In Episode 19 of The Incredible Machines Podcast, hosts Jon Oliff and Luke Holden are joined by Debra Clelland, CEO of DeafKidz International, for a conversation that is equally intimate, insightful, and invigorating. From investment banking in London to remote islands in Indonesia to boardrooms and classrooms in South Africa, Debra’s story is a masterclass in resilience, reflection, and redefining what’s possible.
“There are times when life offers you a square centimeter of chance, and if you have the courage at that moment to grasp that square centimeter, your life will be changed in an instant.”
Debra leads programs that radically transform how deaf children are protected, educated, and empowered. The flagship DeafKidz Defenders project, anchored in edtech and gamified learning, teaches children how to identify unsafe situations, find trusted adults, and understand their rights.
Why this matters:
Debra’s journey starts in KwaZulu-Natal, marked by a childhood shaped by perfectionism, faith, and quiet unrest within rigid schooling systems. She later moved abroad, diving into the high-stakes world of investment banking in London, only to find herself constantly battling impostor syndrome despite outward success.
“People thought I knew exactly what I was doing; I knew nothing in my head.”
A literal shipwreck in Indonesia became a metaphorical pivot point for Debra. Her travels and moments of radical stillness-in-motion revealed what no corporate boardroom could: self-worth is the foundation of all success.
Running, swimming, and Ironman triathlons later became her spiritual toolkit.
“My best ideas come not from strategy meetings, but on 5K runs.”
Despite a successful career, Debra carried the weight of feeling unqualified until her daughter’s diagnosis of deafness reframed everything.
“Sara being deaf was the biggest gift of my life. It became the beginning of purpose.”
“There are times when life offers you a square centimeter of chance...”
– Unknown
This quote encapsulates Debra’s ethos: when the moment comes, take it. It’s how she found her calling, transformed grief into advocacy, and continues to create global impact.
BMW's “Beat the Bends” campaign — In a rare moment of creative genius, Debra selected this banned BMW ad for its disruptive brilliance, a case study in creative rebellion and first-principle thinking that mirrors her own approach to leadership.
Whether you're building a team, leading a cause, or rediscovering your voice, Debra’s journey is a guidepost for choosing courage when it counts.
Who is Debra Clelland?
Debra Clelland is the CEO of DeafKidz International, an organization dedicated to empowering and protecting deaf children globally.
What is DeafKidz Defenders?
DeafKidz Defenders is a flagship program by DeafKidz International that uses edtech and gamified learning to teach deaf children safety skills, rights awareness, and self-advocacy.
What is the Incredible Machines Podcast?
The Incredible Machines Podcast is a thought leadership series produced by Tim Africa, featuring conversations with visionary entrepreneurs, leaders, and change-makers from across the continent.
What are the key themes discussed in Episode 19?
Episode 19 explores resilience, entrepreneurship, fatherhood, failure, success, slowing down, and scaling strategically with real, lived experiences from one of Durban’s most dynamic leaders.
Where can I listen to the full episode with Debra Clelland?
You can listen on all major platforms including:
🎧 Spotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts
🌐 Tim Africa Podcast Hub
👣 Relevant Links
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-clelland-54279b1a/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100007897307559
DeafKidz International: https://deafkidzinternational.org/
DeafKidz Defenders: https://www.dkdefenders.com/