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Futurist, author & one of South Africa's leading political analysts

Daniel Silke

Daniel Silke

travels from South Africa

Acclaimed presenter with over 20 years experience, specialises in Global Future Trends, African & South African political, social & economic developments.

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5 out of 5 stars

Daniel’s presentation was a real eye-opener. He provided a deeply insightful perspective on the state of the African continent through multiple lenses – economic, political and social. His presentation gave us all pause to reflect on the vast opportunities that exist, aptly counterbalanced with the potential pitfalls and risks. Hugely valuable for our executive team, and a perfect segue into our 3 day leadership conference

Steve Felder, Managing Director South Asia, Mumbai See all references

Reasons to book Daniel Silke

  • He is regarded within South Africa as one of the country’s leading political commentators and most passionate public speakers.
  • Daniel has authored academic chapters and journal articles in publications on South African politics and is regularly quoted in most of South Africa’s major newspapers including Business Day, New Age, FinWeek and The Times.
  • He is constantly in demand for his credible and insightful commentaries from global and domestic media houses.
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About Daniel

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Keynote speaker Daniel Silke is one of South Africa's leading political analysts and keynote speakers. Daniel offers the newest research data and uniquely blends political and economical analysis. Throughout his career he has gained much knowledge, and today he is a renowned futurist who can speak on issues such as global change and the future of the world.

Reasons to book Daniel Silke

  • He is regarded within South Africa as one of the country’s leading political commentators and most passionate public speakers.
  • Daniel has authored academic chapters and journal articles in publications on South African politics and is regularly quoted in most of South Africa’s major newspapers including Business Day, New Age, FinWeek and The Times.
  • He is constantly in demand for his credible and insightful commentaries from global and domestic media houses.

Daniel Silke is recognised as one of South Africa’s leading political economy analysts and most passionate keynote speakers. His success lies in blending both economic and political trends in highly accessible yet insightful physical and virtual presentations. As Director of the Political Futures Consultancy based in Cape Town, Silke serves a host of major global blue-chip companies with outstanding keynotes webinars and workshops aimed at the conference and events industries.

He has over 15 years’ experience in delivering flagship presentations on Global, African and South African political and economic trends alongside providing essential strategic foresight for business entities large and small.

Silke holds a Master’s degree from the University of Cape Town in South African and International Politics and was attached to the university’s Institute for the Study of Public Policy where he tutored within the broader Department of Political Studies. Silke then served in public office as a Member of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament and City Councillor in the City of Cape Town holding positions of whip for his party as well as portfolio committee chair for economic development. Since launching his consultancy, Silke has become a familiar name on the corporate speaking circuit and in the media – both within his native South Africa and overseas.

See keynotes with Daniel Silke
Keynote by speaker Daniel Silke

The West & The Rest: The Brics, Geo-Political Risk & Economic Competition in a Changing World

The world is shifting – both economically and politically. Recent global tensions involving the relationship between the West and both Russia & China have contributed to heightened geo-political risk. Demographic changes favouring Africa alongside impressive economic growth in India and other selected emerging markets present new business opportunities and investor challenges while a more sluggish China looks to reset its growth path. The advancement of the BRICS nations potentially heralds both a political and economic power shift in the world as the

‘Global South’ look to cement their co- operation and political clout. For the West, an era of Dollar dominance is now under threat while historic trade corridors shift to new markets. This new international political-economy keynote reflects on all these dramatic shifts and offers essential insights into navigating new and unchartered waters. Not to be missed!

Keynote by speaker Daniel Silke

The World in 2024: Forecasting the Political & Economic Landscape in a Volatile Environment

Join Daniel Silke, the eminent Political Economy Analyst, for an exclusive annual update.

Gain key insights into global risks on both political and economic fronts for the year ahead. Explore the impact of geo-political conflicts on select regions and nations in this election-heavy year, amidst escalating global tensions.

From Developed to Emerging Markets, witness economic challenges & obstacles confronted by leaders grappling with new policy directions. With significant demographic and climate shifts, expect surprises.

Don’t just watch history—hear it first with Daniel Silke. Book this essential keynote immediately for your next conference or event.

Keynote by speaker Daniel Silke

Tipping or Turning Point: South Africa's Economic & Political Challenges in a Crucial Election Year

As South Africa approaches its most unpredictable national election since the dawn of democracy in 1994, the governing ANC is staring down multiple crises. These include, severe electricity blackouts, stagnating economic growth, ailing infrastructure, limited state expenditure and rising public debt.

With an electoral majority no longer assured, the ANC will be under pressure to shift economic policy and ideology while attempting to safeguard and manage those increasingly frustrated by persistent unemployment and lack of opportunity. The next 12 months is clearly a potential tipping or turning point for the country and requires both balanced and insightful analysis. An essential conference or event keynote now open for booking.

Keynote by speaker Daniel Silke

Finding the ON-Switch

South Africa’s economic challenges amidst global & political headwinds!

South Africa stares down a multitude of concurrent crises. Global growth remains soft amidst stubborn inflation and high interest rates. Domestically, the Eskom- induced energy crisis is playing havoc with GDP projections. In this just-released corporate keynote presentation, Daniel Silke outlines the latest data and projections going forward.

He does not shy away from the tough road ahead for the country as it battles policy indecision, implementation inefficiencies and the need to formulate urgent policies to enhance domestic security and reform flagging state-owned enterprises.

With a crucial national election in 2024, there is immense pressure on the ANC to turn-around the ailing economy and this keynote will provide a view on the promise and pitfalls awaiting the country as it moves to the polls. An essential overview for any audience. Not to be missed!

 

Keynote by speaker Daniel Silke

Coalitions, Collisons & Control

South Africa’s 2024 elections & the Battle for the future of the country.

Next year, South Africa faces an historic national election which can direct the fate of the nation for years to come. For the first time since the dawn of democracy in 1994, the governing ANC is struggling to poll above 50% of the vote.

This presents a possible scenario of a coalition government and a critical choice between centrists, pragmatists and populists from within both the ANC and Opposition parties. The options and composition of coalition partners can be complex and may influence the direction of the country both in terms of key aspects of economic policy and the adherence to constitutionalism. Even without a coalition, a weaker ANC majority will have its own performance dynamics.

With heightened political risk amidst stormy economic headwinds and an on-going energy crisis, South Africa enters its most hazardous period in recent times. A forecast for the future that is not to be missed!

Keynote by speaker Daniel Silke

The New World (Dis)Order

Political, economic & social challenges in a world of geo-political risk.

We are living in an era of heightened geo-political risk now impacting key domestic economic drivers like inflation, interest rates, debt and currency valuations. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is also causing political and economic pressures as countries in both the developing and developed world battle the mounting influences from the protagonists in the conflict. Simmering tensions between the USA and China are also likely to create added uncertainty and fragmentation while extending further into the business terrain.

As if that’s not enough, climate change, demographic shifts, rapid urbanisation, advancing technologies & rising inequality all combine to make this era more uncertain than ever. It is therefore critical to identify the core risk factors and begin planning immediately. This is no time for glossing over the challenges ahead – but rather using the latest data to plan and strategise for future survival – and profits. Not to be missed!

Keynote by speaker Daniel Silke

Affirming Africa

Opportunities & obstacles in an era of rising geo-political risk.

Africa has largely enjoyed favourable growth rates & real integration into the global economy over the last decade. But, increasing headwinds post-Pandemic amidst rising geo-political tensions will likely put pressure on policy-makers across the continent. Vexed issues of rising debt, inflation, interest rates, currency volatility, climate change and a renewed ‘Scramble for Africa’ can lead to regional instability & social strain. This will require pragmatic management and real political will to implement the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement as a key pillar of a maturing African Union.

With heightened geo-political & economic competition, the near future is likely to be both uncertain yet not short on opportunity as demographics, urbanisation, connectivity and a desire to better livelihoods prompts global interest and investment. Be part of this fascinating & essential journey into the current state of the continent.

Keynote by speaker Daniel Silke

The Post-Pandemic World: Economic, Social & Political Themes for Business in the Emerging New Era

Exciting new flagship global themes keynote covering:

  • The most importance geopolitical, economic & social issues covering the world right now
  • Components on climate change
  • The future of China
Keynote by speaker Daniel Silke

The World in 2030: A Political, Economic & Social Roadmap for the Next Decade

Where will the world – and your business – be in ten years time? Join international political-economy analyst, Daniel Silke as he presents an all-new keynote presentation on the core political, economical and social mega-trends to shape and shift commerce and industry to 2030. From people to populism; demographics to democracy; trade to technology and resources to risk, now is the time to prepare. Get ready now!

Keynote by speaker Daniel Silke

Tracking the Future - Global Trends 2025 & Beyond

In this more ‘futuristic’ keynote, Daniel Silke identifies the core political, economic, social and technological themes and trend drivers that will act as business disruptors into the next decade. This keynote covers the latest research in demographic shifts as well as the dramatic changes to geo-political patterns and global leadership since the advent of the Trump presidency and the changing dynamics of Chinese politics.

This keynote also addresses the social and political costs of climate change, an ageing planet as well as the consequences for labor and skills development in a world of ‘lean production’, artificial intelligence and the ‘4th Industrial Revolution’. An exciting option for those seeking a view beyond the immediate but with direct bearing on the business of the ‘now’ as well. This keynote is essential as a primer for what will come next in the world.

Watch speaker Daniel Silke in action

Post Pandemic Africa - Opportunities and Challenges

Watch speaker Daniel Silke in action

Keynote Durban June 2018 by Daniel Silke

Watch speaker Daniel Silke in action

Africa 2018: Head or tail-winds in a tough global environment? by Daniel Silke

See keynotes with Daniel Silke

References

Daniel was exceptional! His knowledge and analysis were outstanding!

INAA

INAA

Daniel was an absolute pleasure to deal with. So charming and easy to get along with. His presentation was phenomenal and exceeded our greatest expectations and clearly those of the delegates. The feedback from our guests was over-whelming, citing an entertaining and very engaging experience. Thank you once again for providing an excellent service.

Allan Wood

Jersey Finance

Daniel delivered 2 excellent keynotes to a multicultural audience of accounting and audit firm partners. His presentations cannot be more up-to-date with references to events and press clips of the day. His understanding of the world geopolitics and his analysis are outstanding. Despite the seriousness of its subject, Daniel’s sense of humor made these 2 one-hour addresses a fun part of our event.

INAA

INAA

We recently invited Daniel as a guest speaker at our strategy session attended by our global leadership team. Daniel’s presentation entitled “South Africa – The Critical Year Ahead” provided an insightful analysis and a candid perspective on the economic outlook of South Africa. Daniel has the ability to distill complex economic concepts into clear, accessible language, interspersed with appropriate humor and personal anecdotes which made his presentation both informative and engaging. His in-depth research and meticulous analysis of current market trends and future projections provided a valuable roadmap of the South African economic and political outlook, the global context within which we operate and some of the potential challenges and risks that could shape our industry over the next few years. Daniel’s expertise, combined with his engaging presentation style, makes his talks invaluable for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike, providing the knowledge and inspiration needed to navigate our evolving business landscape successfully.

DRA Global

Daniel's presentation kicked off the day at our Embraer symposium with a political and economic outlook. He started with a world view and zoomed into the region of relevance (Middle East & Africa). Daniel's presentation was a rich, engaging and insightful journey. Daniel is an electric speaker who kept the audience engaged not only throughout his presentation. His presentation was a key talking point during the networking breaks in the event and many speakers and panelists drew insights and parallels from it during the remaining sessions. Finally Daniel was a fantastic and versatile moderator in two sessions during our event. He led a discussion on an airline front with the CEO of Air Arabia and another with the head of mobility of a company reshaping tourism in KSA. Daniel asked the right questions, kept the session interactive and super engaging. Thanks Daniel for all your fantastic work and look forward to working with you again in the future.

Mohamed Khalid

Embraer Airline Marketing Manager - Middle East & Africa

Daniel's presentation could not have been more relevant and informative based on the current situation at the time. The audience was captivated by the delivery and presentation content from start to finish, with both sessions receiving rave reviews. Daniel is truly are one of the best speakers in South Africa and please know that we will definitely be calling on him in the near future. His understanding and analysis of world geo-politics and economics is outstanding and thought-provoking.

Shireen Akoodie

Delta Airlines, General Manager

Daniel Silke has consistently provided our team and clients with a through and well-rounded analysis of the South African political landscape. The discussions are always informative, high quality and engaging – A testament to Daniel’s expertise, experience and public speaking prowess.

Rukyat Yusuf

Bank of America, EEMEA Strategy & Economics

Daniel delivered an outstanding keynote on the macroeconomic landscape. The scenarios he shared presented South Africa's realities in a digestible manner. Daniel's slides were also easy to follow. He left the audience aware of the country's realities but also hopeful for the future.

Prudence Selani

Sanofi, Corporate Affairs

Daniel's opening keynote perfectly set the tone of our Summit this year! His presentation was incredibly insightful and we were privileged to hear his thoughts on our economic and political landscape. An honour! Thank you.

Amy Beck

TransUnion, Senior Marketing Director

An incredibly insightful, intellectually stimulating talk to the senior management team of Barclays Africa. Not only did he captivate the audience through his unique sense of storytelling and presenting but he gave valuable insight into very relevant topics not only for Barclays but the wider macro environment. I could not recommend using Daniel enough for a presentation – completely worth it!

Claudia Gwinnutt

Barclays Africa Retail and Business Banking

Daniel presented at our recent AGM and we found his insights to be invaluable. Not only did he present detailed research and analysis but the manner in which he presented was inticing and kept the audience engaged. It is very seldom that a speaker that is presenting such a serious topic is able to do so and Daniel was a huge success. Our retail partners still quoted and reflected on his presentation days after the event and I highly recommend him as a keynote speaker for your next corporate event.

Aqeehl Najaar

Spar, Interim National Retail Operations Executive

For me, a great speaker is one who can either educate or entertain. Daniel’s ability to do both with energy and enthusiasm makes him stand out. Daniel’s presentations are always well researched and bespoke to the industry in the room. His material and delivery is always engaging, professional, and thought-provoking. Perfect for building energy amongst attendees. Highly recommended.

Jon Howell

AviaDev Ltd, Founder and CEO, UK

I am contacting you to both thank and congratulate you for the tremendous role you played at last week's GTR Africa Trade Finance Week in Cape Town. The feedback received so far has been hugely positive, due in no small part to your efforts. The role of keynote speaker is a crucial one to ensuring the success of any event, and your energy, delivery and quality of content played an enormous part in this, no mean feat and something which was hugely appreciated.

Geoff Ando

Global Trade Review (GTR), Head Conference Production, London

Daniel is one of the best presenters and speakers I know. He brings everything across so well and holds the audience attention throughout. His insight and knowledge is world class and his presentations always add huge value. He makes any event a success.

Kevin Chaplin

Managing Director, Amy Foundation & The SA Ubuntu Foundation
Non-binding request for Daniel Silke

Send a simple request. You’ll get a quick reply with fees and availability

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Daniel Silke
Daniel Silke

5 out of 5 stars

Daniel’s presentation was a real eye-opener. He provided a deeply insightful perspective on the state of the African continent through multiple lenses – economic, political and social. His presentation gave us all pause to reflect on the vast opportunities that exist, aptly counterbalanced with the potential pitfalls and risks. Hugely valuable for our executive team, and a perfect segue into our 3 day leadership conference

Steve Felder, Managing Director South Asia, Mumbai See all references

Keynote topics with Daniel Silke