Liezel van der Westhuizen: Event Emcee
Event emcee and keynote speaker Liezel van der Westhuizen delivers high-impact live and virtual hosting experiences, combining broadcast expertise, energy, and audience engagement across global events.
Quick Facts:
- Hosted 500+ events across South Africa and internationally
- Renowned live and virtual event emcee and keynote speaker
- Television presenter on SABC3, MNET, SuperSport, and DSTV
- Host of Idols (Seasons 5 and 6) and presenter on Expresso
- Formats:
Event Emcee, Keynote Speaker, TV Presenter, Virtual Host
- Audiences:
Corporate organizations, conference producers, brands, and global audiences seeking a polished, engaging, and high-energy event host.
- Outcomes:
- Seamless, professional event flow across live and virtual formats
- High audience engagement and energy throughout events
- Memorable hosting experience that elevates overall event impact
- Travels from: Cape Town, SA
- **Fee range: $500 - $5,000
Keynote Topics
Talent Short Bio
Liezel van der Westhuizen is an internationally recognized event emcee, keynote speaker, and television presenter known for her dynamic presence, vocal versatility, and ability to captivate audiences across live and virtual platforms. With over a decade of experience in broadcasting, film, and live events, she has built a reputation as one of South Africa’s most sought-after hosts.
Liezel has hosted more than 500 events locally and internationally, seamlessly adapting her style to suit corporate conferences, brand activations, and large-scale productions. Her polished delivery, natural charisma, and professional ease make her a trusted partner for event organizers seeking a smooth, engaging experience.
Her television career includes presenting roles on major networks such as SABC3, MNET, SuperSport, and DSTV. She became widely recognized as one of the few women globally to host the hit reality show Idols, as well as for her work on Expresso, Soundcheck Live, and other popular programs.
Read Full Bio
Liezel van der Westhuizen is currently taking both the South African entertainment, and personal branding scenes, by storm – Now most conveniently as a Virtual Speaker too, whom you can book right now!
She is a: Skilful presenter with a lauded vocal dexterity, evident in her work as a voice-over artist. With over a decade of acting and meritorious presenting experience within film and television, The success of her body of work with top local and international production companies, is beyond reproach.
Renowned international emcee and keynote speaker, who has been intrinsically tied to the success of hundreds of events around the world, through her aptitude in captivating any audience, and across industries. The relaxed smile, smooth and professional working manner, and her impeccable style, has made her one of the most sought-after presenters and emcees in the country – the digital space included.
Liezel van der Westhuizen kicked off her public speaking and Emcee career over a decade ago and has, to date, hosted more than 500 events across South Africa and internationally. She has won bronze and silver awards as a member of the Toastmaster’s Society
As only the second woman in the world to present reality television singing competition Idols, She became a familiar face on the popular competitive music show during Seasons Five and Six, as well as during her time as a presenter on SABC3’s daily breakfast show Expresso. Liezel van der Westhuizen has presented TV shows for channels SABC3, SuperSport, SABC Sport, MNET, DSTV and SABC 2, and lists her career highlights as Idols, Expresso, The Lunchbox and Soundcheck. She continues to impress with her daily fitness feature on KFM radio, and maintaining a beloved Fitness Fridays segment on CapeTalk (a radio station that is broadcast in Cape Town).
For those seeking more streamlined fitness information daily and has become the trusted Virtual Gig Guide for the hottest daily workouts she seeks out (or tries by recommendation) and shortlists, on her social media platforms – This seasoned Speaker also cultivating a digital presence resonating to more than 100 000 people.
An 18-month stint as an SABC3 continuity presenter, and presenter of the lunchtime show Lunchbox, led to even greater prospects for the towering talent; with the television singing competition Idols confirming her rise to the top. In 2010, Liezel launched SoundCheck Live on MNET, before starting her work on Expresso, and also found time to make her spirited on-screen debut in the films ‘The Race-ist’ and ‘Hollywood in my Huis‘.
With her professional style and ease in conversation, it will come as no surprise that Liezel has a spree of degrees in Communication Management from the University of Pretoria and, since 2000, has been a member of Toastmaster’s International. Liezel van der Westhuizen holds a BCom degree in Human Resources and Industrial Psychology, and both a BCom Honours and an MCom in Communication Management – Making her one of the most qualified Virtual Speakers or Conference MC you can book right now.
Liezel van der Westhuizen manages to find time to work as a voiceover artist, and has an impressive portfolio of television and radio voiceover work to showcase, that underpins her other exploits. It all comes back to a drive within her, that was ultimately inspired by her grandmother’s fight against Cancer.
“My gran being diagnosed with Cancer was a big life-changer. I even shaved off my long hair, and went bald for a year in support of her. I now keep my hair short in memory of her and as a reminder that life is short. Before my gran passed away, she told me to grab every opportunity in life and [to] enjoy every moment.”
Her commitment to bettering the lives of people, extends so far beyond her world, that she was even called on to tandem cycle with a visually-impaired triathlete, across the Himalayans. Liezel van der Westhuizen raised funds for Operation Smile and OneSight, proceeded to break records, all while challenging her body and mind to the limits;
She keeps a healthy fitness regime, training six times a week on the road (running and cycling) and in the pool, and was selected to take part in Nestle’s Triathlon team that went on to complete the gruelling Full Ironman Triathlon in 2010 (this involves a 3.8km swim, a 180km cycle and a 42.2km run).
A talented public speaker, Liezel van der Westhuizen remains passionate about helping people to reach their full potential. Her calling, therefore, involves travelling around South Africa – and safely flying internationally– So as to deliver motivational talks and keynote addresses on topics that her audiences describe as valuable and up to the minute.
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Talent FAQ's
Do speakers charge a flat fee or by the hour?
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.
What is the typical duration of a keynote speech and what is included?
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.
Does the scale of the event and audience size affect a speaker’s fee?
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 and other costs
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.
Deposits and securing a booking
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.
Additional tips and takeaways
- 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.
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