By Koketso Maraba 
 
Choosing a career in healthcare is more than just picking a job, it's about finding a path that allows you to make a lasting impact on the lives of others.
On Tuesday, 25 February 2025, learners from Kgothalang Secondary School had the unique opportunity to engage with healthcare professionals at Sci-Bono, including Gauteng Health nurses, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) paramedics, Wits Oral Health dentists, and Radiographers, to explore the wide range of career options within the health sector. 
This hands-on experience provided students with a deeper understanding of the various roles in healthcare, empowering them to make informed decisions about their future. Career expos like these play a crucial role in shaping the future of healthcare professionals, providing valuable opportunities for the next generation to explore and connect with their career paths.
During the event, the paramedics led an interactive Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) demonstration, allowing students to practice life-saving techniques on mannequins. This hands-on experience gave learners a glimpse into the fast-paced and crucial role emergency care plays in healthcare. By simulating real-life emergency situations, students were able to better understand the skills and quick decision-making required in emergency care careers.
Moreover, professional nurses engaged with students to teach them about the human anatomy and to give them an introduction to key concepts they will encounter in their nursing studies. This knowledge not only deepens students' understanding of the body but also helps prepare them for the academic challenges of nursing courses. It gave students a clearer picture of the dedication and expertise required in the nursing profession, motivating them to pursue this essential and impactful career.
"It can be challenging, but when young people come here, we can advocate for them to engage with professionals so they can see their peers successfully pursuing these careers. Some of these fields have traditionally been seen as jobs for others, but it's important to show that anyone can take them on. We need to expose the youth to the idea that these opportunities are open to all, regardless of background," said 
Silindokuhle Mbonane an Education Officer at Sci-Bono. 
Every year, Sci-Bono hosts Focus Week, which highlights different sectors such as engineering, sports, health, arts, environmental sciences, and more. This year, they expanded the event to include the Gauteng Department of Health, offering students even more opportunities to explore careers within the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) fields.