Leading South African motivational speaker
DELIVERING INSPIRATION AND IMPACT
Carina Bruwer is a South African motivational speaker whose message interlaces her world-record swims, her daring leaps in the music industry, and her entrepreneurial spirit to reveal how resilience can break any barrier. Her unique perspective inspires audiences to embrace change, challenge conventions, and unlock the power of possibility, delivering an experience that’s as entertaining as it is transformative.
Whether navigating the open ocean or the competitive world of business and performance, Carina speaks from a place of lived experience — where fear, failure, and fierce ambition collide. Her storytelling goes beyond motivation; it equips audiences with actionable insight, renewed belief in their potential, and the courage to swim against their own current.
★★★★★
CLIENTS INCLUDE
Why book Carina as your speaker?
Carina’s journey defies boundaries — from classical musician to rockstar performer, and from the world’s toughest oceans to building innovative ventures and thriving businesses. Her unique perspective energizes audiences with stories of transformation, challenge, and triumph. In every keynote, she brings not only the tools for resilience and reinvention, but also insights on innovation, overcoming adversity, and unlocking the power of mindset and potential. As one of South Africa’s top motivational speakers, Carina’s engaging talks spark curiosity, cultivate courage, and leave listeners feeling inspired to rise above the current and reach for what’s possible.
Record-breaking ADVENTURER
From conquering the world’s toughest swims to exploring the limits of human potential.
Music industry maverick
A career that spans classical roots to rockstar performances, inspiring creativity and boldness.
Entrepreneurial visionary
Founder of multiple ventures, bringing real-world business insights and leadership lessons.
ENGAGING STORYTELLER
A masterful speaker who weaves personal triumphs and professional growth into every story.
inspiring and entertaining
Not just motivational — Carina’s talks combine music, performance, and captivating visuals for a truly dynamic experience.
Tailorder to your audience
Every keynote is crafted to resonate deeply with your audience’s unique needs, challenges, and aspirations.
Backed by Proven Excellence
POSITIVE ROLE MODEL WINNER
First Prize: Business Engage‘s Gender Mainstreaming Award
TOP 50 WORLDWIDE
One of WOWSA‘s Top 50 most Daring, Courageous and Audacious Open Water Swimmers
MULTIPLE MUSIC AWARD-WINNING
Major awards include SAMA, Tempo and Ghoema Awards
RECORD-SETTING EXTREME SWIMS
Pioneering numerous world firsts and breaking boundaries in open water swimming
Keynote topics
Swim Against the Current
Carina’s signature keynote, Swim Against the Current, is a powerful, immersive experience that leaves audiences energized and inspired. In this transformative talk, Carina takes listeners on a journey from the choppy waters of challenge to the calm confidence of mastery — sharing the mindsets and strategies she’s honed as a world-class open water swimmer and entrepreneur.
Through gripping storytelling and hard-earned lessons, Carina shows how to tap into the power of resilience, reframe obstacles as opportunities, and unleash the courage to debate with fear instead of being ruled by it. The result is a practical blueprint for turning setbacks into stepping stones and achieving personal greatness.
Audiences walk away not just moved, but equipped — ready to embrace uncertainty, challenge their limits, and thrive in the face of adversity.
Key Takeaways
LIMITLESS MINDSET
Shift from fixed thinking to possibility thinking — break free from self-imposed barriers to find your real potential
TURN OBSTACLES INTO OPPORTUNITY
Reframe challenges as a chance to grow, innovate, and create value
THE POWER OF RESILIENCE
Practical strategies to bounce back stronger and unlock your full potential.
CONNECT PURPOSE WITH ACTION
Align your daily choices with your bigger vision to amplify your impact and stay motivated, even when the going gets tough.
FAILURE IS A STEP, NOT THE END
Setbacks are part of the journey – your story continues as long as you keep learning and moving forward
USE UNCERTAINTY AS A GROWTH CATALYST
Thrive in a rapidly changing world by thinking differently and pushing beyond your comfort zone
Other topics can include
THRIVING ON MULTIPLICITY
Master the art of balancing life’s demands in this dynamic keynote. Carina shares how to transform the chaos of multiple roles into a harmonious, fulfilling journey.
AMPLIFYING IMPACT
An inspiring talk on using your voice and influence to make a meaningful difference. Carina empowers individuals and organizations to become change makers in their communities and beyond.
COURAGEOUS LEADERSHIP
Explore what it takes to lead with authenticity and courage in today’s fast-changing world. Carina offers personal insights and practical tools to help individuals and teams embrace challenges and create environments of trust and growth.
CUSTOMISED TOPICS
Carina is also available to tailor a keynote to your specific audience or goals, drawing on her diverse experience and insights.
“ Bruwer’s passion has seen her battered, broken and unconscious in some of the most hostile waters in the world. And yet she’s come out swinging every time. “
Carina is a South African motivational speaker with a difference. She values aligning her presentations with the specific vision and objectives of your event. She’d love to chat about how she can support and inspire your audience.