Thandeka Tutu-Gxashe is the eldest daughter of Archbishop Desmond and Leah Tutu. An accomplished public speaker, Thandi is passionate about her research work in adult HIV treatment and research at the Perinatal HIV Research Unit in Soweto. The issues close to her heart include racial reconciliation, South Africa, women’s issues and HIV-AIDS, equality – and equally in preserving the legacy of her parents in their striving for global peace and justice. She is married to Mthunzi Gxashe, aide to Archbishop Tutu. They have one son, living in the USA.

Thandi has a B.Sc. in Biology (University of Botswana and Swaziland) and a Master’s Degree in Public Health,(Emory University in Atlanta, USA). She spent many years in the USA, at Emory University as Research Associate and Project Coordinator, and latterly as Director of Africa Projects at the University of California. She holds various board memberships and participates as an active volunteer in a number of foundations which include Heifer International, Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, African Children’s Fund (Chairperson 2003 -2006) and the Advisory Board of the Kommunity Group Projects.