“EXCELLENT, BANG ON MESSAGE, INSPIRING”
Brand Director, Pfizer
THE FIRST DISABLED PERSON TO HAVE LED EXPEDITIONS TO BOTH POLES
AN accomplished SPEAKER, specialist Topics & Themes that clients have secured michael’s services for Include:
Human Capacity for Resilience, Leadership & Optimism, Ability to Adapt
Embrace Change & Manage Uncertainty, TEAM COHESION
Risk Aversion v Risk Loving, Fearing Failure, Overcoming Adversity
Disability Awareness, Diversity & Inclusion
RECOGNITION
Michael has received recognition and awards for his work in business, his charity and his record-breaking polar adventures. Accolades include:
2024 – Received MBE (June) from Anne, Princess Royal
2023 – Awarded MBE (June) in King’s Birthday Honours List, for Services to People with Muscular Dystrophy
2019 – Recognised in Power 100 (4th consecutive year) as one of Britain’s most influential people with a disability
2019 – Presented The Big Heart Award by The Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Robert Voss CBE at the Heart (Radio) Hertfordshire 2019 Hero Awards
2019 – Appointed to represent the Crown as a Deputy Lieutenant (DL) in Hertfordshire, a voluntary role
2018 – Awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Arts (University of Hertfordshire) in recognition of his motivational & inspirational work for persons with a disability
2016 – Inspiring Communicator National Award
2015 – Winner of ‘Unsung Hero’ Hertfordshire and Essex Mercury and Observer Community Awards 2015
2016, 2015 & 2013 - Michael’s charity The Muscle Help Foundation - Winner of the ‘Inspiring Herts’ Award for Best Social Enterprise of the Year
2012 – Nominated via the Sainsbury’s campaign, selected as a Paralympic Torchbearer, proudly carrying the flame on one of its final legs to the Olympic Stadium
2004 – 90 degrees South (Antarctica) reached in January. This same year, Michael is recognised by the Queen for his 'contribution to national life' at Buckingham Palace. He is included in the 2004 Christmas Day broadcast to the nation by Her Majesty reinforcing diversity as a strength
2002 – 90 degrees North (Arctic) reached in April
BIOGRAPHY
After being diagnosed with the muscle wasting condition Muscular Dystrophy (MD) aged just 18yrs in 1984, Michael made history 20 years later by becoming the first disabled person to lead expeditions to the North and South Poles.
The journey gave rise to a new life plan, inspiring Michael to embark on a career as a sought after speaker, engaging and motivating teams - speaking with a natural blend of humility, intellect and humour, audiences are reflective, imaginations are captured and actions are inspired.
He has built an enviable list of clients, providing bespoke keynotes to both private and public sector organisations including Roche, Standard Life, Shell, HMRC, over 16 NHS Trusts, Ashurst, Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport and the Met Police as well as academic institutions, colleges, special schools and other places of learning.
Leadership, courage and trust combined with resolute self-belief, confidence, teamwork and a singularly focused obsession towards achieving desired outcomes were critical success factors – Michael draws on these experiences, giving wider business and life lessons.
Michael used his Arctic and Antarctic exploits as a launch pad for The Muscle Help Foundation (MHF), a multi award-winning national charity, delivering transformational experiences in the UK, called Muscle Dreams for children with muscular dystrophy.
Today, the charity’s impact is felt across the UK – from improved confidence, greater self-esteem and an increased sense of hopefulness to a powerful shared identity that connects families together, giving hope but also a key platform to share knowledge, memories and establish lasting friendships. Michael is affectionately known as the ‘Chief Muscle Warrior’.
”MICHAEL IS A fascinating speaker with great passion, clarity and a wonderful ability TO engage an audiencE”
Nicole Bearne
Internal Communications Manager
Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team
"Michael is an inspiration"
Sir Richard branson, FOUNDER, VIRGIN GROUP
“Michael is an inspirational and motivational orator, and it was an honour to have him wrap up our Managers Conference. Michael skilfully wove our themes of leadership, change, agility and courage into the experiences of his fascinating adventures; he not only left us wanting to hear more, but He also left a lasting and powerful impression on everyone in the room. I have already had requests to have him back again! Great job Michael - thank you!!”
Irene Sobowale, Chief Executive, The Disabilities Trust
PUSHING BOUNDARIES ~ PURPOSE DRIVEN ~ INSPIRING CHANGE
SERVICES
From virtual keynotes to masterclasses, themes include leadership, resilience, change and risk. Through powerful story-telling, Michael can reinforce your key business messages in a compelling way. Visuals and film help to engage the hearts and minds of audiences.
Find out more
From hospitality to healthcare, disability to diversity, Michael has worked across multiple industry sectors, offering retained business consulting from three to twelve months, helping to bring real value and lasting change to brands seeking to become more inclusive.
FIND OUT MORE
Michael continues to contribute to reviews and articles for various specialist sector magazines and online resources. Drawing on his business, third-sector knowledge and life experiences, thought-leadership topics will inform, provoke and stimulate.
VIEW PRESS COVERAGE
Michael’s distinctive voice appeals to clients looking for a natural voice over artist. Soft, warm tones and graceful, subtle persuasion will gently woo customers into purchasing your product or service. Have a conversation with Michael today and hear for yourself..
CONTACT MICHAEL TODAY
Michael gives time to a number of executive and advisory board roles. He also provides expertise on a voluntary basis as a Cateys judge in the hospitality industry, bringing a balanced viewpoint underpinned by experience and sector insight.
CONTACT MICHAEL TODAY
MICHAEL HAS WORKED WITH A VARIETY OF CLIENTS INCLUDING..
