Abi Oyepitan is a dynamic and accomplished individual whose career spans elite athletics and entrepreneurship.
Although gifted, Abi took her time to blossom in the world of athletics, never quite reaching the peak of junior competition. It wasn’t until 2001 that she secured her first spot on the senior international stage, marking the beginning of her journey towards becoming a world-class athlete.
Her breakthrough moment came in the Athens Olympic 200m finals, where she became the first female sprinter in 24 years to qualify, clocking the second-fastest time ever recorded by a British athlete.
Despite reaching the Olympic final in 2004, she faced a series of setbacks, undergoing three major operations and being sidelined from international competition for nearly six years. This period tested her resilience, demonstrating her unwavering drive to succeed and her ability to overcome adversity. Her remarkable comeback saw her reclaim her title as Britain’s top sprinter in both the 100m and 200m events for the 2012 Olympic Games.
Since retiring from professional athletics, Abi has channelled her drive into new ventures. She co-founded LIHA Beauty, a luxury heritage beauty brand celebrated by Vogue as “bottling Africa’s best-kept beauty secret.” stocked by leading retailers such as Liberty London, Sephora, and Anthropologie. Abi’s adventurous spirit extends beyond athletics. She has competed in the prestigious Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race as part of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race crew.
Abi draws on her incredible journey of resilience and achievement to inspire audiences as a motivational speaker.
What does it take to bounce back from disappointment? Our athletes open up about tough moments in their careers — from injuries to defeats — and how resilience helped them keep going. Pupils will learn valuable lessons about never giving up, adapting to change, and staying strong when times get tough.
What makes a great leader? Our athletes share stories of leading by example, lifting up teammates, and taking responsibility — whether they wear the captain’s armband or quietly lead from the sidelines. Pupils will be encouraged to step up, support others, and discover the leader within themselves.
The Olympics represents the pinnacle of sport, and our athletes give a behind-the-scenes insight into what it’s really like to compete (or aim to compete) on the world’s biggest stage. They’ll share stories of preparation, pressure, teamwork, and pride — inspiring pupils with lessons about ambition, dedication, and chasing dreams, whatever they may be.
Sport, like life, is full of unexpected twists and turns. In this talk, our athletes reflect on times they’ve faced change, setbacks, or uncertain futures — from injuries to last-minute selections and global events like the pandemic. Pupils will hear honest, uplifting advice about how to stay calm, positive, and adaptable when life doesn’t go to plan.
Abi was really great in interacting with the young people and it seemed the young people really engaged with her as well.
Abi was an inspirational addition to the opening ceremony of our Summer School Games, she delivered a motivational speech to all participants and then throughout the morning had the chance to watch and engage with approximately 60% of all competitors.
Inspirational Athletes connects schools & communities with elite athletes who inspire, motivate and engage young people through talks, workshops and sports sessions.
Address:
Stratford-Upon-Avon, CV37 1RD
Phone:
020 7993 2724
Inspirational Speakers has been providing high profile keynote speakers and entertainers for over 25 years.
