Physiotherapists

Our physiotherapists are passionate about helping people get back on their feet, be it in the hospital or the community. After some lean years we now have five physios, so we're expanding programmes and doing more than ever! For more information on rehabilitation services in a rural area, see http://www.ruralrehab.co.za

Hlumisa Mjali
Chief Physiotherapist
Hlumi grew up in Cape Town and studied at UWC. She did her community service in KwaZulu Natal and worked at the rural Emmaus Hospital, before joining us in late 2016 as our Chief Physio. Areas of physio that particularly interest her are orthopaedics and neuro, with patients who have spinal cord injuries a special group. On the sports field she has represented South Africa at Goalball. She's also passionate about Blind Cricket, or really any disability related sport. She has two young children, both of whom were delivered at Zithulele!

Lara van Heerden
Physiotherapist
Lara grew up coming to nearby Mdumbi on holiday and always dreamed of working at Zithulele. She graduated from UKZN in 2016 and did her comm serv in Maguzi Hospital, before a stint in private while looking for a suitable rural post. In addition to rural rehab, she's interested in pain and neuromuscular conditions in particular. When work's over, she's happiest at the beach, or in the mountains or the bush.

Jessica Jardine
Physiotherapist
Jessica graduated from Pretoria and did her community service at Cloete Joubert Hospital in Barkly East. She finds it incredibly rewarding helping people regain the ability to do "basic" everyday tasks, so people with neurological problems are a special interest. Outside work, she's up for anything new, which is not surprising given her favourite quote: "You have exactly one life in which to do everything you'll ever do. Act accordingly." (Colin Wright)

Christel Truter
Physiotherapist
Christel is a Stellenbosch graduate who did community service with us in 2020. After taking time out to get a head start on a Masters degree (and wait for a post) she's rejoined us since November 2021. She particularly interested in neuro rehab and women's health, while away from work she enjoys cooking, baking, reading and gardening. 

Naledi Bambata
Physiotherapist
Naledi joins us for community service this year. She graduated from the University of the Western Cape. Her interests within health are neurology, paediatric and respiratory physio. She's looking forward to her year with us.