Matthew Willman: Photographic Storyteller

  • Highlights:
    • Versatile Talent: Matthew Willman is a renowned South African-based documentary photographer, author, and professional speaker. 
    • Documentary Photographer: Willman has documented significant historical, social, and cultural moments across the world. 
    • Nelson Mandela Foundation: Willman’s career includes working for the Nelson Mandela Foundation, where he captured iconic images of the late South African president. His intimate and respectful portrayal of Mandela is one of the highlights of his body of work, earning him international recognition.
    • Author and Storyteller: As an accomplished author, Willman combines his photography with powerful storytelling. 
Reading time: 2 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: Durban, SA
  • **Fee range: $10,001 - $20,000

Keynote Topics

Matthew Willman is a South African based documentary photographer, author & professional speaker.  He has expressed himself through an extraordinary body of work which includes writing, storytelling and exhibition.

Willman has gained over 24 years’ experience working for some of the world’s foremost institutions in the field of visual communication, development, visual arts and leadership.

A true global citizen, Willman has worked in 48 countries tailoring his inventive brand of communication to the needs of an array of clients

Which have included: Oxfam International, The World Health Organisation, The Nelson Mandela Foundation, The Bill Clinton Presidential Library, The Vodafone Foundation, The National Underground Railroad Freedom Centre, Robben Island Museum and The European Commission.

In 2019 Willman narrated and produced a short film documentary on the life of Nelson Mandela which was nominated and won an Emmy award in the USA.

Matthew Willman | Photographic Storyteller

Matthew Willman has had the pleasure of being commissioned to photograph individuals from a cross-section of the global community.

Private commissions include: US Presidents Barack Obama & President Bill Clinton, 6 South African Presidents, Former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and Annie Lennox.

Others include 22 Presidents, 12 Nobel Peace Prize Laureates and a host of sports personalities, musicians, politicians and philanthropists.

Perhaps one of Matthew Willman greatest achievements was his significant contribution to the recording of the process of South Africa’s democratic change.

This occurred both in his work as a commissioned photographer to the Nelson Mandela Foundation and through ten years working with Mr Mandela himself.

In 2003 Matthew was commissioned to archive and document the life and times of Nelson Mandela for the Nelson Mandela Foundation.

Over the years this afforded him many incredibly many intimate experiences with a man who for Willman embodies the very spirit and conviction we all possess as South Africans.

His collection of work is now central to the Mandela Centre of Memory & Presidential Library in Johannesburg.

View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

No reviews available for this post.

Was this profile helpful?

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.

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!

View further speakers

  • (7)
  • Featured
Ray Dalio - Image 01 (January 22, 2026)

Ray Dalio is a global macro investor with more than five decades of experience. He founded Bridgewater Associates from his New York City apartment and grew it into the world’s largest hedge fund and the fifth most significant private company in the United States, according to Fortune Magazine. Through pioneering investment frameworks such as risk […]

  • Travels from: Greenwich, CT
  • Economic Speakers
  • (43)

Ross Shafer is one of the most sought after keynote speakers and seminar leaders on the subjects of Customer Urgency and Empathy, Personal Motivation, Reinvention, and Market Relevance. He has authored nine business books yet also won international stand-up comedy competitions. He’s earned six TV Emmys as a network talk and game show host yet […]

  • Travels from: Lone Tree, CO
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (19)
DJ Ricky Rocks

DJ Ricky Rocks stands as an explosive force in the entertainment industry, captivating audiences globally with his raw power, distinctive sound, and unmatched sense of groove. Renowned for his magnetic stage presence and innovative artistry, Ricky Rocks has redefined the boundaries of live entertainment, blending DJing mastery with a showmanship that leaves audiences electrified. From […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Mobile DJ
  • (15)
Jason Schenker futurist

Jason Schenker is the President of Prestige Economics and Chairman of The Futurist Institute. He is a top-ranked economist, leading futurist, bestselling author, and in-demand keynote speaker who delivers high-impact presentations on economic trends, financial markets, geopolitical risks, AI, technology trends, and the future of work. Through his talks and research, Schenker helps clients anticipate […]

  • Travels from: Austin, TX
  • Futurists Speakers
  • (20)

Graham Fink is a world-renowned creative mind known for his groundbreaking work in advertising, art, and technology. As one of the most awarded creatives globally, Fink has transformed disciplines such as photography, film, painting, and drawing, merging these fields with advanced technology. His multidisciplinary approach and relentless pursuit of new creative frontiers have redefined creativity […]

  • Travels from: London, UK
  • Creativity Speakers
  • (16)
Water Sphere Acts

There is nothing quite as mesmerizing and as a Water Sphere Acts or Performance. Intriguing and enchanting, our dancers gracefully balance and move within a large transparent sphere, creating a beautiful and fascinating visual experience. Our sphere dancers are world-renowned performers, having danced internationally, as well as on film and TV. The creative opportunities are […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Water Performers
  • (19)
Scott Amyx - Image 07 (January 23, 2026)

Scott Amyx is a dynamic speaker on technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. As the Chair & Managing Partner at Amyx Ventures, he spearheads investment strategies and guides startups towards success. With a notable presence in the business world, Scott is a member of the Forbes New York Business Council, showcasing his esteemed position within the entrepreneurial […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Futurists Speakers
  • (13)
Melanie Lawson

In the realm of professional emcees, there are few who embody the essence of warmth, authenticity, and charisma quite like Melanie Lawson. With a career spanning over two decades in the television industry, Melanie has not only garnered acclaim as an Emmy Award-winning journalist but has also established herself as a sought-after professional emcee, moderator, […]

  • Travels from: Jacksonville, FL
  • Event Emcee
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.

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

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

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.

Our Mission:

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

© All rights reserved 2026.  Designed using Voxel

AI Assistant
Speakers Inc Logo 2024
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.