Desmond Tutu

Archbishop Emeritus of Southern Africa, Desmond Mpilo Tutu (October 7, 1931 – December 26, 2021) was born in Klerksdorp, Transvaal

He became a prominent leader in the crusade for justice and racial reconciliation in South Africa. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009. In 1994, Tutu was appointed chair of South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission by Nelson Mandela, where he pioneered a new way for countries to move forward after experiencing civil conflict and oppression. He was the founding chair of The Elders, a group of global leaders working together for peace and human rights.

Archbishop Tutu was regarded as a leading moral voice and an icon of hope. Throughout his life, he has cared deeply about the needs of people around the world, teaching love and compassion for all. He lived in Cape Town, South Africa.