Born and raised in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, Dr Pholile Mpofu completed her matriculation at Inanda Seminary School in KwaZulu-Natal. She continued her studies at the Medical University of Southern Africa (Medunsa) and completed her medical degree. She found her niche in the medical field by registering as a Dermatologist at the College of Medicine in South Africa, and became the first black female dermatologist in South Africa. Currently operating from two practices - one in Morningside and one at the Lister Building in the heart of Johannesburg - she also conducts sessional practices at three other private clinics. She prides herself as being a good medical practitioner who is always available to her patients. She is regularly invited to deliver papers on various research and topics in the dermatology field to other medical practitioners and pharmaceutical companies, including providing professional opinions. Not only has she advised a number of blue chip organisations on general and specific issues relating to dermatological impact of their products, but she has also been an examiner at the College of Medicine of South Africa in the field of dermatology.