Athens 2004 Paralympics – Silver Medal, Atlanta 1996 Paralympics – Bronze Medal, World Champion – 1995 & 4 x European Champion at the sport of Judo.
Ian Rose is a retired Paralympic medallist who now dedicates his work to helping others develop resilience, self-confidence and a positive mindset. With over two decades of experience delivering assemblies, enrichment days and student leadership programmes, Ian supports schools in preparing young people for the challenges of school life and beyond.
Having lost most of his eyesight as a baby due to a rare eye cancer, Ian faced early challenges, including teasing and self-doubt. Discovering judo at the age of seven gave him confidence and direction, setting him on a journey to Paralympic success and a successful career in business. Drawing on this experience, Ian’s keynote speeches, workshops and programmes help students understand the practical tools and mindset needed to overcome obstacles and achieve their potential.
Students today face increasing pressures from mental health challenges and academic stress to bullying, low self-esteem and difficulty managing setbacks. Ian’s speeches and workshops provide:
Through interactive stories, practical activities and reflection, Ian helps students gain perspective, feel empowered and build confidence so that when they leave school their a little better equipped to manage the pressures they face. His visits inspire students to be more, achieve more, and smile more.
An inspirational keynote suitable for both primary and secondary settings, by Paralympic medallist at the sport of judo Ian Rose
It’s not all about the medals – but they will make an appearance!
This isn’t just another motivational talk. It’s a heartfelt, powerful journey through resilience, self-confidence and the power of self-belief. Ian, a double Paralympic medallist at the sport of judo, shares how he transformed from a shy seven year old teased for his disability and appearance into a successful IT Sales Consultant, business owner and world-class athlete.
Students and staff alike will be taken on an emotional and uplifting ride through the highs and lows of his life story. Ian doesn’t believe practice makes perfect, he believes life is a constant path to progression and that everyone has the potential to grow, adapt and shine.
Perfect for:
Inspiring students to build confidence, courage and a positive mindset.
This engaging 60 minute session is tailored for all ages across primary and secondary education. It’s a lively, practical workshop packed with stories, strategies and real-life lessons that bring the concept of resilience to life.
Drawing on his journey from Paralympic judo medallist to successful business leader, Ian helps students understand how resilience shaped his achievements and how they can develop it in their own lives.
Through interactive discussion and relatable examples, Ian explores:
Students will leave inspired, equipped with practical tools and ready to face whatever comes their way in school, sport and life.
Ian offers a flexible Leadership programme for students in Years 10 and above, designed to build confidence, communication and teamwork skills through interactive activities and group discussion. Schools can choose from three delivery options to best suit their timetable: a short, focused 2-hour session that introduces the essentials of leadership; a two-part series (2 x 2 hours) that develops both self-leadership and team leadership skills; or a three-part series (3 x 2 hours) where students put their learning into action by planning and presenting their own mini project.
Each workshop is practical, engaging and tailored to inspire students to see themselves as leaders whether in the classroom, on the sports field or within their community. From fun team challenges and real-world case studies to reflection exercises and action planning, every session helps students discover their strengths and learn how to apply them. Whether your school is looking for a one off experience or a deeper, developmental programme, these workshops give students the tools to lead with confidence.
I have received nothing but praise for you as a guest speaker, the staff and students found you ‘engaging and interesting’ and I would like to add how well you kept the audience attention throughout your presentation.
Ian’s presentation was inspirational to both students and staff. We were very impressed with his achievements and the strength of his character.
