Independent Diagnostic Pathology Laboratory — North West Province, South Africa
info@ponagalolaboratory.co.za
Our Story

About Ponagalo Laboratory

Independent pathology. Scientific excellence. Community impact.

The Laboratory

First Black Female-Owned Pathology Laboratory in the Province

Ponagalo Laboratory is an independent pathology laboratory and the first black female-owned pathology laboratory in the North West Province. The Laboratory was founded by Dr T.L. Medupe, whose work reflects a strong commitment to advancing diagnostic medicine, research, and academic mentorship within the field of pathology.

Dr T.L. Medupe, Founder of Ponagalo Laboratory
About The Founder

Dr T.L. Medupe

Dr Medupe holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB), a Master's degree in Anatomical Pathology, and a Diploma in Occupational Health and Medicine. She is currently pursuing a degree in Business Management, further strengthening her leadership and strategic expertise within the healthcare sector.

In addition to her clinical and laboratory work, Dr Medupe is actively involved in academic development. She has served as a mentor to undergraduate students at the University of Pretoria. She has extensive experience in coordinating undergraduate and postgraduate academic programmes at both Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University and the University of Pretoria. Her passion for research is reflected in her ongoing publications, her role in supervising postgraduate pathology residents, and her contributions as a peer reviewer of research abstracts at scientific congresses.

Dr Medupe is also a member of the Digital Pathology Association, demonstrating her engagement with advancing technologies and innovations within modern pathology.

The Driving Force

Why Pathology?

Dr Medupe developed a strong interest in pathology through her desire to understand how diseases affect tissues and organs at a microscopic level. Pathology plays a critical role in diagnosing a wide range of diseases, including cancer, and provides essential information that guides patient management and treatment decisions.

She is particularly drawn to the intersection of clinical medicine and laboratory science, as well as the analytical and investigative nature of the discipline. This combination allows pathology to contribute meaningfully to patient care while advancing medical knowledge.

Specialisation

Diagnostic Special Interests

Among her diagnostic areas, Dr Medupe is especially passionate about the following fields of pathology.

Bone & Soft Tissue Pathology Dermatopathology Head & Neck Pathology Lung Pathology Breast Pathology Female Genitourinary Pathology Male Genitourinary Pathology Gastrointestinal Pathology Haematolymphoid Pathology
Beyond the Laboratory

Balance & Community

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Dr Medupe enjoys travelling, spending time with her family and children, and taking part in community-building initiatives and service activities.

These interests reflect her belief in maintaining balance while contributing positively to both her profession and her community.