Meet the doctor who hosts ‘Sunnyside Up’ on Southside FM

IN A WORLD where passions often clash, few individuals manage to blend two seemingly divergent careers.

- CANDICE SOOBRAMONEY

Dr Pubern Padayachee, born and raised in Chatsworth’s Arena Park, is one such individual.

A doctor, award-winning model and now radio presenter, Padayachee is captivating listeners with his new breakfast show, Sunnyside Up, on Southside FM, from Monday to Friday from 6am to 9am.

Padayachee’s journey began at the Nelson Mandela School of Medicine, but beneath his white coat lay a young man eager for creative expression.

With a background in Western music and Indian classical dance, he has always found joy in creativity, whether it be through cuisine or the performing arts.

“I was always academic and musically-inclined even throughout school,” said Padayachee.

“Medicine was a first love, but there was always a creative side to me that also had to be satisfied. When I was approached at a shopping mall, while with my mum to enter my first pageant, I remember her being supportive only after I promised to not let it affect my studies. It was seen as a hobby, not as a career path.

“I was fortunate to win both Mr India South Africa 2004/2005 and Mr South Africa International 2013. It launched a parallel career in modelling, presenting and acting.

“I did multiple theatre productions, The Chalo Cinema franchise from 2005 to 2012, and wrote and produced theatre productions during my medical school years.

“I remember long days spent during school hours and between productions. It wasn’t always received well by the conservative medical field and the directors and agents back then, and I found myself working twice as hard to prove my dedication to both fraternities.