Vusi Thembekwayo is an internationally recognised South African business speaker, entrepreneur, investor and author, renowned for his high-energy delivery and provocative insights into leadership, strategy, entrepreneurship, organisational culture and economic transformation. Over a speaking career spanning more than two decades, he has addressed audiences across six continents and built a substantial global following. His official profile reports a reach of 100+ nations, more than 100,000 books sold and over five million followers.
Vusi’s journey as a speaker began remarkably early. At 17, he won the South African Championship in Public Speaking and represented South Africa at the English-Speaking Union’s international public-speaking competition in England. What began as a teenage passion ultimately developed into an international career addressing business leaders, entrepreneurs and organisations around the world.
Business & Entrepreneurship
Beyond the stage, Vusi has built his credibility through hands-on business and investment experience. Early in his corporate career, he managed a R400 million division within a R17 billion multinational organisation and subsequently became one of the youngest directors of a JSE-listed company.
He went on to establish MyGrowthFund Venture Partners, focused on investing in and developing high-growth African businesses, and has built a broader portfolio across venture capital, advisory and entrepreneurship. In 2026, his official office identifies him as Executive Chairman of Thembekwayo Legacy Group and founder of MyGrowthFund Venture Partners.
South African television audiences will also recognise Vusi as one of the original investors – or “Dragons” – on Dragons’ Den South Africa, where entrepreneurs pitched their businesses in search of investment.
Author & Thought Leader
Vusi is the author of business titles including The Magna Carta of Exponentiality and Vusi: Business & Life Lessons from a Black Dragon. His work explores entrepreneurship, exponential growth, leadership, business strategy and the mindset required to build and scale successful organisations.
His speaking style combines commercial insight, storytelling, challenging perspectives and high-impact delivery, making him particularly effective for senior leadership and large conference audiences.
Awards & Recognition
His recognition includes being named GQ South Africa’s Business Leader of the Year in 2020, receiving international African leadership recognition, and in 2025 receiving the Toastmasters Southern Africa District 74 Communication and Leadership Award for his contribution to leadership and communication.
In 2026, Vusi continues to maintain an active international speaking profile, including delivering the keynote address at the inaugural Africa Real Estate Festival in Accra, Ghana.
Speaking Topics
Leadership & Organisational Culture • Business Strategy • Entrepreneurship • Growth & Scaling • Disruption & Innovation • Sales • African Economic Opportunity • Future of Business • CEO Mindset • Building High-Performance Organisations
Ideal for: International Keynotes • Leadership Conferences • CEO Events • Strategy Sessions • Sales Conferences • Entrepreneurship Events • African Growth & Transformation Conferences
For the Africa’s Growth & Transformation brief you’ve been working on, Vusi would be a particularly strong option for a keynote addressing what Africa’s next chapter requires from its business leaders and entrepreneurs, rather than a purely economic or policy-focused presentation.
