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
- (110)
Julie Hyman hosts the 3-5 p.m. ET show on Yahoo Finance Live. Julie has been a financial journalist for more than 20 years, covering events including the Great Financial Crisis, the collapse of drugmaker Valeant and the rise of meme stocks. Welcome to the world of financial news, where expertise meets eloquence, and insightful analysis […]
- Travels from: New York, NY
- Event Emcee
- (24)
Amal Clooney is an internationally renowned human rights lawyer, author, and keynote speaker who inspires audiences with her profound dedication to justice, equality, and the rule of law. Known for her groundbreaking legal work and passionate advocacy, Amal has represented individuals, governments, and organizations in high-profile cases before the International Criminal Court, the European Court […]
- Travels from: London, UK
- Human Rights
- (16)
- (7)
Lolita Taub is not your typical venture capitalist. With a mission deeply rooted in community empowerment and a career spanning 15 years within the heart of Silicon Valley, she has emerged as a pivotal figure in the startup ecosystem. As a General Partner at Ganas Ventures, Lolita channels her expertise into investing in pre-seed and […]
- Travels from: San Diego, CA
- Hispanic Speakers
- (38)
Karen Hao is a globally recognized voice at the forefront of AI reporting, named one of TIME’s 100 most influential people in AI and heralded as “one of the foremost tech journalists covering AI” by Dr. Joy Buolamwini. A former Silicon Valley engineer turned investigative journalist, Karen is the author of the New York Times bestselling book Empire […]
- Travels from: Hong Kong
- Artificial Intelligence
- (25)
- (2)
In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, innovation and expertise are paramount. Dr. Daniel Kraft stands at the forefront of this dynamic field as a Stanford and Harvard-trained physician-scientist, inventor, entrepreneur, and innovator. With over 25 years of experience in clinical practice, biomedical research, and healthcare innovation, Dr. Kraft has made significant contributions to the advancement […]
- Travels from: Stanford, CA
- Futurists Speakers
- (7)
Scott Bedbury is widely regarded as one of the world’s leading brand strategists, having helped shape some of the most iconic companies of our time—including Nike, Starbucks, Airbnb, and Kaiser Permanente—during their most pivotal growth phases. As Global Advertising Director at Nike, Scott played a central role in transforming the brand from a niche athletic […]
- Travels from: Seattle, WA
- Branding Speakers
- (13)
There is nothing quite as mesmerizing and as a Water Sphere Acts or Performance. Intriguing and enchanting, our dancers gracefully balance and move within a large transparent sphere, creating a beautiful and fascinating visual experience. Our sphere dancers are world-renowned performers, having danced internationally, as well as on film and TV. The creative opportunities are […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Water Performers
- (28)
Matt Mullenweg, the visionary co-founder of WordPress and CEO of Automattic, has been a transformative force in the digital publishing world. His pioneering work in open-source web development has democratized online content creation, empowering millions globally. As a speaker, Matt captivates audiences with his insights into technology, entrepreneurship, and the future of work. Born on […]
- Travels from: Houston, TX
- Innovation 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.
