Growing up in East London during the pre-antiretroviral era, Gabriela Cromhout, 35, witnessed the devastating effects of HIV. She now plays a leading role in paediatric HIV cure research as a clinical coordinator and research clinician for the Ucwaningo Lwabantwana (Learning from Children) Study at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. The cohort follows 325 children who acquired HIV in utero, providing insights into how very early treatment can influence long-term health outcomes. Gabriela is also a research clinician for the ORCHID study, investigating the interactions of HIV and tuberculosis treatments in children. Her work is at the forefront of global HIV cure efforts. She was the lead author of a Nature Medicine article describing children maintaining viral suppression without antiretrovirals and has presented her research on global stages, including the International Aids Society and CROI conferences. She has a medical degree from Stellenbosch University, an MSc in tropical medicine from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, and a PhD in progress. Gabriela also serves on international committees to advance HIV cure education.
My father, Paul Cromhout, and his ongoing work in social development, particularly through his NGO supporting underserved rural communities in the Eastern Cape, continues to exemplify the importance of long-term, purpose-driven service. This legacy of advocacy and community empowerment serves as a model for advancing health equity—particularly within the field of paediatric HIV cure research.