“When I arrived in South Africa, the first time I went to high school, I passed matric with 57%. I was excited because I was the top candidate in the school. When I came to Jo’burg, I went to Wits to apply at University with the hope to study medicine, actuary science or chemical engineering. They told me I did not qualify. My only option was to get a diploma which I turned down. I knew I had to redo my matric.”
Dr. Emmanuel Malish Taban, whose story of overcoming poverty, homelessness, and destitution to become a highly acclaimed Pulmonologist is inspiring millions around the world.
His book, “The Boy Who Never Gave Up,” details his desperate childhood, growing up homeless but with a deep desire to achieve an education.
Leoka Engineering book handover#theboywhonevergaveup
We handed over signed copies of “The Boy Who Never Gave Up” at Leoka Engineering yesterday and Dr Emmanuel Taban gave a few words of encouragement and motivation to the staff. Read more on our website:https://t.co/25BUI0RoDO pic.twitter.com/Vkh5Xgolam— Dr. Emmanuel Taban (@smartaban) March 23, 2021
For many, a life on the streets would be what defines them, not for Dr. Taban who has been named by the New African Magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential Africans in 2020.
The former refugee from South Sudan’s civil war who survived torture and living under a bridge deserves high praise for his commitment to saving the lives of COVID-19 patients in South Africa.
“The Boy Who Never Gave Up,” currently holds the title for being the first in the world to undertake an intricate procedure that removes mucus from the lungs.
His novel technique makes use of a flexible fibre optic bronchoscopy. While the procedure is a pre-existing one, Dr. Taban’s technique to extract mucus from the lungs is a precise and intricate method.
If everyone agrees with your idea, the chance is good that you will fail horribly. Rejection is redirection to your success. Journal of Intensive Care Medicine has published an article about mucus plugs on the ET tube. Imagine how many people we have lost because of mucus plug! pic.twitter.com/pyguSUhitg
— Dr. Emmanuel Taban (@smartaban) February 8, 2021
Listen to him depicting his journey with David O’Sullivan:
Feature Image: Dr. Taban on Twitter


