Natisha Dukhi

Biography

Dr Natisha Dukhi is a dynamic public health scientist whose interdisciplinary research bridges science, leadership, advocacy, and sustainable development. She holds a PhD in Public Health and brings over a decade of experience as a medical scientist, lecturer, and researcher, with a strong track record of addressing complex health challenges across Africa and globally. Her core expertise lies in child and adolescent health, nutrition, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with a special interest in gender-based violence (GBV), and mobile health (mHealth) – critical areas in advancing health equity, sustainability and equity agenda and resilience. As a Senior Research Specialist at the Human Sciences Research Council, Dr Dukhi has contributed to several large-scale, multi-stakeholder projects, serving as Principal Investigator, co-PI, and Project Director. Her work is grounded in evidence-based approaches that inform public health policy and practice, particularly in underserved communities. A prolific scientist, mentor, and science diplomat, her leadership extends to science diplomacy and advocacy, evidenced by her roles as a Fellow of the Africa Science Leadership Programme, former Co-Chair of the South African Young Academy of Science, and current member of the Global Young Academy. Dr Dukhi is a thought leader and an active voice to national and international science platforms. She has authored several peer-reviewed publications and received international recognition, including the prestigious Gro Brundtland Award. She advances impactful, evidence-based science to address health inequities and the SDGs, shaping policy and practice for healthier, more equitable, and sustainable communities in Africa and globally.

Awards