James Bertrand is an extraordinary motivational speaker known for delivering powerful talks on resilience, mindset, and overcoming adversity. Born with a rare, life-threatening condition that led to the loss of both legs, James has become a symbol of strength and self-belief. With achievements such as becoming the first double amputee to complete the Red Bull 400, and the launch of his inspirational platform Anything Made Possible, James is inspiring audiences worldwide to realise that no challenge is too great with the right mindset.
James’ story began at birth. He and his twin brother, Tom, were born at just 28 weeks due to Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome, a rare condition with a 10% survival rate. The complications caused severe blood clots, leading to the amputation of his left leg at just 18 months old. At 20, after enduring more than 30 surgeries, James made the incredibly tough decision to have his right leg amputated. He then raised £53,000 in under a year to fund a life-changing osseointegration surgery in Australia - while also donating £5,300 to Great Ormond Street Hospital, the place that saved his life.
Defying all odds, James has gone on to achieve incredible milestones. He became the first double amputee to complete the Red Bull 400, known as the world’s toughest 400m race. He’s completed mountain hikes and a triathlon, all while using his journey to empower others. James has worked with major brands including Just Eat UK and Ottobock UK, using his platform and story to encourage high performance, adaptability, and purpose-driven leadership. His speaking engagements are a powerful blend of lived experience and motivational insight that leave lasting impact.
James is an ideal speaker for schools, corporate teams, and large-scale conferences alike. His core speaking topics - overcoming challenges, building resilience, embracing change, and unlocking potential - are deeply relevant in today’s world. With a coaching-driven approach, James Bertrand doesn’t just talk about success - he shows audiences how to redefine it. His story proves one thing above all: limitations are often just opportunities in disguise.
James Bertrand's official speaker topics are listed below:
- Overcoming Challenges & Building Resilience
- Self-Belief & Confidence for Success
- Embracing Change & Thriving in Uncertainty
Official Feedback from In-Person & Virtual Events
Feedback from In-Person Events:
“Your talk extremely inspiring. I especially enjoyed how you were able to bring in humour, and talk through your relationship with your family which was just so wonderful. I felt like the individuals who were in the room benefited immensely from your talk, and we all were able to connect your experiences to our own personal & work lives.” - JustEat
“It was fantastic to have James speak at one of our conferences. As one of our patients, it was amazing for him to share his story with us. James shared his journey of his life as a double amputee and how great life can be if you have the right mindset and resilience with also a dash of humour. I can confidently say that he inspired everyone in the room.” - Dorset Orthopaedic, Ottobock Care
“James’ journey is nothing short of inspiring. As a former student and the first to deliver the valedictorian speech in our university’s 170-year history, he embodies resilience, determination, and excellence. His talk was both powerful and deeply personal, leaving our students motivated to push beyond their limits. James continues to be a role model for our community, proving that with the right mindset, anything is possible.” - St Mary’s University, Twickenham London
“Having James return to speak at our school was an unforgettable experience. His story of resilience, perseverance, and triumph over adversity left a lasting impact on our students. As a former student, James is a true inspiration, showing that challenges can be overcome with the right mindset and determination. His journey proves that anything is possible, and we are incredibly proud of all he has achieved.” - The Chalfonts Community College
- 2023 – First double amputee to complete the Red Bull 400 (World’s Toughest 400m Race)
- 2018 – Donated £5,300 to Great Ormond Street Hospital
- 2018 – Raised £53,000 in one year to fund life-changing Osseointegration surgery
- 2017–2023 – Partnered with major brands including Just Eat UK & Ottobock UK
- 2000s–2010s – 30+ surgeries including double amputation by age 20
How to hire James Bertrand
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring James Bertrand for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
** We do NOT accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, birthday messages or any other non-commercial contact with the speakers or acts. Each speaker on the website may not have necessarily worked with Champions in the past but are known to perform such engagements within the industry.
