First female adult epileptologist leads the way

As we honour women whose work redefines excellence and expands the frontiers of possibility this women’s month, the spotlight is on Dr Aayesha J Soni – an adult neurologist and epileptologist. The University of Cape Town’s (UCT) alumna is the first female internationally trained sub-specialist in adult epileptology.

Her clinical focus is epilepsy surgery, with expertise in stereo-electroencephalography (stereo-EEG) and neuromodulation techniques such as Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) and Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). Dr Soni’s journey reflects the transformative power of resilience and unwavering commitment to patient care.

Journey through UCT

Soni acknowledges the significant role her parents played throughout her journey, specifically her mother. She believes she would not be where she is today without her mother, whose sacrifices have been tremendous. Her mother once shared that both of her daughters’ great-grandmothers were illiterate, yet three generations later, the family has progressed remarkably. Her achievement would not have been possible without the resilience and sacrifices of the generations before her.

A memory she holds especially dear is of a time when, as a student, she told her mother she wanted to give up on something related to school. Soni’s mother looked at her and said: “You know, Aayesha, I have never thought of you as the person to give up.” These are the words that echo in Soni’s mind when she thinks of giving up.

Growing up in Johannesburg, she frequently heard colleagues discouraging her from applying to UCT, referencing its competitive nature. Eventually, she decided to apply and was accepted. Being at UCT proved to be a remarkable opportunity.

“UCT is the best. You can go there and accomplish things that you are unable to achieve elsewhere.”

Motivated by a commitment to make a positive impact in adult epileptology, Soni believes neurology chose her. Driven by an unshakeable passion for medicine, she navigated challenges she experienced with determination, turning obstacles into stepping stones. While most people complete a master’s degree in four years, Soni completed hers in six months. The groundbreaking research findings from her master’s thesis were translated into clinical practice.

She spearheaded the establishment of the first epilepsy surgery service in a public hospital in South Africa. Describing her experience at UCT, Soni’s comments are: “UCT is the best. You can go there and accomplish things that you are unable to achieve elsewhere, as it is an environment which recognises potential and creates opportunities.”

Womxn who played a role in her life

At UCT, Professor Lydia Cairncross, the head of the Department of Surgery at Groote Schuur hospital, stands out as an inspirational figure, not because of her accomplishments but her strong moral compass and willingness to say what is right and wrong.

Soni envisions a future where she continues to build strong affiliations with Groote Schuur Hospital and UCT. With a deep passion for clinical research, she is committed to putting South African research on the global map. Her goal is to promote excellence within the healthcare sector and foster collaboration between the private and public health systems.

Advice for women aspiring to walk a similar path?

Soni acknowledges that it can be difficult to navigate certain spaces as a woman, even when equipped with the same knowledge as male counterparts. This often requires proving oneself multiple times, and she believes in “being proactive in pursuing one’s passions”. For her, this means creating opportunities for what you believe in instead of waiting for them to come to you. Rejection, she believes, is not a deterrent, but a learning curve. “When you are kinder to yourself, you can pick yourself up after rejections and failure.”

Soni encourages women, especially those of colour, to recognise their immense potential, move forward, and claim the opportunities that await them.