Sayuran Pillay, a fifth-year medical student at the University of Cape Town (UCT), has been recognised for his outstanding leadership, community service, and work promoting disability-inclusive healthcare. Pillay, who grew up in Montford, Chatsworth, was raised by his deaf parents, Harry Pillay, 51, and Shubasani Pillay, 52, and learned sign language from a young age to help them navigate communication barriers. He accompanied his parents to doctor's appointments and meetings, acting as their personal interpreter.
Pillay's experiences growing up with deaf parents shaped his approach to his work and career, instilling in him a passion for creating inclusivity for people with disabilities. He focused his research on disability-inclusive surgical care and is now part of a global research project centred around how deaf people navigate the surgical care pathway. Pillay's commitment to serving humanity through the medical field was inspired by his mother, a teacher assistant at the VN Naik School for the Deaf in Durban.
The 22-year-old medical student has received the UCT Vice-Chancellor's Award, given annually to a student who has advanced in their journey at the university holistically. Pillay is also the founding convenor and outgoing co-chair of the Student Curriculum Lekgotla (SCL). He volunteers every Saturday at a soup kitchen in his community and coordinates the efforts as the young adult coordinator at a Sri Sathya Sai Centre in Rylands, Cape Town.
Pillay's family played a significant role in his upbringing, particularly his paternal grandmother, Goonam Balakrishnan, who is 80 and helped teach him empathy and discipline. His mother's sister, Desha Gopal, has been a pillar of support, stepping in to assist with his education and providing guidance when needed. Pillay's life journey has been filled with ups and downs, but he remains committed to serving humanity through his work in the medical field.
Pillay's academic journey has not been without challenges, having had to repeat courses after moving to Cape Town in 2022. However, he has persevered and remains dedicated to his goals. His grandmother and aunt have been integral to his life, helping shape him into a well-rounded young man. Pillay's achievements have earned him recognition, and he views the award as affirmation for the work he has done.
As a proud Tamilian, Pillay is actively involved in his community and religion. He attends a Sri Sathya Sai Centre in Rylands, where he volunteers and coordinates a soup kitchen every Saturday. Pillay's commitment to his faith and community is reflected in his daily life, and he believes that these activities help him become a holistic achiever.
Pillay's passion for being a doctor stems from the medical field's ability to serve humanity. He draws inspiration from his mother and is committed to creating a more inclusive healthcare system. With his award, Pillay hopes to continue making a positive impact in his community and promoting disability-inclusive healthcare.
Key points
- Sayuran Pillay won the UCT Vice-Chancellor's Award for his leadership and work promoting disability-inclusive healthcare.
- Pillay's experiences growing up with deaf parents shaped his approach to his work and career, instilling in him a passion for creating inclusivity for people with disabilities.
- He is part of a global research project centred around how deaf people navigate the surgical care pathway.
