Dare To Dream

25 Jan Dare To Dream

Posted at 09:06h in Blog by

At the 2018 Annual Business Event, held by Marketing Derby, I delivered the keynote speech “Dared to Dream”; exploring how only by taking the more difficult path and overcoming the challenges along the way, will we discover our greatest potential.

The event brings together business leaders from across the region with representation from national and international firms including Rolls Royce, Bombardier and Toyota.

“Absolutely inspiring from @leightimmis”

In a full Derby Theatre, my presentation opened with an insight to the difficulties I faced as a young man; the pressure of society’s expectation and how, becoming overwhelmed, I suffered with depression. It was only through taking an opportunity that I stepped out of my comfort zone and found salvation in a life of adventure.

The audience of five hundred were guided on the adventure of a vulnerable cyclist, through extremes of nature and humanity. From the kindness of strangers in Iran, to survival techniques in Tibet, my speech identified key qualities not only necessary for adventure, but for life. From taking the first step alone when nobody believed in me, to the perseverance and resilience required to continue in the face of adversity, adapting to cultural differences and goal setting to achieve my target; I discussed key lessons learned in distant corners of the world, equally beneficial to success in the workplace.

The presentation was received with great reviews. Comments from across all industries trended on Twitter stating; “Absolutely inspiring from @leightimmis”, “Really inspiring speech by @leightimmis #Abe2018 @MarketingDerby event. Exactly what I needed to hear today- #daretodream” and “Great speech by @leightimmis on changing your attitude and achieving what you want in life’s happiness #ABE2018.

On the 1st of March, I’ll be presenting an evening of entertaining stories from my seven year global adventure, at the Derby Guildhall. To discover my unique perspective of the world buy tickets here: http://www.derbylive.co.uk/whats-on/an-evening-with-leigh-timmis/

I am available for motivational talks, after dinner speeches, keynote, schools and higher education talks and workshops. For information, visit my website here: https://www.leightimmis.com/speaking-engagements/

Follow my world record adventure now on my website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.



  • When we invited Leigh to present to our staff about his experiences in creating a support echo system and team to help him break a world record, we never imagined that it would have had such a positive impact on everyone who attended. Leigh influenced, motived and inspired our staff to be the better version of themselves and gave them guidance and the tools to achieve this individually and within a team environment

    Steve Reynolds, CEO, TBS Mobility

  • It’s was a real honour to partner with Leigh, he’s such an inspirational person and a great business speaker. The aim of the session was for delegates to leave in a positive, can do frame of mind, feeling confident that they can use some of Leigh’s tips to bolster team spirit, harness potential and exceed expectations. This is something I’m confident the event achieved

    Mary Maguire, MD, Astute Recruitment

  • Leigh delivered a fantastic presentation during our Global Health and Wellbeing day. We had a lot of positive feedback from his inspirational talk which definitely raised the profile of mental health within our organisation. Leigh is an inspiration to everyone

    David Wilson, Global Head of Health and Wellbeing, Victrex

  • Leigh delivered one of the most professional and engaging talks at the festival this year. It was clear that Leigh had put a lot of thought into what he wanted to convey in his talk, carefully pulling out the key stories and themes from all his years on the road. Leigh's talk was engaging throughout and delivered with a real sense of humility.

    Laura Moss, Cycle Touring Festival Organiser

  • The TEDxRNCM audience were utterly captured through Leigh’s account. This wasn’t just an account however, but an experience. Eloquently delivered but with real personality, Leigh gave inspiration, insight, enjoyment and even humour - a talk I won’t be forgetting for a long time

    Hayley Parkes, TEDx Event Organiser

  • Leigh is a natural communicator, using humour and his modest personality, Leigh's account of his fascinating experiences was delivered in a completely natural way that immediately connected with both the students and the teachers.

    Claire Tresidder, Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School Ashbourne Academy

  • Wow. Utterly, wow. Leigh certainly was inspirational and indeed such a breath of fresh air, he created such a buzz around the school. I was impressed by not only the attendance of staff and parents, but the volume of students who came along. Thank you – Leigh really has touched and motivated a lot of our students

    Roberta Keys, Deputy Headteacher, Malvern College

  • Leigh articulates his passion and learning so well that his enthusiasm and motivation transcends the world of sport and is relevant for physical, psychological and organisational wellness and performance. He is a truly phenomenal speaker and comes highly recommended

    Deputy Chief Constable, East Midlands Special Operations Unit

  • The young people of Kingsmead School are generally from disadvantaged backgrounds and have low aspirations for their future. Leigh held the attention of the young people superbly, he was entertaining and funny and the pupils engagement was not lost at all. I would heartily recommend Leigh and his inspirational story to anyone, it left pupils and staff inspired and awestruck.

    Huw Lloyd, Assistant Headteacher, Kingsmead School


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