From scrubs to scrum: Springbok trauma nurse saves lives

In a world where the professions of healing and athletics seem worlds apart, one remarkable woman bridges both realms with grace, skill, and an unyielding passion for service. Nomsa Mokwai, a dedicated trauma nurse at Netcare Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital, is also a proud member of the Springbok women's rugby team, highlighting the extraordinary capacity of women to excel in multiple demanding roles.

With her stylish appearance and soft-spoken demeanour, Mokwai may come off as unassuming to patients at the Netcare Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital. Yet, beneath this nurturing exterior lies the tenacity and strength of a Springbok forward, committed to both saving lives and inspiring the next generation of female athletes. As part of a team that recently made waves at the Women’s Rugby World Cup in the UK, Mokwai's on-field prowess stands as a testament to the resilience and determination she carries both on and off the field.

Every day at the Level 1 trauma centre reveals a new challenge, where Mokwai’s skills as a nurse truly come to the fore. “I love the variety my job offers,” she says, acknowledging the immense pressure sometimes involved in delivering life-saving care. Her commitment to excellence is evident; her work requires both courage and an unwavering dedication to her patients. “I want to help and nurture those around me, encouraging them not to lose hope during their treatment.”

Her dual commitments could easily overwhelm anyone, but Mokwai thrives on the adrenaline of both worlds. The challenging nature of her nursing shifts often leads her directly to the gym or squad training, showcasing an impressive ability to manage her time effectively. “I often swap shifts with my colleagues to attend Springbok training camps,” she explains, reflecting on her love for both her career and her sport.

Mokwai is driven not just by personal achievement but by a wider purpose. “I play rugby to inspire a generation. If they see me doing it, it could spark something inside them that says, ‘I can too’,” she shares with a smile.

“Many people don’t think women can play rugby,” Mokwai admits, reflecting on her journey into a traditionally male-dominated sport. Her determination to prove that women can excel at rugby stands firm, and she cherishes the bonds formed through shared trials and triumphs on the pitch: “It connects you with different characters and diverse cultures, creating a family-like atmosphere.”

Whether donning her nurse’s scrubs or her rugby kit, teamwork defines Mokwai’s essence. “In a medical setting, you can be brilliant, but you need your team to succeed. This is true both in nursing and rugby,” she explains. The sense of unity in both realms is critical to her success and well-being. “I love working with others, learning and teaching at the same time,” she notes, referring to the collaborative environment she fosters.

Her gratitude towards her employer, Netcare, and her unit manager, Taahira Mondell, is palpable. Mokwai appreciates the support she receives, allowing her to pursue her dreams.

Outside of work and rugby, Mokwai enjoys surprising passions that paint a fuller picture of her character. “I love to bake, especially dark chocolate brownies, and I love cooking delicious pasta dishes and sewing my own clothes.” With a background in modelling and fashion, she embraces beauty alongside physicality. “Regardless of the sport I play, I’m still a woman who loves looking beautiful,” she laughs.

While some may view her as just a strong, athletic woman, Mokwai describes herself as someone with a “big, soft heart.” She strives for excellence in both nursing and rugby, embracing the challenges of balancing both, sharing that “this journey of mine is a testimony to say that you can wear two uniforms and still walk tall.”

Ultimately, Mokwai finds immense satisfaction in the care she provides as a nurse and the camaraderie felt on the rugby field. “The best thing about my job is being compassionate and seeing people get better. With rugby, winning is a team effort, and creating that synergy brings joy.” Her story encourages young girls and women to embrace their ambitions and explore their boundaries, reinforcing the belief that one can indeed wear many hats — or uniforms — and make a profound impact.