Nico Panagio is a well-known South African actor, presenter and Master of Ceremonies whose versatility, professionalism and effortless stage presence have made him a trusted figure across television, film, live events and corporate engagements. Born and raised in Pretoria, Nico completed his schooling at Pretoria Boys High before serving in the South African Navy, where he was appointed Captain of his Division and ranked Able Seaman. He later spent five years in the corporate sector as Manager of a chemical manufacturing business before returning to his true passion: the performing arts.
After graduating from the Method Actor’s Training Centre, Nico entered the South African entertainment world with roles on Egoli and Generations before securing a long-term role as George Kyriakis on 7de Laan. His acting footprint broadened into theatre and later into high-impact television roles, including presenting for the iconic lifestyle program Top Billing and performances in series such as Erfsondes and Zone 14, where he portrayed characters ranging from complex dramatic roles to powerful antagonists.
Nico’s polished communication skills and natural ease in front of audiences led him to expand into hosting and MC work. Today he is a sought-after Master of Ceremonies and guest speaker for corporate events, fashion shows, golf days and gala evenings.
Nico Panagio was born and bred in a beautiful little village known as Pretoria. After matriculation at Pretoria Boys High School, Nico went on to complete his military service in the South African Navy.
He was appointed the Captain of his Division and was ranked Able Seaman.
Following 5 years in the corporate industry as Manager of a chemical manufacturing business – Nico decided to return to his childhood love of drama. He joined the Method Actor’s Training Centre and soon after graduating, started his drama career. Brief stints on ‘Egoli’ as well as ‘Generations’, preceded what would be the start of a long term contract with the soapie, ‘7de Laan’, where he played businessman George Kyriakis. Nico Panagio has also performed in various theatre productions around the country.
Nico soon realised that he had a talent for presenting and started honing his skills as a Master of Ceremonies. He comperes and is invited to be guest speaker for various events ranging from fashion shows and golf days to special occasions and corporate functions. His corporate clients have included, amongst others – Land Rover, ABSA, Volvo, MTN, SAB, Seeff, SABC and many more. Nico Panagio was the Master of Ceremonies for the Miss South Africa pageant 2006 and performs as MC, on a weekly basis.
After 5 very educational and formative years on ‘7de Laan’ Nico decided to say fare-well to ‘George’ and join the Top Billing Team, as presenter. Apart from the incredibly interesting content and the exotic travel, Top Billing also allows him the freedom to pursue other acting ventures. Nico has recently completed working on the role of Bruno in SABC 3’s ‘Erfsondes’. Nico also plays the role of the Drug Lord, ‘Mr. Big’, in the SABC 1 series, ‘Zone 14’.
Other than his corporate education and his training as an actor, Nico Panagio completed various courses including Paramedics, Body Guarding & Anti – Terrorism and Advanced Scuba Diving. He also has a brown belt in Karate and has trained as a kick boxer and Thai boxer (Muay Thai).
To keep in shape, Nico likes to exercise outside, so apart from martial arts he likes swimming, mountain biking, horse-riding and playing golf.
He has had the awesome experience of delivering a new born baby, plays the didgeridoo and guitar (for his wife and good friends only!) and is very happily married to actress Christi Panagio.
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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.
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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.
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