Dr. Mehfuza Millwala is an experienced healthcare professional from the Dawoodi Bohras of Auckland, New Zealand, with over 30 years of expertise in Homoeopathy, Acupuncture, and Beauty Therapy. She holds multiple qualifications, including a CIDESCO Diploma from London and certifications in Cosmetic Acupuncture, Bio-Magnetism, and Aromatherapy.
Passionate about holistic healing, Dr. Millwala founded “Ellipse Health & Beauty,” combining her vast knowledge to offer comprehensive treatments that promote overall health and beauty. In this interview, we ask her about her journey, learnings and aspirations.
What inspired you to pursue homeopathy?
My journey into this field was a series of serendipitous events and seizing opportunities as they presented themselves. Initially, I missed getting into MBBS, but my grandfather discovered the LCEH course (Licentiate of the Court of Examiners in Homeopathy) and encouraged me to pursue it. I took admission, driven not only by my passion but also by the desire to fulfill my grandfather's dream of seeing me become a doctor.
While studying at Irla Homoeopathic College in Mumbai, I got married, and my husband was incredibly supportive, ensuring that I completed my studies. With his unwavering support, I pursued the path to become a Homoeopathic doctor.
Your qualifications span across various disciplines. How have these different areas influenced your approach to health and beauty treatments?
Upon completing my LCEH, I joined an experienced doctor in my area as an assistant to broaden my experience. I took part in a medical camp organized by the Rotary Club of Bombay Downtown and was fascinated by the practice of acupuncture and acupressure. Intrigued, I decided to pursue qualifications in both fields. Additionally, I learned homeo-acupuncture from a Sri Lankan doctor.
Homoeopathy operates on the principle of "like cures like," and my belief that the skin reflects one's overall health drew me towards Cosmetology. With my family's encouragement, I flew to London to attend the London School of Beauty & Cosmetology.
Upon my return to Mumbai, I was equipped to treat both from inside out and outside in. I opened my practice, incorporating Homoeopathy, Acupuncture, and Beauty Therapy. My clients appreciated this unique combination of health and beauty treatments, which has influenced my comprehensive approach and cemented my belief in holistic healing.
From Mumbai to London, and then New Zealand—your career has crossed continents. What lessons did you learn along the way?
Reflecting on my career journey, the most valuable lesson I have learned is the power of adaptability. Each region brought its own set of challenges and opportunities, requiring me to stay flexible and open-minded.
In Mumbai, I honed my skills in a fast-paced, competitive environment. Moving to London, I embraced a globalist culture and a diverse clientele, which broadened my professional perspective.
Finally, in New Zealand, I found the perfect blend of innovation and community-centric values that helped refine my approach to beauty and wellness.
In New Zealand, many people opt for external treatments like Botox or cosmetic acupuncture for aging. However, taking care of your health internally with a good lifestyle and homeopathic remedies can help prevent premature aging and even curb its symptoms.
As a beauty therapist, I understand how to integrate different approaches for the best results. And at the end of this trail, the most valuable lesson I have garnered is the significance of holistic treatment.
Through these experiences, I have come to understand that true growth comes from stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing change.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when launching ‘Ellipse Health & Beauty’?
Launching ‘Ellipse Health & Beauty’ presented several challenges. Securing adequate funding and identifying the right location were initial hurdles. Additionally, building a dedicated team that shared my vision and navigating regulatory requirements in a competitive market demanded perseverance and strategic planning. Each step required unwavering commitment and adaptability to ensure the successful establishment of the practice.
What would you consider your greatest achievement in your entrepreneurial journey?
I think it would be to create a sanctuary where clients feel valued and experience holistic transformations. As I have been fortunate to gain expertise in Homoeopathy, Acupuncture, and Beauty Therapy, I can clearly see how they’re related and in fact, complement one another. This has enabled me to create a holistic approach for my clients, something that is a kind of niche in my industry.
How do you ensure that your business stays relevant?
I regularly attend industry conferences, participate in development courses, and stay updated with global trends. Engaging with clients to understand their evolving needs and incorporating their feedback ensures that our services remain relevant and effective in a competitive market.
You're quite active in charity, from breast cancer awareness to supporting local community initiatives. What motivates you to support charitable causes?
It comes from a deep-rooted belief in giving back to the community. Witnessing the struggles and resilience of individuals facing health challenges, particularly during my early days in medical camps, has driven me to contribute.
What's next for you?
Looking ahead, I aim to continue expanding my knowledge and expertise in holistic health and beauty treatments. I aspire to mentor the next generation of practitioners, sharing the insights I've gained over the years.
On a personal level, I hope to dedicate more time to charitable initiatives and community work, furthering my impact on the well-being of others. Professionally, my next goal is to start a clinic in Mumbai and offer online consultations, expanding my reach and helping clients on a global scale.
