David Grier
Cape Town based, David is an inspirational celebrity speaker, award-winning chef, extreme adventurer and author. His most extreme adventure was the first solo run of India 4008 km in 93 days. Prior to that, he paddled from Africa to Madagascar (a distance of 500 km) and then ran the island from south to north, a distance of 2700 km. David – along with his running partner Braam Malherbe – did the first ever continuous joint run of the Great Wall of China, some 4200 km in 98 days. They then completed the first ever continuous run along the coast of South Africa from Oranjemund via Cape Town to Mozambique – 3300 kms. in 80 days. He has also run from John o’Groats to Lands’ End, the length of Ireland and Hadrian ‘s Wall.
David was born into a Cape wine farming family in South Africa and with this background, he never lost his roots or his love of the outdoors. With food, wine and adventure close to his heart, David set out to take all of his passions to the extreme, and explore the limits of the human mind and body. These journeys are not about David himself, but he wanted to make a difference in the lives of children born with cleft lips and palates. Through these journeys, enough funding was raised to enable some 1800 children to receive corrective facial surgery through ‘Operation Smile’.
"An excellent inspirational talk on commitment and self belief to make it work. Never giving up hope. With motivation, hope, commitment, perseverance one can do the impossible and make a difference. Thank you David for what you did. What sacrifice and dedication. You have a lot of guts and a compassionate heart. The dreams I have had, that have been lying dormant for a long time have been watered with fresh encouragement and inspiration. Thank you."
Geraldine AllenGlobal Secretarial
"His talk was a wonderful experience. David's enthusiasm and optimism is infectious and a great tonic for those moments when one gets despondent about the future of Africa. All of this is done with a wonderful frankness and humility, which is so rare amongst the pioneering and the successful. Essential listening for all South Africans."
Leith SteeleBergflora
"I thought David's passion and enthusiasm was completely evident during his presentation and definitely a driving force behind his ability to run hundreds of miles enduring pain and hardship. A real inspiration for anyone who wants to make a difference."
Lisa RonquestMARS Africa
"I was in awe of David and his running partner, Braam. The extent of self-sacrifice that they were willing to explore for these children to receive their smiles was beyond anything I could imagine. It was a real treat to be present at David Grier's presentation."
LeRato MmutleSymphonia for South Africa
"Managing David's Hope in Thyme Book Launch Tour in itself was a very special and wonderful experience. After viewing my first presentation at Nitida Wine Farm, I was overcome with emotion as to the amazing work he is doing for the communities of our country. I left feeling a sense of pride to have been 'a part' of David's journey. David lives, breaths and eats South Africa! And we all can learn a lesson from him regards his belief in our country, its people and its future!
Kerrie BrandSymphonia for South Africa
"I was honoured to attend David Grier's presentation. What I took back from that was that I want to do and give back something to society. WE have so much to be grateful for and there are so many people, especially children out there that have needs in life. If I can go out there and make a difference, no matter what I do, then that would be wonderful. I wish Symphonia for South Africa all the best. Thank you for what you have done with David Grier as I think that you have touched many people's lives and I am sure that many left with a lot of food for thought.'
Michele Steyn
"I was there as I was intrigued about the man and his outlook on life, having bought Courage & Rice last year. David is a wonderful talker, so passionate about life and the difference one person can make to the lives of others; he was really quite inspirational in that one wanted to go and 'do your bit' too. Also loved the bottle of Tradition from Villiera making a show at the end, in Mozambique! I have taken his charity the Smile foundation more literally and greet strangers with a smile and 'How are you today'!' what lovely responses I get!"
Wendy SteytlerPathcare