Emcee, keynote speaker, communication trainer and event host
Corporate event planners, leadership teams, professional associations and organisations seeking a polished, high-credibility event host or communication expert.
The Game of Life
Having survived a month stranded on a desert island, competing on M-Net’s ‘Survivor: Santa Carolina’, Ashley extrapolates vital lessons learned and she translates them to meaningful interaction in a corporate environment.
This presentation examines the importance of teamwork, leadership and individual survival techniques in business.
Ashley Hayden talk provides individuals with accessible and practical survival techniques, to not merely survive but to thrive in their chosen fields.
Women Mean Business
Trend analysts tell us that we are the start of a ‘female’ century when reverence for traditionally female qualities are on the rise.
We are beginning to change the way in which we do business not only due to large numbers of empowered, educated and determined women in the workplace, but also due to the growing percentage of female consumers who are demanding a voice in the marketplace.
They communicate differently; they set goals and put plans in place based on different criteria.
3 Suitcases and R100
25 years ago, Ashley Hayden arrived in Johannesburg with 3 suitcases and one hundred Rands.
The journey from the unknown and impoverished wannabe to household name, is one filled with heartwarming home truths and outrageous stories, amusing anecdotes and disturbing situations along the way.
Ashley Hayden is one of South Africa’s most recognisable media personalities and a highly sought-after Master of Ceremonies, known for elevating events with her signature blend of poise, intelligence and warmth. Celebrated as the elegant face of M-Net for many years and the trusted voice behind major brands, Ashley has built a reputation for professionalism that consistently impresses audiences and event organisers alike. Her extensive broadcast background allows her to bring clarity, composure and seamless flow to every engagement.
As a live emcee, she is admired for her ability to read the room, adapt instantly to shifting dynamics and create an engaging atmosphere that reflects the tone and intent of the occasion. From conferences and awards ceremonies to gala dinners and corporate launches, Ashley delivers an event experience that feels bespoke, polished and deeply aligned with each client’s brand.
Alongside her hosting work, Ashley is a respected public speaker and communication trainer. She designs and facilitates programmes in media training, presentation skills, executive presence and personal branding, helping leaders communicate with confidence and authority.
Ashley Hayden is one of South Africa’s most iconic media personalities and one of the country’s most in-demand Master of Ceremonies. Best known as the elegant face of M-Net for many years, and the unmistakable voice behind numerous high-profile brands, Ashley has become a trusted presence on stage, screen, and behind the microphone. With her trademark warmth, wit, and professionalism, she brings a commanding yet comforting presence to every event she hosts or speaks at — qualities shaped by decades of experience in the broadcast and corporate communication industries.
As a live event emcee, Ashley Hayden has an effortless ability to read the room, connect with audiences, and elevate the tone of any event — whether formal, celebratory, or high-stakes. She’s hosted countless conferences, awards ceremonies, gala dinners, and corporate launches, always bringing poise, energy, and a deep respect for both the occasion and the people involved. Her approach is never generic; she tailors her delivery and presence to match each client’s brand and objectives, making her a favourite among top-tier event organizers across South Africa and beyond.
In addition to her role as a host, Ashley Hayden is a respected public speaker and trainer in the fields of media, communication, and personal branding. She designs and delivers workshops in media training, presentation skills, and executive presence, helping professionals refine their messaging, increase their impact, and speak with clarity and confidence. Her passion for empowering women is especially evident in her bespoke course, Women Mean Business — a highly engaging and practical programme that equips women leaders with the tools to own the room and their voice.
Beyond her work in front of the camera and behind the mic, Ashley Hayden is also an accomplished television producer and director, adding yet another layer of understanding to the world of media and live event production. This unique perspective enhances her value as both a speaker and facilitator, particularly for media-facing organisations or events with complex technical requirements.
Ashley Hayden is no stranger to the spotlight. South African audiences will fondly recall her vibrant performances on Strictly Come Dancing and her entertaining resilience on Celebrity Survivor South Africa. And, of course, who could forget her victorious appearance on the centenary edition of The Weakest Link, where she outwitted a determined panel of competitors — brunette and otherwise — to take the win, reinforcing that intelligence and charm are a powerful combination.
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In this 4 minute 17 second segment, Ashley Hayden delivers a sharp and insightful commentary on the evolution of women’s empowerment, positioning the conversation within both South African history and global social change. She opens by reminding viewers that women’s voting rights are relatively recent, noting the racial disparities that delayed enfranchisement for many South African women. Despite this legacy, she emphasises South Africa’s current standing as one of the highest ranked countries globally in closing the gender gap, a shift she describes as both measurable and encouraging.
Ashley then moves to the economic influence of women, drawing attention to the power women hold in household purchasing decisions. She explains that women are responsible for the majority of domestic spending, as well as major appliance purchases and even 80 percent of decisions related to buying a new family car. This level of economic control, she argues, makes women a formidable market force that businesses ignore at their peril.
Transitioning to workplace dynamics, she highlights how traditional male oriented systems have historically shaped organisational structures. Yet economic shifts, including job losses in male dominated sectors and a rising proportion of women in the workforce, signal that the landscape is changing. Ashley describes this as one of the most significant social transitions of the modern era. She outlines the contrasting strengths often associated with men and women, noting that evolving leadership demands favour empathy, communication, collaboration and intuitive problem solving skills.
Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.
Virtual speaking appearances can indeed offer cost savings compared to in-person events. Virtual speaking rates are often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates due to factors such as reduced travel expenses and logistics. This makes virtual events a cost-effective alternative for organizations looking to book speakers within a budget.
Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.
The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.
Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.
Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.
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