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.
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
Why this Matters
Puberty can be a challenging and sometimes isolating experience.
Research shows:
-
Girls who receive accurate puberty education are more confident in managing menstruation.
-
Early, open conversations between girls and caregivers reduce anxiety and help build stronger relationships.
-
Understanding their bodies helps girls make healthier choices as they grow.
By bringing girls and grown-ups together in a safe, supportive space, Grow with Flo ensures no girl faces these changes alone.