Executive leadership keynote speaker, governance expert and academic leader
Corporate leadership teams, governance bodies, public sector organizations, MBA programmes, conferences and institutions focused on ethical leadership, transformation and sustainable growth.
Bonang Mohale is a celebrated South African business leader, academic figure and thought leader whose career spans some of the most influential corporate and public institutions in the country. Since assuming the position of Chancellor of the University of the Free State in June 2020, he has brought exceptional depth in strategic leadership, governance and cultural transformation to the institution.
Before entering academia, Mohale built an outstanding executive career marked by courageous leadership and a consistent commitment to ethical, people-centred business practices. He has held several high-impact roles, including CEO of Business Leadership South Africa, Vice President Upstream and Chairman of Shell South Africa, CEO of Drake & Scull FM SA, and multiple CEO positions within Sanlam. His experience across energy, financial services, engineering, construction, and corporate advocacy has positioned him as one of the country’s most respected voices on leadership and national development.
Mohale’s expertise extends into public affairs, communications and stakeholder engagement, developed during his tenure at Sandoz Products and further refined in the pharmaceutical sector where he led product management, international expansion and new business development as Export Manager at Logos Pharmaceuticals. These diverse roles shaped his distinct ability to navigate complex environments while championing transparency, accountability and inclusive growth.
Bonang Mohale is a distinguished figure in the realms of business, leadership, and academia. As the esteemed Chancellor of the University of the Free State (UFS), assuming the role in June 2020, Mohale brings with him a wealth of experience garnered through decades of executive leadership across diverse sectors. Prior to his chancellorship, Mohale held pivotal roles in prominent organizations, including CEO of Business Leadership South Africa and Vice President Upstream & Chairman of Shell South Africa. With a career trajectory marked by strategic foresight, transformative leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Mohale emerges as a beacon of inspiration and wisdom in both corporate and academic spheres.
As a speaker, Bonang Mohale exudes a rare blend of intellect, charisma, and gravitas, captivating audiences with his compelling narratives and visionary perspectives. His speaking engagements transcend mere discourse, serving as catalysts for introspection, innovation, and actionable change. With a keen focus on topics ranging from leadership and organizational excellence to diversity and sustainable development, Mohale’s speeches resonate with audiences across industries and demographics, inspiring them to embrace a future defined by purpose, resilience, and collective prosperity.
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In this extended keynote, Bonang Mohale weaves humour, history and hard truth into a compelling address on South Africa’s economic realities and the imperative of ethical leadership. He opens with warm acknowledgements and a reminder of Mandela Day’s call for 67 minutes of service, grounding the audience in purpose before shifting into a broader discussion on liberal democracy and its four pillars: constitutional democracy, free press, rule of law and an engaged civil society.
Mohale revisits South Africa’s celebrated Constitution, drawing attention to the freedoms it guarantees and the moral obligation placed on citizens to address inequality. He contrasts these ideals with the country’s slow progress in redressing apartheid’s spatial and economic legacy, highlighting persistent poverty, long commutes and fractured economic participation.
He then reflects on South Africa’s political and economic turning points: the hope following 1994, Rwanda’s rapid post-genocide recovery, Germany’s reunification and the missed opportunity for South Africa to achieve similar transformation within two decades. Mohale attributes much of the stagnation to a series of poor leadership choices, mismanagement and systemic corruption — notably referencing the “nine wasted years,” state capture and staggering fiscal leakage that diverted resources away from social and developmental priorities.
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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The book incorporates insights from Bonang’s respected colleagues, such as Mteto Nyati, Adrian Gore, Andile Nomlala, Vukani Mngxati, and Nicola Kleyn, who add personal lessons and anecdotes, creating a pool of wisdom from which readers can drink deeply.
Lift As You Rise is a compilation of some of his spoken and written words in which Mohale reveals the issues he is passionate about – among them transformation, people development, constructive collaboration and integrity
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