Dr Ncayiyana will be taking up the role of president of the South African Medical Association in 2017.

The Sunflower Fund CEO Alana James, said: “We are sorry to see Dr Dan leave our team after such long and dedicated service, but delighted that his commitment to the medical profession in South Africa is being recognised in this way.”

He is currently a professor at the University of Cape Town and a research associate at the Human Sciences Research Council. Dr Ncayiyana was editor of the South African Medical Journal for 20 years. He was born and raised in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, obtained his primary medical degree in the Netherlands and postgraduate qualifications at New York University. He has served as professor in obstetrics and gynaecology, medical school dean and vice chancellor at two South African universities. He is honorary Fellow of the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa, and Member of the Academy of Sciences of South Africa.

Dr Ncayiyana expressed his pleasure at the appointment of James Sedgwick, a Cape Town-based businessman who has been a member of the organisation’s board for several years and a key figure in the life of the non-profit.

“James has fulfilled the financial role for the board of The Sunflower Fund for several years, helping to guide the organisation through tumultuous times and I have every confidence in his ability to lead the organisation capably and with compassion,” said Dr Ncayiyana. 

Sedgwick added: “I am delighted to be taking on this exciting challenge, and I wish Dr Ncayiyana everything of the best in his new role.”

For more information, visit www.sunflowerfund.org.za or phone toll free 0800 12 10 82. Alternatively, connect with them on Facebook or on Twitter.