A renowned speaker locally and internationally, Whitfield’s extensive knowledge and connectedness informs a unique perspective. He tells compelling stories about the political economy in a creative, engaging way that connects with the audience at a deeper level. Adept at reading a room, his wit and honesty allow for spirited conversations around sometimes difficult topics.
Whitfeld has spoken to boards, excos and leadership teams at Standard Bank, PWC, Deloitte, RMB, Nedbank, Absa, PSG, Old Mutual, Sanlam, Discovery, Anglo American, DeBeers, JP Morgan South Africa, Telkom, Vodacom, MTN, BCX, Suretravel and countless industry associations including SAPOA and The Insurance Industry Association of South Africa. A master-facilitator, he’s also chaired myriad panel debates. Additionally, he’s a sought-after MC and conference facilitator.
It takes a particular brand of GENIUS to not only thrive in a difficult domestic environment, but to take those ideas and the businesses that deliver them, global. Bruce has spent more than two decades studying the South African business environment and distilling what has made the country’s top entrepreneurs globally competitive.
His 45-minute GENIUS presentation, based on his book of the same name, examines what it takes to thrive in an increasingly complex, fast-paced, divisive global environment. Full of fascinating stories from those who have gotten it right, this talk shares their lessons for anyone looking to succeed anywhere against the odds.
Most popular talks
1. The Upside of Down
The Upside of Down demonstrates to audiences just how important it is to have a growth mindset in a deeply complex environment where we are often paralyzed into inaction through fear and indecision.
Facts matter more than ever. You cannot make good long-term decisions if you are overwhelmed by fear. This deeply empowering, fact-rich, multi-layered talk challenges our in-built biases and encourages audiences to confront widespread, but often inaccurate beliefs.
2. Power Passion & Purpose
This presentation focusses on the power of entrepreneurs to solve real world problems and challenges the audience to find their purpose and to use their skills to change society for the better. In addition to world leading examples of the thinking of people like Elon Musk and Steve Jobs, it also features compelling case studies with video inserts featuring a diverse selection of remarkable South African entrepreneurs.
Ideal for young people searching for their purpose.
3. Facilitator/Moderator
As a journalist, broadcaster and host of a daily radio show, Bruce has an unparalleled ability to bring insights into the issues being discussed, while masterly co-ordinating opinions across a panel discussion or any event with multiple voices.
He elicits the important questions and handles difficult conversations (and people) with aplomb. His entertaining style turns even tough or technical topics into memorable discussions.
4. Master of ceremonies
Bruce’s stage presence, authority and ability to entertain make him an ideal programme director.
He has managed stages with global speakers and thoughtleaders and brings credibility and gravitas to any event that he hosts.
SPEAKING EVENTS
Book Bruce
Whitfield is notoriously busy so it’s best to book him for events well in advance!
