Naven completed his MBChB at the Medical University of South Africa in 1999. Naven undertook further studies and completed the Diploma in Primary Emergency Care through the College of Medicine of South Africa.

After completing his postgraduate studies and obtaining the Fellowship to the College of Orthopaedic Surgeons of South Africa, Naven was selected as a Smith and Nephew Travelling Fellow.

Naven then joined the King George V Hospital Spinal Unit as a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon. After completing two years of further training in the Spinal Unit, Naven then joined Umhlanga Orthopaedic Surgeons.

During his time both as a registrar and consultant, Naven was involved in both undergraduate and postgraduate teaching. He has presented at numerous Orthopaedic Congresses and his involvement in research has resulted in scientific publications.