Inspirational speaker, storyteller, and humanitarian adventurer.
Corporate teams, educators, community groups, and organisations seeking to strengthen connection, empathy, and inclusive culture.
Sonja Kruse, widely known as The uBuntu Girl, is a South African adventurer, storyteller, and humanitarian whose extraordinary solo journey redefined her understanding of humanity and connection. In 2009, she set out with only a backpack, a camera, R100, and an instinctive belief in the goodness of people.
Over 351 days she walked and hitchhiked across 114 towns, staying with 150 families from 16 cultures and experiencing the generosity, trust, and kindness often overshadowed by headlines.
Her bestselling book, The uBuntu Girl, documents this profound exploration of community and belonging. With a background in cultural anthropology, Sonja brings an informed yet deeply personal lens to themes of identity, empathy, and social cohesion. She uses vivid storytelling to challenge assumptions, break down stereotypes, and illuminate the universal desire for connection.
As a speaker, Sonja is known for her warmth, authenticity, and ability to shift perspectives. Her insights help organisations cultivate trust, strengthen relationships, and create more inclusive cultures. Whether addressing corporate teams, educators, or community groups, she inspires audiences to recognise their shared humanity and embrace collaboration as a catalyst for meaningful change.
Sonja Kruse, affectionately known as ‘The uBuntu Girl,’ embodies the spirit of adventure and an unwavering faith in humanity. In 2009, she embarked on a remarkable solo journey across South Africa, relying solely on her instincts, a modest backpack, a camera, and a mere R100. Her mission was clear: to traverse the country by foot and hitchhiking, without the comfort of a support team, tent, or bank cards.
Over the course of 351 days, she traversed 114 towns, experiencing the boundless generosity of 150 families representing 16 diverse cultures. Sonja’s odyssey was a quest to uncover the untold stories of goodwill that often evade the headlines, culminating in her inspiring book, ‘The uBuntu Girl,’ chronicling her extraordinary encounters along the way.
Sonja Kruse is not just an adventurer; she is a storyteller, a humanitarian, and a beacon of hope. With a background in cultural anthropology and a passion for social change, Sonja brings a unique perspective to her speaking engagements. Her expertise lies in fostering empathy, understanding, and connection among diverse communities. Through her captivating narratives and vivid anecdotes, Sonja sheds light on the inherent kindness and compassion that exist within humanity, challenging stereotypes and fostering a sense of unity.
Sonja’s journey is a testament to the power of human connection and the resilience of the human spirit. Her firsthand experiences navigating unfamiliar terrain and forging meaningful connections with strangers equip her with invaluable insights into the essence of community, trust, and resilience. Whether addressing audiences in corporate boardrooms, educational institutions, or community centers, Sonja’s message transcends boundaries and resonates with people from all walks of life.
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