Prescription for balance: how Dr Nalencia Naidoo juggles medicine and content creation like a pro

Dr Nalencia Naidoo is a dynamic medical doctor and lifestyle content creator based in Johannesburg.

At just 30 years old, she has successfully balanced her demanding career in medicine with her passion for sharing insights on beauty, wellness, and lifestyle through social media.

Naidoo's journey into content creation began during her internship, where she sought an outlet to express the realities of her profession while connecting with a broader audience.

Known for her authenticity and commitment to mentoring aspiring medical professionals, she has built a supportive online community that values her expertise and personal experiences.

As she continues to navigate the challenges of both the medical field and the digital landscape,  Naidoo remains dedicated to inspiring others and advocating for health education.

We discussed with Naidoo her path as a medical doctor and lifestyle content creator, as well as the risks she has incurred by sharing her opinions online.

How do you navigate the demands of being a medical doctor while also cultivating a significant presence as a lifestyle content creator? Could you share the origins of this journey and what inspired you to venture into the realm of content creation?

My journey into content creation started very organically. During my internship and community service years, balancing life outside of the hospital felt intense, structured, and often emotionally heavy.

Social media became a creative outlet, a space where I could share the realities of being a doctor in South Africa and express my interests in beauty, wellness, and lifestyle.

It provided me with the platform to share the softer moments that exist outside hospital walls.

Of all the work you’ve done - both in medicine and online - which project or moment are you most proud of, and why does it stand out for you?

In medicine, I feel most proud when I know I have gone the extra mile for a patient. Often, we are short-staffed and overwhelmed by our patient load.

However, taking the time to fast-track a result or prevent systemic delays in treatment allows patients to feel seen, heard, and safe during vulnerable times.

Online, I’m proud of building a community that trusts me. I often have young, aspiring doctors reach out to me for advice.

Knowing that people look up to me and being able to show up as a mentor is always a proud moment.

Stepping into the public eye as a doctor can be risky. Looking back, what has been the most significant creative or personal risk you've undertaken, and how did that experience contribute to your growth?

The biggest risk was allowing myself to share my thoughts and views on controversial topics. Part of the reason I decided to create an online presence was to challenge the status quo.

In addition, I am very passionate about educating the broader community on health-seeking behaviour and have a long list of topics I still plan to share. Using online platforms requires vulnerability; that risk taught me confidence and boundaries.

It helped me grow into someone who can honour professionalism while still showing up as her authentic self.

What inspires you to maintain consistency in content creation while managing the demands of medicine, prompting you to continue showing up in both fields every day?

To be honest, finding the motivation to be consistent can be difficult; please never let social media fool you!

However, every day I encourage myself to show up as the best and most authentic version of myself.

This gives me purpose and allows me to grow as a multifaceted person.

What do you love most about living in Johannesburg, and what would you say to someone considering visiting or settling there?

Johannesburg has always been home for me, so my proximity to family and community is what I love most.

I believe that Johannesburg is one of the most culturally and economically diverse cities in South Africa, a true representation of what our country is about.

When you’re not working, travelling or creating, where do you love to escape to? What makes those destinations special for you?

Since I started working, I haven’t had the opportunity to do many international holidays, but I will be taking my fiancé to Italy for his 30th birthday in March.

One of my favourite local escapes is actually Sun City.

It is a short drive from Johannesburg, making it perfect for quick weekend getaways.

It is a destination that offers something for everyone, and more importantly, the opportunity to have the perfect pool day and soak up some sun!

Who do you look up to in the medical or lifestyle space, and how have they influenced the way you approach your career and personal brand?

The people who stand out to me are those who move through life leading with kindness. This is something I try my best to uphold, especially in the hospital.

Having someone show you just a little kindness goes a long way.

In fact, I have a silver bangle that has the phrase “Be Kind” engraved on it, serving as a daily reminder to myself.

What exciting projects, collaborations, or personal goals are you currently working on or planning for 2025?

In 2026, I will be very intentional about growth.

I’m working on expanding my content into more meaningful storytelling, exploring collaborations aligned with wellness and lifestyle, and continuing to build a personal brand rooted in balance and authenticity.

On a personal level, my biggest goal this year is to plan my dream wedding with my partner.

I believe it can be one of the happiest and most stressful times in a girl's life!

For young people - especially women - who aspire to pursue medicine while building a personal brand online, what words of encouragement or advice would you share?

The beauty of being a woman is that we are multifaceted! Sometimes life can push you to choose one dream over another, but you’re allowed to be layered, evolving, and curious.

Life is such that sometimes certain dreams require more effort and time than others, but that’s okay!

A dream delayed is not a dream unaccomplished, so long as you are willing to put in the work.

Embrace your wins and failures alike, set boundaries early, and never underestimate yourself. There is space for everyone at this table.

How has social media played a role in amplifying your voice, educating your audience, and shaping opportunities for you beyond the consulting room?

Social media has allowed me to connect beyond clinical settings and reach people in more human, relatable ways.

It has opened doors to conversations, collaborations, and opportunities I never imagined - while also allowing me to educate, inspire, and share responsibly.

At its best, social media becomes a bridge - not a distraction - and I’m grateful for the platform it’s given me.