Dr David Molapo

Dr David Molapo is a trailblazing leader and visionary educator, celebrated for his transformative work across Africa and beyond. As Founder of the I CAN Leadership Institute Africa and CEO of I CAN 4IR, he has been instrumental in empowering governments, corporates and faith-based organisations across 28 countries.

With over three decades of experience, Dr Molapo is a renowned leadership consultant, the author of more than 50 books, and an international speaker who has inspired millions. His engaging, motivational approach blends humour, personal stories and actionable strategy, leaving a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. His expertise spans leadership development, emotional intelligence, strategic planning and high-performance team building — sessions designed to foster sustainable behavioural shifts, deepen self-awareness and drive results.

His own story is a testament to resilience and transformation. Dr Molapo's journey began at the age of 13, when he was imprisoned for political activities. During that time he encountered God — a turning point that shaped him into the leader, businessman, husband and father he is today. It is the lived source of the conviction at the heart of his message: we are no longer prisoners of our past, but pioneers of our future.

His academic achievements include a BSc from Oakwood University, a Master's in Education from Oral Roberts University, a Doctorate in Religious Education from International Seminary (Orlando, Florida) and a second Doctorate in Leadership & Management from Logos University (Jacksonville, Florida).

Dr Molapo has held prominent leadership roles, including Chairman of Transformation at South African Airways, and has served on the boards of leading companies including Dimension Data Holdings, Imperial Logistics and Excellerate Holdings. His clients span government offices and global corporates, among them ABSA, Nedbank, Microsoft, IBM and Sasol. Through the I CAN Leadership Institute Africa and I CAN 4IR, he continues to equip individuals and organisations to lead with purpose through the Fourth Industrial Revolution and beyond.

Current roles

• Founder, I CAN Leadership Institute Africa
• Chief Executive Officer, I CAN 4IR
• Leadership consultant and international speaker (30+ years' experience)
• Author of more than 50 books on leadership, growth and transformation

Academic qualifications

• BSc — Oakwood University
• Master's in Education — Oral Roberts University
• Doctorate in Religious Education — International Seminary, Orlando, Florida
• Doctorate in Leadership & Management — Logos University, Jacksonville, Florida

Past board & leadership roles

• Chairman of Transformation, South African Airways
• Board member, Dimension Data Holdings
• Board member, Imperial Logistics
• Board member, Excellerate Holdings

Selected clients

• Government offices and public-sector institutions
• ABSA, Nedbank, Microsoft, IBM and Sasol
• Corporate and faith-based organisations across 28 countries