Keynote Topics
Zelda la Grange’s keynote is a powerful journey through leadership, humility, and transformation—rooted in the profound lessons she learned while working alongside one of history’s greatest statesmen, Nelson Mandela. Drawing from nearly two decades as his trusted aide, Zelda delivers a deeply moving and enlightening narrative that explores what it truly means to lead with integrity, embrace diversity, and foster reconciliation in times of division.
With firsthand stories from Mandela’s inner circle, Zelda offers rare insights into how leadership grounded in empathy, respect, and moral courage can inspire nations and individuals alike. She unpacks how Mandela led with forgiveness over resentment, and how that choice reshaped the destiny of South Africa—and her own personal beliefs.
Her keynote resonates with leaders, changemakers, and anyone navigating transformation, be it personal or societal. From boardrooms to classrooms, Zelda’s message is a call to action: to lead with purpose, confront prejudice, and choose unity over fear. Through humor, honesty, and humanity, she reminds audiences that the power to change begins within each of us.
This keynote is more than a reflection on Mandela’s legacy—it is a blueprint for the future.
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 […]
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
Contact us at Speakers Inc and subscribe to our YouTube channel
In order to view the below you must be logged in.
Capturing the essence of the Cape Flats in his impersonations and humour, Marc Lottering – MC Comedian is considered to be one of the hottest comics available. Marc hails from Cape Town with a colourful upbringing which often reflects in his unique brand of comedy. Marc stormed onto the scene in 1997 with his one-man cabaret “AFTER […]
Caitlin De Ville is a Zambian born and fiercely patriotic, Cait has performed across the world for Royalty, Presidents and World Leaders. She has performed in Austria, Germany, Ghana, Kuwait, Lebanon, Malawi, Mauritius, Montenegro, Namibia, Romania, Seychelles, South Africa, Spain, Tanzania, Thailand, Turkey, UAE (Abu Dhabi & Dubai), USA and Zambia! There is no mistaking […]
Don Packett is an exceptional event emcee and corporate comedian based in South Africa, known for his sharp wit, engaging stage presence, and unique ability to blend humor with valuable business insights. With over a decade of experience in the entertainment industry, Don has solidified his reputation as one of the top conference entertainers, captivating […]
Neil Andrews is married and has two children. Neil Andrews went to school in Cape Town and completed a BA degree and HDE at UCT. Neil has worked in Sports-casting for over 20 years and began his broadcasting career as an announcer, race commentator and journalist for the Cape Turf Clubs. From 1991 -2000, Neil […]
Wendy Mahoney corporate positions include; Executive Director European Times, Director Sales and Marketing CNBC and Forbes Africa, General Manager Sales Trudon South Africa and Director Trudon Namibia. Wendy now heads Newmella Holdings (Pty) Ltd, a Global Business Innovation Consultancy focused on growing the profit of companies by enabling and inspiring them to innovate at a […]
Stafford Masie is a computer scientist who has been involved in the IT industry for more than 25 years. He has been closely involved in such pre-eminent ICT companies as Telkom, Dimension Data, Novell and Google. His passion for technology led to him being appointed to senior executive positions at Novell USA (based in Utah for 7 years) […]
Goodluck Band have begun razzling the world with their electro swing and Jazz! Igniting South African night skies with their jazzing beats- it’s a blend of serious sums of talent, plenty of groove for your Year End entertainment Taking over the dance floors of the world! They’re not far off. They’re not far off. Because […]
Meet The Muses, a dynamic ensemble whose love and passion for captivating audiences knows no bounds. In the vibrant heart of Johannesburg resides an electric string quartet that transcends the ordinary, infusing every event they grace with an electrifying aura of entertainment and excitement. With a penchant for turning the mundane into the extraordinary, They […]
No results available
ResetThese remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
Our Mission
Our Mission:
© All rights reserved 2025. Designed using Voxel