Pendulum Summit has become a byword for empowerment and motivation, as after just five sell-out events across Dublin and New York the event has become the leading source of the most forward-thinking and effective business and lifestyle wisdom.
The summit returns to the Convention Centre in Dublin on the 9 and 10 January, and with "Leading You to Greatness" as the theme, the event is shaping up to be more dynamic than ever. Bringing together 7,000 decision-makers from a swath of industries, as well as 14 of the world's most forward-thinking and charismatic speakers, you can guarantee that advice on both macro and micro levels will be doled out like canapés at a networking meeting.
The list of speakers is diverse and curated to provide a wide range of insights, focusing on topics such as mental resilience, authentic leadership, self-awareness, culture and high-performance, as well as many more. And don't be fooled into thinking that this is only for business professionals: last year's event answered questions such as what is the secret to happiness and what one life skill does everyone need?
The two days will feature music from The Riptide Movement and Hudson Taylor, and with another jam-packed speaker list, there are a few exceptional names that we can't wait to see.
John Cleese
It's motivating enough just thinking about being in the same room as living legend John Cleese, but the iconic comedian, actor, screenwriter and producer has led a life, so to speak. From co-founding Monty Python, a genre and culture-shifting comedy team that tackled complex questions like the meaning of life in ingenious ways, to fundraising for Amnesty International through The Secret Policeman Ball benefits, Cleese indubitably has keen insights and hard-won wisdom to share, as well as some Fawlty Towers anecdotes, if we're lucky.
Ruby Wax
Ruby Wax could be a walking, talking lesson in multitasking, long before she shares any insights. A classically trained actress and beloved comedian also, Wax is also a vocal and passionate mental health campaigner, lecturer and writer, having studied psychology at the University of California, Berkeley and gaining a master's degree in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy from Oxford University. She's sure to hit home with what she's learned from her studies, presented in typical hilarious and sincere form.
Nick Vujicic
Born with tetra-amelia syndrome, Nick Vujicic is just one of seven people diagnosed with the syndrome, which is characterised by the absence of limbs. The Australian Christian evangelist and motivational speaker triumphed over years of adversity, starting in school when he was bullied and later when he attempted suicide. In the years since, he has amazed people with his strength, passion and drive to prove that people are more than what they seem to be.
Jim Warny
Although originally from Belgium, Jim Warny currently lives in Co Clare and rose to the prominence of a national hero when he took part in the Thai cave rescue mission last July. As a trained cave diver, Warny was tasked with navigating the passage of the soccer coach Ekapol Chantawong (25) to safety through much of the 4km cave system. His is a truly remarkable career, having overcome the loss of his friend and fellow cave diver, Artur Kozlowski in a mission in 2011, and will offer insights into the story that defined our summer.
Colin Farrell
Though some of us may still feel a wee flutter in the heart at the mere mention of his name, Colin Farrell has long exceeded his heartthrob status to become a vocal advocate for disability rights after the birth of his son James Padraig in 2005, who was diagnosed with Angelman syndrome. As well as this, the actor has overcome drug addiction, going on to become one of Ireland's most interesting and ambitious actors.
Mandy Hickson
Those of us who think we live life in the fast lane need to listen to Mandy Hickson. A pilot for Royal Air Force, Hickson was the second woman to fly the Tornado GR4 operationally and has spoken of how on her first mission as leader her aircraft came under fire. As a motivational speaker, she's a shining example of how to work to the best of your abilities under extreme pressure.
Karren Brady
Baroness Brady of Knightsbridge has a career track record as impressive as her regal title. As the former managing director of Birmingham City F.C.and current vice-chairman of West Ham United F.C., Brady has consistently bucked stereotypes of women in sport, earning the nickname "The First Lady of Football". If this wasn't impressive enough, she served as Small Business Ambassador to the UK Government and has been a Member of the House of Lords since 2014.
Pendulum Summit takes place in the Convention Centre Dublin on 9 and 10 January 2019.
