Jilata was born in Ngcobo, South Africa.[1] Originally interested in becoming a chartered accountant, she became interested in the central nervous system while in 11th grade in 2003.[2] This led her to add biology to her high school curriculum in order to start to pursue a medical career path.[3]
Jilata earned her Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degree from Walter Sisulu University in 2009.[4] While training at Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital in Mthatha, South Africa, she noticed there were no neurosurgeons on staff and all patients needing neurosurgical care had to be transferred to a different hospital, driving her interest in neurosurgery.[2] She spent five years as a surgical intern at the University of Pretoria in South Africa, finishing her fellowship in 2017.[4] She received her medical degree from the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa.[2]
Upon graduation, Jilata became only one out of five Black women neurosurgeons in South Africa[5] as well as one of the youngest neurosurgeons in Africa at the age of 29.[6] She was praised by South African president Cyril Ramaphosa in a speech to the National Assembly.[7]
Jilata has cited the challenges faced in the male-dominated medicine profession[8] and how she pushes back: "It's natural to be second-guessed as a woman but one’s work ethic will always speak louder".[9] She also works as a consultant for other young doctors, offering training and career guidance.[5] Jilata spends time on community outreach, offering services to combat the lack of information and stigma surrounding neurological conditions.[5]