Saray Khumalo: Motivational Speaker
Mountaineer and motivational speaker Saray Khumalo inspires audiences with evidence-based resilience, peak performance strategies, and her history-making ascent as the first black African woman to summit Mount Everest.
- Highlights:
- First black African woman to summit Mount Everest (2019)
- Accomplished climber of Kilimanjaro, Elbrus, Aconcagua, and other major peaks
- Corporate leader with expertise in strategy, performance, and team dynamics
- Mandela Libraries ambassador supporting literacy and educational access
- Formats:
Motivational speaker, mountaineer, and leadership performance storyteller.
- Audiences:
Corporate teams, leadership groups, educational institutions, women’s networks, youth development programs, and mission-driven organizations.
- Outcomes:
- Practical tools for building resilience, sustaining motivation, and achieving long-term goals.
- A deeper understanding of teamwork, preparation, and mindset in high-stakes environments.
- Renewed commitment to inclusive leadership, purpose-driven action, and personal excellence.
- Travels from: Johannesburg, SA
- **Fee range: $10,000 - $15,000
Keynote Topics
Talent Short Bio
Saray Khumalo is an award-winning mountaineer, corporate leader, and motivational speaker whose achievements have redefined what is possible for African adventurers, women in leadership, and purpose-driven professionals worldwide. Born in Zambia and raised in South Africa, she built a career in finance and corporate management before following her passion for high-altitude climbing. Her pursuit of personal excellence culminated in May 2019 when she became the first black African woman to summit Mount Everest, a milestone that elevated her onto the global stage and cemented her influence as a symbol of courage and determination.
Saray has summited major peaks including Kilimanjaro, Elbrus, and Aconcagua, applying the same disciplined focus she developed in the corporate world. Her approach draws on practical leadership frameworks: intentional goal-setting, strategic preparation, mental toughness, and collaborative teamwork. She translates expedition lessons into actionable guidance that resonates with organizations navigating uncertainty, transformation, and performance challenges.
Beyond mountaineering, Saray is a committed advocate for social change. As a Mandela Libraries ambassador, she champions literacy and access to education, raising funds and awareness for under-resourced communities across Africa.
Read Full Bio
Saray Khumalo is not just a mountaineer; she is the embodiment of resilience, determination, and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams. With a string of remarkable achievements to her name, Saray stands as a beacon of inspiration for all who dare to challenge the limits of human potential. Her journey to the summits of some of the world’s highest peaks is a testament to her unwavering spirit and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Saray’s mountaineering career has been punctuated by numerous milestones, each more extraordinary than the last. Among her most notable accomplishments is her historic summit of Mount Everest, the world’s tallest mountain, in May 2019. This achievement not only cemented her place in mountaineering history but also made her the first black African woman to conquer Everest. However, Saray’s ascent of Everest was not merely a personal triumph; it was a triumph for diversity, inclusion, and the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.
Beyond Everest, Saray Khumalo has tackled a diverse range of challenging peaks around the globe. From the icy slopes of Kilimanjaro to the towering heights of Aconcagua, she has consistently pushed the boundaries of her own capabilities and inspired countless others to do the same. Her passion for mountaineering is matched only by her dedication to making a positive impact in the world, whether through her philanthropic endeavors or her advocacy for gender equality and education.
Saray Khumalo’s journey to becoming a world-renowned mountaineer is as remarkable as the summits she has conquered. Born and raised in Zambia, Saray’s love for the mountains was ignited during her childhood travels across Africa. However, it wasn’t until later in life, after settling in South Africa, that she began her ascent to the pinnacle of the mountaineering world.
View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter
Videos
Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry
No reviews available for this post.
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.
Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!
View further speakers
- (36)
David Houle is a futurist, thinker and keynote speaker. He has always been slightly ahead of the curve. Houle is consistently ranked as one of the top futurists and futurist keynote speakers on the major search engines. He has keynoted numerous conferences across the country and internationally. In the last seven years he has delivered […]
- Travels from: Sarasota, FL
- Futurists Speakers
- (24)
- (1)
Kerry Bodine is a globally recognized independent customer experience (CX) consultant, known for her deep expertise in human-centered design, marketing, and branding. With over two decades of experience, Kerry has helped transform some of the world’s leading brands, guiding organizations to create meaningful connections with their customers. As a keynote speaker, author, and advisor, Kerry […]
- Travels from: San Francisco, CA
- Customer Experience
- (43)
Dr. Patty Malone stands as an expert and authority in workplace communication, dedicated to facilitating organizations in achieving profound results, heightened productivity, and enhanced profitability through the conduit of clear and effective communication. In a landscape where miscommunication and misunderstanding drain companies of an astounding $37 billion annually, Dr. Malone’s commitment to fostering productive communication […]
- Travels from: Fullerton, CA
- Communication Speakers
- (84)
Dr. Rebecca Heiss is a highly sought-after keynote speaker, author, and expert in evolutionary biology who brings a fresh and dynamic perspective to leadership, communication, and workplace culture. With a background in research and a passion for making science accessible and applicable to everyone, Dr. Heiss is on a mission to empower organizations to thrive […]
- Travels from: Greenville, SC
- Workplace Wellness
- (4)
Professor Richard Susskind is a leading authority on AI and the future of legal services, advising globally on the impact of technology on society and justice. Professor Richard Susskind is a globally recognized expert on the impact of artificial intelligence and technology on society, with a particular focus on the future of legal services. A […]
- Travels from: Hertfordshire, UK
- AI Technology Speakers
- (73)
Audie Cornish has become a recognized and trusted voice on the airwaves as co-host of NPR’s flagship news program, All Things Considered. Cornish’s career in journalism began at the Associated Press in Boston in 2001, just before the Sept. 11 terror attacks. The following year, her love of radio brought her to Boston’s WBUR, where […]
- Travels from: Washington, DC
- Political Speakers
- (10)
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
- (82)
Jeff Butler is an author and workplace strategist who explores human behavior within the working world. His experience spans over 40 industries in 4 continents on how different cultures and employees interact with each other. He studies common threads of behavior in industries such as IT professionals, underground utility workers, police officers to clothing retail […]
- Travels from: Dallas, TX
- Motivational Speakers
Disclaimer
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
Fee Range Information
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
