Leanne Manas: Emcee. Speaker

Leanne Manas is a trusted South African broadcaster and event host who brings authority, warmth and journalistic excellence to conferences, galas and high-profile corporate events.

Leanne Manas

Quick Facts:

Highlights:
  • More than 20 years in broadcasting and national media
  • Anchor of Morning Live, SABC’s leading morning show
  • Experienced in major global and national event coverage
  • Interviews with world leaders including Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki

Formats: Event emcee, conference host and keynote speaker.

Audience: Corporate organisers, government departments, NGOs, conference planners and gala producers seeking a credible, polished and engaging host.

Outcomes:
  1. Events run smoothly with a confident, professional host
  2. Audiences stay engaged through clear communication and relatable delivery
  3. Organisations benefit from a credible media figure who elevates their event
Reading time: 2 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: Johannesburg

Talent Services

Keynote Topics:

(Motivational / Inspirational keynote)

It’s not about conquering a mountain; it’s about conquering YOURSELF.
Some people wake up every day, doubting their ability to achieve their goals however big or small. Take the leap and realize your true potential by stepping outside of your comfort zone.

Leanne Manas will take you on a motivational journey through her life – from being the shyest little girl in the class to becoming one of the most recognizable faces on South African television.

Hear about her encounters with Presidents, Celebrities and everyday South Africans and the lessons that she has learnt along the way. None of this would have been achieved without the courage and self-belief that Leanne possesses.

All of this intertwined into her unlikely journey to the Summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Leanne Manas will have you hanging onto her every word during this emotional rollercoaster of a talk that will leave you wanting to achieve your impossible.

Leanne Manas is an award-winning broadcaster, television presenter, and highly sought-after event emcee, renowned for her professionalism, charisma, and ability to seamlessly connect with audiences. With a career spanning over two decades in journalism and media, Leanne brings a wealth of experience to the stage, ensuring that every event she hosts runs smoothly and engages attendees at every level.

Her exceptional skills as a master of ceremonies make her a top choice for corporate events, conferences, gala dinners, and award ceremonies. Whether moderating high-profile discussions or adding elegance to a formal evening, Leanne’s poise, eloquence, and natural stage presence captivate audiences and keep events on track.

Her background as the long-standing anchor of Morning Live, one of South Africa’s most-watched morning television shows, has equipped her with the ability to think on her feet, manage dynamic event schedules, and interact effortlessly with diverse guests.

Leanne’s extensive experience covering major international events, interviewing world leaders, and facilitating meaningful discussions adds depth to her role as an emcee. Her ability to strike the perfect balance between professionalism and warmth ensures that speakers, sponsors, and attendees feel valued and engaged. As a media personality, she brings credibility and prestige to any event, making her an invaluable asset to event organizers looking for a polished and engaging host.

If you’re searching for a skilled, articulate, and trusted emcee to elevate your event, Leanne Manas is the ideal choice.

Talent Short Bio

Leanne Manas is one of South Africa’s most recognisable broadcasting professionals, celebrated for her long-standing role as the anchor of Morning Live, the South African Broadcasting Corporation’s flagship morning show. With more than two decades in media, she has earned national respect for her clarity, composure and ability to communicate complex topics in an accessible and engaging way.

Leanne holds a degree in English and Communications, along with a postgraduate diploma in Economic Journalism from Rhodes University, giving her a strong analytical foundation across business, political and social subject matter. Her career began in radio at 702 and Jacaranda FM before she transitioned into television, where her natural command of live broadcasting quickly elevated her profile.

Across her career, Leanne has covered major national and international events, including presidential inaugurations and global sporting showcases.

Leanne Manas is a household name in South African broadcasting, renowned for her role as the anchor of Morning Live, the South African Broadcasting Corporation’s flagship morning show. With a career that spans over two decades, she has garnered widespread respect for her eloquence, professionalism, and unflappable demeanor in front of the camera. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences and her warm yet authoritative presentation style have made her a trusted figure in the world of media.

Leanne’s background in journalism and television production has equipped her with deep expertise in understanding complex subjects and delivering them in an accessible way. She holds a degree in English and Communications and a postgraduate diploma in Economic Journalism from Rhodes University.

This educational foundation has enabled her to excel not only in entertainment and light-hearted topics but also in high-stakes political interviews and thought-provoking discussions. Her media career began at Radio 702 and Jacaranda FM, but it was her leap to television that propelled her into the spotlight.

Her commanding presence is complemented by her versatility, having covered major national and international events, from presidential inaugurations to World Cup events. She has interviewed some of the most influential figures globally, including former South African presidents Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki, world leaders, and entertainment icons. This wealth of experience makes her a standout in any event, whether she’s hosting a corporate conference, emceeing a gala, or facilitating a panel discussion.

Leanne Manas is also a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Education, a role that underscores her commitment to education, empowerment, and creating platforms for youth and marginalized communities. She frequently speaks at educational events, emphasizing the importance of literacy and equal opportunities for all. Her ability to shift from news journalism to advocacy work demonstrates her range and passion, adding layers to her profile as a keynote speaker and host.

Her extensive television and media career, coupled with her humanitarian efforts, have solidified her as one of South Africa’s most sought-after event emcees and hosts. Leanne Manas continues to inspire audiences with her poised delivery, quick wit, and deep understanding of complex global and national issues, making her a go-to choice for high-profile events.

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Talent Videos

Leanne Manas on Why She Is Climbing Kilimanjaro

In this 2m10 message, Leanne Manas shares the personal purpose behind her Kilimanjaro climb and highlights the cause driving her to take on Africa’s highest peak.

In this short interview, Leanne Manas explains why she has chosen to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, framing the challenge as both a personal milestone and a meaningful contribution to a cause she deeply supports. She shares that the climb is not just about the physical test but about using her platform to amplify awareness and drive change for communities in need.

Leanne reflects on the emotional significance of the journey, acknowledging the magnitude of the mountain and the preparation required. She describes the climb as symbolic of resilience, purpose and the ability to push beyond perceived limits. For her, the real reward lies in the impact the initiative will have on the beneficiaries of the charitable project attached to the expedition.

She emphasises that taking on Kilimanjaro allows her to step out of her comfort zone while inspiring others to take action in their own lives. The challenge represents hope, motivation and the power of collective effort. Leanne closes with gratitude for the support she has received and with optimism about what the climb will accomplish, both personally and for the cause she is championing.

Key Moments

  • 00:18 She explains the deeper purpose behind the challenge and the cause connected to the expedition.
  • 00:46 Reflections on preparation, fear, resilience and stepping outside her comfort zone.
  • 01:20 Discussion of the symbolic meaning of the climb and the motivation it provides to others.

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Talent FAQ's

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.

  • Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
  • There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
  • Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
  • When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
  • Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
  • Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
  • Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.

Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!

Talent Resources

For Meeting Planners

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