Post by Mediclinic

When Mediclinic was recognised for the third time as a Top Employer in 2026, it was yet another nod to the people who show up every day and contribute to the company’s strong reputation, particularly the nurses who work tirelessly delivering care to patients. Lebeko Maake is one such nurse. She qualified to be a midwife after completing a B.Cur Honours Degree in Nursing from the University of Limpopo. Today, she is the Unit Manager of the Obstetric Unit at Mediclinic Tzaneen. Growing up, Lebeko admired the nurses in her community, and every visit to the hospital or clinic reinforced the idea that nursing was her calling. “I knew that’s what I wanted to do with my life, helping people in need and making a difference in someone’s life.” During her 3rd year in university, Lebeko was exposed to midwifery for the first time. To this day, witnessing her first delivery remains a defining moment in her career. Although she describes the experience as nerve-wracking, she was fascinated by the midwife's confidence, hearing the baby’s first cry, and the mother’s visible relief after the final push. As a self-proclaimed adrenaline junkie, this entire scene sparked something in Lebeko, and that’s how her path to being a midwife began. As someone who thrives in a high-pressure environment, Lebeko felt at home in the unpredictable world of the maternity ward. Since in obstetric care, no two shifts are the same. “You are often dealing with emergencies and must anticipate complications at any moment.” And when the unpredictable does occur, remaining cognisant of how confusing the chaos can be to the patient is always at the forefront of her mind. “It’s important to remember the humane care element when dealing with obstetric emergencies, while it’s equally important to manage the actual emergency. “Being a successful midwife should be reflected by the outcomes of your obstetric care, rendering safe patient care and following your instinct while being an advocate for your patients. I feel fulfilled each day knowing I did my best and that all mothers safely delivered their newborns.”