Prof Mags  Beksinska has worked in the field of SRH for  30 years and her research has included clinical and operations studies in a broad area of reproductive health with a focus on barrier methods for dual protection. She has specialized in  research in HIV prevention and contraception. She has conducted numerous studies  on male and female condoms which have been used for WHO/UNFPA prequalification. She is involved in the development of International Standards and Specifications for condoms and sexual lubricants. Beyond her research activities, she is actively involved in Global condom programming and advocacy. Prof Beksinska has a Bachelor of Science in Genetics and Cell Biology, a Masters in the Neurophysiological Basis of Behaviour and her PhD focused on the effect of hormonal contraception on bone mineral density in adolescent and perimenopausal women. She has authored over 160 peer-reviewed publications.

Nzwakie holds a Bachelor degree in Social Science from University of Natal (Durban) and is completing her Masters in Population Studies with the University of KwaZulu Natal (Durban). Nzwakie has fifteen years working experience in the SRH and HIV Research. She has been actively involved in conducting behavioural and operational research focusing on integration of health services, male circumcision, safer conception for sero-discordant couples, perinatal depression, ARV recreational drug use and barrier methods. She has specialised in CAPI using Filezilla and ODK program.

Manage a portfolio of research projects from initiation (proposals and budgets) to contract negotiations to the monitoring of expenditures for the life of each project.  With the Divisional Head and Executive Committee, develop strategic planning for the organization and research cluster.  Network and maintain liaison with national and international collaborators, stakeholders and sponsors for the purpose of furthering programme agenda and exploring funding opportunities. Identify, develop and implement necessary policies and standard operating procedures to ensure efficient and compliant systems for the organization.  Contribute and implement operational and strategic work plans for projects and monitor the allocation of fiscal and human resources.  Prepare reports to funders, sponsors and partners.

Dr. Jaggernath has been practicing medicine for over 20 years having gained her Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at the Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu Natal. She’s been working in the research arena since 2010, mainly in the areas of HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, Contraception and Sexual Reproductive Health and HIV progression. She has worked in clinical trials, observational and qualitative studies as a Principal Investigator, Co-Principal Investigator, Sub-Investigator and Medical Officer. She’s involved with setting up and leading clinical trials in all facets of development and conduct. Dr. Jaggernath has led multidisciplinary teams in delivering high-quality trials that contribute to advancing patient care and medical innovation.