Thando has over a decade of experience in international development, working at the intersection of research, policy, and practice to help improve the health and well-being of underserved populations, particularly women and children. 

She currently works as a knowledge translation strategist for Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC), and as a part-time professor at the University of Ottawa. 

An invested master guide, she is deeply passionate about inspiring young people to a life of dedicated service. She has had the privilege of serving in youth ministry in different capacities over the last 12 years, including as Vice President of Missions for GYC, mentor for campus ministries, and as a counsellor for her local church Pathfinder club. 

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in chemistry from Harvard University, a Master of Science in global health from Simon Fraser University and is currently completing her PhD in international development and global studies at the University of Ottawa, with a focus in reproductive health. She and her husband Seth are blessed with three precious boys.