Attending the 2025 South African Palliative Care Conference in Durban, under the theme “Palliative Care: Revolution. Evolution. Solution.” was a deeply rewarding experience both personally and professionally. It offered an opportunity not only to connect with colleagues across the country, but also to reflect on Alignd’s journey over the past two years.
When I think back to the 2023 conference in Cape Town, I remember standing behind a modest table with a banner, a few pamphlets, sweets, and branded pens. We were new to the scene, introducing Alignd and our value-based palliative care model to many for the very first time. Much of our time was spent listening attentively and responding to questions about who we are, what our programme offers, who is eligible, how referrals work, the extent of our national coverage, and how providers could become part of our growing network. But more than anything, that first conference was about showing up, being present, open, and sincere in every conversation. Those early moments of connection planted the seeds for long-standing partnerships that continue to shape our work today.
Fast forward to 2025, and our presence at the Durban conference looked and felt very different. This time, our stand had become a vibrant space with comfortable seating, pamphlets, thoughtful gifts for providers, a professional photo booth for providers, and a platform for interviews and conversation. Yet the real transformation was in the relationships. Throughout the event, providers approached us, not just at our stand, but in the hallways, over breakfast, and between sessions, excited to connect and share their experiences.
It was also an opportunity to listen and learn. We received valuable feedback from providers on our network and from our partner schemes – feedback that will shape how we continue to evolve and improve. Many scheme representatives also expressed heartfelt appreciation for the work we do in supporting their members, and their commitment to continued collaboration was clear and sincere.
A highlight for me was hearing Alignd mentioned with respect in multiple conference sessions, a reminder that the work we’re doing is not only recognised but valued. Alignd had two presentations. The first, Listening to the Voice of the Patient, explored how we use patient feedback to shape the care we provide. The second introduced Fractals as a Concept for Value-Based Care, offering a fresh perspective on how patterns of compassion and coordination can scale across every level of the system. These sessions sparked meaningful discussion and reminded me just how much room there is for creativity, reflection, and innovation in this space.
The wellbeing sessions and the lively Mzansi Mixer also stood out. They reminded me that connection, rest, and celebration are part of what sustains us in this work. It was joyful and grounding and just as important as the formal programme.
Attending the 2025 South African Palliative Care Conference was an eye-opening and deeply meaningful experience for me. I witnessed firsthand how palliative care is rapidly evolving, shifting from being seen only at the end of life to a vital part of care throughout serious illness. What stood out most was the powerful emphasis on truly listening to patients, their voices and experiences that shape every aspect of care. The conference reinforced that collaboration across disciplines and sectors is the key to expanding access and improving care for all patients. I left feeling grateful, energised, and more committed than ever to be part of this meaningful journey.
By Kelebogile Khamanga
