Dr. Unati Makiwane

Can you tell us more about your medical background and education?

I completed medical school in South Africa in 2004. In 2010 I moved to Canada, and now run a solo practice in Calgary. I specialize in mental health, particularly for children and men. In my spare time I take part in medical volunteering trips.

What inspired you to become a doctor?

I was a curious child, and I’ve always loved people. I knew early at the age of 7 that I wanted to become a doctor. I come from a family of doctors and nurses. My mother is a nurse and she loves what she does. I take pride in being a healthcare provider, and being able to give back to society. I feel that it is my responsibility to keep my light shining, and to continue to empower my patients.

What do you love the most about practising medicine?

There are so many things I love about medicine. When my patients heal from an illness. Catching diseases early. Being a family physician, I’m very humbled by my patients. I enjoy getting to know them as people and learning about the things that matter to them. And, with medicine, you never stop learning.

What’s your favourite part about practising on Maple?

Maple has a great team of staff who are helpful and a joy to work with. My patients are also appreciative, which always feels great. I see so many different types of symptoms and cases with virtual care. There are some neat technical features that have been added to the platform in the past year that I’m enjoying.

What’s the most challenging aspect of working in the medical field?

Time and work-life balance. I have to make a conscious effort to prioritize my family as their happiness is fundamental to me. It’s so easy to get consumed by your job as a doctor. I’m always striving to achieve balance.

If you could choose any other career, what would it be?

Psychology. I love mental health. Human behaviour fascinates me. How people think, behave and interact with each other, are all endlessly interesting.

Is there an individual in the medical community that you find most inspiring?

Doctor Fauci. His calm demeanor in the midst of the storm he’s facing is inspiring. He’s a very intelligent man. Despite all of the global stress, he remains diligent. That’s amazing.

Can you share a health-hack that has made your life better?

Finding balance. I eat well, exercise and laugh a lot. Laughing is good medicine. Family and friend connections are very important.

What do you do in your spare time?

I enjoy travelling, public speaking, and hosting my two talk shows called “Mental Health” and “Men’s Health”. I recently created an online course for men as well, which I’m hoping to launch soon. It’s called “Men Get Depressed Too.”