Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Pretoria (Lecturer, researcher and clinician).
Education summary
PhD (Physiotherapy): University of Cape Town (2021),
Postgraduate certificate in higher education (PGCHE): University of Pretoria (2012) cum laude,
MPhysT (Research): University of Pretoria (2011),
BPhysT: University of Pretoria (2003) cum laude,
Diploma in Personal Training: International Institute for Fitness Training: South Africa (2000) with distinction.
Career summary
I am an Associate Professor in the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Pretoria, South Africa, specialising in paediatric and neuromuscular respiratory care. I obtained my PhD from the University of Cape Town in 2021, focusing on the effects of inspiratory muscle training in children with neuromuscular disorders.
In my current role, I teach Paediatrics across the undergraduate physiotherapy programme (first to fourth year), supervise undergraduate and postgraduate research projects, and serve as the postgraduate coordinator for the department.
I am actively involved in national and international academic networks. I currently chair the Research Committee of the South African Society of Physiotherapy and serve on the executive committee of the Muscular Dystrophy Foundation of South Africa. Internationally, I have been a member of the TREAT-NMD congress committee since 2019 and have served on the WMS prize-giving committee since 2023.
I have presented at several international congresses, including the WMS, and have received multiple research awards for my work in neuromuscular and respiratory physiotherapy at congresses such as World Physiotherapy, ICNMD, and WMS. My research focuses on health equity and the development of context-specific respiratory care solutions for children with neuromuscular disorders, particularly in resource-limited settings. I am passionate about interdisciplinary, patient-centred care and would be honoured to contribute to the WMS Executive Committee.
What is the personal or professional achievement you’re most proud of?
The professional achievement I am most proud of is completing my PhD on the effects of inspiratory muscle training in children and adolescents with neuromuscular disorders, which laid the foundation for my ongoing research and advocacy in paediatric neuromuscular respiratory care. This work has allowed me to contribute meaningfully to improving respiratory care standards for vulnerable paediatric populations in South Africa and beyond. Furthermore, the Vice-Chancellor's Teaching and Learning Award (2025) represents my most meaningful professional recognition, acknowledging my commitment to excellence in higher education teaching and learning.
Why did you first join the WMS?
I became a member of the World Muscle Society in 2022 to access member benefits, including discounted Congress registration, and to further engage with the international neuromuscular community.
What is your goal in joining the Executive Board?
My goal in joining the Executive Board of the World Muscle Society is to contribute to strengthening representation, inclusivity, and context-relevant research within the global neuromuscular community. As a clinician, academic, and researcher from South Africa, I am passionate about ensuring that the challenges and innovations emerging from low and middle-income countries are meaningfully integrated into international dialogues and care standards.
I hope to advocate for greater multidisciplinary collaboration, the inclusion of allied health perspectives, and the promotion of equitable access to care and research opportunities for patients living with NMD worldwide. Through my experience in clinical practice, research, community engagement, and committee service, I aim to support the Society’s ongoing commitment to excellence in neuromuscular science, while helping to expand its reach and relevance to underrepresented regions and professional groups.
