In Our Own Words

I regard it as a privilege to be able to share my experiences with others and be able to take them with me on my journey through pictures and words. When I speak, I hope to encourage people to take on the opportunities that are presented in life and challenge themselves. We can all do more than we think we can - we just have to Dare, Dream and Discover! - Dee Caffari

I really love what I do. There are times when you get very nervous. (Working with big animals, potentially things can go pear-shaped very quickly.) But you surround yourself with local experts and do good risk assessments. I talk about people rather than places. People are very interested to learn how we deal with situations under pressure - how teams achieve goals in very difficult circumstances. It is great fun doing talks. Sometimes I have to pinch myself to think people want to listen - but they are fascinated - Monty Halls

It's so easy to find excuses not to do something and breaking my neck as a teenager, I've had plenty of excuses had I chose to use them. But what's the choice? Sit around or do nothing or get on with life? Life is for living and I love every minute of every day. If I set my heart on something I go for it and sailing is just one of those things. I'm very lucky that people want to hear what I have to say, especially when they say they use aspects of my story to help them in their lives. It is humbling indeed when many of those people have problems of their own and they tell you that you have inspired them, that's a terrific responsibility to bear but one I do with pride. - Geoff Holt

I love having the opportunity to speak and share my experiences and adventures with others. When you get it right, you can see your audience carried completely away from themselves into the wilderness with your words. Sometimes thinking about the issues of life and business and logistics from a completely different perspective breaks down barriers in people's thought processes and provides some unexpected clarity. I hope that everyone who hears me speak will find some relevance for their own situation and feel refreshed and inspired. - Hannah McKeand

Filming animals is a privileged way of earning a living. I don't think it overstates thing to say that capturing a unique moment in an animal's life can be a humbling, even life-changing experience. But the build-up to what can be a few brief moments of airtime is where the real story lies. The planning, the teamwork, the decision-making and to be honest, some of the utterly ridiculous situations we find ourselves in, that is what I love talking to people about. - James Brickell

By night I dream and by day I bring those dreams to life. I feel exceptionally privileged that others are interested and inspired by my experiences and that I have the opportunity to share my adventures with others. When I stand up in front of people to speak, I don't just want to tell a story about a journey from A to B. I want to tell them about a journey through life and how so many skills and lessons often come from the most unlikely places. - Tarka L'Herpiniere

Speaking about my story, I had never expected to move a stranger to tears, or to be approached afterwards with such kind words and told how they were leaving the room now with a different approach to life and the challenges they faced. I feel incredibly touched to think that I may help instil some self-belief in others, just as Tarka did to me: to help people believe that 'anything is possible, if you are just bold enough to begin'. - Katie-Jane L'Herpiniere

It's an honour to be able to share my story and inspire people to take on their own challenges, whatever they may be. It's not something I ever expected to find myself doing, but I think about those who have inspired me and aim to do the same in some small way. I know that I don't really look like the kind of person who has won medals, set records and rowed an ocean, so it's great to be able to change perceptions and break down barriers. There's also always a thrill when you know you've connected with your audience and they're traveling the journey right there with you, living the challenge and emotions, then leaving full of ideas and motivation. It's a big responsibility, but one I take seriously and thoroughly enjoy. - Rachel Smith



Monty

Dee