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

  • (54)
Gautam Mukunda

Gautam Mukunda is an internationally recognized expert in leadership and innovation. He often jokes that his life’s ambition is to have the world’s most confusing resume and that he’s most of the way there. He is a Research Fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School’s Center for Public Leadership. He is also the host of Nasdaq’s […]

  • Travels from: Boston, MA
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (61)

Immaculée Ilibagiza is a remarkable and inspirational speaker whose powerful story of survival and forgiveness has resonated with audiences worldwide. A Rwandan genocide survivor, Ilibagiza’s journey from the depths of despair to becoming a leading advocate for peace and reconciliation is both moving and transformative. Her story is one of extraordinary courage and unwavering faith, […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Inspirational Speakers
  • (39)

Amy Eliza Wong is an award-winning author, keynote speaker, and leadership strategist who helps leaders unlock transformative clarity, trust, and alignment. With a background in transpersonal psychology, mathematics, and design thinking, and two decades in Silicon Valley, Amy brings a rare blend of analytical rigor and human insight to the stage. Her early technical work […]

  • Travels from: San Francisco, CA
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (46)
Tonya M. Evans - Tech Intersect - Tonya M Evans

Tonya M Evans is a global leader on crypto currencies and a technology keynote speaker, accomplished academic and administrator, and world-renowned speaker with over twenty years of experience in law, innovation, academia, and entrepreneurship. Dr. Evans currently serves as tenured Professor of Law at Penn State Dickinson Law School. Beginning July 1, 2022, she will […]

  • Travels from: Carlisle, PA
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • (37)
Gaby Natale

Triple Emmy-Winning Journalist and Bestselling Author Gaby Natale is on a mission to awaken the PIONEER spirit in each of us. Gaby stands as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, possessing not only the creative prowess but also the entrepreneurial acumen to carve her path. As one of the few women who own the rights […]

  • Travels from: Fort Worth. TX
  • Hispanic Speakers
  • (78)
Chef Brooke Williamson

Chef Brooke Williamson is a culinary force to be reckoned with, known for her innovative approach to cooking and her unwavering commitment to excellence. With a career that spans over two decades, she has earned acclaim and respect from both her peers and food enthusiasts around the world. Her culinary journey took off when she […]

  • Travels from: Kings Beach, CA
  • Chefs Speakers
  • (28)
Pat Wadors - Image 07 (January 19, 2026)

Pat Wadors is a renowned thought leader in organizational culture, employee engagement, and human-centered leadership. With decades of experience shaping workplace environments at leading global companies, she has earned a reputation for transforming corporate cultures and championing inclusive, people-first strategies. As a sought-after keynote speaker, she brings deep expertise, actionable insights, and a compelling vision […]

  • Travels from: Santa Barbara, CA
  • Culture Speakers
  • (72)
Tristan Harris

Tristan Harris is a globally recognized thought leader and advocate for ethical technology design. As the co-founder and executive director of the Center for Humane Technology, he has dedicated his career to addressing the pervasive influence of technology on human behavior and society. Frequently referred to as the “closest thing Silicon Valley has to a […]

  • Travels from: San Francisco, CA
  • Digital 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.