Natisha Mooknauth – The journey to a successful career in Physiotherapy

“If I’m to truly reflect on the journey, I would say it started in High School. Physical Education and Sport (both at CSEC & CAPE Levels) at St. Rose’s was no easy task. It meant getting to school for 6am to do 5k runs, aerobic classes and playing three sports. That’s where the interest for physical activity and exercise were birthed.

So it was no surprise that Physiotherapy was my choice of career; I always knew I wanted to do something medically related but that doesn’t confine me to an office or a desk.

I then pursed a BSc. of Medical Rehabilitation where I majored in Physiotherapy at the University of Guyana. This of course came with its own challenges especially since the pandemic happened during my second year. This was not going to stop me and my colleagues, we were trying our best to practice since this is a heavy practical base program and soon enough, we were in the clinics with our masks and all to clock our practical hours.

Before I even realised, four years had passed and I was graduating.”

Passion for sports

“I grew up on cricket, but my love for sports especially volleyball and badminton developed in high school. Life for me was really balancing academics and sports and I think that really helped to mould me into the person I am today.

Sports can play a significant role in the development of an individual, their determination, ability to work in a team, respect, ability to lead, etc. Sports can promote social integration and economical development for countries once handled appropriately, So my passion for sports ran beyond physiotherapy, but as of now, this sector is where I will contribute, so while I enjoy working with the variety of conditions and different people, there’s a part of me that loves working with the athletic population.”

Joining the Guyana U-20 Women’s Football Team

“It was truly an honour and an amazing first experience. I was definitely grateful for the opportunity to work with the girls. I actually started volunteering with East Bank Football Association since 2019 after I completed a FIFA Medical Certificate program. So I have worked with the U11, U13, and even senior tournaments.

But of course, this time it was totally different. You are basically responsible for the health and wellbeing of 21 individuals, each with different needs, and various ways of communicating, and different response to therapy etc.

Additionally, being with a team you become the players’ nutritionist, confidant, encourager and friend. Sometimes you are the only person in the room that knows how an athlete is feeling and it takes time to build that trust, but it is a role I thoroughly enjoy.”

Aiding Athletes on and off field

“I have always been interested in helping athletes on and off the field, aside from providing my physiotherapy services.

Back in 2015, I co-founded an organisation called ‘The Xercise’ with our tagline being “making athletes stronger on and off the field”.

We provided a space for athletes to develop their leadership, teamwork and communication skills. One of my favourite activities was, having random situation read to the athlete then having a pre or post match interview based on the scenario.

This was our way of helping the players with public speaking, We had lots of big plans for the organisation but the lack of support from sports associations is one of the reasons the movement is dormant.

I strive to be the best physiotherapist for my clients, my athletes and even for myself. I think having a great understanding of our role as a therapist is the first step. Physiotherapists do not only provide rehab services (post injury) but prehab as well.

So if you are with a team, you can do testing to find out if there are risks for injuries or any weakness, then of course providing that player with a program to prevent those injuries. I always tell people there is alot more to physiotherapy then what meets the eyes. It is a very rewarding career that brings together my love for health and sciences and fitness.”

Inspiring the next generation

“I had lots of guidance throughout my time at University and even now as a young professional. So I try to play it forward as much as I can, i often have students come along with me to games to see what its like.

For persons out there who are considering a career in physiotherapy, I would advise that they do lots of research.

This is a very hands-on career, so you need to be comfortable with sharing space with your clients, you have to be comfortable with assisting your clients physically, and when I say assisting, I mean getting in their personal space. If you are transferring someone from a wheelchair to a bed, you are literally hugging around their waist to give them that assistance, you have to be comfortable with talking to persons.

If you can possibly get some volunteer hours to shadow a physiotherapist for a day, that would be great so you know exactly what you are signing up for.

So if you feel a career in this field is for you, I’d advise strongly that you pursue and be the best, Believe in yourself and dream big, but above all, ensure to place emphasis and focus on the important aspects and always look for opportunities that may help you grow in the field.”