MOSSEL BAY NEWS - At just 23, Tylah Muller, a young woman from Mossel Bay, is a dedicated speech-language therapist who says she cannot imagine doing anything else, despite the challenging and emotional aspects of her job.
Shortly after graduating from Stellenbosch University in December, Muller began working at the George Hospital at the beginning of 2026 as part of her community service requirements. There she interacts with patients of all ages.
"Some days I'm helping a premature baby learn to feed, and other days I'm helping a stroke survivor communicate with their loved ones again. Speech-language therapy is often misunderstood, but our role has such a profound impact on people's quality of life," she says.
Knowing she has always had a love of neuroscience, she was determined to choose a career where she could make a real difference.
"Communication is something so many of us take for granted - until it's taken away. Being able to help someone say their first word, return to eating safely or express themselves again is an incredible privilege. I truly believe speech-language therapy is one of healthcare's best-kept secrets," she says.
Growing up in Mossel Bay had a significant impact on who she is today and taught her the importance of kindness, community and giving back. Her family has always encouraged her, reminding her to stay humble and care deeply for others.
"Those values continue to guide me every day, both as a young woman and as a healthcare professional."
Muller describes herself as incredibly fortunate to have plenty of strong women in her life who believed in her before she believed in herself.
"My family, my friends, lecturers and colleagues have all taught me something valuable about resilience, compassion and leadership. Their encouragement has reminded me that lifting other women up only makes us all stronger."
To every young girl growing up in Mossel Bay and beyond, Muller has this to say: "Don't let fear convince you that you're not capable.
You don't have to have everything figured out to begin. Stay curious, work hard, be kind, and never underestimate the difference you can make in someone else's life."
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