​As part of its 60th-anniversary celebrations, the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences is introducing 60 future healthcare professionals who are currently in their first year. Meet Azhar Nadkar.

​Azhar Nadkar has always been fascinated by the human body. But it was when he was diagnosed with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome (a condition that effects the heart rhythm) and experienced the immense impact the doctors had on his life, that made him determined to pursue a degree in medicine. “Through hard work and perseverance, I got accepted.”

​Nadkar is now nearly finished with his first year of the MB,ChB course at Stellenbosch University and says though the content hasn’t always been easy to master, he has learnt that he is capable of achieving what he puts his mind to. “With dedication, success is inevitable.”

​In ten years’ time he would like to have started his journey towards a his dream of specialising in cardiac surgery.

​He identifies with Barry Allen from The Flash, his favourite movie character: “He represents the possibility of being an ordinary citizen who is capable of being extraordinary. The sacrifices he has made on his quest to save people resembles the sacrifices I have made to come this far in my studies.”

​ Fast facts:

• He can cook pretty well and is the “go-to-guy” for butter chicken and chocolate Oreo pudding.
• He says he suffers from misophonia. “I can’t stand people chewing, chomping, slurping or gurgling loud.”
• His social media hashtag would be #PeoplesPerson.
• He’s the youngest of four children.
• His best habit is telling his mother he loves her everyday.