In this episode of Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka  speaks with Dr. Ronwyn van Eeden, a leading South African oncologist whose medical journey has been defined by passion, perseverance, and purpose.

From childhood dreams of becoming a doctor to specialising in oncology, a field she believes “chooses you”, Dr. van Eeden reflects on the formative experiences that shaped her career. Her early years in South Africa’s bustling public hospitals, including Baragwanath and Potchefstroom, gave her a fearless foundation and a deep commitment to patient care.

She speaks candidly about the gendered challenges of carving out space as a woman and woman of colour in a hierarchical medical environment, sometimes feeling the need to “prove herself twice over” to be taken seriously. Her transition from public to private practice reveals stark contrasts in patient dynamics, access to treatment, and healthcare inequities; offering a rare, honest look at the South African medical landscape.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. van Eeden underscores her philosophy of patient-centred care, reframing the cancer journey from one of fear to one of shared decision-making, empowerment, and holistic support. She highlights encouraging advances in breast cancer treatment, noting that early detection and multidisciplinary care have transformed patient outcomes, with many survivors thriving long after diagnosis.

Beyond her clinical work, Dr. van Eeden plays an active role in shaping the future of oncology in South Africa. She serves on the executive committees of major professional bodies, including Breast interest group of South Africa (BIGOSA) and the Cardio-Oncology Society of Southern Africa, and contributes to global scholarship as an Associate Editor of the Journal of Thoracic Oncology.

Her message to young women aspiring to careers in medicine is powerful: follow your passion, work relentlessly, and never diminish your worth. She reminds listeners that success is built through small, determined steps, and that women should celebrate their daily achievements in a world that often demands perfection.

This episode is a rich blend of personal journey, professional insight, and heartfelt encouragement, spotlighting Dr. Ronwyn van Eeden, a woman at the forefront of medical innovation and compassionate care.

Tune in for more….