Described by the convenors of Australia Top 16 as "the world's youngest and most impressive public speaker", Vusi has secured his place as the one of the most memorable speakers in the land.

Born to a humble family in Benoni ("it is the only thing he & Charlise Theron have in common") his public speaking started at high school where he was able to compete with the best young public speakers from all-over the world. During the international finals of the world-renowned English Speaking Union Public Speaking Competition, the judges gave Vusi third place - but the audience awarded him the prestigious "The Audience Favourite Speaker" prize.

Soon after came the Absa-Rotary national speech competition; Vusi entered it and won and with it came the opportunity to compete in the Australian Top 16, which is held once every 5 years. This platform sees the top 16 speakers from all over the world battling it out for top honours .Vusi - the youngest speaker & only African ever invited to this colossal gathering - rose to the challenge, won the competition and with it, the honour of a 3-week speaking tour of the "land down under".

Fondly referred to as the "Rock Star of Public Speaking" by former Australian Prime Minister John Howard, his personal highlights include having given an address to the Australian Houses of Parliament; speaking at the British House of Commons and meeting former President Nelson Mandela. Vusi is a black-belt martial arts exponent (for two consecutive years a national champion).

Described by Nelson Mandela as "A true reflection of the freedom for which we fought" Vusi Thembekwayo is a treat.

Ladies & Gentlemen...

"Reverting Stuff...and not one "Ummm"!
- Clem Sunter, Global Strategist & Chairman of Anglo American Foundation

"Exceptional youngster with a real message"
- Angus ‘Gus' MacRobert, CEO Internet Solutions

"A true reflection of the freedom for which we fought"
- Nelson Mandela, Global Leader

"An icon for us all...Uyashisa mfana"
- Gloria Sereko, Woman Leader & philanthropist

"Glad I spoke before him...A sure must have! "
- Andile Ncaba, Chairman of Dimension Data Ltd.

"Big Mama and the Horse" Overview

The story of Big Mama and the horse is about the experiences of a young township boy when exposed to the international stage. It is a thorough, comical, entertaining and emotional story of a boy from humble beginnings.
It looks at the 2 worlds that exist for the boy - how he responds to going from taxi in Jozi to limo in

London and facing unbelievable competition. It is a story of hope that challenges each individual. It also looks at the tragic death of the boys' father because of the rampant crime in the country- It is a true story.