Jeanette Kwakye is a name that resonates with determination, versatility, and inspiration. A former international athlete, she has transitioned seamlessly into a successful sports broadcaster and is now a Co-Host on the Martin Lewis Money Show. Jeanette’s journey from the tracks of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where she shined in the Women’s 100m final, to the studios of major broadcasting networks, illustrates her multifaceted talents and resilience. Today, she stands as a compelling keynote speaker, sharing her experiences from both the world of athletics and media.
Jeanette’s athletic journey began relatively late, at the age of 14. Unlike many of her contemporaries, she did not initially revel in the rigours of training but was captivated by the thrill of competition. A pivotal moment in her career was witnessing Usain Bolt's performance at the World Junior Championships in Jamaica. As part of Team GB, this experience imbued her with the confidence to pursue a career in athletics. Her hard work and dedication culminated in a remarkable performance at the 2008 Olympics, where she competed in front of over 90,000 spectators, becoming a national sensation in the UK.
Beyond the track, Jeanette holds a degree in Politics from Loughborough University and a diploma in Journalism, which she pursued to establish her credibility in the media industry. This educational background underpins her transition to a career in sports broadcasting, where she has become a familiar face on BBC, Channel 5, and Sky. Jeanette’s influence extends beyond broadcasting. She co-founded The Balley Consultancy, a creative agency that emphasises true representation in entertainment, sports, and music. This venture reflects her commitment to diversity and inclusion, issues she also explores through her contributions to “A New Formation: How Black Footballers Shaped the Modern Game,” where she addresses race in sports.
As a keynote speaker, Jeanette brings a wealth of experience from her diverse career. She speaks candidly about self-confidence, discipline, and organisation, essential traits for success in sports and beyond. Her narrative is not just about achieving greatness in athletics but also about adapting those skills to thrive in new domains. Jeanette’s story is a testament to the fact that with discipline and organisation, one can excel in multiple fields. Hiring Jeanette Kwakye as a speaker provides audiences with an opportunity to be inspired by her accomplishments and insights. Her journey from an Olympic athlete to a prominent sports broadcaster and entrepreneur embodies the essence of adaptability and perseverance. Her speeches are not just motivational but are filled with practical advice, drawn from her rich experiences in both the athletic and media realms.
