Karabo Phyyo Mokoena
Nominee's Province:
Gauteng
Age:
28
Project Name/Description:
MRI Radiographer – Steve Biko Academic Hospital
At Steve Biko Academic Hospital in Pretoria, Karabo Phyyo Mokoena is rewriting the story of diagnostic imaging in South Africa—and beyond. Operating advanced MRI technology, she plays a vital role in diagnosing complex conditions affecting cardiac, neurological, musculoskeletal, pediatric, and fetal health. Her work directly impacts patient outcomes at one of the nation’s top public hospitals. Karabo’s journey began with a spark—witnessing a neighbour’s academic success and immersing herself early in the world of radiography. Today, she’s more than a radiographer; she’s determined to transform MRI education and expand healthcare access across the continent. Her breakthrough came when she became the first South African—and only the second African—to receive the 2025 ISMRT John A. Koveleski Award for Professional Development. Recognised in Hawai‘i for her groundbreaking research on pediatric tumoral calcinosis, Karabo has flown the African flag at global stages from Toronto to Singapore to Tanzania. She now co-moderates an international MRI Physics Masterclass Series, sharing knowledge with peers worldwide. In a public health system marked by resource shortages, infrastructure gaps, and early-career pressures, Karabo’s resilience stands out. As a founding member of the ISMRT South African Division, she’s laying the groundwork for MRI radiography to be recognised as a specialised and celebrated field across Africa. Her next goal is to grow her role as an MRI Applications Specialist across the Middle East and Africa, and to influence public health policy that ensures all communities, no matter how remote, have access to world-class diagnostic imaging.
