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Strategist. Leader. Rooted in Africa.

WELCOME

Bonolo Smith is a multidimensional African woman impact maker. Leading in corporate South Africa. Using her voice for change. Passionate about building Africa.

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HER Story

She Leads. She Writes. She Speaks. She Builds for Africa.

My approach as a multidimensional leader is rooted in purpose. I grow leaders and use my voice to shape powerful shifts in how we see ourselves, and how we see one another. I believe leadership is both personal and collective — it’s how we show up in boardrooms, in communities, and in our own lives. As a Boss Mama, I bring heart and strategy together to help leaders and organizations grow in ways that are bold, sustainable, and deeply human.

She Leads.

Equipping people to do the best work of their lives

As a Director at BTS, a Global Strategy Execution Firm, Bonolo partners with organizations and leaders to shape strategies that are not only profitable but also purposeful. She provides strategy advisory,  and  designs bespoke leadership journeys that equip first-time managers and senior executives alike, blending global best practice with African-rooted wisdom. Through her work, Bonolo helps leaders navigate complexity with clarity, courage, and authenticity – because when leaders grow, organizations thrive.

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She Writes.

Authentic African Narratives 

Through her weekly newsletter "The African Boss Mama", Bonolo provides practical tools for women in leadership who are navigating the dance of leading at home and in the boardroom. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Critical Diversity Literacy, focusing on the journeys of Black women executives in corporate South Africa. Her writing amplifies the lived experiences of African women in leadership and affirms women on their personal and professional journeys.

She Speaks.

Professional Speaker, Moderator and Host

Bonolo believes in the power of voice to ignite change. Elevate your events with a vibrant and engaging host. She brings energy, research backed insights, professionalism, and a touch of African flair to every occasion. As a life and career coach she works with groups and individuals wanting to step into their power.

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For Africa.

She is committed to building brands and platforms that celebrate and elevate African women. From thought-leadership spaces, to storytelling initiatives, she designs brands that affirm identity, shift narratives, and unlock confidence. Every project she builds is rooted in a belief: when African women are seen, celebrated, and supported, the whole continent rises.

Connect with Me.

Location

Proudly based in Africa, Johannesburg.

Availability

By appointment for speaking engagements, coaching sessions, and event hosting worldwide.

Mail & Guardian power woman in business.

Recognized as a Mail & Guardian Power Woman in Business (2024).

Mandela Washington fellow

Selected as part of the Barack Obama Young African Leaders Mandela Washington Fellowship.

one young world ambassador 

Honored as a One Young World Ambassador, joining a global community of young leaders driving change.

award winning programs

Designed and facilitated award-winning leadership and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs for leading African corporations.

© 2025 BY BONOLO SMITH.

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