Zelda La Grange is a beacon of hope and an emblem of transformative leadership in the realm of racial equality, diversity, and inclusion. Born into the systemic segregation of apartheid South Africa, Zelda's life took a pivotal turn upon meeting Nelson Mandela, the legendary former South African President. Initially serving as his Assistant Private Secretary, her role evolved to become Nelson Mandela's trusted confidante and post-presidential secretary, managing his Founder’s Office at the Nelson Mandela Foundation for nearly two decades. Her journey from a believer in segregation to a staunch advocate against racism is powerfully chronicled in her international bestseller, “Good Morning, Mr. Mandela”. This profound transformation underpins her credibility and passion as a keynote speaker on critical societal issues.
With her seasoned experience, Zelda La Grange transcends mere storytelling to deliver motivational addresses that resonate deeply with global audiences. Through her TEDx Talk “A Legacy Like Nelson Mandela's” and various speaking engagements, she not only shares her unique experiences but also imparts the invaluable lessons on leadership and humanity she gleaned from her 20 years of service to Mr. Mandela. Zelda's life work exemplifies how close, personal transformation can lead to broader societal change, making her a sought-after speaker for a wide range of events.
Beyond her public speaking, Zelda has dedicated herself to philanthropy and advocacy, aiming to inspire the next generation. In 2022, she established the Zelda la Grange Foundation, focusing on supporting children in foster care, and in 2023, she joined the Board of Trustees for the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation. These roles further her commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society, demonstrating her leadership in both word and deed. Her involvement in these foundations, coupled with her role in co-producing the award-winning documentary “A Glorious Human Achievement”, underscores her multifaceted approach to fostering change.
Today, Zelda La Grange stands as a paragon of leadership and an advocate for racial equality, diversity, and inclusion. Her speeches are not only a testament to her personal evolution but also serve as a clarion call for collective action against injustice. For corporations and organisations looking to inspire and educate their teams on the importance of leadership with love and the power of individual transformation for societal betterment, Zelda is an unparalleled choice. Her life’s work and message, steeped in the legacy of Nelson Mandela, offer profound lessons on empathy, leadership, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
