Heather Thomas is an inspiring motivational speaker whose remarkable journey as the skipper of Maiden has made her a trailblazer in the world of sailing. At just 26 years old, she led the first all-female team to win an around-the-world yacht race, making Maiden the most successful British entry in such a race to date. Her exceptional achievements have cemented her reputation as a leader who embodies resilience, determination, and the spirit of teamwork. Heather’s experience of navigating challenging waters and leading her crew to victory provides a powerful narrative that resonates with audiences from all walks of life.
Heather’s career in yachting is a testament to her unwavering dedication and passion for the sea. Starting from the position of Deckhand, she worked her way up to First Mate and then to Race Skipper and Navigator, a journey that showcases her resilience and determination to succeed. With over 88,000 nautical miles of sailing experience, she has become an expert in yachting and ocean exploration. Her passion for Celestial Navigation has also led her to mentor young sailors and teach an IYT sailing syllabus to 12- to 18-year-olds, encouraging the next generation, especially young girls, to dream big and push beyond their perceived limits.
As a keynote speaker, Heather draws from her extensive experience leading a 12-strong crew in the 2023-24 Ocean Globe Race, a challenging eight-month voyage covering 27,000 nautical miles without modern technology. She shares her insights on leadership, teamwork, and decision-making under pressure, drawing compelling parallels between her adventures at sea and the dynamics of leadership and teamwork in the corporate world. Her speeches emphasise the importance of clear decision-making in unpredictable situations, the value of resilience, and the strength that comes from working together as a cohesive team, even when things do not go to plan.
Heather's story is one of perseverance and teamwork, making her an ideal speaker for those seeking inspiration on how to overcome challenges and lead with confidence. If you are looking for an engaging and motivational speaker who can inspire your audience with tales of courage, leadership, and the power of unity, Heather Thomas is the perfect choice.
