Founder of The Brand Leadership Group and Brand Africa
Dr. Thebe Ikalafeng
Thebe Ikalafeng is a trailblazing global African branding expert, Hall of Fame inductee, and champion of a brand-led African renaissance. Celebrated as one of the 100 Most Influential and Reputable Africans, he has transformed branding in Africa for over 30 years. He founded The Brand Leadership Group and Brand Africa, home to the definitive Brand Africa 100: Africa’s Best Brands initiative. A seasoned leader, Thebe has served on boards like South African Tourism, WWF, and the Sol Plaatje University Council. A passionate adventurer, he’s visited every African country, summited Kilimanjaro, trekked silverback gorillas, and explored over 120 destinations globally. An author of the best-selling The Traveller: Crossing Borders and Connecting Africa, Thebe inspires through his journey of building brands and reimagining Africa. With BSc, MBA, and LLM degrees and honorary doctorates from UJ and Unisa, he remains a driving force in branding and African excellence.
