Keynote Speaker

Els’s dedication and courage in overcoming extreme challenges, combined with her ability to consistently perform at the highest level, make her an inspiring keynote speaker.

She speaks on a range of topics, including her extreme survival story, her journey in professional sports, and vitality and longevity through the integration of sport and medicine.

Languages: Dutch, English

To give a glimpse into her talks, these are five core themes drawn from her story:

1. Personal Leadership
In an extreme survival situation at sea, Els learned to lead herself by trusting her intuition, taking responsibility, and acting under pressure. Years later, she chose the unknown again, leaving a secure medical career to become a professional athlete and explore her physical and mental potential.

2. Perseverance & Resilience
After a shipwreck, Els swam for eight hours to reach safety. With survival as the sole focus, she demonstrated extraordinary mental resilience and determination. In sport, she faced setbacks and obstacles with the same mindset, learning to endure, adapt, and continue forward.

3. Vitality & Health
After ending her professional sports career, Els combined two worlds: sport and medicine. She is passionate about guiding people toward a fitter, healthier, and more confident life, where training, nutrition, and medical knowledge strengthen one another.

4. Connection and Impact
By openly sharing her doubts, fears, and struggles, Els creates genuine connection and makes personal growth feel accessible. She does not believe in perfection, but in honesty and building sustainable change.

5. Final Thought
Els’s story is one of transformation and continuous self-challenge. You do not need a crisis to change direction, but when everything is on the line, it is mindset, leadership, and resilience that carry you through.

“Els is a great speaker who inspires the audience with her incredible story.”

Sjoerd Pijpers – CEO Lion Capital Group

“What an absolute pleasure it was to meet Els Visser in person—spending time with her, hearing her story, and soaking in her wisdom. She is not only an incredible athlete and survivor but also one of the most down-to-earth and insightful people I’ve met. I especially loved her phrase: “hurry slowly”—a powerful reminder to put action at the heart of our journey but to also take time to reflect and heal.”

Ayten Ates O’Mahony – Senior Industry Manager

Inquiries? Contact us!
Please contact management@elsvisser.com for more information and / or inquiries on a speaker session with Els.