DR IMTIAZ SOOLIMAN

Honorary Doctorate RECIPIENT 2022

DR IMTIAZ SOOLIMAN

DOCTOR PHILOSOPHIAE

Dr Imtiaz Sooliman’s humanitarianism is driven by the same principles that led to his becoming a medical doctor – respect, care, professionalism and dedication. Sooliman qualifi ed as a medical doctor at the University of Natal Medical School in 1984 and ran a general practice for some years before he founded Gift of the Givers in 1992.

The organisation has developed into one of the most respected international humanitarian agencies, providing disaster relief, primary healthcare clinics, feeding schemes, water purifi cation and water wells, bursaries, educational support (including HIV/AIDS and skills development workshops), agricultural self-help schemes, counselling services and drug rehabilitation. Gift of the Givers is able to rally a network of doctors, nurses, relief workers and other professionals to swiftly dispatch humanitarian aid to disaster areas. Its support in more than 43 countries thus far has been valued at R3,2 billion.

Sooliman has received the Presidential Order of the Baobab (silver), as well as nine honorary doctorates. His selfl ess and colour-blind response to all in need refl ects the values of UWC and is contributing to building a new generation of visionary moral leadership from which a better Africa will emerge.

Image credit: Gift of the Givers