored the discouragement, applied anyway, and was accepted. Her years at UCT not only gave her rigorous training but also reinforced her belief that the institution recognised potential and opened doors for those willing to seize opportunity.
Inspiring the next generation
Now a leader in her field, Dr Soni urges young women, particularly women of colour, to recognise their own potential. She acknowledges the challenges of navigating spaces where women often have to prove themselves repeatedly despite having the same qualifications as their male counterparts.
Her message is simple but powerful: be proactive in pursuing passions and be kind to yourself when facing rejection. “When you are kinder to yourself, you can pick yourself up after rejections and failure,” she says.
Why her achievement matters
South Africa has long struggled with gaps in specialised neurological care. Having the first female internationally trained adult epileptologist in the country not only expands medical capacity but also sends a message to young women that the doors of possibility are open, even in highly demanding fields.
Dr Soni’s recognition during Women’s Month is a reminder that progress is made through persistence and that breaking barriers in medicine is not only about personal ambition but also about paving the way for others.
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Source: The Citizen
Featured Image: LinkedIn/Aayesha Soni
