Thabo Ndlela: Technology Speaker

Quick Facts:

  • Highlights:
Reading time: 3 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: Johannesburg

Keynote Topics

  • Technology Disruption
  • Digital Innovation
  • Business Transformation
  • IT Governance for Boards
  • Supply Chain Management

Talent Short Bio

Thabo Ndlela is an exceptional business executive with more than 18 years of practical experience in Information Technology Management, Digital Transformation and Supply Chain Management. He has an impeccable track record as a Chief Information Officer in Manufacturing, Hospitality, Banking and Media Industries.

He provides strategic advisory to company boards on IT Strategy, IT Governance, Enterprise Architecture and Transformation Projects.

Thabo Ndlela is an industry thought leader, research contributor and frequent speaker at conferences such as Gartner, SAPICS, Manufacturing Indaba, Oil and Gas Africa, ITWeb Events, Marcus Evans and Brainstorm CIO Forums. Thabo has spoken on the following topics:

  • Technology Disruption: Disrupting traditional markets through technology, enhancing customer interaction and creating new business value.
  • Digital Innovation: Innovation of new business models, business channels and creating new supply chains using digital marketing, digital sales and digital innovation
  • Business Transformation; the implementation of enterprise resource planning, enterprise asset management and enterprise service management systems to transform a global business
  • Mobile and Social Media; the use of mobile technology and social media to differentiate customer facing solutions, innovate with customers and enhance customer experience.
  • IT Governance for Boards: Adoption of King IVby Boards to oversee the IT responsibility, ensure sustainability with company objectives; and align IT investments in with business strategy.
  • Supply Chain Management: Optimizing demand management, advanced supply chain, inventory optimization and production scheduling

Thabo Ndlela | Technology Speaker

Thabo Ndlela relates the latest trends of digital technology in layman analogies from his diverse and rich life experiences, from growing up in a rural farming village to be named the 2015 Visionary CIO Finalist.

Thabo has summited Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa; completed the Trans Baviaan, the 247km toughest single stage mountain bike race in the world; and water rafted the Zambezi river, the fourth-longest river in Africa. View full list of Speakers Q-Z

Thabo Ndlela has ticked many bucket list items, including bungee jumping the 110m Victoria Falls, playing golf at the St Andrews Old Course and attended theAbhu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix.

In 2008 Thabo Ndlela initiated the Make a Difference (MAD) housing project that fundraised and built more than 298 houses for the poor.

He has participated in 5 of the Change A Life cycling tours in Swaziland, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mauritius and South Africa that have fundraised more than R30 Million for anticrime charities. Thabo often speaks at conferences to raise money for various charities.

Thabo is the Chairman of Westcon Southern Africa, Non-Executive Director of the IFS Africa Board and Independent Trustee for the Cisco Foundation. Thabo holds a BSc Electrical Engineering Degree, Masters in Information Technology and is pursuing a PhD in Commerce. He belongs to the South African Engineering Council, South African Institute of Electrical Engineers and Institute of Directors.

Talk Specifications:

Length of his presentation: 60 minute breakfast / lunch or conference / seminar slot / panel discussion. Thabo is able to do a shortened version for before/ after dinner occasions.

Contact us at Speakers Inc and subscribe to our YouTube channel 

Speakers Contact

Speaker Enquiry Form

No reviews available for this post.

Talent FAQ's

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.

  • Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
  • There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
  • Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
  • When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
  • Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
  • Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
  • Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.

Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!

Talent Resources

Talent Resources to download

Speaker Gallery

Was this profile helpful?

View further speakers

The Cellosphere delivers world-class cello performances inside giant transparent spheres, fusing classical music, visual artistry, and immersive entertainment.
  • String Performers
Wrongfully imprisoned survivor turned speaker who teaches resilience, forgiveness, and purpose with authentic storytelling and practical recovery frameworks to audiences.
  • Motivation Speaker
Francis Herd is a trusted broadcast journalist and business-focused event emcee who brings clarity, authority and professionalism to high-level conferences, financial forums and corporate programmes.
  • Business Emcee
Science communicator and astrophysicist who demystifies astronomy through AI storytelling, public engagement, and inspiring STEM participation to spark curiosity everywhere.
  • Astrophysicist Speaker
Entrepreneurship strategist and business leadership speaker helping companies attract, empower, and retain young talent while accelerating inclusive growth.
  • Business Leadership
Alex van den Heever and Renias Mhlongo are globally recognised wildlife trackers and keynote speakers transforming organisations through lessons in trust, diversity, collaboration and high-performance teamwork.
  • Power of Relationships
Fashion entrepreneur and designer who empowers audiences with creativity-led business strategies, brand storytelling, and practical steps to scale creative ventures.
  • Woman Empowerment
Business strategist and facilitator who helps leaders design aligned teams, strategy execution processes, and practical governance that deliver measurable results.
  • Business Speaker
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

Our Mission

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

Newsletter Signup

* indicates required

Intuit Mailchimp

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Speakers Inc Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

We promise to not spam you!

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2026.  Designed using Voxel

speakers inc
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.