Dr Lillian Cingo

Biography

Dr Lillian Cingo is a South African-British professional nurse, counselling psychologist, and honorary doctor whose nearly 50-year career has been marked by dedicated, pioneering service. During apartheid, she broke barriers by pursuing advanced training in the UK, including the prestigious CCT scholarship at the Tavistock Clinic. This training became foundational to her impactful work back in South Africa. Dr Cingo managed the CCT supported Transet Phelophepha Health-Care Train for over a decade—a mobile clinic providing primary healthcare and counselling services to rural communities, bringing vital care to underserved populations.

Her professional excellence has earned her numerous accolades, including over 30 awards, the Golden Key from the International Honour Society, and a presentation to the Queen as Best
Neurological Nurse Specialist in 1975. She holds several honorary doctorates and most notably, Dr Cingo was named one of South Africa’s 21 icons for her lifelong commitment to health and social justice.