Motivational speaker, mountaineer, and leadership performance storyteller.
Corporate teams, leadership groups, educational institutions, women’s networks, youth development programs, and mission-driven organizations.
Saray Khumalo is an award-winning mountaineer, corporate leader, and motivational speaker whose achievements have redefined what is possible for African adventurers, women in leadership, and purpose-driven professionals worldwide. Born in Zambia and raised in South Africa, she built a career in finance and corporate management before following her passion for high-altitude climbing. Her pursuit of personal excellence culminated in May 2019 when she became the first black African woman to summit Mount Everest, a milestone that elevated her onto the global stage and cemented her influence as a symbol of courage and determination.
Saray has summited major peaks including Kilimanjaro, Elbrus, and Aconcagua, applying the same disciplined focus she developed in the corporate world. Her approach draws on practical leadership frameworks: intentional goal-setting, strategic preparation, mental toughness, and collaborative teamwork. She translates expedition lessons into actionable guidance that resonates with organizations navigating uncertainty, transformation, and performance challenges.
Beyond mountaineering, Saray is a committed advocate for social change. As a Mandela Libraries ambassador, she champions literacy and access to education, raising funds and awareness for under-resourced communities across Africa.
Saray Khumalo is an inspirational figure in the world of mountaineering, renowned for her remarkable achievements and unwavering determination. Born in Zambia and raised in South Africa, Saray’s journey to the summits of the world’s highest peaks is a testament to her resilience and passion for adventure. With a string of notable accomplishments to her name, she stands as a beacon of hope and perseverance, inspiring individuals worldwide to pursue their dreams against all odds.
Throughout her mountaineering career, Saray Khumalo has conquered some of the most challenging peaks on the planet, including Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Elbrus, and Aconcagua. However, her most notable achievement came in May 2019 when she became the first black African woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest, the world’s tallest mountain. This historic feat not only solidified her place in mountaineering history but also earned her widespread recognition and acclaim.
Saray Khumalo’s journey to becoming a seasoned mountaineer is as remarkable as her summit successes. With a background in finance and corporate leadership, she defied societal expectations and pursued her passion for mountaineering with unwavering determination. Drawing upon her experiences as a business leader, she brings a unique perspective to her adventures, emphasizing the importance of goal-setting, resilience, and teamwork.
Saray’s expertise extends beyond conquering mountains; she is also a passionate advocate for education and social change. As a Mandela Libraries ambassador, she works tirelessly to promote literacy and access to education in underprivileged communities across Africa. Her commitment to making a positive impact extends to her role as a motivational speaker, where she shares her experiences and insights to inspire others to overcome challenges and pursue their dreams.
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This 11 minute 10 second TEDx talk centres on Saray Khumalo’s belief that her Everest achievement is not the story itself, but the vehicle for a larger message: how Africans can give a powerful gift to the next generation. She begins by recalling her childhood fascination with superheroes and how her early self-doubt stemmed from the lack of characters who looked, sounded, or lived like her. That changed as she learned about African leaders and women who fought for liberation and equality. Their courage made her realise that everyday people can be superheroes through deliberate action and service.
Saray recounts her first philanthropic climb in 2012, summiting Kilimanjaro to raise funds for an outdoor gym and library for children in Johannesburg. One child’s disbelief that Saray came from the township exposed how deeply limited representation shapes aspiration. Determined to model possibility for her own sons and for girls who doubted their potential, she set a goal to climb the seven highest peaks.
She uses this journey to explore the broader narrative imposed on Africa, long framed as a continent that must be saved. Saray argues that Africans are capable, energetic, and diverse, with ample evidence of excellence, such as Springbok captain Siya Kolisi’s rise from poverty to world champion. Her own path to Everest illustrates this same theme. After multiple attempts thwarted by avalanches, earthquakes, and life-threatening conditions, she faced public doubt and her own discouragement. In 2017 she was left unconscious in the death zone and rescued, leading her to momentarily question whether the climb was meant for her.
This short, high-impact introduction video presents Saray Khumalo as a groundbreaking explorer, humanitarian, and business leader. It opens by highlighting her historic achievement as the first Black African woman to summit Mount Everest, proving that “the sky is not the limit” and demonstrating the power of a summit mindset.
The video recounts the severe challenges she overcame—including surviving an avalanche and an earthquake during one of Everest’s deadliest climbing seasons. It positions Saray as a trailblazer and Pathfinder, not only in mountaineering but also in her professional life as an award-winning business executive and Mandela Libraries ambassador.
Her accomplishments extend beyond Everest: she is also the first African woman to ski to the South Pole, further cementing her status as a record-breaker. Passionate about empowering youth and women, Saray has used her expeditions to feed thousands of children and raise significant funds for education across Africa.
The video includes a tribute from President Cyril Ramaphosa, who praised her for demonstrating that with courage and perseverance, individuals can achieve extraordinary goals for the greater good of humanity.
It concludes by positioning Saray as an international motivational speaker, inspiring people and organizations to overcome challenges, unlock potential, and conquer their personal and professional summits.
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.
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In this truly remarkable life story, Saray Khumalo shares her epic journey to the top of the Mount Everest. From her childhood in Zambia and Zaire, to a corporate career in South Africa, through marriage and motherhood, Saray harboured one overriding to reach the summits of the world’s highest mountains.
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