Dr Ajay Makan
MBBCh (Wits), MBA (UCT), FCPsych (SA) (CMSA). Psychiatrist, certified leadership coach, speaker and facilitator.
A doctor with a business mind.
Dr Makan is a medical doctor and psychiatrist specialising in substance dependence, taking a holistic approach to fostering mental wellness. He is also a certified leadership coach, with over 20 years of experience as a speaker and facilitator.
He brings the science of evidence-based psychiatry from his clinical practice together with holistic, common-sense methods to create a unique approach to mental health. His mental models for building a successful, examined and fulfilled life have made him a sought-after public speaker and leadership development facilitator.
He trained in medicine at the University of the Witwatersrand and later completed an MBA at the University of Cape Town, which is why he describes himself as both a business and a mental health professional. He is accredited as a professional coach to business executives and athletes, and his clients have sought guidance on everything from personal family matters to C-suite business decisions.
His clinical background includes specialist psychiatric work in Johannesburg, including Sunninghill Hospital, Crescent Clinic and Waterfall City Hospital, and he is listed as a Specialist Psychiatrist with Netcare in Sandton. Earlier experience includes Wits-affiliated academic hospitals.
To widen his impact beyond private sessions, he shares guidance on burnout, resilience and leadership through his YouTube channel, podcast and writing.
Off duty, he is probably swimming, composing a song, riding bicycles or climbing mountains with his children.