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

    • (29)
    Caroline Rhea

    Caroline Rhea is a stand-up comedian, actress, writer, director, and talk show host, best known for her role as “Aunt Hilda” on the ABC hit comedy series, Sabrina the Teenage Witch. She has starred in seven comedy specials for Comedy Central, HBO, Showtime, CBC and most recently filmed her latest special at the Sydney Opera […]

    • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
    • Comedian Hosts
    • (10)
    Melissa Boggs - Image 02 (March 31, 2026)

    Melissa Boggs is a dynamic business strategy speaker, leadership coach, and workplace culture innovator who inspires organizations to rethink the way they work, lead, and grow. With a career spanning two decades, Melissa has helped companies transform their strategies, foster thriving cultures, and achieve sustainable success in an ever-changing business landscape. As a former co-CEO […]

    • Travels from: Denver, CO
    • Leadership Speakers
    • (76)
    Marcus Lemonis

    In a world where business leaders are lauded for being cutthroat, Marcus does it all with heart and compassion for the people, process and product he aspires to elevate. But as with many success stories, his road has not always been an easy one. If you or your client is looking for an interactive Business […]

    • Travels from: Chicago, IL
    • Business Speakers
    • (34)
    Jackie Kallen - Image 02 (January 29, 2026)

    Jackie Kallen, renowned as “The First Lady of Boxing,” has shattered glass ceilings in the male-dominated world of professional boxing. Her journey from a show business journalist to one of the sport’s most successful managers is a testament to her resilience, vision, and unwavering determination. Kallen’s story not only highlights her significant contributions to boxing […]

    • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
    • Motivational Speakers
    • (5)

    Dr. Nido Qubein came to the United States as a teenager with little knowledge of English and only $50 in his pocket. His journey has been an amazing success story. The Biography Channel and CNBC aired his life story titled “A Life of Success and Significance.” As an educator, Dr. Nido Qubein is president of High Point […]

    • Travels from: High Point, NC
    • Communication Speakers
    • (51)
    Patricia Arquette

    Actress, writer, and activist Patricia Arquette has left an indelible mark on both the entertainment industry and the realm of social advocacy. With a distinguished career spanning decades, Arquette has garnered critical acclaim and numerous accolades for her compelling portrayals on screen. From her Oscar-winning performance in “Boyhood” to her Emmy-winning role in “Medium,” she […]

    • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
    • Empowerment Speakers
    • (72)
    Amy Purdy - Image 04 (February 17, 2026)

    At 19, after experiencing flu-like symptoms, Amy Purdy was rushed to the hospital in a state of septic shock. En route, she experienced respiratory and multiple organ failure, which caused her to lose circulation to her extremities. When she entered into the hospital she was given less than a 2% chance of survival, put on […]

    • Travels from: Denver, CO
    • Inspirational Speakers
    • (19)
    • (4)
    Chaunte Lowe

    Chaunte Lowe, an extraordinary athlete and motivational speaker, is a four-time Olympian and the American record holder in the women’s high jump. Her journey from humble beginnings to becoming an icon of resilience and determination is nothing short of inspiring. Known for her tenacity, Chaunte has not only excelled in athletics but also overcome significant […]

    • Travels from: Orlando, FL
    • Summer Olympians
    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.