Dr. Barry Tolmay

Ethnic & Reconciliation Studies Chair
Professor of African Christianity
Missiology Specialist
International experience:
  • Belgium
  • Botswana
  • Canada
  • Czechia
  • Denmark
  • Eswatini
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Israel
  • Italy
  • Kenya
  • Lesotho
  • Mozambique
  • Namibia
  • Netherlands
  • Poland
  • Slovakia
  • South Africa
  • Spain
  • Tanzania
  • Turkey
  • United Arab Emirates
  • United Kingdom
  • United States
  • Zambia
  • Zimbabwe

Education

Doctor of Philosphy, Missiology & Religious Studies, University of Pretoria, South Africa
Post-doc Research, Theological University Kampen, Netherlands
Doctor of Divinity, Church History, Ethics & Missiology, University of Pretoria, South Africa
Master of Philosophy, Future Studies, University of Stellenbosh, South Africa
Bachelor of Divinity, University of Pretoria, South Africa
Bachelor of Arts (Hons), Development & Anthropoology, North-West University, South Africa

Bio

Dr. Barry Tolmay possesses an extensive educational background, including a Doctor of Philosophy in Missiology & Religious Studies from the University of Pretoria, South Africa, and a Post-doc Research qualification from the Theological University Kampen in the Netherlands. These educational achievements, combined with his Doctor of Divinity, Master of Philosophy in Future Studies, Bachelor of Divinity, and Bachelor of Arts in Development & Anthropology, provide him with a strong foundation for his role as the Department of Ethnic & Reconciliation Studies Chairperson, Professor of African Christianity, and Missiology Specialist.

Dr. Tolmay's professional experience is notably marked by his role as Senior Minister at the Dutch Reformed Church, where he led various missional outreaches, focusing on establishing new congregations and ministries. He has a deep involvement in the inner city ministry of Durban, fostering 4 new congregations and 28 focus ministries. His leadership as the Moderator of the KZN Dutch Reformed Church underscores his abilities to consult with congregations, develop leaders, and adapt congregations for a more missional approach. His role as Chairman of various committees, including the Executive Leadership and Strategy Committees, reflects his strong leadership skills in ecclesiastical contexts.

Furthermore, Dr. Tolmay has international experience as a Business Development Manager in Africa and has served as a Director for Business Strategy and Business Ethics. His academic directorship at Blake Hall College and experience in academic lecturing in missiology, sociology, anthropology, and religious studies have equipped him with the skills to teach and mentor in the academic setting.

His engagement in future studies, membership in the World Future Society, and representation of Shaping Tomorrow in Africa emphasize his commitment to future-oriented ethics. His participation in athletic and charity activities, including being a South African Masters Athlete, underlines his well-rounded nature. Dr. Tolmay's deep commitment to charitable causes, including being the Chairperson of Feed a Child, demonstrates his dedication to humanitarian work. His diverse experiences, leadership skills, and academic qualifications have uniquely prepared him for his role in Ethnic & Reconciliation Studies, where he can contribute to the field with his expertise and compassion.

Programs supported