The first black player to represent Zimbabwe, and the youngest, Henry Olonga will forever be known for breaking down the boundaries and making history. Making his test debut in 1995, he was forced into retirement in 2003 after receiving death threats after controversially wearing a black armband 'mourning the death of democracy' with then-teammate and former England head coach Andy Flower, an act which resulted in him being ran out of his own country.
A player who will forever be known in history for taking a stand for what he believes in, Olonga is a perfect after dinner and cricket speaker, offering his perspective on a remarkable career.
Making his first-class debut aged 17, Henry made his test debut in 1995 despite initially holding Kenyan nationality, changing allegiances to Zimbabwe and finally deputising aged 18 and 212 days. He went on to join the team for the 1996 World Cup, establishing a regular place within the team between 1998 and 2003. Olonga represented Zimbabwe over 30 tests and 50 ODIs, currently holding the best bowling record for his country.
However his promising career came to an end as he made a stand against the regime being controlled by Robert Mugabe when Zimbabwe took to the 2003 World Cup, hosted in South Africa.
This act which has been recognised by many as a courageous and brave one to undertake, spelt the end to the promising cricketers' career, as death threats for his treason resulted in him relocating to England and leaving cricket behind.
A courageous man who gave up the opportunity to live a fully-fledged international career to stand up for what he believed in, Henry Olonga is widely regarded as a hero and will be always known for what he achieved and what he did for the country he loves. A short but inexhaustible career which can be used to encourage people to stand up for there believes, Olonga is an inspirational, motivating and fascinating event host and cricket speaker.
Most recently, Henry has ventured into a career within commentary and, unexpectedly the music industry. He released his debut album entitled Aurelia in 2006 before he published his first autobiography named Blood, Sweat and Treason which was longlisted for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year in 2010. He has also competed on Australia's rendition of singing competition The Voice in 2019.
His attendance at any event promises to enhance its credibility, with his story providing the ideal platform for an encapsulating and rousing keynote or after dinner speech. A controversial cricket speaker who will connect with anyone with an interest in sport, Henry Olonga is without a doubt one of the most inspiring sports speakers available.
How to hire Henry Olonga
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Henry Olonga for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
** We do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, birthday messages or any other non-commercial contact with the speakers or acts. Each speaker on the website may not have necessarily worked with Champions in the past but are known to perform such engagements within the industry.
When at corporate events, Henry is known to cover the following topics:
- Cricket Speaker
- Overcoming Adversity
- Leadership
- Motivational Speaker
- Drive & Determination
"Probably one of the best speakers we have ever had."
- South Australian State Schools Administrative Officers Association (SASSAOA)
"A professional delight, Henry was a brilliant, engaging speaker with amazing, jaw dropping talent."
- Breville
"Henry is a brilliant and able presenter."
- Cornerstone College
"Excellent – very interesting story and fantastic voice!!"
- Frank Knight Australia
"Henry is a fine role model for young cricketers, one whose cheerfulness, humility and positive attitude win him friends wherever he goes."
- Cricinfo
