Stephen McGown: Motivational Speaker

Stephen McGown

Talent Highlights

  • Stephen McGown’s six-year ordeal as a hostage of Al Qaeda in Mali showcases his remarkable resilience and strength in the face of extreme adversity. 
  • McGown’s story is not just one of survival but also of hope and resilience. 
  • McGown’s experiences resonate with audiences around the world, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. 

Travels from:

  • Johannesburg

Fee Range:**

  • Southern Africa Fee: ZAR 48,000

Keynote Topics

Stephen McGown shares a message of making the most of all situations whether they are good or bad.

Even though Stephen’s story is far removed from the reality of most people’s lives, the essence of his struggles are not far off from those of his audience.

His talk promises to inspire and leave his audience questioning their own attitude and dilemmas. He is the perfect choice for a keynote speaker and will set the perfect tone for your event.

Stephen’s talk is a story about resilience and overcoming adversity amidst harsh weather conditions, a different culture, language and religion. 

He talks about making important decisions, about the importance of acceptance and communication.  He shares a concept that Freedom is an attitude.

Stephen McGown’s story is one of incredible resilience, courage, and survival against all odds. Abducted by Al Qaeda and held hostage in Mali for nearly six harrowing years, McGown’s ordeal captivated the world’s attention and ultimately showcased the power of the human spirit to endure in the face of unimaginable adversity.

On November 25, 2011, McGown’s life took a drastic turn when he, along with a Dutch and Swedish national, was kidnapped from Timbuktu, thrust into a nightmare that would test his strength and resilience in ways he never could have imagined.

With a background rooted in engineering, Stephen McGown’s journey into the world of speaking was not by design but by the sheer force of circumstance. His expertise, however, lies not in traditional academia but in the school of life, where his experiences have been his greatest teachers.

During his time in captivity, McGown’s resilience was put to the ultimate test. Locked away in harsh and unfamiliar conditions, he faced isolation, uncertainty, and the constant threat of violence. Yet, through it all, he refused to succumb to despair, drawing on his inner strength and determination to survive each passing day.

His captivity forced him to confront the depths of human nature, both the darkness and the light. McGown’s experiences offer a unique insight into the human psyche under extreme conditions, shedding light on the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope in the face of despair.

Now, as a speaker, McGown shares his story with audiences around the world, offering a glimpse into his remarkable journey of survival and resilience. His talks inspire, educate, and challenge, encouraging audiences to confront their own struggles with courage and determination.

Stephen McGown’s journey from captivity to freedom is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope in the face of adversity. His story inspires, educates, and challenges audiences to confront their own struggles with courage and determination, offering valuable insights into the universal quest for freedom, dignity, and peace. As a speaker, McGown’s unique perspective and powerful message make him a compelling addition to any event, ensuring an unforgettable experience for audiences around the world.

Contact us at Conference Speakers and follow us on Facebook

Stephen McGown

The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various speakers and talent.

These remain the property of its owner and not affiliated with or endorsed by Conference Speakers.

Fee ranges listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only .

Send an enquiry to Stephen McGown

Contact Form

Client Reviews

In order to view the below you must be logged in.

  • Powerpoint Slide – For meeting and event planners
  • Gallery Images
  • High Resolution Images
  • PDF Files
  • Books and Magazine Links

Similar Talent for consideration

Rusty Labuschagne is a remarkable keynote speaker whose life story encapsulates themes of resilience, forgiveness, and personal transformation. A successful businessman and one-time owner of a safari company, Rusty’s life took an unimaginable turn when he was wrongfully imprisoned in Zimbabwe under false charges. Spending a decade in one of Africa’s most notorious prisons, he […]

Ryan Stramrood is not your typical adrenaline junkie. By day, he’s a dedicated small business owner and devoted family man, embodying the essence of an average Joe. However, beneath this seemingly ordinary exterior lies an extraordinary passion for ultra extreme open water and ice swimming. Ryan has carved out a reputation as a fearless adventurer, […]

Candice Mama is a luminary in the realms of reconciliation and social justice, whose personal story and professional endeavors encapsulate the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. At the heart of her narrative is the profound forgiveness she extended towards her father’s murderer, a former apartheid operative. This transformative experience not only reshaped her […]

Richard Wright is not merely a motivational speaker; he is a living testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Born and raised in South Africa, Richard’s life took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with brain cancer. Rather than succumbing to despair, he chose to face his challenges head-on, emerging not just as […]

Pie-Pacifique Kabalira’s life story is a testament to the power of resilience and forgiveness. Surviving the harrowing Rwanda genocide, he transformed his life’s darkest moments into a message of peace and reconciliation that he now shares with the world as a sought-after keynote speaker. From working as a car guard to funding his own university […]

Peter van Kets is an inspiring adventurer within professional speaking. Hailing from South Africa, he is not only recognized as one of the nation’s foremost adventurers but also as an internationally sought-after keynote speaker and ardent conservationist. With a background steeped in exploration and a passion for environmental stewardship, Peter brings a unique blend of […]

Zoleka Mandela’s life is woven with threads of courage, resilience, and a profound commitment to making a difference. As a mother, breast cancer survivor, and dedicated road safety activist, her journey transcends personal triumphs and challenges, evolving into a powerful narrative of hope and advocacy. Zoleka’s legacy, deeply rooted in her prestigious family lineage, has […]

Nicky Abdinor is a globally recognized keynote speaker, registered Clinical Psychologist, and the founder of the non-profit Nicky’s Drive. Based in Cape Town, South Africa, Nicky is renowned for her powerful and inspirational talks that delve into themes of overcoming adversity, resilience, and the power of a positive mindset. Her personal journey and professional expertise […]

Palesa Mosiea is not only a commanding inspirational speaker but also a talented actress who turns her personal trials into empowering messages. Born with a rare skin condition, Palesa faced intense bullying and discrimination from a young age. Instead of succumbing to these challenges, she harnessed her experiences to fuel her passion for advocacy and […]

Lorna Mlonzi is a visionary leader and the Founder and CEO of Sky Internet SA (Pty) Ltd, an innovative Internet Service Provider start-up committed to bridging the digital divide. With a profound mission to transform the lives of individuals in townships, lower income areas, and rural areas, Lorna established Sky Internet SA to make a […]

Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various keynote speakers and talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Conference Speakers.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.
 
The fees provided are a local range (country of residence), for an accurate “international” fee please contact one of our team at Conference Speakers who can provide you with their fees accordingly. 
 
All talent fees exclude local taxes, travel and accommodation where required.
 
Fees are subject to change without notice and often vary based on a number of factors, including: schedule, timings, script writing, rehearsals, location, and other factors.
 
Please contact us with your specific event details and requirements below, and we would be delighted to provide you with a more bespoke quote.
  • The speaking fees quoted are net of taxes (withholdings, VAT, other taxes, etc.) and fees required by the state, country, province, or jurisdiction where the engagement is to take place, other than state and federal income taxes as required by the laws of the South Africa and within the state the Speaker resides.
  • For international bookings, Conference Speakers will determine the initial buyout amount quoted (to include business class airfare) and we confirm the amount at the time of the firm offer. We are also happy to quote a buyout for a specific event at any time, just reach out. 

We are actively working to have our profiles current with Keynote Speech titles, and Summaries.

Some Speakers do not have a set title or summary for their topic lists. Instead they customize for each. Other speakers only do moderated conversations.

If you do not see content here, please contact us.

We also have ample information off line that we can share as some do not want to have visible profiles and as such these are hidden pages. Or in the event we do not have the information, we can contact the speaker to provide and share.

What is a full-service speaker booking agency?

A full-service speaker booking agency is an organization that handles all aspects of speaker engagements, from identifying and recommending speakers based on event objectives, to negotiating contracts, and managing logistics. Agencies like Conference Speakers provide extensive support throughout the process, ensuring that the right speaker is matched to the right event, that all technical and logistical needs are met, and that the event runs smoothly. This includes handling travel arrangements, audio-visual requirements, and any special accommodations the speaker might need. By offering a comprehensive suite of services, a full-service agency allows event planners to focus on their overall event strategy and attendee experience without getting bogged down in the details of speaker management.

Why is Conference Speakers Bureau different from other booking agencies?

Conference Speakers Bureau distinguishes itself through a deep commitment to personalized service and a unique understanding of client and speaker needs. Our approach is built on more than 32 years of industry experience, enabling us to not only anticipate the needs of our clients but also to provide insightful recommendations that enhance event outcomes. We pride ourselves on our:

  • Expert Matching: Leveraging our extensive network, we carefully match speakers to events based on a deep understanding of both the speaker’s expertise and the event’s goals.
  • Global Reach with Local Insight: With offices in major cities like San Diego, and London, we combine global reach with local expertise, ensuring that no matter where your event is, we have on-the-ground insights.
  • End-to-End Support: From initial inquiry to post-event follow-up, our team offers continuous support, ensuring every aspect of the speaker engagement is flawless.
  • Innovation and Trends: We stay at the forefront of industry trends, including the integration of technology and new media in speaking engagements, which allows our clients to benefit from the latest innovations.
  • Ethical and Transparent Practices: Honesty, integrity, loyalty, and trust are the pillars of our operations, reflecting our commitment to ethical practices in all our interactions.

How can I find the right speaker for my event through Conference Speakers?

To find the perfect speaker for your event, you can start by visiting our website or contacting our client service team directly. We will discuss your event’s objectives, theme, audience demographics, and budget. Based on this information, we will provide you with a curated list of speaker recommendations who not only align with your goals but are also known for engaging and captivating audiences. You can also browse through our extensive speaker profiles online, which include detailed bios, speaking topics, and video clips of past engagements to help you make an informed decision.

What types of events does Conference Speakers cater to?

Conference Speakers caters to a wide range of events, including corporate meetings, conferences, educational workshops, leadership retreats, and public seminars. Our speakers specialize in various topics such as business, technology, health, education, motivation, and more, making us a versatile partner capable of servicing diverse event needs.

How do I book a speaker through Conference Speakers?

Booking a speaker through Conference Speakers is straightforward:

  1. Initial Consultation: Contact us with your event details, including date, location, audience, and objectives.
  2. Speaker Selection: Choose from our recommendations or browse our online profiles to select your preferred speaker.
  3. Contract and Confirmation: We handle all negotiations and contracts to ensure all terms are clear and favorable. Once the contract is signed, your speaker is confirmed.
  4. Event Preparation: We coordinate with you and the speaker to prepare for the event, handling all logistical details to ensure a seamless experience.
  5. Event Execution and Follow-Up: Our team supports you on the day of the event to handle any last-minute details, and we conduct a post-event follow-up to gather feedback and ensure satisfaction.

What support does Conference Speakers provide on the day of the event?

On the day of the event, a dedicated Conference Speakers coordinator can be available to manage the speaker’s schedule, ensure all technical requirements are met, and assist with any last-minute changes. This on-site support is designed to ensure that the speaker’s presentation goes as smoothly as possible, allowing event organizers to focus on their guests and overall event execution.

How does Conference Speakers handle speaker travel arrangements?

Conference Speakers manages all travel logistics for speakers, including flights, accommodations, and local transportation. We ensure that travel is efficient and meets the needs of both the speaker and the event, relieving you of the administrative burden and potential complications of managing these details.

© All rights reserved 2025.  Designed using Voxel