An Evening of History That
Changed the World
Join internationally respected storyteller and cruise-ship speaker Robin Binckes for a compelling series of talks that bring South African and global history to life through vivid storytelling, first-hand insight, and engaging presentation.
History, told as it should be
vividly, intelligently, and humanely
Fresh from recent travels through China tracing the legacy of Zheng He, the Opium Wars, and the ancient Silk Road, Robin Binckes returns to South Africa to present a remarkable series of public talks. These are not dry academic lectures, but richly told stories of exploration, conflict, courage, power, and the human choices that changed nations and shaped the world.
About
Meet Robin Binckes
Robin Binckes is a philanthropist, author, historian, and internationally respected storyteller known for bringing history to life with warmth, scholarship, and narrative flair. His talks combine deep historical insight with the rare ability to make the past vivid, relevant, and memorable.
Featured Talks
The Great Explorers
A dramatic comparison between the treasure fleets of Zheng He and the voyages of Dias and da Gama.
Storm in a Teacup
The extraordinary story of tea, trade, empire, opium, and industrial espionage.
Born of a Bloody Miracle
The remarkable story of how South Africa stepped back from the brink of civil war.
Land of Legends and Heroes
A powerful exploration of the Eastern Cape’s rich and defining historical legacy.
EVENTS
Johannesburg Launch Event
13 & 14 May 2026
South African National Museum of Military History, Johannesburg
Doors open 18:30 |
Talks begin
19:00
Tickets: R350 via Webtickets
*Seating is limited to 70 guests per evening
Coming to towns
across South Africa
The Empires & Endeavours series will travel to towns and cities across South Africa over the coming year. Dates are currently being finalised, and visitors are encouraged to check back regularly to see when Robin Binckes will be appearing in their area.
Tour Towns
- Johannesburg
- Pretoria
- Durban
- Pietermaritzburg
- Bloemfontein
- Welkom
- Kimberley
- Gqeberha
- East London
- Cape Town
- Stellenbosch
- Franschhoek
- Paarl
- Worcester
- Riebeeck Kasteel
- Hermanus
- Plettenberg Bay
- George
- Howick
- Nelspruit
- Pietersburg
- Germiston
- Mossel Bay
- Benoni
- Roodepoort
- Krugersdorp
- Queenstown
- Aliwal North
- Port Alfred
- Port Elizabeth
- Oudtshoorn
GET STARTED
Reserve your seat or follow the tour
Whether you are attending in Johannesburg or waiting for the series to reach your town, Empires & Endeavours promises evenings of history that are thought-provoking, entertaining, and unforgettable.