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Keynote SpeakerDoug Manuel

Documentary and Stage Show Producer and Performer with 25+ years of experience of delivering keynotes on purpose driven engagement and collaboration

Doug Manuel is a keynote speaker, workshop leader and performer and is known for fostering purpose driven engagement and collaboration. Creator of the internationally acclaimed stage show ‘Do You Speak Djembe?’ nominated for two JEFF awards, for more than 25 years, Doug has been delivering keynotes and leading learning laboratories... Read more

Watch Doug Manuel in action

Popular Talks by Doug Manuel

  • Do you Speak Djembe?

    Described as Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Action, this is a ground breaking and immersive experience for corporate teams. Chosen by Oprah to open her 3rd SuperSoul Sessions and by TedX Hollywood and TED Global to explore how technology can enhance humanity, this award nominated stage show is now a…
  • The Soul of Business

    At a time when employee engagement and talent retention is at an all time low THE SOUL OF BUSINESS leads audiences to a renewed sense of vitality, purpose and passion.  This interactive and immersive keynote allows participants to explore their personal purpose, and to tie that to the purpose of their…

More talks

  • Engagement and Collaboration
  • Culture Change
  • Purpose Driven

Biography

Doug Manuel is a keynote speaker, workshop leader and performer and is known for fostering purpose driven engagement and collaboration. Creator of the internationally acclaimed stage show ‘Do You Speak Djembe?’ nominated for two JEFF awards, for more than 25 years, Doug has been delivering keynotes and leading learning laboratories for multinationals, sports teams, leading business schools and NGOs – not to mention TEDx, TED Global and Oprah Winfrey. His talks, workshops and breakout sessions use stories, music, and rhythm to break down barriers and create an interactive, multi-sensory learning experiences.

In 1995 Doug’s love of Africa was born. At that time he was working on BBC documentary about African elephants, and in parallel he attended a djembe (drumming) workshop. In 1997 he gave up his 8 year career as a BBC documentary producer to travel to West Africa to study the djembe. What began as corporate drumming workshops aimed to boost team effectiveness has evolved and developed into a deep dive into the wisdom of West African indigenous culture and the positive effects that these philosophies can have in our Western boardrooms.

He is currently making a documentary on this subject entitled ‘Beats As One’ which is due to be released in October 2023. Doug Manuel also leads his charity ‘Lighting Up Lives’, whose pilot project partners with the villagers of Abéné in Senegal, inspiring and supporting local action to solve local problems such as energy, health, sanitation and education. The charity builds bridges between Africa and the occident, fostering collaboration and putting words into action.

Doug Manuel’s methodology has been endorsed by IMD Business school in Lausanne, Switzerland and he continues to work with clients in every sector to help teams connect purpose to performance. Whether it be tired and disengaged virtual teams, or reuniting fragmented teams in person post pandemic with meaning and purpose, Doug’s programs and keynotes drive energy and passion and enhance active listening, communication, empathy and ultimately performance.

Ready to invite Doug Manuel to your event?

Tell us about your event, one of our consultants will reach out within 24 hours.

What clients say about Doug Manuel

“Doug has gone from wanting to share a passion for Africa and the djembe drum, to a consultant and social entrepreneur. Today he is dedicating his life to the discovery of what leadership is all about.” PROFESSOR GILBERT PROBST, former managing director of The World Economic Forum
“Doug keeps coming up with the goods. His sessions break down barriers and help us to look at business issues from a different angle.” SEAN MEEHAN, Director MBA Programme, IMD International

How to book Doug Manuel as a keynote speaker

How do I book Doug Manuel for a keynote speech?

You can book Doug Manuel through London Speaker Bureau by submitting the enquiry form on this page or calling our team. One of our consultants will respond promptly with Doug's current availability, speaking fees and any specific requirements for your event.

What are Doug Manuel's speaking fees?

Doug Manuel's speaking fees depend on the event format (in-person or virtual), the location, the length of the engagement and the level of customisation required. Please contact London Speaker Bureau for an up-to-date fee quote for Doug tailored to your event.

What topics does Doug Manuel speak about?

Doug Manuel speaks on Business & Management, Leadership & Motivation, Motivation, Music & Art, Performance. Talks can be shaped around your audience, industry and strategic objectives - share your event brief with London Speaker Bureau and we will work with Doug to align the content with your delegates and goals.

Is Doug Manuel available for international events?

London Speaker Bureau can book Doug Manuel for events worldwide, subject to Doug's schedule. Please send us your event date, location and format and we will confirm availability and handle travel and logistics on your behalf.

Does Doug Manuel deliver virtual or online keynotes?

Virtual and hybrid keynotes are now a standard part of the speaking industry. Please contact London Speaker Bureau to confirm whether Doug Manuel is available to deliver a virtual session for your event and on which platform (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, a bespoke studio or your own).

How long is a typical keynote by Doug Manuel?

Most keynote speeches run between 45 and 60 minutes, often followed by a 15-30 minute Q&A. Other formats - shorter conference slots, panel appearances or longer workshop sessions - may also be possible. Share your agenda with London Speaker Bureau and we will confirm what Doug can accommodate.

Can Doug Manuel tailor the keynote to our industry and audience?

London Speaker Bureau will brief Doug Manuel on your audience profile, sector and objectives so the keynote can be shaped around your event. The level of customisation possible depends on the speaker and the lead time - contact us with your brief and we will confirm what Doug can offer.

What languages does Doug Manuel present in?

Doug Manuel delivers keynotes in English. This profile may not list every language available; ask London Speaker Bureau to confirm. If you require simultaneous interpretation or a multilingual format, please mention this in your enquiry and London Speaker Bureau will arrange it for you.

What makes Doug Manuel a strong fit as a keynote speaker?

Doug Manuel's areas of expertise include Business & Management, Leadership & Motivation, Motivation, Music & Art, Performance. To get a clear sense of Doug's style, credentials and how they engage an audience, please review the biography, popular talks and any videos or testimonials shown on this page, or request a detailed speaker brief from London Speaker Bureau.

What kind of events can Doug Manuel speak at?

Doug Manuel can be booked through London Speaker Bureau for corporate conferences, leadership events, internal team meetings, association gatherings and private client engagements where expertise in Business & Management, Leadership & Motivation, Motivation, Music & Art, Performance is relevant. Details of Doug's background and previous engagements are included in the biography above; contact us if you would like a more detailed list of past clients or case studies.

Does Doug Manuel offer workshops, panels or fireside chats in addition to keynotes?

Beyond keynote speeches, many of the speakers on our roster also take part in workshops, executive masterclasses, panel discussions and fireside chats. Contact London Speaker Bureau with your preferred format and we will confirm what Doug Manuel is able to offer alongside or instead of a keynote.

How far in advance should we book Doug Manuel?

We generally recommend enquiring at least three to twelve months in advance to secure your preferred date with Doug Manuel, particularly during peak conference seasons. Where possible we also accommodate shorter lead times - please contact London Speaker Bureau to check Doug's current availability for your dates.