Living with a rare disease comes with unique challenges - both physical and emotional. For Madimo "Mimo" Mokgosi, a Johannesburg-based content creator and podcast host, those challenges have fueled a mission: to give a voice to people navigating rare conditions like her own.

Mokgosi, originally from Odendaalsrus in the Free State, was diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis at the age of 19. The condition, which causes the immune system to attack the liver, led to a life-changing liver transplant. But her health battles didn’t end there - she later developed lymphedema, a chronic condition that causes painful swelling. These experiences shaped how she sees the world, fostering resilience, patience, and a deep sense of empathy for others living with invisible struggles.

Determined to create a space where rare conditions could be acknowledged and discussed, Mokgosi launched her podcast, Rare Realities with Madimo Mimo Mokgosi. The platform, now backed by Spotify, allows individuals with rare conditions to share their stories, raise awareness, and connect with a wider audience.

“The inspiration came from my own journey,” Mokgosi explains. “I know how isolating it can be to live with a rare disease, and I wanted to create something that brings people together, where they feel seen and heard.”

Each episode features compelling conversations with people from different backgrounds, all navigating unique health conditions.

One of her most eye-opening interviews was with a guest who had a disorder she had never encountered before. “A guest, who was diagnosed with osteoscarcoma, a type of bone cancer when he was 7.It made me realise just how many conditions exist that we don’t talk about. Every person’s journey is different, but they all deserve recognition.”

Despite the growing success of Rare Realities, Mokgosi faces the daily challenge of balancing content creation, interviews, and advocacy with her full-time job. “It’s not easy, but I manage by prioritizing self-care, listening to my body, and setting boundaries,” she says. Mindfulness, therapy, and time with loved ones help her stay grounded.

Beyond podcasting, she is also an influencer, a DSTV Content Creator Awards nominee, and an advocate for awareness around rare diseases. Though she chooses to keep her full-time profession private, she remains dedicated to using her platform to make a difference.

With Rare Realities gaining traction, Mokgosi is looking ahead. She hopes to expand her reach, bring in more diverse voices, and continue changing the conversation around rare conditions. Her message to anyone struggling with an uncommon illness? “You are not alone. Your story matters. Keep pushing forward—one step at a time.”