Leadership keynote speaker, author, and social impact advocate
Corporate leaders, government institutions, global conferences, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and values-driven organizations.
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 life story is a powerful narrative of personal transformation set against South Africa’s journey from apartheid to democracy. Raised in a conservative Afrikaner household, she began her professional career in public service after completing a National Diploma in Executive Secretarial studies. In 1994, she joined the office of President Nelson Mandela as a senior ministerial typist, quickly earning a reputation for discipline, integrity, and exceptional professionalism.
In 1997, Mandela appointed Zelda as one of his three Private Secretaries, a role that placed her at the heart of global leadership and diplomacy. When Mandela retired from the presidency in 1999, he personally selected her to remain as his aide, a position she held until his passing in 2013. During this period, she was instrumental in establishing and supporting the work of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, serving in roles that included Office Manager, Spokesperson, Aide-de-Camp, and trusted confidante.
In 2014, Zelda published her memoir, Good Morning, Mr. Mandela, which became an international bestseller. The book offers an intimate, behind-the-scenes perspective on Mandela’s leadership, humanity, and values, alongside Zelda’s own journey of reconciliation and growth. Her service has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Paul Harris Fellowship from Rotary International.
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.
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.
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Zelda was the closest witness of Mandela’s interactions with people both famous and ordinary, and here she draws out his lessons on humility, respect, honesty, how to truly listen and what to do if you realise you have made a grave mistake, a lesson she herself had to learn the hard way.
Good Morning, Mr. Mandela is the first by a trusted member of his inner circle. In addition to offering a rare close portrait, Zelda la Grange pays tribute to Madiba as she knew him—a teacher who gave her the most valuable lessons of her life.
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