The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games is a chance to shine a spotlight on the athletes, past and present, who have been part of this remarkable sporting event.
Here at JLA Speaker Bureau, we are lucky enough to work with many well-known Paralympians and are privileged to play a small role in amplifying their stories. Here’s a closer look at how booking a Paralympic speaker, each with their own stories of strength, determination, and perseverance, could enhance your next event…
Ellie Simmonds
Inspiring Resilience and Overcoming Adversity
Paralympians are the epitome of resilience. Their personal journeys, marked by overcoming significant physical and emotional challenges, serve as a source of inspiration for all audiences. Ellie Simmonds, has been a trailblazer in the pool since her debut at the Beijing 2008 Paralympics. But when Ellie takes the stage, you won’t just hear about her remarkable achievements (including the multiple gold medals to her name), but also her set-backs, the obstacles she has faced and how she transformed these into occasions for growth and success.
View Ellie Simmonds’ full JLA speaker profile.
Tanni Grey-Thompson
Promoting Inclusivity and Diversity
One of the core messages that Paralympic speakers bring is the importance of inclusivity and diversity. Through their personal stories, they highlight the necessity of breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for people of all abilities, emphasising that disability does not define a person’s potential. Baroness (Tanni) Grey Thompson is a brilliant example of a Paralympic speaker who, beyond her sporting accolades, has been a tireless advocate for the rights of people with disabilities. She has used her public profile to address systemic issues and advocate for policy changes that promote accessibility and inclusion. Her work in the House of Lords, focuses on a wide range of issues, including welfare reform, transport, and the rights of disabled people.
View Tanni Grey-Thompson’s full JLA speaker profile.
Dame Sarah Storey
Redefining Success and Achievement
Paralympic athletes redefine what it means to be successful. This is particularly true for Dame Sarah Storey, whose achievements have set new benchmarks for the entire sporting community. With 17 Paralympic gold medals to her name, she has broken numerous world records and continues to push the boundaries of what is possible. Her success on the global stage has redefined what athletes can aspire to achieve, proving that limitations are often only perceived.
View Dame Sarah Storey’s full JLA speaker profile.
Marc Woods
Empowering Personal and Professional Growth
The lessons learned from Paralympic athletes extend far beyond the realm of sports. Their experiences offer valuable insights into self-belief, teamwork, and personal development. Paralympic gold medalist Marc Woods provides advice on how to cultivate success from within by focussing on what is in our control. One of the core messages Marc shares is the power of a positive mindset. This translates brilliantly to the workplace, as he highlights how a positive personal outlook can be crucial to staying motivated and overcoming professional challenges.
View Marc Woods’ full JLA speaker profile.
At JLA Speaker Bureau, we are proud to collaborate with these amazing athletes, who are inspiring countless individuals to reach beyond their limits, embrace inclusivity and build resilience. As we look forward to the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, we know that the role of these sporting speakers will continue to be crucial in shaping perceptions and driving positive change.
For more information on how to bring these former athletes or topics to your next event, please do not hesitate to get in touch.