Leanne Manas is a multiple award-winning broadcast anchor, media personality, businesswoman, communications specialist, and UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador. A distinguished leader in South African media, she has interviewed some of the world’s most influential figures, including Oprah Winfrey and Nelson Mandela, and has been at the forefront of breaking news for over two decades. Her contributions to journalism and humanitarian efforts have earned her global recognition, including a knighthood from French President Emmanuel Macron, who awarded her the French National Order of Merit. She was also named Standard Bank Woman of the Year (2024) for her exceptional contribution to the media and broadcasting industry, and Glamour Magazines ICONIC Woman of the Year (2023) for her outstanding career achievements. As the face of South African morning television, Leanne has anchored Morning Live since 2004, delivering hard-hitting news, in-depth interviews, and compelling storytelling. She has been at the helm of the country’s most significant news events, including: The passing of Nelson Mandela The resignation of President Jacob Zuma The death of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela The covid 19 Pandemic The 2021 SA Riots 5 general elections 4 provincial elections 4 presidential inaugurations Being part of such a dynamic, ever-changing industry with a news agenda that shifts by the minute is what drives her. She has witnessed and adapted to the evolution of journalism and the broadcasting platform, from the rise of digital media and social platforms to the integration of artificial intelligence and cutting-edge technology into newsrooms. Her ability to stay ahead of industry trends while maintaining journalistic integrity has solidified her as a trusted voice in media. Her versatility, combined with her warm and engaging personality, makes her a household name. She seamlessly moves between humour, professionalism, current affairs, business, economics, and global issues, keeping her ahead of the curve. With unparalleled live experience both behind the camera and on stage - she captivates audiences and connects with people from all walks of life. Leanne’s career has taken her across the globe, broadcasting from London, France, Abu Dhabi, Mauritius, Ghana, Nigeria, Mozambique, Kenya, Gabon, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and the United States. Most recently, she covered South Africa’s triumphant Rugby World Cup campaign in France. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Leanne was a daily presence on South African screens, guiding the nation through an unprecedented global crisis. Reflecting on her career, she has said, “Being able to witness and tell the story of our ever-changing lives is my greatest honour.” Beyond broadcasting, Leanne is a sought-after MC, keynote speaker, and event moderator. Her ability to command a room, engage an audience, and lead meaningful conversations has made her a top choice for high-profile events and discussions. With extensive experience conducting live interviews with thousands of prominent figures, she co-founded Manas Life, a company dedicated to enhancing media, broadcasting, and presentation skills for corporates and individuals through in-person and online training. Her excellence in journalism has been widely recognized. In 2023, she was honoured with the SA Style Award in the Media category and received the Charlotte Mannya Maxeke Institutes “Bring Her Up” Award for Excellence in Impactful Broadcasting and Journalism. Leanne has also won: Four People Magazine awards for Best South African Female Television Presenter Three You Magazine awards for Best Overall SA TV Presenter Sunday Times/Elle Most Stylish News/Actuality/Continuity Presenter award You Magazine’s Most Stylish Television Presenter award In 2019, she received special recognition from the Lebanese government for her career achievements and humanitarian efforts. Leanne’s commitment to humanitarian work is deeply rooted in the legacy of Nelson Mandela. Personally selected by him as one of his esteemed 46664 ambassadors, she has championed his causes. In 2015, to mark Mandela Day, she summited Mount Kilimanjaro, raising funds to provide sanitary products for young girls in disadvantaged communities. As a United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Goodwill Ambassador, Leanne has worked extensively with displaced communities. She has visited refugee camps in Kenya, Malawi, Lebanon, Syria, and Mozambique, advocating for those affected by conflict and human rights violations. She recently returned from Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, where she worked with forcibly displaced people subjected to extreme violence and hardship. A trailblazer in broadcasting, an advocate for the marginalized, and a masterful communicator, Leanne Manas continues to shape conversations, inspire change, and amplify the voices that need to be heard.