Daisy Mafubelu started her career in public health almost 26 years ago, as a nurse and midwife.  She graduated in Community Health Nursing and Nursing Education from the University of South Africa and later, in Business Administration from the University of Stellenbosch.  She also holds a postgraduate diploma in health management from the University of Cape Town.

In 1994 Daisy joined the management ranks of the South African health service, where she played a significant role in the transformation and management of public health services, holding several positions in senior management within the public health sector, first as a Director of Human Resources and later as a Deputy Director-General of Health.  She was named Oliver Tambo Fellow in Public Health Leadership in 1997.  This award was made in recognition of outstanding potential and commitment to provide leadership through public health service towards improving health and health care for all South Africans.

Before her appointment as Assistant Director-General, Family and Community Health at the World Health Organization (WHO) on 1 April 2007, Daisy was Health Attaché in the Permanent Mission of South Africa in Geneva, with the rank of Minister.  She was the coordinator of the African group on health matters and is well known among the Diplomatic community in Geneva.  During the five years she has been in Geneva, she has acquired a broad knowledge of WHO's modus operandi, through her active involvement in the workings of WHO and participation in the intergovernmental processes of the Organization. 

Daisy has four children and combines a busy professional life with a passion for sport, music and dancing.