Remembering Dr Pertunia Mathibe: the trailblazer who redefined beauty standards in South Africa

In the world of health, wellness, and self-discovery, some rare individuals leave behind more than just memories; they ignite movements, inspire courage and transform lives.

On Thursday, the wellness community and countless patients were shaken by the news that Dr Pertunia Mathibe, known lovingly as Dr Pert, had passed away.

She passed away after an undisclosed illness on Wednesday, July 30.  Her family confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement on Thursday, sharing: “It is with great sadness that we announce the untimely passing of Dr Pert of the Dr Pert Centre for Body Sculpting. We are heartbroken by this loss.

"She was a light to many, and her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched. We kindly ask for privacy and respect for the family and team during this difficult time.”

Her passing has left a void far bigger than her clinic’s waiting room. To many South Africans, Pert wasn’t just an aesthetic doctor; she was a partner in transformation, a confidant, and a fierce advocate for celebrating African beauty in all its shapes and shades.

A vision born in Hammanskraal

Born and raised in Hammanskraal, Tshwane, Mathibe broke barriers in an industry that often looks overseas for inspiration. In 2017, she launched the Dr Pert Centre for Body Sculpting in Pretoria, a space dedicated to African clients seeking cosmetic and wellness treatments tailored to their unique bodies and lifestyles.

From non-surgical butt lifts and liposuction to anti-ageing treatments and skin rejuvenation, she offered science-backed, carefully customised procedures. But those close to her say her real magic wasn’t just in the results, it was in how she made clients feel.

With over 100 successful procedures on African bodies, her work wasn’t just about physical transformation. Her approach went beyond physical transformation; she believes in restoring confidence, realigning self-image, and helping her patients walk boldly in their own skin.

Over the years, Mathibe became a trusted name among celebrities and influencers like Cyan Boujee and Dineo Moloisane, who credited her with helping them feel more confident in the public eye.

But her approach was never just about sculpting curves or smoothing skin. She spoke often about the power of aesthetic medicine to heal emotional wounds tied to body image and self-worth, particularly for African women whose beauty is rarely celebrated by global standards.

Mathibe’s clinic stood out for offering procedures adapted for African skin and body types, something historically overlooked in the global beauty industry. News of her passing spread quickly on social media, where clients, fans, and fellow professionals shared emotional tributes.

“We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause. Further information and alternative arrangements will be communicated directly to affected clients in due course. Thank you for your understanding and continued support,” their statement read.