Leadership Conference · Third Edition
The Big Picture Conference 2026
Leadership in an Age of Uncertainty: From Reaction to Design
A leadership conference for future-focused thinkers ready to move from reaction to design.
About the Conference
Building on the success of previous conferences, The Big Picture Conference returns for its third edition, bringing together leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals and decision-makers for a day of meaningful conversation, practical insight and future-focused thinking.
More than a conference, The Big Picture is a growing leadership platform designed to help people connect the dots across the forces shaping our world today, from leadership and human performance to technology, innovation, sustainability and global change.
Through keynote speakers, panel discussions, masterclasses and intentional networking, attendees will gain fresh perspectives, practical ideas and valuable connections to help them lead with greater clarity and confidence in an increasingly uncertain world.
See the bigger picture. Lead what matters.
Why This Conference?
Real conversations with practical takeaways
Expert insights across leadership, innovation and human performance
New perspectives to navigate uncertainty
Opportunities to connect and collaborate
Actionable ideas you can take back and put into practice
Who Should Attend?
For everyone who wants to think more clearly about the future, their role in it and the impact they want to make.
Business owners and entrepreneurs
Executives and senior leaders
Team leaders and managers
Professionals navigating change
Organisations looking for fresh thinking, connection and future-focused leadership
Our Big Themes
Six Themes. One Bigger Picture.
From leadership and human performance to technology, innovation, sustainability and global change.
Leadership & Human Performance
Leading yourself and your people with clarity, courage and purpose.
Technology & AI
Making sense of AI and emerging technology — and what it means for how we work and lead.
Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Fresh thinking, practical ideas and ventures built for a changing world.
Global Perspectives
Understanding the global forces reshaping business and society.
Future Readiness
Preparing yourself and your organisation for what comes next.
Sustainability & Impact
Creating value and growth that leave a meaningful legacy.
The Experience
Inside The Big Picture Conference
Highlights from The Big Picture Conference 2025.
Moments from The Big Picture Conference 2025
Speakers
2026 Speakers
The first confirmed speakers — with more announcements on the way.
Johann Kotzé
Chief Executive Director, Agri SA
Johann Kotzé, a seasoned agribusiness leader, began his career in farming before moving into agricultural banking, consulting, and executive leadership. He holds degrees in Agricultural Economy and Business Management, with executive training from Stellenbosch and the National University of Singapore. After leading Africa Agriculture for FNB, he became CEO of SAPPO in 2017 and was appointed Chief Executive Director of Agri SA in 2023. He enjoys canoe surfing, woodworking, and family life in his spare time.
Dr. Coetzee Bester
Former MP · Ethical AI & Smart Governance Specialist
Dr. Coetzee Bester is a former South African MP (1994–1999) who served under Presidents Nelson Mandela and FW de Klerk and contributed to drafting the landmark 1996 constitution. He has since worked in 35 African countries, advising governments on leadership, policy, and social cohesion. A University of Pretoria graduate with a PhD in Information Ethics, he has authored 14 books and led the African Centre of Excellence for Information Ethics. His current focus is on ethical AI and smart governance for sustainable development. He lives in Pretoria with his family and four grandchildren.
Mems Ramaila
Founder & Managing Director, BeeAfrican
Mems Ramaila is the founder and managing director of BeeAfrican, a beekeeping enterprise pioneering South Africa’s honey economy. A former lawyer and award-winning farmer, she turned an unexpected visit from a swarm of bees on her farm near Brits into a thriving business spanning honey production, beekeeping equipment and training. BeeAfrican has partnered on community beekeeping in Marikana, launched a beekeeping academy with the University of Venda and secured a major deal to supply honey to the United States. Her work centres on sustainability and creating new possibilities for women.
More Speakers To Be Announced
Big names. Real conversations. Lasting impact. Watch this space.
The Team
Founder & Strategic Advisors
Willie Snyman
Founder · Executive & Leadership Coach, Mediator and Conference Convener
Passionate about helping leaders connect the dots between people, performance, purpose and the future.
Prof. Dries Velthuizen
Strategic Advisor
Brings extensive experience in global strategy, leadership and international affairs.
Prof. Teboho Lebakeng
Strategic Advisor
Contributes expertise in leadership development, transformation and organisational effectiveness.
Tickets
Secure Your Seat
Online booking is now open on Quicket — click Book Your Seat to secure your place. For table bookings or any other enquiries, email thebigpictureconference@mastercoaching.co.za.
Early Bird
Until 31 August 2026- Full-day conference access (08:00 – 15:00)
- Keynotes, panel discussions & masterclasses
- Lunch & refreshments
- Intentional networking with leaders & decision-makers
- Digital goodie bag
Standard
Full-rate admission- Full-day conference access (08:00 – 15:00)
- Keynotes, panel discussions & masterclasses
- Lunch & refreshments
- Intentional networking with leaders & decision-makers
- Digital goodie bag
Early bird pricing is available until 31 August 2026 — standard rates apply thereafter. Individual tickets, table bookings, VIP and corporate packages available.
Partner Packages
Bring your team, host your clients and position your brand at the centre of the conversation.
Strategic Partner
Premier partnership- 2 × tables of 10 — 20 seats
- Full conference experience for every guest
- Sponsorship benefits tailored on enquiry
Leadership Partner
Host your team- 1 × table of 10 — 10 seats
- Full conference experience for every guest
- Sponsorship benefits tailored on enquiry
Group Booking
Bring your team- Discount applies when booking more than 5 tickets
- Ideal for teams, colleagues or client groups
- Full conference experience for every guest
- A practical way to attend together and save
The Venue
Protea Hotel Johannesburg Wanderers
Set in the heart of Johannesburg, Protea Hotel Johannesburg Wanderers by Marriott offers a modern, comfortable space designed for connection and collaboration.
Corner Corlett Drive & Rudd Road, Illovo, Johannesburg, 2196
Easy access, ample safe parking and world-class hospitality
Partner With Us
Sponsorship Opportunities
Position your brand among leaders, entrepreneurs and decision-makers. Sponsorship and partnership opportunities for 2026 are open for enquiry, with packages tailored to your brand.
Digital Goodie Bag
All attendees will receive exclusive resources, partner offers and valuable takeaways.
Proudly Supported By
More partner announcements coming soon
Good To Know
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the event?
The Big Picture Conference 2026 will take place on 28 October 2026.
What time does the event start?
The event will run from 08:00 to 15:00.
Where is the event taking place?
The event will be held at Protea Hotel Johannesburg Wanderers.
How do I book tickets?
Tickets are now available on Quicket. Click here to book your seat. For any other enquiries, email thebigpictureconference@mastercoaching.co.za.
Can I book a table for my company or team?
Yes. Table bookings will be available for businesses and teams who would like to attend together.
Is this a networking event?
Yes. The conference will include opportunities to connect with other leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals and decision-makers.
Will food and refreshments be included?
Yes. Food and refreshments will be included. Final details will be confirmed closer to the event.
Can my company sponsor the event?
Yes. Sponsorship and partnership opportunities will be available. Interested companies can contact the event team for more information.
Will there be a digital goodie bag?
Yes. The digital goodie bag will be created once sponsors and partner offers are confirmed.
Is there parking available at the venue?
There is ample and safe parking at the venue.
What is the dress code?
The dress code is business smart. Think professional, polished and comfortable, suitable for a full-day leadership conference with networking, photographs and guest speakers.
Who can I contact for more information?
For enquiries, sponsorship opportunities or group bookings, please contact the event team using the contact details provided on this page.
One Day. Big Picture. Bigger Impact.
Join us on 28 October 2026 at Protea Hotel Johannesburg Wanderers.
Email Us
thebigpictureconference@mastercoaching.co.za
+27 83 310 1584
Hosted By
Willie Snyman · Master Coaching
Connect With Us