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Keynote SpeakerLewis Pugh

Endurance swimmer and UN Patron of the Oceans

Lewis Pugh is an endurance swimmer, maritime lawyer, and the UN Patron of the Oceans. He pioneers swims in the most vulnerable ecosystems on Earth to campaign for their protection. He was the first person to complete a long-distance swim in every ocean of the world, the first to swim... Read more

Watch Lewis Pugh in action

Popular Talks by Lewis Pugh

  • Goal Setting
  • Motivation
  • Leadership and Teamwork
  • High Performance
  • Resilience
  • Sustainability
  • Change
  • Risk

Biography

Lewis Pugh is an endurance swimmer, maritime lawyer, and the UN Patron of the Oceans. He pioneers swims in the most vulnerable ecosystems on Earth to campaign for their protection. He was the first person to complete a long-distance swim in every ocean of the world, the first to swim across the North Pole, and the first to swim the length of the English Channel. Most recently, he swam the length of the Hudson River to New York to highlight the importance of clean rivers.

Lewis has played a crucial role in protecting over 2 million km² of vulnerable ocean – an area larger than Western Europe. His dream is to fully protect 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030. He talks about his methods – a clear vision, the right mindset, choosing a high-performance team, meticulous preparation, never quitting, and having the flexibility to adapt when circumstances change. TED describes him as a “master storyteller.”

Lewis has received numerous accolades for his work. He was selected as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, named one of National Geographic’s Adventurers of the Year, and awarded South Africa’s highest honour – the Order of Ikhamanga (Gold Class).

In 2025, Lewis Pugh has been included in National Geographic’s list of the world’s leading changemakers.

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What clients say about Lewis Pugh

"You won’t find a more captivating story teller… Lewis stole the show at the World Economic Forum in Davos." Professor, Wharton Business School
"Your address was the perfect close to a conference centered around achievement and moving to the next level. The story you have to tell is incredibly unique and was delivered in such a professional and entertaining manner. Everyone was inspired by your extraordinary journey." CEO, Deutsche Bank (UK)
"Lewis Pugh gave the perfect TED talk: a little bit of action, some thinking outside the box, humbling words on the need to respect nature, a happy ending. A Hollywood scriptwriter could not have structured it better." The Financial Times
"Lewis’s speech was riveting and passionate. He’s stunning!" Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Nobel Peace Laureate 1984
"Lewis tells a very inspiring and motivating story of achieving sporting excellence at it’s most extreme. I was blown away by it and at the same time saw real value in how we can all approach our challenges and reach our goals." Former Head Coach, South African Cricket Team
"I cannot thank you enough for your speech at our Leadership Conference. It was absolutely remarkable and your message was a moving and emotional experience. The incredible scale of endeavour, the meticulous preparation, and the emotional magnitude, came through so crisply. Not only are your achievements so incredible and inspiring, but your ability to put them across in such a special way will no doubt have a lasting impact on our leadership team." CEO, Discovery Holdings
“Lewis is a totally enchanting speaker and provides valuable lessons to apply to business and to life.” Chief Evangelist, Canva
“The dreams, the hardships, and the sheer heart behind Lewis’s expeditions will inspire you to rethink your own ‘impossible’.” Jack Canfield, co-author, Chicken Soup for the Soul
“It was such an honor and privilege for us to have you talk with our team today. We were inspired by your purpose, passion and authenticity. It was the highlight of our event.” Executive Vice President Sales, Dynata
“I honestly think it was the best talk I have ever watched. It was awesome, purposeful and totally relevant.” Membership Director, National Trust
“His passion and extraordinary determination create a uniquely personal connection with audiences.” Executive Vice President, Gartner
“This was a brilliant talk which brought the message to life about the health of the planet and everyone’s responsibility to do everything we can to safeguard it. Your story telling and your extraordinary achievements made the message unforgettable.” CEO, The Medical Defence Union

How to book Lewis Pugh as a keynote speaker

How do I book Lewis Pugh for a keynote speech?

You can book Lewis Pugh through London Speaker Bureau by submitting the enquiry form on this page or calling our team. One of our consultants will respond promptly with Lewis's current availability, speaking fees and any specific requirements for your event.

What are Lewis Pugh's speaking fees?

Lewis Pugh's speaking fees depend on the event format (in-person or virtual), the location, the length of the engagement and the level of customisation required. Please contact London Speaker Bureau for an up-to-date fee quote for Lewis tailored to your event.

What topics does Lewis Pugh speak about?

Lewis Pugh speaks on Cities & Environment, Leadership, Leadership & Motivation, Motivation, Performance. Talks can be shaped around your audience, industry and strategic objectives - share your event brief with London Speaker Bureau and we will work with Lewis to align the content with your delegates and goals.

Is Lewis Pugh available for international events?

London Speaker Bureau can book Lewis Pugh for events worldwide, subject to Lewis's schedule. Please send us your event date, location and format and we will confirm availability and handle travel and logistics on your behalf.

Does Lewis Pugh deliver virtual or online keynotes?

Virtual and hybrid keynotes are now a standard part of the speaking industry. Please contact London Speaker Bureau to confirm whether Lewis Pugh is available to deliver a virtual session for your event and on which platform (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, a bespoke studio or your own).

How long is a typical keynote by Lewis Pugh?

Most keynote speeches run between 45 and 60 minutes, often followed by a 15-30 minute Q&A. Other formats - shorter conference slots, panel appearances or longer workshop sessions - may also be possible. Share your agenda with London Speaker Bureau and we will confirm what Lewis can accommodate.

Can Lewis Pugh tailor the keynote to our industry and audience?

London Speaker Bureau will brief Lewis Pugh on your audience profile, sector and objectives so the keynote can be shaped around your event. The level of customisation possible depends on the speaker and the lead time - contact us with your brief and we will confirm what Lewis can offer.

What languages does Lewis Pugh present in?

Lewis Pugh delivers keynotes in English. This profile may not list every language available; ask London Speaker Bureau to confirm. If you require simultaneous interpretation or a multilingual format, please mention this in your enquiry and London Speaker Bureau will arrange it for you.

What makes Lewis Pugh a strong fit as a keynote speaker?

Lewis Pugh's areas of expertise include Cities & Environment, Leadership, Leadership & Motivation, Motivation, Performance. To get a clear sense of Lewis's style, credentials and how they engage an audience, please review the biography, popular talks and any videos or testimonials shown on this page, or request a detailed speaker brief from London Speaker Bureau.

What kind of events can Lewis Pugh speak at?

Lewis Pugh can be booked through London Speaker Bureau for corporate conferences, leadership events, internal team meetings, association gatherings and private client engagements where expertise in Cities & Environment, Leadership, Leadership & Motivation, Motivation, Performance is relevant. Details of Lewis's background and previous engagements are included in the biography above; contact us if you would like a more detailed list of past clients or case studies.

Does Lewis Pugh offer workshops, panels or fireside chats in addition to keynotes?

Beyond keynote speeches, many of the speakers on our roster also take part in workshops, executive masterclasses, panel discussions and fireside chats. Contact London Speaker Bureau with your preferred format and we will confirm what Lewis Pugh is able to offer alongside or instead of a keynote.

How far in advance should we book Lewis Pugh?

We generally recommend enquiring at least three to twelve months in advance to secure your preferred date with Lewis Pugh, particularly during peak conference seasons. Where possible we also accommodate shorter lead times - please contact London Speaker Bureau to check Lewis's current availability for your dates.