Storytellers

Travis Gale is a motivational adventurer, facilitator, and organisational transformation specialist who uses story-driven insights to help teams build endurance, navigate tough terrain, and finish well.
  • Motivational Adventurer

Vinh Giang is an internationally renowned keynote speaker who understands that the stage is never about the speaker—it’s about the audience. His electrifying presentations blend the art of illusion with powerful business and life lessons, leaving audiences inspired and transformed. With a unique perspective on communication, influence, and high-performance mindset, Vinh has mastered the ability to shift perspectives and unlock the hidden potential within individuals and teams.

A lifelong student of success and achievement, Vinh draws from his background as a successful entrepreneur and award-winning magician to create an unparalleled speaking experience. His captivating keynotes are packed with storytelling, humor, and interactive demonstrations, ensuring that audiences not only absorb his insights but also experience them firsthand. By challenging limiting beliefs and teaching the art of influence, he empowers individuals to become better communicators and leaders in both their personal and professional lives.

Vinh Giang | Communication Speaker

Vinh Giang’s journey is one of perseverance, creativity, and relentless pursuit of excellence. As the son of Vietnamese immigrants, he grew up with a deep appreciation for hard work and resilience. He channeled these values into his passion for magic, which he later transformed into a thriving career as an entrepreneur and speaker. Co-founding an online business teaching magic to thousands of students worldwide, Vinh discovered the profound power of communication and influence—an understanding that now forms the foundation of his keynote presentations.

With over a decade of experience in business and performance, Vinh expertly connects the principles of magic with the real-world dynamics of leadership, sales, and personal development. He believes that just like in magic, perception shapes reality in life and business. His presentations provide actionable strategies to help audiences reframe challenges, break through self-imposed limitations, and communicate more effectively.

Vinh has spoken on some of the world’s biggest stages, including those for Fortune 500 companies, industry conferences, and leadership summits. His ability to instantly engage audiences stems from his deep understanding of psychology and human connection. Every keynote is designed to create a lasting impact by combining jaw-dropping illusions with powerful business insights, ensuring that attendees leave with both inspiration and practical tools to enhance their personal and professional lives.

Why Event Planners Should Book Vinh Giang

Event planners looking for a speaker who delivers more than just words should look no further than Vinh Giang. His presentations are immersive, interactive, and profoundly transformative. By weaving together the principles of magic, storytelling, and psychology, he creates an unforgettable experience that resonates long after the event ends. Whether addressing corporate executives, sales teams, or aspiring entrepreneurs, Vinh’s insights on influence and communication provide invaluable tools for personal and professional growth.

One of Vinh’s greatest strengths is his ability to tailor his message to diverse audiences. His presentations are not just motivational—they are instructional, equipping attendees with tangible strategies they can implement immediately. His dynamic stage presence, combined with an innate ability to connect with people on a deep level, ensures that every event he speaks at is engaging and impactful.

Furthermore, Vinh’s background in entrepreneurship allows him to speak directly to the challenges faced by business leaders. He understands the pressures of innovation, adaptability, and leadership in a rapidly changing world. Through his keynotes, he empowers individuals to harness the power of perception, embrace uncertainty, and cultivate a growth mindset—qualities essential for success in today’s business landscape.

Summary

Vinh Giang is more than just a keynote speaker—he is an experience. With a dynamic blend of magic, psychology, and business insight, he delivers unforgettable presentations that inspire change and ignite new perspectives. His expertise in influence, communication, and leadership makes him a sought-after speaker for organizations looking to empower their teams and drive performance.

By challenging conventional thinking and demonstrating the power of perception, Vinh helps audiences unlock their true potential. Whether on stage or through his workshops, he leaves a lasting impact that extends beyond the event, equipping individuals with the mindset and strategies needed to excel in both their personal and professional lives.

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  • Communication Entertainer
Kgomotso Matsunyane is a trailblazing South African broadcaster, feminist thought leader, and global MC known for bold storytelling, cultural insight, and advocacy for gender and social justice.
  • Event Emcee

Niki Seberini is a speaker who’ll inspire with mind shifting ideas and concepts, entertain with personal anecdotes and humorous stories as well as challenge your audience to go beyond the way they see reality, you’ve just found her!

​I work in the personal development, mind wellness & stress management space with Mindfulness as the foundation for all my work.​

Whether it’s a small or large audience I’ll inspire them to confront their stories and beliefs and show them how to shift from being a SLAVE to a CREATOR of their reality.

Niki Seberini currently hosts the DL Link Show – a prominent radio show about health and wellness with the focus on cancer, on 101.9 Chai FM.

Niki Seberini | Inspirational Mindset

In 2011 Brene Brown gave a famous TED Talk about the Power of Vulnerability and, ever since, people have been talking about the benefits of courage and authenticity in our world today.

MIND WELLNESS THE BREAKTHROUGH 
​Workplace wellness is growing up and is going beyond the 7 dimensions – social wellness, emotional wellness, spiritual wellness, environmental wellness, occupational wellness, intellectual wellness and physical wellness.

Mindfulness is an age old practice that is being used to alleviate the stresses of contemporary life.

With over 30 years of research to back it up, Mindfulness is fast becoming a mainstream practice with individuals, armies, athletes, corporations and schools making use of this stress reducing, performance enhancing and life altering tool.

When you realise that you have everything you need to be happy in this moment, your life shifts dramatically.

Niki Seberini uses a process of “CLEAN & CLEAR” to help you free your mind of the thoughts that are creating a false reality.

​She will share simple tools to help you rework your mental patterns so as to unlock your mind.

Niki Seberini techniques include Mindfulness as well as  Byron Katie’s “The Work”.

You’ll be able to identify the thoughts that create stress, anxiety, negativity, frustration & depression.

Any belief that stands in the way of you living a meaningful, peaceful life are put  up against four simple questions until they lose their “charge” and are liberated.

It is our clarity of mind that affects how we are in the world and how we experience our world.  It affects our relationships, decisions, connections as well as how we lead, love, plan, innovate, create…”

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  • Inspirational Mindset
Sonja Kruse is an inspirational speaker and adventurer whose 351 day Ubuntu journey across South Africa reveals powerful lessons on empathy, connection, and the transformative impact of human kindness.
  • Inspirational Speaker
Michael Charton is a South African storyteller and keynote speaker who brings the nation’s history to life through deeply researched, emotionally resonant narratives that inspire connection, insight, and understanding.
  • Motivational Speaker

Zolani Mahola is a South African Storyteller – she is a singer, an actress, an Inspiration Speaker and an agent for social change. Zolani Mahola aka The One Who Sings

Born in Port Elizabeth in 1981, she studied Theatre and Performance at the University of Cape Town where she met musicians with whom she would later form pan-African multi-cultural multi-genre band Freshly Ground in 2002.

17 years and 7 albums later Freshly Ground has gone on to become a household name in South Africa and is one of Africa’s most acclaimed and successful bands. They have captured the heart of the continent and have also claimed global recognition.

One highlight of their near two decade career was a collaboration with pop superstar Shakira with whom they recorded the official song for the FIFA World Cup 2010 and performed it at the opening and closing ceremony for a global audience of over a billion people. The band has to date opened stages for and collaborated with such artists as Stevie Wonder, BB King, Hugh Masekela, Miriam Makeba, Robbie Williams, Oliver Mtukudzi, Vusi Mahlasela and Busi Mhlongo to name but a few.

Zolani Mahola is well loved and respected by South Africans for unifying the country through music and bridging social, racial and cultural divides. As an artist, she explores themes of identity and belonging and she shares a message of individual agency and responsibility.

She firmly believes that though we are all connected and have much in common, “our individual stories are unique; we must be curious about them, to find the reason we were put on this planet and to realise our full expression.”

She has been a judge on the acapella show The Sing-Off (2009) and guest judge on Idols (2010) and The Voice (2016), encouraging uniqueness and a good work ethic in the contestants. She sang the lead in a new South African musical “Calling Me Home” (2017) at Joburg Theatre.

Recently collaborated with Zip Zap Circus School, for whom Zolani Mahola is an ambassador and board member, and the Johannesburg Youth Orchestra at Joburg Theatre in the boundary breaking production“ Journey Beyond” (2019).

Zolani is passionate about sharing her experience for the good of her community and has expanded her portfolio to include what she terms Inspiration Talks. In these talks she shares intimately about her life story, challenges and wins … encouraging others to investigate their own stories and to share them too. She believes that this sharing and listening leads to empathy and will lead to healing pain caused by division in our societies globally.

Zolani Mahola is currently recording her debut solo material with Grammy nominated producer JB Arthur who, together with acclaimed bass player Victor Sibusiso Masondo produced Freshly Ground’s biggest selling album to date.

She will release the material in the latter part of 2019. The artist is also currently developing a theatrical production called “The One Who Sings” which will see its debut release staged at the Baxter theatre in Cape Town in November 2019. 2020 will find Zolani staging the production all over the country as well as globally.

The next phase of Zolani Mahola’s career will see her staging her musical productions in concert halls, auditoriums, concert spaces and theatres the world over as the world joyfully discovers The Next Chapter of this global icon.

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Zolani Mahola | African Storyteller
  • African Storyteller
Sarah Begum is an award-winning explorer, filmmaker and global ambassador dedicated to protecting cultures, championing climate justice and inspiring future generations through science, technology and exploration.
  • Sustainability Speaker
Motivational speaker and former Mandela bodyguard Rory Steyn shares leadership, resilience and security insights shaped by three decades in elite protection and global event security.
  • Madiba's Bodyguard
Kevin Richardson is a leading wildlife speaker and self-taught animal behaviorist whose groundbreaking, trust-based approach to lions and hyenas redefines predator conservation and human–animal connection.
  • Wildlife Speaker

Over the past decade Jon Kroeger has consulted with various clients on addressing challenges within the world of Sales and Retail Experience – both locally and abroad. Traveling to Europe and Asia on strategic learning and implementation programs, Jon has insights around global sales and retail strategies – those that work and those that don’t.

In the ever-evolving consumer driven world with multiple buyer profiles, mass choice and instant gratification, the sales profile, job description and internal sales processes & support are incredibly outdated and often suffer from the ‘one shoe fits all’ syndrome.

Working with his clients, Jon develops bespoke Sales Processes & Support structures, Sales Strategies and Sales training programmes based on his clients individual business definition of Customer Experience.

Jon is known for his entertaining and relatable real-world Storytelling when talking about Customer & Retail Experience, improving your Sales Experience, growing your Business and Authentic Leadership. Through his Stories, Jon encourages a change in perspective of his audience by giving them an alternative narrative to think about. His ability to simplify complex business and sales concepts into relatable day-to-day experiences keeps his audiences fully engaged throughout his talks.

Jon Kroeger infinite passion is to improve the image of Salespeople and once again positioning a career in Sales at the top of the ‘most respectable careers in the world’ list.

Jon Kroeger | Retail Sales

Over the past decade (and some), Jon Kroeger has been involved with sales on multiple levels, and within multiple disciplines.

Having had a career in Sales, Sales Management and as a Branch Manager for many years, Jon knows his way around the Sales Process, Sales Management, Sales Coaching, Strategic Selling and Retail Experience Improvement Strategies.

Jon Kroeger is currently responsible for running multiple Businesses, and sales has been, and still is a daily task. As the saying goes, he eats, breaths, sleeps and dreams sales and the Customer Experience.

But Jon also a professional Customer – buying stuff all the time! Be it Online, face- 2-face or browsing through a store, Jon is buying stuff all the time.

We all love listening to or telling a good story! And it’s generally agreed that we use Storytelling as a way to transfer knowledge and learning experiences from one generation to the next.
And everyone loves a good Story.

It’s the reason why Netflix, YouTube, Showmax and many other streaming services not only exist, but flourish! Stories that seem to ‘talk directly to us’ and that we can relate to on a personal and aspirational level, are stories that we remember the most.

These memorable Stories are often linked to how the Story made us feel. Our own experiences, both good and bad make us feel a certain way, and we remember more the way we feel then what actually happened. So to communicate the context around these feelings and to tell others what happened to us that made us feel the way we felt, we use Storytelling. And its these personally relatable stories that leave a lasting impression on us.

In Jon Kroeger talks he use relatable stories of real-world, day-to-day experiences when talking to people about Customer Experience, improving your Sales Experience, growing your Business and Authentic Leadership.

Through his Stories, Jon Kroeger – Retail encourage a change in perspective of his audience by giving them an alternative narrative to think about.

Every encounter I have as either a Salesperson or a Customer, the total Customer Experience and additional transactional value is foremost in my mind.

As a Salesperson, in this vastly competitive consumer driven world we sell in, you are often up against the retail store down the road, the frustrating and misunderstood discount war, economic cycles and how do you convince your Customers to rather buy from you?

As a Customer, I’m asking myself “why should I buy from you?” It’s so competitive out there, with many options, Brands, products etc. that all promise to ‘solve my need’ – and many can fulfil this promise. What is it that creates a compelling enough reason for me to buy your solution or take you up on your offer as a Salesperson or your particular retail store?

And the answer is hardly ever the amount of discount offered. Discounted pricing is only ever the bargaining chip in the absence of additional transactional value. The compelling reason for Jon Kroeger – Retail Sales to do business with you is largely dependent on the overall level of Customer Experience and additional transactional value offered by you (the Salesperson) and perceived by me (the Customer).

Arguably, the most valuable skill any Salesperson has is there ability to offer an authentic, memorable Customer Experience with enough compelling reasons for your Customer to confidently do business with you. One thing is for sure though, if you don’t know everything about what it is that you are selling and what you are selling against, don’t expect your Customers to trust your sales pitch – they will buy not because of you, but in spite of you – and probably at a demanded reduced transactional value.

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  • Retail Sales

Zelda la Grange’s journey from a conservative Afrikaner upbringing in apartheid South Africa to becoming the trusted personal aide of Nelson Mandela is a compelling narrative of transformation and reconciliation. Her unique experiences offer profound insights into leadership, diversity, and the power of forgiveness, making her an inspiring figure on the global speaking circuit.​

Born on October 29, 1970, in Boksburg, South Africa, Zelda pursued a National Diploma in Executive Secretarial studies. She began her career in 1992 at the Department of State Expenditure. In 1994, she joined the office of President Nelson Mandela as a senior ministerial typist. Recognizing her dedication and skill, Mandela promoted her in 1997 to one of his three Private Secretaries.

Upon his retirement in 1999, he personally selected Zelda to continue as his aide, a role she fulfilled with unwavering commitment until his passing in 2013. During these years, she played a pivotal role in establishing the Nelson Mandela Foundation, serving in capacities ranging from Private Secretary to Office Manager, Spokesperson, and Aide-de-Camp.

In June 2014, Zelda published her memoir, “Good Morning, Mr. Mandela,” which became an international bestseller. The book provides an intimate account of her 19-year journey alongside one of history’s most revered leaders, offering readers a behind-the-scenes look at Mandela’s daily life and the profound lessons she learned from him.

Her dedication and service have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Paul Harris Fellowship from Rotary International. In 2022, she established the Zelda la Grange Foundation, aiming to assist children in protective and foster care to realize their potential.​

Event planners seeking a speaker who embodies resilience, transformation, and firsthand insights into leadership will find Zelda la Grange an exceptional choice. Her talks resonate deeply with audiences, drawing from her personal evolution and close association with Nelson Mandela. Zelda’s ability to weave personal anecdotes with universal themes of forgiveness, diversity, and inclusion makes her presentations both relatable and profound.

Her experience navigating complex political and social landscapes equips her to address topics such as ethical leadership, reconciliation, and the importance of embracing change. Her authenticity and eloquence ensure that audiences are not only engaged but also inspired to reflect and act.​

In summary, Zelda la Grange’s remarkable journey from a product of apartheid-era South Africa to the trusted confidante of Nelson Mandela offers unparalleled insights into the human capacity for change and understanding.

Her experiences underscore the transformative power of forgiveness, the importance of embracing diversity, and the enduring impact of compassionate leadership. As a speaker, Zelda captivates audiences with her heartfelt narratives and profound lessons, making her an invaluable addition to any event seeking to inspire and educate.

Hashtags: #ZeldaLaGrange #NelsonMandela #Leadership #DiversityAndInclusion #Transformation #Forgiveness #Inspiration #Speaker #Author #GoodMorningMrMandela

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Zelda la Grange | Motivational
  • Inspiring Motivational

Christo Brand is a South African former prison guard who was one of several that were responsible for guarding Nelson Mandela. He came to Robben Island, where Mandela was being held, in 1978 when he was 19 years old.

In 1982 he was transferred along with Mandela to Pollsmoor Prison. Christo and Mandela developed a close friendship over the course of many years. He is the co-author of his book, Doing Life with Mandela: My Prisoner, My Friend (2014). Christo retired from Robben Island on 31st July 2018 to pursue his storytelling on a full-time basis.

How was it possible for these two men from such seemingly different backgrounds to develop a relationship which was to become so much more – a lasting friendship based on a mutual trust and respect for each other?

Surely, they should have hated each other. One was a white, 18-year-old Afrikaans speaking prison guard representing the oppressive, apartheid regime of the time; the other – a black, 60-year-old Xhosa speaking terrorist serving a life sentence.

Rather than join the army for National Service as was compulsory for every South African white male, Christo Brand decided to join the prison service.  After training for a year in Kroonstad, he applied for a post on Robben Island because he wanted to be close to home.

His application was successful and at the age of 19 he was sent to work on Robben Island in 1978.  That was when Christo first came across Nelson Mandela who at that time was 60 years old.  This was where they formed a relationship which was to become so much more.  A close friendship built on trust and mutual respect for each other.

In 1982, Mandela was transferred to Pollsmoor Prison.  On 13th March that year, Christo married Estelle.  Soon afterwards, Christo was transferred to Pollsmoor and was responsible for guarding Mandela for the next 6 years.

Christo Brand

Encouraged and supported by Nelson Mandela, in 2014 Christo wrote his book “Doing Life with Mandela – My Prisoner, My Friend”, with co-author Barbara Jones.

In the Foreword, Ahmed Kathrada writes:   “My lasting impression of Christo Brand is that he’s a very good human being.  He’s not a politician; he’s just a very caring man who took chances for other people, which could have brought him trouble.

I sincerely hope that Christo’s book will receive the respect and attention it deserves.  It is a valuable addition to the writings about imprisonment in the apartheid era, and it is written by a fine man.

It is also unique in that it is the most honest account I have read by a warden relating their interaction with Nelson Mandela, and for that alone it deserves credit.  I wish Christo Brand all the success in the world.”

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  • Motivation Speaker

Dr. Gcina Mhlophe is a distinguished author, playwright, and performer, whose roots trace back to the vibrant landscapes of Hammarsdale in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Born into a rich tapestry of oral tradition, she was deeply influenced by her grandmother’s captivating tales during her formative years. This early exposure ignited a lifelong passion for storytelling, propelling Dr. Mhlophe on a remarkable journey across continents. Her literary and performance prowess has transcended borders, captivating audiences from South Africa to North America, Europe, and Japan.

Dr Gcina Mhlophe – Poet Storyteller

Dr. Mhlophe’s journey as a storyteller and cultural ambassador has been adorned with accolades and international acclaim. Her ability to weave intricate narratives that resonate with diverse audiences has made her a revered figure in the global literary and theatrical landscape. With a repertoire spanning from enchanting children’s tales to thought-provoking dramas, she has graced prestigious stages such as the Royal Albert Hall and the Kennedy Centre in the United States.

Beyond her solo performances, Gcina Mhlophe has collaborated with esteemed artists, including the iconic Ladysmith Black Mambazo, enriching the cultural tapestry with projects like the children’s CD. Her work has garnered esteemed recognitions, including the Sony Award for Radio Drama from BBC Africa, The Fringe First Award at the Edinburgh Festival, and the prestigious OBBIE Award in New York.

Dr. Gcina Mhlophe’s influence extends beyond the realms of literature and theater. As an educator and cultural custodian, she has received honorary doctorates from esteemed institutions such as the London Open University, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pretoria University, and Fort Hare. These accolades recognize her profound contribution to literature and her tireless efforts in preserving the rich heritage of African storytelling.

Event planners seeking to enrich their programs with cultural depth and intellectual stimulation should look no further than Dr. Gcina Mhlophe. With her captivating presence and unparalleled storytelling skills, she has the power to transport audiences across continents and immerse them in the rich tapestry of African heritage. Dr. Mhlophe’s performances resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds, making her an ideal choice for events aiming to foster inclusivity and cultural appreciation.

Furthermore, Dr. Gcina Mhlophe’s vast experience as a performer, playwright, and educator equips her with the versatility to tailor her presentations to suit the specific themes and objectives of any event. Whether it’s a keynote address, a theatrical performance, or an interactive workshop, her engaging delivery and profound insights are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on attendees. By inviting Dr. Mhlophe to speak, event planners can elevate their programs to new heights, offering audiences a unique and enriching experience that transcends boundaries.

Summary and Conclusion

In summary, Dr. Gcina Mhlophe stands as a beacon of storytelling excellence, captivating audiences worldwide with her enchanting narratives and profound insights. From humble beginnings in KwaZulu-Natal to international acclaim on prestigious stages, her journey is a testament to the power of storytelling to transcend barriers and unite communities. With her unparalleled expertise and unwavering commitment to preserving African heritage, Dr. Mhlophe is not only a speaker but also a cultural ambassador, enriching the lives of all who have the privilege to hear her speak.

Dr Gcina Mhlophe is a motivational speaker, MC and storyteller.

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  • Inspiring Storyteller

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