Q: Tell us briefly about yourself.

A: My name is Nelvio Duran Rodriguez, I was born and raised in the tiny town of Boca de Miel, Cuba. I have been a Neurosurgeon for more than thirty gratifying years. Together with my wife, we are blessed with three beautiful children who are pursuing their dreams globally. In my free time I indulge in watching documentaries of famous historical figures and outdoor activities.

Q: Why did you choose to become a medical professional and why did you choose this particular field of speciality?
A: Growing up in a rural area, seeking medical attention was a major obstacle and my mother had to always carry me in her arms to a neighboring village with proper medical personnel and facilities. It was thus my childhood ambition to pursue a career in medicine and bring aid to all corners of the globe. Being the first in my extended family to enroll in University, I found my calling in Neurosurgery while in medical school when I was introduced to the most important organ in a human and have never looked back since.

Q: Tell us about your profession.
A: My routine on a daily basis includes consultations and minor procedures. I’m currently working in Bokamoso Private Hospital and Gaborone Private Hospital respectively. Services offered are Traumatic Brain injuries, Spinal Cord injuries, Brain Tumor, Spine Disease, Spinal Fusion surgery, Hydrocephalus, Epilepsy, Neuropediatric, Ozonotheraphy and Pain Management.

Q: What is your greatest achievement in your profession to date?
A: I believe in educating and nurturing the next generation of life savers. I have had the greatest honor and privilege to be invited to multiple countries such as Mexico and Yemen to guide and mentor their brightest talents. It is the biggest fulfilment of my life to see, inspire, and pass on my skills to the youth.

Q: Apart from being a medical professional, are there any other hobbies or interests you are
pursuing?
A: I am an avid photographer and love to take pictures that consists of a thousand words. With consistent encourage from my beautiful wife, I try to explore and capture mirror pictures or portraits even though the results are often far from ideal.

Q: What do you believe is your contribution towards improving Botswana’s long term Healthcare
System?
A: I am involved in multiple community projects with my fellow peers and together we often visit rural villages in desperate need of medical assistance. As the pioneering batch of clinics in Botswana to introduce Ozone therapy, I
want to help Botswana leap through the medical frontiers and become a leading Healthcare provider in the region.

Q: Any advice you can give to anyone who wants to pursue your medical profession?
A: Persevere. The road to becoming a doctor is riddled with huge obstacles and uneasy bumps. Long revision and practice hours are the norm in the life of medical student and practitioner. At times, the path to be coming a doctor may seem long and dark, but with determination and perseverance, it is absolutely achievable, and one will find it all worthwhile.

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