Sibusiso Vilane

Sibusiso Vilane is a pioneering South African adventurer, conservation advocate and inspirational speaker renowned for his groundbreaking achievements in exploration and his dedication to environmental and social causes. He is widely sought after as a speaker on sustainability and resilience, thanks to his ability to weave together personal triumph, leadership, and a deep sense of purpose. Audiences around the world are drawn to his story not only because of his record-breaking feats, but also because of his passion for inspiring change – both in individuals and in how we engage with the natural world.

His journey began climbing the mountains of the Drakensberg in 1996, but it was in 2003 that Sibusiso made history by becoming the first Black African to summit Mount Everest. He followed that with a second ascent in 2005 via the more treacherous North Ridge, in support of children’s charities. Over the years, he has completed the Seven Summits and went on to conquer both the South Pole (unsupported and unassisted in 2007) and the North Pole in 2012, making him the first African to complete the Explorers Grand Slam. His career as an adventurer is not just a series of conquests, but a testament to human endurance, humility, and a belief in the power of possibility.

Beyond exploration, Sibusiso has completed thirteen Comrades Marathons, embodying his philosophy of perseverance. Committing his life to mentorship, environmental advocacy, and community upliftment, Sibusiso founded the “Born to Win” running club to encourage and inspire under privileged kids through running. He also hosted the radio show, “My Climb, Your Climb,” in which he celebrated Black excellence and resilience. As a patron of the Global Offering projects and an eco-ambassador for Indalo Yethu, Sibusiso actively promotes environmental awareness. His role as a patron of the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Conservation Leadership Group and former Chief Scout of Scouts South Africa further demonstrates his commitment to sustainable leadership and youth development.

Sibusiso is consistently chosen as a speaker at high-level global forums – including the World Economic Forum – because he brings an authentic, grounded voice to discussions on sustainability, leadership, and courage. Honoured with the Order of Ikhamanga (Silver), his credibility is unmatched. Organisations hire him not only for his extraordinary life story, but because he speaks with clarity, purpose, and an unwavering belief in a better, more sustainable future.