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. 

Formats:
Audience:
Outcomes:
  • Reading Time: 2 min
  • Bio Word Count: 326
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

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!

Talent Resources

Talent resources available for download

In order to view the below you must be logged in.

  • Powerpoint Slide – For meeting and event planners
  • Gallery Images
  • High Resolution Images
  • PDF Files
  • Books and Magazine Links
  • Music List
  • Podcast Shows
  • Courses
  • + more

View further speakers

  • (10)
Abbie Maroño

Dr. Abbie Maroño is a renowned behavioral scientist whose deep expertise in human behavior, decision-making, and non-verbal communication has revolutionized the field of psychology and behavioral science. She combines her academic research with practical applications, making her an authority in areas such as persuasion, influence, and trust-building. As a keynote speaker, she engages audiences with […]

  • Travels from: Orlando, FL
  • Behavior Speakers
  • (30)

Gregory Offner is a multi-talented individual, with a passion for entertaining and educating others. His keynotes, workshops, and corporate consulting engagements help the worlds leading organizations create high performing, highly fulfilled leaders.  Prior to this work, Greg led global sales and marketing efforts for several Fortune 100 organizations; brokered complex Risk Management and Insurance programs for large […]

  • Travels from: Philadelphia, PA
  • Culture Speakers
  • (24)
  • (4)
Reed Barrett

Reed Barrett stands out as a multi-faceted powerhouse in the world of keynote speaking. An award-winning magician, seasoned Air Force fighter pilot, and psychology graduate, Reed brings a unique blend of talents to the stage. His career, which seamlessly combines the art of magic with the precision of military training, has positioned him as a […]

  • Travels from: Alexandria, VA
  • Aviation Speakers
  • (22)
Rebecca Lobo

Rebecca Lobo is a basketball legend who transformed her passion for the game into an influential career as a motivational keynote speaker and sports analyst. A former WNBA All-Star and NCAA Champion, Rebecca’s experiences both on and off the court have made her a prominent voice in women’s sports. Her in-depth knowledge of basketball, combined […]

  • Travels from: Hartford, CT
  • Sporting Speakers
  • (177)
Jann-Mardenborough-1

Jann Mardenborough’s journey is one of the most inspiring real-life transformations in modern motorsport—a bold leap from virtual racing to real-world podiums. Catapulted into fame through his extraordinary rise from gaming enthusiast to professional racing driver, Jann’s story resonates deeply with fans and audiences worldwide. His unique blend of resilience, innovation, and passion serves as […]

  • Travels from: London, UK
  • Racing Drivers
  • (50)
Daymond John

Daymond John has come a long way from turning a $40 budget into FUBU, a $6 billion fashion game-changer. Throughout his career, Daymond has continued to be an entrepreneur in every sense of the word. He is not only a pioneer in the fashion industry but a Shark on the 4-time Emmy Award winning Shark […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (17)
  • (6)
Alison Canavan

Alison Canavan is an internationally renowned transformational wellness coach, motivational speaker, and author, dedicated to empowering individuals to live more balanced and fulfilled lives. With a deep passion for holistic wellness, Alison has spent over a decade helping people transform their mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Her own journey through personal challenges and triumphs has […]

  • Travels from: Dallas, TX
  • Workplace Wellness
  • (65)
DJ Bella Fiasco

DJ Bella Fiasco’s musical style is simply formed upon her audience, wherever she may be or whomever she may be playing for. With a talent for spinning captivating tracks and a killer sense of style, DJ Bella Fiasco is a force. From the age of 17, when surprised with turntables, a gift from her father, […]

  • Travels from: Las Vegas, NV
  • Mobile DJ
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 2025.  Designed using Voxel

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.