Marianne Thamm

Author, Journalist, Playwright
Arts, Constitution, Politics, Satire
Analyst, Facilitator, Keynote Speaker, MC, Panellist
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Marianne Thamm is a veteran investigative journalist, author, comedian and playwright, known for her fearless reporting on corruption, crime, and politics. As Assistant Editor at Daily Maverick, she has exposed high-level scandals and power dynamics shaping South Africa. With a sharp wit and deep storytelling ability, Marianne offers incisive commentary on governance, justice, and the role of media in holding power to account. Marianne's notable works include:
  • Hitler, Verwoerd, Mandela and Me
  • The how-to-be a South African handbook
  • Mental Floss

Credibility

Marianne Thamm is a multi-award-winning journalist, columnist, and author with a career spanning more than four decades. Her work has appeared in major South African and international outlets including Cape Times, Sunday Times, Mail & Guardian, De Standaard, and many others. She is currently Associate Editor and Writer-at-Large at Daily Maverick. She has written nine books, including the critically acclaimed biography Hitler, Verwoerd, Mandela and Me.

Topic Authority

Her unique background allows her to move effortlessly between deeply investigative reporting and comedic social critique. Marianne brings a sharp eye, deep historical insight, and a keen sense of irony to topics such as:
  • South African and global politics
  • Contemporary history and transitional justice
  • Theatre and performance as resistance
  • Language, identity, and culture
  • Media, storytelling, and satire

Impact

  • Nominated for both Fleur du Cap and Naledi Theatre Awards for her performance journalism piece “Round of Applause — South Africa Still Standing”
  • Made her theatre debut at KKNK with Sonde Met Die Spoke, which sold out across performances
  • Recognised over the years with numerous journalism awards, both locally and abroad
  • Has played a leading role in documenting and reflecting on South Africa’s democratic transition, corruption, and social tensions — with wit, tenacity, and clarity

Speaking Style

Comfortable, commanding, and unsparingly honest, Marianne speaks with the voice of lived experience. Her presentations blend investigative rigour with humour, performance, and deep cultural reflection. Whether delivering a keynote address, moderating, or participating in panel discussions, she offers not just insight, but presence. Her approach is vertical — not horizontal — constantly evolving and grounded in storytelling that cuts through the noise.
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