Debra Searle

Debra Searle MVO MBE is an  adventurer, businesswoman, and top-ranked motivational speaker known for her solo Atlantic row and inspirational leadership.

Debra Searle MVO MBE first caught the world’s attention when she set off to row across the Atlantic with her husband, a 6'5" international oarsman. However, when he had to be rescued, Debra, a novice rower, continued alone. Without any support, she rowed 3,300 miles from Tenerife to Barbados. What was supposed to take six weeks turned into a 3 ½ month solo journey, battling 30' waves, sharks, and force 8 squalls in her 23-foot plywood boat. Since then, Debra has embarked on numerous solo and team expeditions across the globe. She has represented Great Britain in Dragon Boat Racing at European and World Championships, winning bronze, silver, and gold medals.

Debra has shared her remarkable experiences at over 1,100 events worldwide, spanning every industry sector. Yet, she is far more than a typical sports speaker. As the founder of five companies, including MIX Diversity, a Diversity & Inclusion consultancy, Debra speaks with genuine insight into what it takes to succeed in business. She has presented 40 programmes for the BBC and authored three books. Her adventurous spirit earned her an MBE from Her Majesty The Queen, and she spent a decade on the board of a charity alongside two members of the Royal Family, providing her with invaluable board-level experience. In 2023, a British newspaper recognised Debra as one of the World’s Top 50 Inspirational Leaders. Debra was also appointed a Member of the Victorian Order (MVO) for her services to the Royal Family.

In 2022, Debra was ranked no.3 in the World’s Top 30 Motivational Speakers, just behind Simon Sinek and Tony Robbins, making her the highest-ranking female motivational speaker globally. Excitingly, a Hollywood film about Debra’s solo Atlantic row is currently in development.