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

  • (40)
  • (1)

Vinh Giang is an internationally renowned keynote speaker who understands that the stage is never about the speaker—it’s about the audience. His electrifying presentations blend the art of illusion with powerful business and life lessons, leaving audiences inspired and transformed. With a unique perspective on communication, influence, and high-performance mindset, Vinh has mastered the ability […]

  • Travels from: Sydney, NSW
  • Mentalists
  • (63)
  • (3)
Chris Barton

In a world where technology has become an integral part of our lives, Chris Barton stands out as a visionary who has not only revolutionized the way we interact with it but has also epitomized the spirit of innovation and perseverance. As the creator of the iconic app Shazam, Barton’s journey from ideation to acquisition […]

  • Travels from: San Francisco, CA
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (11)
Lisa Forte

Lisa Forte is a globally recognized keynote speaker and cybersecurity expert, specializing in ethical hacking, cyber resilience, and social engineering. With a dynamic approach to cybersecurity, she combines her deep technical knowledge with a talent for delivering impactful and relatable talks that engage audiences worldwide. Lisa has earned a reputation for transforming complex cybersecurity concepts […]

  • Travels from: London, UK
  • Cybersecurity Speakers
  • (39)
Susan Oh

Susan Oh is a multi-award winning former business journalist (CNBC, Economist Intelligence Unit), trans media marketing campaigns creative (Expedia, Twentieth Century Fox), and civic technologist who has worked in Silicon Valley, New York City, Hong Kong, and Dubai. She is a globally respected thought leader and pioneer as among the first to model a commercially […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • (20)
  • (6)
Phillip Van Hooser

Phillip Van Hooser is an award-winning keynote speaker, leadership expert, and business strategist known for helping organizations elevate their leadership practices and transform workplace culture. With over three decades of experience in training leaders across industries, Phillip has established himself as a trusted authority in the field of leadership development. His practical, real-world insights combined […]

  • Travels from: Princeton, KY
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (12)
  • (1)

Madeleine Black is a powerful keynote speaker, author, and advocate whose compelling journey of survival and resilience has transformed countless lives worldwide. Known for her courage in breaking the silence on sexual violence, Madeleine uses her story as a catalyst for change, inspiring audiences to confront trauma, embrace forgiveness, and foster understanding. Her work centers […]

  • Travels from: Edinburgh
  • Inspirational Speakers
  • (14)
DJ Vtech

DJ Vtech is an American open-format DJ and Producer from Los Angeles, CA. Currently living in Las Vegas, she holds residencies at mega clubs Tao, Lavo, Tao Beach and the world renowned Encore Beach Club, sharing the decks with David Guetta, Avicii, Zedd, Diplo, DJ Snake, Lil Jon, Skrillex and many more. Vtech also travels […]

  • Travels from: Las Vegas, NV
  • Mobile DJ
  • (19)

Farrah Khan has spent two decades raising awareness about the intersections of gender-based violence and equity through education, policy, and advocacy. She is a member of the Government of Canada’s Advisory Council on the Strategy to Prevent and Address Gender-Based Violence, former co-chair of the Ontario Government Provincial Roundtable on Violence Against Women, board member […]

  • Travels from: Toronto, ON
  • Leadership Speakers
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.