Meet the Doctors

Dr Ilana Johnson
Obstetrician-Gynaecologist,
Co-Founder of Lila Obstetrics

Ilana completed her MBChB at UCT in 2007 and specialised in obstetrics and gynaecology at Mowbray Maternity and Tygerberg hospitals.

She’s deeply committed to women’s health and has contributed to the South African anthology Flow – The Book About Menstruation.

As a mom to an 11-year-old daughter and a 7-year-old son, Ilana knows how crucial it is to prepare girls for puberty with care and empathy.

Dr Andrea Watkins Neethling General Practitioner,
Co-Owner of Brampton Family Practice

Andrea graduated from Wits Medical School in 2008 and has worked in both military and private practice.

She’s passionate about primary care and creating safe, supportive spaces for patients - especially children and teens.

As a mom to Olivia (11) and Harrison (7), Andrea understands the importance of honest, age-appropriate health education.

Why it Matters

Because every girl deserves to grow up confident and supported.

💗 Confidence: Girls who learn about puberty early feel more in control.

💬 Connection: Talking openly builds trust and stronger bonds.

🌱 Choice: Understanding their bodies leads to healthier decisions.

Book a Grow with Flo Workshop

Changing the Conversation around Puberty and Periods

We’re on a mission to empower girls with the knowledge, confidence and support they deserve as they navigate puberty and menstruation.

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Our Story

Like many parents, Dr Andrea Watkins-Neethling and Dr Ilana Johnson found themselves wondering how best to prepare their daughters for the big changes ahead. They wanted their girls to enter adolescence feeling informed, confident and unashamed - not confused, anxious or left in the dark.

With decades of combined medical experience and the lived reality of being mothers, Andrea and Ilana saw the need for an approachable, medically accurate puberty education programme in South Africa.

And so, Grow with Flo was born. An interactive, doctor-led workshop designed for girls aged 9–13 and the grown-ups who love and guide them.

Our Purpose & Values

At Grow with Flo, we believe every girl should approach puberty:

With confidence, not confusion
With knowledge, not myths
With support, not shame

Our values guide every workshop we deliver:

Education & Accuracy – grounded in sound medical science
Empathy & Understanding – meeting girls where they are
Inclusivity & Accessibility – every background, every story
Destigmatisation – breaking down taboos with honesty and humour
Empowerment – helping girls own their health journey