Ellie Simmonds is a celebrated former Paralympic swimmer and one of Britain’s most accomplished sporting figures. Known for her record-breaking achievements and infectious positivity, she has transitioned from elite sport to become a sought-after high-performance speaker. Drawing from her incredible journey, Ellie inspires audiences across the UK and beyond with her personal stories, proven techniques for resilience, and deep understanding of what it takes to succeed under pressure. Whether speaking to students, executives, or athletes, her natural warmth, confidence, and humour make her a compelling and unforgettable speaker.
Ellie’s journey began in the pool at just five years old, where she first discovered her passion for swimming at Boldmere Swimming Club. Diagnosed with achondroplasia, she never allowed her condition to define her limits. Her breakthrough came at the astonishing age of 13, when she won two Gold medals at the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games. Her talent was swiftly recognised, earning her the BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year. She continued to build on that momentum, securing another two Gold medals and setting a world record in the 400m freestyle at the 2012 London Games – an extraordinary achievement on home soil.
Ellie’s list of accolades only grew from there. In her final Paralympic appearance in Rio 2016, she secured her final Gold medal and set yet another world record, this time in the 200m medley. At just 14, she became the youngest person ever to receive an MBE, later upgraded to an OBE in 2013. Her post-athletic career has been equally impactful: Ellie became the first swimmer to break a world record at London’s Aquatic Centre, presented for BBC Sport, and created award-winning documentaries, including “Finding My Secret Family”, which won Best Single Documentary at the 2024 BAFTAs. Her role in “Strictly Come Dancing” 2022 further highlighted her versatility and courage.
Organisations hire Ellie because she brings more than inspiration – she brings practical insight, unwavering determination, and a relatable authenticity that resonates deeply. With her combination of elite performance, media presence, and powerful storytelling, Ellie stands out as a high-performance speaker who leaves a lasting impression on any audience.
