The Journey and Vision of Firdose Abdool Razak-Moola

Introduction

Firdose Abdool Razak-Moola is the founder and director of the KZN Advisory Centre, serving as both the driving force and the public face of the organisation. She explains, “We provide counselling, support, assessments and therapy to all ages, genders and groups,” reflecting her inclusive and warm approach. As a mental health practitioner, social worker in private practice, play therapist, family therapist and life coach, Firdose is committed to creating a safe, professional environment for individuals and families to achieve balance, understanding and growth. “We aim to support people wherever they are in their life journey,” she adds.

Shaped by Experience

Firdose’s leadership journey began early in her career. She recalls, “I reached a management role at about the age of 27.” Her career then progressed as she became executive director of a non-profit organisation, before deciding to establish her own private practice. Today, that practice has grown into a respected centre that serves the KwaZulu-Natal community and beyond.

Her work at the KZN Advisory Centre often involves sensitive and emotionally challenging cases. “We work with a lot of divorce matters, contact disputes and child assessments,” Firdose explains. The centre’s goal is always to act in the best interest of the child, considering both mental capacity and psychosocial emotional wellbeing in every decision and recommendation.

While her current focus is therapy and assessment, Firdose’s long-term vision is ambitious. “I would love to see an umbrella body for my company that brings together psychologists, lawyers, advocates, social workers and mental health practitioners,” she shares. She dreams of a medical centre where clients can access all services under one roof, united under the KZN Advisory Centre (KZNAC). “That is my vision,” she says.

Firdose finds her greatest inspiration in the people she encounters. “It may sound a little clichéd, but it really is the people I meet – my support system, my family, my husband, my friends and colleagues and of course, the Almighty. Inspiration comes in many forms. The gratitude you receive from others teaches you every day.”

A Legacy of Service

Despite her humility, Firdose’s achievements are impressive. She acknowledges, “I have been honoured with several recognitions over the years.” These include the KZN Woman of Wonder Award, the SA Heroine Awards (twice in succession), and inclusion in the 40 Under 40 list. Recently, her company was recognised as the second-best therapy centre in KwaZulu-Natal for 2025.

While each accolade is meaningful, Firdose insists that the true reward lies in making a difference in the community. “The best part is knowing that people out there are the ones nominating and recognising you. It tells me I am doing something right, that I am creating hope.”

The individuals she serves often face significant personal challenges. “Many wear masks,” she observes. “You do not always know what someone is going through. A simple act of kindness, a smile, can change a person’s life.” This deep empathy is informed by her own experience with systemic lupus erythematosus, a chronic autoimmune condition she has managed for more than 25 years. “If you look at me, you might not realise I have lupus,” she reflects. “I always explain it as my body having a party that I am not invited to. I do not see it as a challenge. I see the condition as something to overcome. You have to listen to your body and respect its limits. If I am tired, I pause, reflect and then get going again.”

Firdose believes that her resilience and perseverance enhance her practice and leadership. “Stress is a huge factor in health, and I teach others what I practise myself. Balance, mindfulness and gratitude are essential in sustaining both mental and physical wellbeing,” she says.

Balance and Purpose

Work-life balance is very important to Firdose. She makes time to unwind through simple pleasures such as reading, enjoying a cappuccino or indulging in a favourite treat. “If you ever see me eating waffles or donuts, you will know I am having one of those days,” she laughs. She finds comfort in solitude and cherishes quiet moments with family, spa days and evenings spent in stillness. “You have to find that ‘me time’ to reflect and refocus. When I leave work, I leave it at work. Boundaries are crucial if you want to keep moving forward.”

This sense of balance informs her philosophy of living with gratitude. “You need to practise contentment,” she advises. “Whether your cup is half empty or half full, the real joy lies in being grateful that you have a cup and you can always refill it.”

Advice and Message to the Youth

Firdose’s advice to young people centres on confidence and resilience. “The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow. Women are taking on more leadership roles than ever before. My advice is simple. Do not say no to opportunities. Give it your best shot. Be the person that you see yourself. Don’t let anybody put you down and face your fears, that’s most important.”

She encourages her clients and mentees not to be overwhelmed by the magnitude of their goals. “Do not look at the whole staircase. Take it one step at a time. Pause, breathe, and before you know it, you will reach the top.” She adds, “We all need to lift each other up. It is not a race. We should form a sisterhood, a community that supports one another. Everyone is fighting a battle you cannot see, so practice kindness. A small act can have a profound effect.”

The Heart of Her Message

At the core of Firdose’s philosophy is a deep belief in the power of compassion. She concludes, “Be kind, be content and have faith, be resilient and persevere. Surround yourself with good people, whether they are family, friends or mentors, because success is never a solo journey. It is built on the love and encouragement of those who walk beside you.”