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Neal Petersen        

History-Making Extreme Adventurer, Award-Winning Author & Global Investor

Neal Petersen, a name synonymous with adventure, resilience, and inspirational storytelling, has become one of the most relevant speakers for corporate, government, and association events worldwide. Born in apartheid-era South Africa, Petersen's journey from the racial and economic divides of his homeland to the elite world of solo yacht racing is nothing short of extraordinary. His compelling life story, combined with his insights on overcoming adversity, leadership, and environmental stewardship, makes him a transformative figure capable of impacting audiences across all walks of life.

"You were nothing short of a genius by utilizing our event theme and messaging within the context of your presentation. I particularly admire this given that you spoke to over thirteen thousand attendees ranging from America, Canada, Europe, Latin America to Asia Pacific - the feedback across all the geographies was equally compelling. I can tell you that you generated some of the highest ratings and most positive feedback I have seen in many years of running IBM WW events. Your book-signing was well over a thousand books, a record! Unplanned, a week later you spoke to another 5,000 in Barcelona!”

Petersen raced a yacht solo around the world in the most extreme sport known to man, 27,000 miles, 9 months at sea, around Cape Horn and its notorious storms - SOLO. He achieved this remarkable feat, not only significant for its athletic and navigational challenges, but more remarkable he did it in a boat he designed and built himself– the smallest and least-funded boat in the fleet.

Facing extreme uncertainty, Petersen makes a compelling case that the principles of the unforgiving sea apply to everyday success in business and in life. Petersen takes audiences on a journey around the world and shows how determination coupled with imagination are essential to success.

Petersen uses stunning images, including lightning, thunder and fog (optional), to bring his story to life. His presentations are riveting, transformative and provide the direct correlation between determination, dedication and perseverance to achieve the impossible.
Neal’s life story of turning every disadvantage and barrier into an advantage, balancing risk against reward, will educate, entertain and inspire your audience to reach not only for success – but more importantly, significance!

Having delivered multiple keynotes globally for IBM (over a dozen), Intel (dozen) Microsoft, MasterCard, YPO’s, Billionaires Summit, (32) Government Technology Summits, speaks volumes of Neal’s impact on global leaders and international audiences. Petersen uses his powerful story of overcoming insurmountable barriers to achieve his dream of racing solo around the world, not to prove others wrong, but to prove he was right to dream. There are No Barriers ~ Only Solutions!

Speech Topics


Inspirational Story

Petersen's life story is riveting and incredibly inspiring. Neal was born “colored” during the harsh apartheid-era in South Africa with a childhood physical disability, unable to walk, yet he overcame these insurmountable barriers to become an accomplished sailor, author, and motivational speaker. His journey from poverty and adversity to success is a powerful narrative that resonates with audiences, inspiring them to overcome their own challenges.

Resilience and Determination

Petersen's story exemplifies resilience, determination, and perseverance. He faced numerous setbacks and challenges throughout his life but refused to let them define him. Instead, he used them as opportunities for growth and learning, demonstrating the power of resilience in the face of adversity.

Universal Themes

Petersen's experiences touch upon universal themes such as perseverance, resilience, overcoming adversity, and the importance of self-belief. His message transcends cultural and geographic boundaries, having traveled to over 100 countries, making it relevant and relatable to diverse audiences.

Engaging Delivery

Petersen captivates audiences with his engaging storytelling style. He has a natural charisma and presence on stage, drawing listeners in with his authenticity and passion. Using stunning imagery, Neal incorporates lightning, thunder and fog to bring his story to life.

Practical Takeaways

In addition to sharing his personal story, Petersen imparts valuable lessons and practical strategies for overcoming barriers and achieving success. Audiences leave his presentations not only feeling inspired but also equipped with actionable insights they can apply to their own lives and careers.

Neal Petersen's keynote takeaway lessons:

  • Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Petersen's life story teaches the importance of resilience and perseverance in overcoming obstacles. Despite facing significant challenges, including poverty, disability, and racial discrimination, Petersen refused to be defined by his circumstances. His journey demonstrates that resilience is key to overcoming adversity and achieving success.

  • Embracing Diversity and Inclusion: Petersen's experiences as a person of mixed race in apartheid-era South Africa highlight the importance of embracing diversity and inclusion. His message encourages audiences to recognize the value of diversity and to create inclusive environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances.

  • Setting and Pursuing Goals: Petersen's determination to achieve his dream of racing SOLO around the world in the most extreme sport known to man, a 27,000 mile yacht race, 9 months at sea and in the smallest boat he designed and built himself. Despite numerous setbacks Neal shares the importance of setting ambitious goals and pursuing them with determination and perseverance. His story inspires audiences to identify their own goals and to pursue them with passion and commitment.

In conclusion, Neal Petersen is a beacon of hope and a catalyst for transformation. His unique blend of personal story, practical insights, and passionate advocacy makes him one of the best speakers for any audience. Through his words and his example, Petersen inspires us to overcome adversity, to lead with vision and integrity, and to take bold steps toward a more inclusive and sustainable future.

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