In the field of occupational therapy, women have historically dominated, playing a vital role in its growth and recognition worldwide. However, there is a noticeable trend of more men choosing to pursue occupational therapy internationally, although progress in South Africa has been slower. One such individual breaking gender norms is Velangenkosi Wiseman Mthimkhulu, a male Occupational Therapy student who shares his remarkable journey in the field.

As an ordinary guy, I have chosen to embark on an extraordinary path by studying to become an Occupational Therapist. Traditionally, occupational therapy has been predominantly practiced by women, who have done an exceptional job in upholding the profession's value and global recognition. While there has been an increase in the number of men becoming occupational therapists globally, this change has been gradual in South Africa. However, the men who have chosen this path recognize the value of occupational therapy and its potential to help people achieve health and wellbeing.

As an African male rooted in the isiZulu culture from BhekuZulu, Vryheid in KwaZulu-Natal, I have been fortunate to conduct my community work integrated learning block in Mamelodi during my final year of studies. I have witnessed firsthand how much the community members value occupational therapy students. When I arrived at COSUP Lusaka, one of the sites where we work with individuals who have used or are using drugs, the staff and clients were thrilled to have a male OT student. COSUP stands for community-oriented substance use program. The male clients found it easier to engage and share personal information with me, which can enhance the effectiveness of our interventions. Occupational therapy focuses on treating the whole person, leading to improved therapy outcomes. Having sufficient information and a willingness to share from everyone made it easier to formulate long-term interventions after conducting needs analysis and informal interviews.

The community members attending group therapy sessions was a positive sight to behold, as it demonstrated their eagerness to be informed and empowered with knowledge. Ultimately, self-empowerment comes from having knowledge about oneself. Employment emerged as the community's most pressing need, given South Africa's persistently high unemployment rates. When compounded by substance use disorders and a structural unemployment crisis, finding work becomes exceedingly challenging. Consequently, my OT sessions focused on skills development. Recognizing that not all parents could afford expensive toys, I taught clients at the COSUP site how to make and repair toys using recycled materials like plastic and cardboard. The aim was to enable them to sell these toys within the community. During the toy-making sessions, I also incorporated informal discussions on financial management, equipping them with the tools needed to start a small business.

I invite you to join a small community of male occupational therapists who believe that people are occupational beings. Through engaging individuals in meaningful and purposeful activities, we can facilitate a genuine sense of belonging and effect positive change in their lives. To determine if occupational therapy is the right path for you, I encourage you to explore this degree and preferably shadow an experienced OT. If your passion aligns with this field, you will discover yourself as you dedicate yourself to serving others.

Within the occupational therapy department, a supportive academic environment fosters growth and belonging, enabling students to become exceptional OT professionals. Emotional support is provided by referring students to campus student support services and helping them build a stable social network. The department firmly believes in the power of group work to facilitate learning, enhance social interaction skills, and promote effective collaboration with other healthcare professionals in the workplace.

I chose to study occupational therapy because I had a deep-rooted passion for helping people. My advice to you is to pursue this field if you genuinely love it and are passionate about making a difference in people's lives. Remember, when you follow your passion, financial success will naturally follow.